Louis Zamperini

Runner and WWII veteran

Louis Zamperini - Athletes & Sports Figures born January 26th, 1917
Born
Died
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

Born on January 26, 1917, a distinguished runner excelled in track and field, earning a spot in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Served as a bombardier in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. After his plane crashed in the Pacific Ocean, he survived on a life raft for over a month and endured hardships as a prisoner of war in Japan. Post-war, engaged in motivational speaking and authored an autobiography, detailing his experiences and resilience.

Competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics

Survived 47 days adrift at sea

Endured over two years as a POW

Other People Born on January 26th

Alice Babs

Swedish singer and actress in musicals
Born
January 26th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2014 12 years ago — 90 years old

Became a prominent figure in Swedish music and acting during the 20th century. Rose to fame as a singer and starred in several notable films and stage productions. Participated in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1958, representing Sweden. Worked with numerous artists and contributed to the cultural scene in Sweden through performances in various genres, including jazz and folk music.

Continue Reading

Charles XIV John of Sweden

King of Sweden and founder of a dynasty
Born
January 26th, 1763 263 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1844 182 years ago — 81 years old

Ruled as King of Sweden from 1818 until death in 1844. Emerged from a military background, having served in the Napoleonic Wars. Established the Bernadotte dynasty, which continues to the present day. Focused on modernizing Sweden, strengthening its economy, and promoting peace in Europe. Initiated significant infrastructure projects and underscored the importance of education and industry.

Continue Reading

Brendan Rodgers

Football manager with Premier League success
Born
January 26th, 1973 53 years ago

A Northern Irish footballer and manager, celebrated for managerial roles in multiple clubs. Early playing career included time at Ballymena United, Reading, and Newport County. Began a managerial career at Watford, with significant achievements at Swansea City, leading the team to win the 2013 Football League Cup. Managed Liverpool from 2012 to 2015, securing a second-place finish in the 2013-14 Premier League season. Later managed Celtic, achieving a historic treble in both the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons. Returned to the Premier League with Leicester City, finishing fifth in the league and guiding the club to win the 2020 FA Cup.

Continue Reading

Jimmy Van Heusen

American pianist and composer of standards
Born
January 26th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1990 36 years ago — 77 years old

This American pianist and composer became prominent in the mid-20th century, celebrated for contributions to popular music and film. Collaborated with lyricists like Johnny Mercer and Sammy Cahn to create numerous timeless songs. Composed scores for films, including "The Tender Trap" and "High Society." Won four Academy Awards for Best Original Song. Contributed significantly to the Great American Songbook.

Continue Reading

MarShon Brooks

Basketball player, NBA and NCAA standout
Born
January 26th, 1989 37 years ago

Professional basketball player achieved success in the NBA after playing college basketball at Providence College. Selected as the 25th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the New Jersey Nets. Played for multiple teams during an NBA career that included stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies. Also contributed to international teams, representing the United States.

Continue Reading

Ancel Keys

Physiologist and Nutritionist, created K-rations
Born
January 26th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 100 years old

Contributions to the field of nutrition included extensive research on dietary fats and heart disease. Developed the Mediterranean diet concept based on studies conducted in different countries. Conducted the Seven Countries Study, which examined the correlation between diet, lifestyle, and cardiovascular health across various populations. Designed K-rations for the U.S. military during World War II to provide soldiers with nutrient-dense food.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 2nd

Lee Remick

American actress, starred in Days of Wine and Roses
Born
December 14th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1991 34 years ago — 55 years old

An acclaimed actress, this individual gained recognition for roles in film and television. Early performances included work in theater productions before transitioning to film. Major roles included Sandy in 'Days of Wine and Roses' and the lead in 'The Omen'. Throughout a successful career, received several award nominations, including Academy Award and Emmy Award nominations. Contributions to both film and television showcased range and depth of talent.

Continue Reading

Jan Murray

Comedian and game show host
Born
October 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2006 19 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent comedian and television personality, this individual gained recognition as a game show host and stand-up comedian. His career began in the 1940s, entertaining audiences with humor that blended wit and social commentary. Hosting various game shows, the individual became a familiar face on television during the mid-20th century. A notable hosting role included the long-running game show 'Hollywood Squares', which showcased celebrities in a unique trivia format. Additionally, the performer appeared in numerous television shows and stand-up specials throughout the years.

Continue Reading

Alan Longmuir

Scottish bass player and songwriter
Born
June 20th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2018 7 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent bass player and songwriter contributed significantly to the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s. Co-founded the band Bay City Rollers, which gained immense popularity with their upbeat pop sound and catchy melodies. The group achieved multiple chart-topping hits across the globe, with a notable presence in the UK and the US. Longmuir's musical talents and contributions were integral to the band's success during its heyday, including several albums that charted well.

Continue Reading

Ángela Jeria

Chilean archaeologist and cultural researcher
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Chilean archaeology, focusing on pre-Columbian cultures and their impact on society. Conducted extensive research on the Mapuche and Atacameño cultures. Engaged in numerous excavations, uncovering artifacts that provided insights into the historical development of human settlements in Chile. Worked as a professor, sharing knowledge and mentoring future archaeologists.

Continue Reading

Lee Iacocca

Businessman and author, Chrysler CEO
Born
October 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old

An influential businessman and author, played a pivotal role in the automotive industry, particularly as CEO of Chrysler Corporation during the 1980s. Oversaw Chrysler's revival from the brink of bankruptcy, implementing innovative strategies that included the introduction of popular vehicles such as the Dodge Caravan and the Chrysler minivan. Authored several books, with 'Iacocca: An Autobiography' gaining significant popularity, detailing personal experiences and business philosophies. Contributed to automotive advancements and consumer-focused marketing approaches, shaping the landscape of American cars during his tenure. His leadership style and business acumen were widely recognized within the industry.

Continue Reading

Andrés Escobar

Colombian footballer and defender
Born
March 13th, 1967 59 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1994 31 years ago — 27 years old

A Colombian footballer played as a defender primarily for Atlético Nacional and the national team. He gained recognition for his exceptional skills and tactical awareness on the field. Escobar participated in the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where he scored an own goal in a match against the United States. This unfortunate incident was linked to the team's elimination from the tournament, which led to significant repercussions after his return to Colombia.

Continue Reading