Mabel Fairbanks
Figure skating coach and pioneer
Born
November 14th, 1915
109 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2001
24 years ago — 85 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1915, a figure skater and coach significantly contributed to the sport. Started skating at a young age and became one of the first African Americans to compete in figure skating at a national level. Transitioned to coaching after her competitive career, producing successful athletes in the sport. Instrumental in breaking down racial barriers within figure skating, influencing generations of skaters through dedication to coaching and development. Received recognition from organizations for contributions to figure skating and paved the way for future black skaters in the United States.
One of the first African American figure skaters
Coached several Olympic and national competitors
Other People Born on November 14th
Johnny Desmond
Born in 1919, a prominent American singer achieved fame during the big band era. Collaborated with major orchestras and bands, enchanting audiences with a powerful vocal style. Gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, recording multiple hit songs and performing extensively on radio and television. Known for a smooth delivery and emotional interpretations, he contributed to the musical landscape of his time. Continued to perform throughout his career, showcasing versatility across genres.
Continue ReadingJames B. McPherson
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War. Graduated from the United States Military Academy and gained prominence for leadership in several battles. Commanded the Army of the Tennessee and was involved in key campaigns including the Vicksburg Campaign. McPherson's strategic skills and leadership on the battlefield were recognized, leading to his appointment as a major general. He died at the Battle of Atlanta, marking him as one of the conflict's notable figures.
Continue ReadingDanielle Page
Born in 1986, a basketball player and coach with a notable career in the WNBA and overseas. Played college basketball at the University of Nebraska, contributing significantly to the team. Drafted by the Seattle Storm in 2008, played for the team and also had stints with other professional teams globally. Transitioned to coaching, sharing expertise and experience with emerging players in the sport.
Continue ReadingJack Sikma
A professional basketball player and coach, played center in the NBA, primarily with the Seattle SuperSonics. Sikma participated in multiple All-Star Games and earned All-NBA honors. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching, bringing expertise to various teams in the NBA and WNBA. His skill set included a reliable shooting touch and rebounding ability, making significant contributions to teams throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOlga Kurylenko
Born in Ukraine, worked as a model in Paris before transitioning to acting. Gained recognition for roles in films, with significant performances in 'Quantum of Solace' alongside Daniel Craig and 'Oblivion' with Tom Cruise. Achieved success in both modeling and film industries, participating in various international projects, showcasing versatility across genres.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Fondane
Born in Romania and later becoming a French citizen, this individual contributed significantly to philosophy and poetry during the early to mid-20th century. His works often explored existential themes and the human condition. The individual was associated with avant-garde movements and engaged with prominent literary figures of the time. Despite the challenges faced during World War II, continued to write and produce critically regarded texts until his death in 1944 in a concentration camp.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 29th
Jean-François Delmas
A distinguished bass-baritone, contributed significantly to the operatic scene in France. Performed at the Paris Opéra and was recognized for exceptional interpretations of operatic roles. Had notable collaborations with leading composers of the time, showcasing a remarkable vocal range and dramatic presence. Engaged audiences with performances in both traditional and contemporary operas, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
Continue ReadingW. H. Auden
Auden emerged as a prominent figure in 20th-century literature, contributing significantly to poetry and drama. His works explored themes of love, politics, and human existence. Auden's poetry reflects modernist influences and complex emotional depth. He received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1948 for the collection 'The Age of Anxiety,' which also received critical acclaim as a landmark work. Auden's collaboration with composer Benjamin Britten on operas and vocal works further showcased his versatility. His literary career spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on the literary world.
Continue ReadingMadalyn Murray O'Hair
An activist and founder of the American Atheists organization. Championed the separation of church and state and was a notable voice in the fight for atheistic rights. Gained national attention for legal battles against school-sponsored prayer, resulting in the landmark Supreme Court case Engel v. Vitale. Her activism contributed significantly to the visibility of the atheistic movement in the United States.
Continue ReadingThomas Cahill
A soccer player and coach contributed significantly to American soccer in the early 20th century. Played for several clubs, showcasing talent and skill on the field. Transitioned to coaching, where he focused on developing young players. His leadership in the sport during the early years of organized soccer in the United States helped lay the foundation for future generations of athletes.
Continue ReadingOtis Rush
A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this musician developed a unique style characterized by powerful vocals and expressive guitar work. Active from the 1950s onwards, the artist released several influential albums, including 'Right Place, Wrong Time' and 'Ain't Enough Comin' In'. The artist's music features a fusion of blues, jazz, and R&B elements, shaping the genre's evolution and inspiring numerous musicians.
Continue ReadingMonty Stratton
Monty Stratton was a professional baseball player and coach. He played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Chicago White Sox. Stratton achieved recognition for his performance during the 1934 season when he won 15 games. His career was interrupted by a hunting accident which resulted in the amputation of his right leg. After his recovery, Stratton successfully returned to baseball and contributed to the sport as a coach. He also became a motivational speaker, sharing his experiences with overcoming adversity.
Continue Reading