Marshall McLuhan
Media theorist, wrote 'Understanding Media'
An influential media theorist and author, focused on the effects of media on communication and culture. Played a significant role in the study of media ecology and its impact on human perception. Introduced concepts such as 'the medium is the message' and 'global village'. Published seminal works including 'Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man' and 'The Gutenberg Galaxy'.
Published 'Understanding Media' in 1964
Coined the phrase 'the medium is the message'
Introduced the term 'global village'
Other People Born on July 21st
Evan McPherson
NFL Placekicker for Cincinnati Bengals
Born
July 21st, 1999 26 years ago
A placekicker in American football, played college football at the University of Florida. Entered the NFL in 2021 as a member of the Cincinnati Bengals. Contributed to the Bengals' playoff run in 2021, achieving success with reliable field goal performance during crucial games.
Continue ReadingPope Sixtus IV
Pope and patron of the arts
Born
July 21st, 1414 611 years ago
Died
1484 542 years ago — 70 years old
Became Pope in 1471, serving until 1484. Played a significant role in the development of the Vatican's artistic heritage, commissioning famous works from artists like Michelangelo. Established the Sistine Chapel and contributed to its completion, which remains a landmark of Renaissance art. Influenced the Catholic Church's political landscape during the Renaissance era, negotiating treaties and supporting various fortifications.
Continue ReadingMarie Bouzkova
Czech tennis player with WTA titles
Born
July 21st, 1998 27 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis since 2013. Achieved notable rankings in singles and doubles on the WTA Tour. Won the WTA doubles title at the 2021 Monterrey Open. Represented the Czech Republic in various international competitions, including the Billie Jean King Cup.
Continue ReadingCharlotte de Witte
Belgian DJ and record producer
Born
July 21st, 1992 33 years ago
Gained recognition in the techno music scene, with a distinctive style blending hypnotic beats and dark tones. Released several acclaimed EPs, including "Selected" and "Return to Nowhere," which solidified a reputation in electronic music. Has performed at prominent festivals such as Tomorrowland and Awakenings Festival. Established a record label named KNTXT, promoting emerging techno artists.
Continue ReadingNorman Jewison
Canadian film director and producer
Born
July 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2024 2 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to the cinematic landscape through various acclaimed projects. Established a reputation for creating films that reflect social issues. Directed notable works such as 'In the Heat of the Night,' which addressed race relations, and 'Fiddler on the Roof,' adapting the Broadway musical for the screen. Received several prestigious accolades, including Academy Award nominations and a Governor General's Performing Arts Award.
Continue ReadingYuka Sato
Javelin thrower; Olympic competitor
Born
July 21st, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in women's javelin throw, representing Japan. Achieved notable success in international competitions, including participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Secured several national titles and set personal bests, contributing to the prominence of javelin throw in Japan. Known for rigorous training and dedication to the sport, earning respect within the athletics community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Ottokar III of Styria
Duke of Styria and noted ruler
Born
1124 902 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1164 861 years ago — 40 years old
Ruled as Duke of Styria from 1122 until death in 1164. Established the foundations for the later Duchy of Styria. Strengthened the power of the duchy and engaged in territorial expansion during the period. Played a significant role in regional politics and alliances within the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingJohn Flamsteed
English astronomer and the first Astronomer Royal
Born
August 19th, 1646 379 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1719 306 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed significantly to astronomy in England during the late 17th century. Held the position of the first Astronomer Royal, a title established by King Charles II in 1675. Created meticulously detailed star catalogs that included the positions of over 3,000 stars. Published the influential work 'Historia Coelestis Britannica', detailing precise observations of celestial bodies. His observations enhanced navigation and understanding of the solar system.
Continue ReadingWesley Addy
American actor in television and film
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, prominent during the mid-20th century, worked extensively in television and film. Appeared in leading roles on series such as 'The Edge of Night' and 'The Defenders'. Had a successful career in Broadway, particularly celebrated for performances in productions like 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'. Also featured in movies including 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'.
Continue ReadingEnrico Di Giuseppe
Tenor and Actor, starred in operas
Born
October 14th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2005 20 years ago — 73 years old
An American tenor and actor gained recognition in the world of opera. Associated primarily with the Metropolitan Opera, he showcased vocal prowess in a variety of leading roles. Significant performances included roles in 'La Traviata' and 'Carmen.' His contributions to the operatic repertoire and stage presence distinguished his career, leading to appearances in notable productions across the United States.
Continue ReadingHenry Maitland Wilson
English Field Marshal and 1st Baron Wilson
Born
September 5th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1964 61 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a British Army officer during World War I and World War II. Held prominent positions, including Commander of the British 8th Army during the Second Battle of El Alamein. Led Allied forces in the Mediterranean theater and contributed to significant military strategies. Became Chief of the Imperial General Staff in 1944, overseeing British military operations.
Continue ReadingRichard Montgomery
Irish-American Revolutionary War general
Born
December 2nd, 1738 287 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1775 250 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1738, played a pivotal role in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Commanded the Continental Army forces during the invasion of Canada in 1775. Led troops in the Siege of Montreal and was instrumental in the early military efforts against British forces. Montgomery died during the Battle of Quebec in December 1775, where he was fatally wounded, becoming a martyr for the American cause. His contributions to military strategies and leadership were recognized posthumously.
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