Mary Watson Whitney
American astronomer and academic figure
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Significant contributions to astronomy included the study of star clusters and variable stars. Served as a professor and played a vital role in the education of women in science. Worked at Harvard College Observatory and helped manage the observatory’s research and education programs. Edited the Harvard College Observatory Annals and published numerous scientific papers.
Studied star clusters and variable stars
Served as a professor at Harvard College Observatory
Edited Harvard College Observatory Annals
Other People Born on September 11th
Stefano Cagol
Italian artist and photographer
Born
September 11th, 1969 56 years ago
An Italian artist, photographer, and director active in contemporary art. Work often explores themes of technology, identity, and representation, utilizing various media forms. Early projects included installations that interrogated the use of digital imagery and the impact of cultural narratives on contemporary life. Engaged in multiple exhibitions across Europe and beyond, the work featured diverse formats such as photography, video, and performance. Directed notable art projects that integrated audience interaction, enhancing the viewing experience through participatory elements.
Continue ReadingLeandro Bolmaro
Basketball player for the Minnesota Timberwolves
Born
September 11th, 2000 25 years ago
A professional basketball player with Argentine-Italian heritage, played as a guard and forward. Began career in the youth system of Estudiantes de La Plata in Argentina. Drafted 23rd overall by the New York Knicks in the 2020 NBA Draft. Later traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where contributed to the team's efforts in the NBA. Showcased skills in both domestic and international competitions, representing Argentina in various tournaments.
Continue ReadingPavel Landovský
Czech actor and playwright
Born
September 11th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Gained recognition as a Czech actor and playwright with significant contributions to film and theater. Achieved prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, frequently collaborating with noted directors and appearing in archive television productions. Involved in the Prague Spring and faced repercussions after the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968, which led to a ban on acting in Czechoslovakia. Continued to create impactful works in exile, returning to prominence later in his career.
Continue ReadingMichael J. Willett
Actor and musician, best known for 'Faking It'
Born
September 11th, 1989 36 years ago
An American actor and musician entered the entertainment industry with appearances in notable television series and films. Achieved prominence for starring in the MTV series 'Faking It', which received critical acclaim. Also contributed to music, showcasing talents beyond acting. Engaged in various projects that highlighted versatility in both acting and musical performance.
Continue ReadingPrincess Charlotte of Saxe-Meiningen
Royalty and consort of Great Britain
Born
September 11th, 1751 274 years ago
Died
1827 199 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1751, held the title of Princess of Saxe-Meiningen and became the consort of King George III of Great Britain. This marriage aligned the Saxe-Meiningen family with the British royal family. Played a role in the royal court and contributed to the royal legacy during a period marked by significant political and social changes. Eventually, her descendants continued to influence the British monarchy.
Continue ReadingDaniel Akaka
American politician and senator
Born
September 11th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a United States Senator from Hawaii from 1990 to 2013. Was the first Native Hawaiian elected to the U.S. Senate. Prior to his Senate career, held various positions in education and government, including serving as the director of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Played a key role in advancing legislation related to veterans, education, and Native Hawaiian rights.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 20th
Naomi Parker Fraley
American naval machinist and icon
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2018 8 years ago — 97 years old
A machinist during World War II, contributed to the war effort by working in a naval shipyard. Fraley operated machinery essential for the construction of naval vessels. The image of a woman in a blue bandana, often mistaken as the basis for the character 'Rosie the Riveter', became emblematic of female workers' contributions in factories and shipyards during the war. Continued to advocate for the recognition of women in the workforce.
Continue ReadingJohnny Weissmuller
Swimmer and Tarzan movie star
Born
June 2nd, 1904 122 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1984 42 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved prominence as a competitive swimmer, winning five Olympic gold medals in the 1920s. Set numerous world records in swimming, many of which stood for years. Transitioned to a successful acting career, becoming the first actor to portray Tarzan in film with the 1932 movie 'Tarzan the Ape Man.' Continued to star in multiple sequels, cementing a legacy in American cinema. Weissmuller's portrayal became iconic, and he contributed to popularizing the character of Tarzan in popular culture.
Continue ReadingOmar Bundy
American general, World War I leader
Born
June 17th, 1861 165 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1940 86 years ago — 78 years old
A U.S. Army general, served in various capacities during World War I and World War II. Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. Commanded the 85th Division during World War I and later held significant positions in various military campaigns. Led troops in the Army of the Potomac during the American Civil War. Held the rank of major general by the time of retirement, further contributing to military strategy and development.
Continue ReadingGeorge V of the United Kingdom
British monarch and World War I leader
Born
June 3rd, 1865 161 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1936 90 years ago — 70 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1910, serving as King of the United Kingdom during World War I. His reign saw the establishment of the House of Windsor, following the change from the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha due to anti-German sentiment. Played a significant role in shaping British royal protocols and modernizing the monarchy. Involved in numerous state affairs and presided over major changes in British society during the early 20th century, including the impact of the war on the nation and the evolving relationship with the dominions. Died in 1936 and was succeeded by Edward VIII.
Continue ReadingDora Stratou
Greek dancer and choreographer
Born
1903 123 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1988 38 years ago — 85 years old
Stratou founded the Dora Stratou Theatre in Athens, dedicated to traditional Greek dance. This venue has served as a platform for showcasing Greek folklore and dance culture. As a choreographer, she revitalized traditional dance forms and contributed significantly to their preservation. Stratou's work emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in the arts, making dance accessible to broader audiences through performances and educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingJaramogi Oginga Odinga
first Kenyan Vice-President
Born
1911 115 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1994 32 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the first Vice-President of Kenya from 1964 to 1966. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the early years of Kenya's independence. Advocated for African socialism and championed the rights of the Luo community. After his resignation, he continued to be an influential leader within the opposition and remained an important figure in Kenyan politics until his death.
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