Paul Du Chaillu
Anthropologist and zoologist, explorer

Born
July 31st, 1835
189 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1903
121 years ago — 67 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
United States
Links & References
Contributed to the understanding of African cultures and wildlife. Conducted extensive explorations in Equatorial Africa, bringing back significant information and specimens. Published works on gorillas, which spurred interest in primate studies, including 'Explorations and Adventures in Equatorial Africa'. Engaged in debates regarding the existence of gorillas and played a role in disseminating knowledge about the region's biodiversity and indigenous peoples.
Conducted pioneering explorations in Africa
Wrote 'Explorations and Adventures in Equatorial Africa'
First to write about gorillas in depth
Other People Born on July 31st
Irv Kupcinet
Played as a quarterback in American football, primarily with the Chicago Bears. Transitioned to a successful career in journalism, writing a popular column for the Chicago Daily News for several decades. Contributed to television and radio broadcasting, becoming a prominent media figure in Chicago. Engaged in coverage of various sports and local events, making a name as a sports commentator.
Continue ReadingBill Todman
Contributed significantly to the television industry as a screenwriter and producer. Worked alongside partner Charles E. Goodman to co-create various successful television shows. Instrumental in the production of the anthology series 'The Twilight Zone', which became a landmark in American television. Also contributed to the creation of other shows such as 'The Defenders' and 'Nice Time'. Over the years, produced and co-produced a number of popular television programs that garnered critical and audience acclaim.
Continue ReadingSalvatore Maranzano
Founded the Bonanno crime family in New York City. Played a crucial role in the Castellammarese War and established the Commission to govern organized crime in the United States. Elevated status of Sicilian mobsters in America by instituting traditional Sicilian mafia practices. Met his end in 1931 due to power struggles among rival factions, marking a notable turning point in organized crime history.
Continue ReadingKenny Burrell
A prominent jazz guitarist and composer, played a crucial role in the development of jazz guitar. Contributed to numerous influential recordings and was a key figure in the bebop movement. Collaborated with notable artists such as Dizzy Gillespie and Oscar Peterson. His playing style combines elements of bebop, blues, and traditional jazz forms. Became a respected educator, sharing knowledge and techniques with aspiring musicians.
Continue ReadingAugustus
Birth occurred on July 31, 1526. Served as Elector of Saxony from 1547 until death in 1586. Played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation by supporting Martin Luther and promoting Protestantism in Saxony. Established the University of Wittenberg, where reformist ideas flourished. Encouraged the development of the arts and culture, leading to notable advancements during the Renaissance period in Germany.
Continue ReadingAndrew Marr
A prominent journalist and author, this individual served as the political editor for the BBC and hosted the Sunday morning current affairs show, 'The Andrew Marr Show.' The career in journalism included reporting on significant political events and interviewing numerous leaders, contributing to the analysis of British politics. Additionally, the individual authored several books exploring British history and politics, further establishing a reputation as a public intellectual.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 29th
Catherine of Siena
Born in 1347, held significant influence during the late medieval period as a philosopher and theologian. Contributed to the Catholic Church's renewal through correspondence with popes and various leaders. Played a pivotal role in persuading Pope Gregory XI to return the papacy to Rome from Avignon. Authored several works including 'The Dialogue', which focuses on spiritual and moral guidance. Canonized as a saint in 1461 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970.
Continue ReadingGeorge Farquhar
An influential actor and playwright contributed significantly to English comedy during the early 18th century. Renowned for the works, 'The Recruiting Officer' and 'The Beaux' Stratagem', which exemplified the intricacies of human relationships and social commentary. His writing is characterized by wit and an understanding of character dynamics. Farquhar faced health challenges throughout his career, which ultimately led to his early death.
Continue ReadingHugh of Cluny
Hugh of Cluny served as the abbot of Cluny Abbey and significantly reformed monastic life in Western Christianity. Under leadership, Cluny Abbey became a center of monastic reform, emphasizing strict adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict. Hugh focused on spiritual and temporal governance throughout the Cluniac order and played a crucial role in enhancing the influence of the Benedictine monastic tradition. His tenure saw the establishment of numerous daughter houses across Europe, contributing to the spread of reformist ideas.
Continue ReadingEdward Wortley Montagu
An English explorer and author contributed significantly to the documentation of travel in Turkey and the Middle East. His extensive writings including 'The Letters of the Right Honourable Edward Wortley Montagu' provided insights into the customs and culture of the Ottoman Empire during the 18th century. Montagu traveled extensively, partly due to his wife's health condition, which led to his interest in the practices of Turkish baths. He became a notable figure in the early exploration of the East and a prominent member of London's intellectual circles, engaging with other writers of his time.
Continue ReadingJohn Henniker-Major
A British diplomat and civil servant held various posts in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Worked in several regions, with a focus on Africa and Asia, and contributed to diplomatic relations during crucial periods. Played a key role in negotiations and fostering relationships between the UK and other nations. Served as the British Ambassador to several countries, promoting British interests abroad.
Continue ReadingJohn Kenneth Galbraith
An economist and diplomat, served as the U.S. Ambassador to India from 1961 to 1963 during the Kennedy administration. Contributed to economic theories, particularly on the role of public policy in the economy and the influence of large corporations. Authored several influential books, with 'The Affluent Society' being among the most recognized, which critiqued consumerism in post-World War II America. Held academic positions at prestigious institutions and was a prominent public intellectual.
Continue Reading