Sandford Fleming
Engineer and creator of Standard Time
An engineer and inventor, contributed to the development of the global time zone system. His work aimed to create a standardized time for scheduling purposes, especially for railroads. The proposal for a worldwide timekeeping system was presented at the International Meridian Conference in 1884, leading to the establishment of Greenwich Mean Time. This initiative addressed significant challenges related to timekeeping across different geographical locations, which emerged with the expansion of railway networks. Fleming also played a key role in the development of Canada's transcontinental railway.
Created the concept of Universal Standard Time
Presented proposals at the International Meridian Conference
Contributed to the Canadian transcontinental railway
Other People Born on January 7th
Lyndsy Fonseca
American actress in television and film
Born
January 7th, 1987 39 years ago
An actress gained recognition through roles in television series and films. Starred as Alexandra Udinov in the series Nikita and played the role of Dylan Mayfair in Desperate Housewives. Also appeared in the film Kick-Ass alongside notable actors. Career includes various guest appearances and leading roles across different genres.
Continue ReadingLewis Hamilton
Formula 1 racing driver and champion
Born
January 7th, 1985 41 years ago
A prominent racing driver, this individual participated in Formula One racing, driving for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. Achievements include securing multiple World Drivers' Championship titles. This driver holds the record for the most pole positions and is regarded as one of the sport's leading figures.
Continue ReadingCaster Semenya
South African sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
January 7th, 1991 35 years ago
Born in 1991, a prominent middle-distance runner specialized in the 800 meters. Achievements include winning multiple gold medals at the IAAF World Championships and the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, securing the top position in her event. Competitive career marked by various controversies related to gender and eligibility regulations in athletics, sparking significant international discourse. Continued to compete at the highest levels in track and field.
Continue ReadingTohu Harris
New Zealand rugby league player
Born
January 7th, 1992 34 years ago
A rugby league player represented New Zealand internationally. Played as a second-row forward and lock. Contributed to the Penrith Panthers' success in the NRL, including a championship victory. Had a significant career with the New Zealand Warriors, where tenacity and skill were showcased over multiple seasons. Participated in significant international competitions.
Continue ReadingRobert Ri'chard
American actor, starred in 'One on One'
Born
January 7th, 1983 43 years ago
Born in 1983, this American actor gained recognition for performances in television and film. Best known for a lead role in the series 'One on One', which aired from 2001 to 2006. Also appeared in movies such as 'The Great Debaters' and 'Coach Carter'. Over the years, built a career in the entertainment industry, contributing to various projects across different genres.
Continue ReadingCappie Pondexter
Professional basketball player, WNBA champion
Born
January 7th, 1983 43 years ago
Achieved prominence as a professional basketball player in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). Played for teams including the New York Liberty and the Phoenix Mercury. Won the WNBA Championship in 2007 with the Mercury, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Awarded the WNBA All-Star title multiple times throughout career, showcasing exceptional skills and leadership on the court. Known for a prolific scoring ability and playmaking skills, defining a successful career in women's basketball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 22nd
Giovannino Guareschi
Italian journalist and author of 'Don Camillo'
Born
May 1st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1968 57 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1908, an Italian journalist and author gained recognition for creating the character Don Camillo, featured in a series of stories that explored the dynamics between a Catholic priest and a Communist mayor in a small Italian village. The stories not only provided social commentary on post-World War II Italy but also showcased his wit and storytelling abilities. Published during the 1940s and 1950s, the 'Don Camillo' tales became immensely popular, leading to adaptations in film and television, solidifying their status in Italian culture.
Continue ReadingEric Christmas
English-Canadian actor, 'A Christmas Story'
Born
March 19th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2000 25 years ago — 84 years old
Born in England and later moved to Canada, a career in acting included appearances in television and film. Gained recognition for roles in iconic productions. Best known for portraying the character 'Mr. Parker' in the holiday classic 'A Christmas Story' and for appearances in the series 'The X-Files' and 'The A-Team'. Engaged in a range of dramatic roles that showcased versatility in both comedic and serious performances.
Continue ReadingRaymond Lemieux
Chemist known for carbohydrate chemistry
Born
June 16th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2000 25 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1920, a Canadian chemist and academic focused on carbohydrate chemistry. Contributed to the understanding of complex carbohydrates and glycosylation reactions. Held a distinguished career at the University of Alberta, where numerous graduate students were mentored. Published extensively in scientific journals, influencing research in the field of chemistry.
Continue ReadingJames B. McPherson
American Civil War general
Born
November 14th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1864 161 years ago — 35 years old
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 ReadingLawrence of Brindisi
Italian priest and canonized saint
Born
July 22nd, 1559 466 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1619 406 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1559, contributed significantly to the Capuchin Order and served as a diplomat and preacher. Played a vital role during the Counter-Reformation, advocating for the Catholic Church and its doctrines. Engaged in theological debates and established missions to spread Catholicism across Europe. His writings include sermons, biblical commentaries, and works on theology. Canonized in 1881 by Pope Leo XIII, he is recognized within the Catholic Church as a saint and a Doctor of the Church.
Continue ReadingJohn Dillinger
American gangster and bank robber
Born
June 22nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1934 91 years ago — 31 years old
Gained notoriety during the Great Depression as a bank robber. Led a group known as the Dillinger Gang, which committed a series of robberies across several states in the Midwest. Escaped from jail twice, becoming a symbol of criminality. Captured and shot by FBI agents in 1934.
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