Sandra Day O'Connor
Supreme Court Justice, landmark decisions
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
First woman to serve as a United States Supreme Court Justice. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, served until 2006. Participated in significant rulings on various issues, including affirmative action, abortion, and the separation of church and state. O'Connor emphasized the importance of consensus in her decisions and often served as a pivotal swing vote in closely decided cases. After retiring from the bench, focused on civic engagement and education, founding an initiative to promote civic knowledge among young people.
First female Supreme Court Justice
Key votes in landmark cases
Advocated for civic education
Other People Born on March 26th
Larry Page
Computer Scientist, Google Co-founder
Born
March 26th, 1973 52 years ago
A significant figure in the technology sector, contributed to the development of search engines. Co-founded Google in 1998 while pursuing a Ph.D. at Stanford University. Developed PageRank, a pivotal algorithm improving the relevance of search results. Served as CEO of Google from 1997 until 2001 and later from 2011 to 2015. Played a crucial role in the creation of Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google. Focused on innovations in technology and artificial intelligence.
Continue ReadingDewitt Clinton Senter
Tennessee Governor and politician
Born
March 26th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1898 127 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the 18th Governor of Tennessee from 1868 to 1870. Prior to the governorship, held various local and state political positions, contributing to the Democratic Party in Tennessee. Advocated for education and economic development during tenure. Engaged in efforts to address post-Civil War reconstruction issues in the state.
Continue ReadingJames Caan
American actor in 'The Godfather'
Born
March 26th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2022 3 years ago — 82 years old
An American actor and singer recognized for a prolific career in film and television. Gained prominence with the role of Sonny Corleone in 'The Godfather' (1972), a film that became a cultural landmark. His performance in 'Misery' (1990) earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Beyond acting, engaged in various artistic projects, showcasing versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Worked in television as well, including notable appearances in series such as 'Las Vegas'.
Continue ReadingGuccio Gucci
Italian fashion designer, founded Gucci
Born
March 26th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 72 years old
An Italian fashion designer established a luxury fashion brand in Florence in 1921. The brand initially focused on leather goods and equestrian accessories. Over the years, it expanded to include clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories. The brand became synonymous with high-end fashion and quality craftsmanship. Gucci gained popularity among celebrities and influential figures, solidifying its position in the fashion industry. The designer's commitment to elegance and innovation contributed to the enduring success of the brand.
Continue ReadingAzellus Denis
Canadian lawyer and Postmaster General
Born
March 26th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1907, this individual served as a Canadian lawyer and politician. Held the position of Postmaster General of Canada, overseeing the postal service during a period of significant change. Involved in various legal and political activities, contributing to the development of policies affecting the postal system. Active in public service, engaging with community issues and parliamentary responsibilities.
Continue ReadingCurtis Sliwa
American talk show host and activist
Born
March 26th, 1954 71 years ago
Established a community safety organization aimed at reducing crime in urban areas. Gained recognition for founding the Guardian Angels, a volunteer organization dedicated to patrol neighborhoods and provide safety. Engaged in various political campaigns and media endeavors, including hosting a radio talk show. Advocated for public safety and crime prevention policies throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 1st
Bernhard Schmidt
Astronomer and inventor of the Schmidt camera
Born
April 11th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1935 90 years ago — 56 years old
An Estonian-German astronomer and optician contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through the invention of the Schmidt camera, an optical device that improved wide-field astrophotography. His work enabled astronomers to capture images of celestial objects with enhanced clarity and field of view. The Schmidt camera became a crucial instrument in many observatories around the world, facilitating numerous discoveries in the study of the universe. Schmidt also engaged in various optical experiments and contributed to advancements in lens design, promoting innovation in astronomical instrumentation during his career.
Continue ReadingPrince Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld
Dutch noble and environmental advocate
Born
June 29th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2004 21 years ago — 93 years old
Born into a German noble family, a prince served in the Luftwaffe during World War II before moving to the Netherlands. He married Princess Juliana, who later became queen, solidifying his position within Dutch royalty. Alongside royal duties, he became involved in various environmental initiatives, founding the World Wildlife Fund in 1961 and serving as its first president. His dedication to conservation led to significant efforts in raising awareness about environmental protection and sustainable development. His legacy includes contributions to both royal engagements and global environmental movements.
Continue ReadingPaul Benedict
Actor known for The Jeffersons
Born
September 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2008 17 years ago — 70 years old
An American actor, recognized for roles in television and film. Gained prominence through the portrayal of Harry Bentley on the CBS sitcom The Jeffersons. Made appearances in various television shows including All in the Family and The Twilight Zone. Featured in films such as The Goodbye Girl and The Man Who Fell to Earth. Apart from acting, engaged in directing and voice work, contributing to the performing arts.
Continue ReadingArnie Robinson
American athlete, long jump champion
Born
April 7th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2020 5 years ago — 72 years old
An accomplished long jumper, excelled in athletics during the 1970s. Won a gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Set a personal best of 8.35 meters during his career. Competed for the University of California, Los Angeles and won numerous championships at the collegiate level. Overcame numerous challenges to establish a prominent presence in the sport and contributed to the athletic community through mentorship.
Continue ReadingGeorge Stigler
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 17th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 80 years old
An American economist and academic, contributions focused on the fields of economics and industrial organization. Stigler's work explored market structures and the role of information in economics. He served as a professor at the University of Chicago and played a significant role in the development of the Chicago School of Economics. The achievements in his career culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1982 for his research on the effects of market structure on economic performance.
Continue ReadingGust Avrakotos
CIA officer and key Iran-Contra figure
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2005 20 years ago — 67 years old
A career officer in the CIA, played a significant role in the agency's operations during the Cold War. Worked in various capacities, including overseeing covert operations in Afghanistan that supported the Mujahideen against the Soviet invasion. Instrumental in the Iran-Contra affair, managing the controversial arms deals and funding for Nicaraguan rebels. Achieved recognition for operational strategies and contributions to U.S. foreign policy during tumultuous periods.
Continue Reading