Simón Bolívar
Venezuelan military leader and politician
Born in Venezuela, this figure played a crucial role in the Latin American independence movement against Spanish colonial rule. He led military campaigns across several countries, including Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, achieving victories that established independence for those nations. A key advocate for creating a unified Latin America, he also served as the second president of Venezuela. His vision extended to the establishment of a confederate union among the liberated countries, although this idea faced significant challenges.
Led liberation campaigns in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia
Founded the Republic of Bolivia
Served as the second President of Venezuela
Other People Born on July 24th
Mikaël Kingsbury
Canadian Freestyle Skier and Olympian
Born
July 24th, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in freestyle skiing, specializing in mogul events. Achieved significant success in international competitions, including the FIS World Cup circuit. Secured multiple World Cup titles and won the gold medal in mogul skiing at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. Also claimed numerous medals at World Championships throughout the career.
Continue ReadingZelda Fitzgerald
American author and artist
Born
July 24th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1948 77 years ago — 47 years old
An influential American author and visual artist, this individual played a significant role in the early 20th century literary scene. Attributed with the novels 'Save Me the Waltz' and contributions to various magazines, exploration of themes related to women's roles and identity characterized the literary works. Additionally, involvement in ballet showcased talent in performance arts. The individual actively participated in artistic and cultural movements of the time, reflecting the experiences and aspirations of the Jazz Age.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Di Stefano
Italian tenor and opera singer
Born
July 24th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2008 17 years ago — 86 years old
Di Stefano gained prominence as a tenor in the opera world during the mid-20th century. Significant performances took place at prestigious venues, cementing a reputation for powerful and expressive singing. The tenor collaborated with renowned conductors and other prominent opera singers, showcasing talent in leading roles within operas by Verdi and Puccini. His artistry and vocal prowess left a lasting legacy in the field of classical music. Later in his career, Di Stefano also ventured into acting, performing in film adaptations of operas, further broadening his artistic reach.
Continue ReadingCatherine of Saxony
Archduchess of Austria
Born
July 24th, 1468 557 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1524 501 years ago — 55 years old
Born into the House of Wettin, this archduchess served as a significant political figure in the early 16th century. Marriage to the influential Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I facilitated a union between powerful dynasties. Her tenure was marked by her role in the upbringing of Habsburg children, with particular focus on stabilizing political alliances through strategic marriages.
Continue ReadingDrake London
American football wide receiver
Born
July 24th, 2001 24 years ago
A professional football player, active in the National Football League. Played college football at the University of Southern California, where earned recognition as a standout wide receiver. Selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. Demonstrated remarkable athletic ability and strong catching skills during rookie season, contributing significantly to his team's offense.
Continue ReadingMeisei Chikara
Sumo wrestler with a top division ranking
Born
July 24th, 1995 30 years ago
Competed in sumo wrestling since 2011, becoming a prominent figure in the sport. Achieved the rank of Makuuchi, the top division. Gained recognition for strength and technique in competition. Participated in various tournaments, contributing to the rich culture and history of sumo in Japan.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Gordon Hunt
Voice director for animation and film
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old
A voice director contributed significantly to the animation industry, guiding actors in their performances for both television and film. Worked extensively with a variety of production studios, including Warner Bros. and Disney. Directed the iconic 'Animaniacs' and 'Tiny Toon Adventures,' bringing beloved characters to life through skilled vocal performances. Also directed voice work for feature films such as 'The Iron Giant' and 'The Lion King II: Simba's Pride.' In addition to directing, mentored numerous voice actors, helping to shape their careers and improve their craft.
Continue ReadingLowell Steward
American Army Captain
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old
Served as an Army captain in the United States during the Vietnam War. Steward was captured as a prisoner of war in 1965 and endured over seven years of captivity. He participated in the Tet Offensive and was instrumental in intelligence and strategic operations within his unit. Upon release, Steward became an advocate for veterans' rights and shared his experiences during captivity to raise awareness of the challenges faced by former prisoners of war.
Continue ReadingLarry Sherry
Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
July 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 71 years old
A professional baseball player and coach, played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1959 to 1962. Played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1963 World Series victory, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying experience and knowledge of the game to help develop players.
Continue ReadingDorothy L. Sayers
English author and poet of detective fiction
Born
June 13th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1957 68 years ago — 64 years old
An English author and poet, contributions spanned novels, plays, and essays. Achieved acclaim for the creation of the fictional detective Lord Peter Wimsey, debuting in 'Whose Body?' in 1923. Was also a respected playwright and translator, notably adapting Dante's 'Divine Comedy' into English. In addition to fiction, engaged in writing about theology and literary criticism. Pursued academic studies in modern languages and held diverse roles in the publishing field.
Continue ReadingIvan Vekić
Croatian politician and minister
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
Held the position of Minister of the Interior in Croatia, overseeing internal affairs and law enforcement. Served as a colonel in the Croatian Army during the Croatian War of Independence. Actively participated in shaping the country's post-war policies and legal framework. Contributed to the development of Croatian legislation and governance structures.
Continue ReadingMichael Wyschogrod
Philosopher and theologian of Judaism
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent philosopher and theologian focused on Jewish thought, contributions included substantial writings on Jewish philosophy, particularly regarding the relationship between Judaism and Christianity. Engaged with existential and ethical questions, emphasized the significance of personal experience in understanding faith. Held academic positions at institutions including the City University of New York and was influential in discussions regarding the nature of God and divine attributes.
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