Spyridon Louis
Greek marathon runner, Olympic champion
Born
January 12th, 1873
152 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1940
85 years ago — 67 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Greece
Links & References
A legendary figure in athletics, this individual gained fame as a marathon runner. In the inaugural modern Olympic Games held in Athens in 1896, he achieved notable success by winning the marathon event. This victory marked a significant moment in Olympic history, as it was the first marathon competition in the modern era. His win inspired a national sense of pride and showcased the revival of the Olympic tradition. The marathon distance of 40 kilometers, which this athlete completed, was that of the ancient Greek messenger Pheidippides.
Won the marathon at the 1896 Athens Olympics
Completed the race in a time of 2:58:50
Became a symbol of national pride in Greece
Other People Born on January 12th
Karl Künstler
Served as a high-ranking officer in the SS during World War II. Held the position of commandant at various concentration camps, overseeing operations and management. Involved in the implementation of Nazi policies that led to the persecution of numerous individuals. Engaged in administrative roles focused on the logistics of camp operations.
Continue ReadingRob Zombie
Born in 1965, a prominent figure in heavy metal music and horror filmmaking. Founded the band White Zombie, which gained popularity in the 1990s. Transitioned to solo projects, producing successful albums such as 'Hellbilly Deluxe'. Directed several horror films, including 'House of 1000 Corpses' and 'The Devil's Rejects'. Achieved recognition for merging horror themes with music and film, establishing a unique artistic identity.
Continue ReadingUberto De Morpurgo
Competed in tennis at the international level during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics, securing a bronze medal in men's doubles alongside partner Giovanni Cucelli. Established a prominent presence in European tennis tournaments of the era, garnering respect for performance and skills on the court.
Continue ReadingBob Hewitt
Achieved success in tennis during the 1960s and 1970s, representing both Australia and South Africa. Claimed multiple Grand Slam titles, including wins in men's doubles at the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon. Transitioned to play professionally, contributing to the sport's popularity and development in both countries. Later faced legal issues related to personal conduct.
Continue ReadingJohn Lasseter
An American animator, director, and producer, contributed significantly to the development of computer-generated animation. Co-founded Pixar Animation Studios and directed seminal films such as 'Toy Story', which was the first feature-length film entirely created using CGI. Guided the studio to create a string of successful films including 'A Bug's Life', 'Monsters, Inc.', and 'Finding Nemo'. Played a central role in the evolution of animated storytelling and technology in the film industry.
Continue ReadingJohannes Vares
Born in 1890, this individual was a prominent Estonian poet, physician, and politician. Medical training was received, which facilitated a career in healthcare. In addition to practicing medicine, significant contributions to literature were made, particularly in poetry. The individual also engaged actively in politics and became a member of the Estonian government during a critical time in the country's history. Efforts included advocating for Estonia's independence and cultural identity, reflecting the political landscape of the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 26th
John Kennedy Toole
An American novelist achieved acclaim posthumously for a single work. Wrote a comic novel focused on the misadventures of Ignatius J. Reilly. Published 'A Confederacy of Dunces' in 1980, around 11 years after the author's suicide. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1981, gaining significant recognition and maintaining a cult following over the years.
Continue ReadingHenry M. Leland
A machinist and engineer, developed significant advancements in the automotive industry. Founded Cadillac in 1902, introducing precision manufacturing techniques that set industry standards. Established Lincoln Motor Company in 1917, focusing on luxury automobiles. Contributed to mass production methods, influencing automotive design and engineering.
Continue ReadingFrederick Rotimi Williams
A prominent Nigerian lawyer and politician, he played a significant role in the legal framework and political landscape of Nigeria. Williams served as a legal advisor and advocate for various political movements and was deeply involved in Nigeria's transition to democracy. He contributed to the establishment of numerous legal institutions and reforms in the country, shaping the modern legal system. As a senior advocate of Nigeria, his expertise and influence in law garnered respect both nationally and internationally. Williams was also a key figure in several political parties and movements, working towards the betterment of the nation's governance.
Continue ReadingWilliam Chester Minor
Contributed significantly to the Oxford English Dictionary as a major lexicographical contributor. Served in the American Civil War as a surgeon. Later experienced mental health challenges and was committed to an asylum in England. While in the asylum, gathered and provided extensive quotes and definitions for the dictionary's compilation. Helped expand the understanding of English words and their usages through detailed documentation.
Continue ReadingAlex Comfort
A physician and author, contributed to the fields of medicine and sexual health. Published 'The Joy of Sex' in 1972, which became a seminal work in sexual education. Served in the British Army during World War II, later became a consultant in the National Health Service. Engaged in writing and lecturing on various topics, including personal relationships and the human condition.
Continue ReadingCarolyn Wells
An accomplished novelist and poet, this individual wrote over 50 novels and numerous poems throughout a prolific literary career. Major works included the 'Felicity' series and the mystery novel 'The Clue'. Contributions to the genre of detective fiction gained recognition, and the individual also published collections of poetry covering various themes. In addition to fiction, the individual served as an editor for several periodicals, further influencing American literature in the early 20th century.
Continue Reading