Spyridon Louis
Greek marathon runner, Olympic champion
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
Mike McGlinchey
American football offensive tackle
Born
January 12th, 1995 31 years ago
Played college football at the University of Notre Dame, earning All-American honors. Selected ninth overall in the 2018 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers. Contributed to the team's run to Super Bowl LIV during the 2019 season. Subsequently signed with the Denver Broncos in 2022 as a free agent, continuing professional career in the NFL.
Continue ReadingSheila Jackson Lee
U.S. Congresswoman and civil rights advocate
Born
January 12th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2024 1 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a U.S. Representative for Texas's 18th congressional district since 1995. Focused on civil rights, healthcare, and education reform. Participated in legislative efforts addressing issues such as Hurricane Katrina recovery and immigration reform. Advocated for the Voting Rights Act and led initiatives to support minority communities.
Continue ReadingRonald Shannon Jackson
American drummer and composer of jazz
Born
January 12th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 73 years old
An influential drummer and composer in the jazz genre, contributions included a significant role in the avant-garde jazz movement. Collaborated with notable musicians such as Ornette Coleman and participated in Coleman's band. Founded the band The Decoding Society, which combined jazz with elements of rock, funk, and world music. Released numerous albums, showcasing unique rhythmic techniques and innovative compositions that challenged traditional jazz forms.
Continue ReadingJaakko Hintikka
Finnish philosopher and logician
Born
January 12th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to philosophy and logic, specifically in the fields of epistemology and the philosophy of language. Developed methods in game-theoretical semantics, which influenced various areas of logic and philosophy. Worked on formal systems and the foundations of mathematics. Held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, enhancing scholarly discourse and research in his fields of expertise.
Continue ReadingAndrew J. Transue
American politician and attorney
Born
January 12th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1995 30 years ago — 92 years old
An American politician and attorney, this individual gained recognition for involvement in the landmark case Morissette v. United States. The case addressed issues of federal jurisdiction and the nature of federal crimes. In addition to legal work, this person served in various public offices and contributed to legal education throughout a lengthy career. Engagement in community affairs and legal discourse marked the professional journey, ensuring relevance in both legal and political arenas.
Continue ReadingHermann Göring
German politician and military leader
Born
January 12th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1946 79 years ago — 53 years old
Served as a prominent figure in Nazi Germany, becoming the second-in-command to Adolf Hitler. Held the position of Minister President of Prussia and was a leading member of the National Socialist German Workers' Party. In addition to political duties, played a significant role in the development of the Luftwaffe, the German air force, and was instrumental in various military strategies during World War II. After the war, faced trial at Nuremberg for war crimes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 26th
Robert Fagles
American poet and translator of classics
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2008 17 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent scholar of classical literature, contributions include acclaimed translations of Homer’s 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey'. Fagles taught at Princeton University, influencing countless students and readers through his academic work. His translations are celebrated for their accessibility and poetic quality, revitalizing ancient texts for modern audiences. Additionally, he authored several volumes of poetry, reflecting on personal and universal themes. Fagles received multiple honors, including the PEN / Ralph Manheim Medal for Translation, acknowledging his influence in bridging the gap between ancient and contemporary literature.
Continue ReadingInnocent Vareed Thekkethala
Indian actor and politician
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 75 years old
An actor and politician from India, played significant roles in Malayalam cinema. Acted in over 700 films and became a prominent figure in the industry. Entered politics and served as a Member of Parliament. Gained recognition for comedic and character roles in various films throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Contributed to the cultural landscape of Indian cinema while engaging in public service.
Continue ReadingMaría Kodama
Argentine writer and translator of Borges
Born
March 10th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Argentina, this writer and translator specialized in the works of Jorge Luis Borges. A prominent figure in the literary world, she contributed significantly to the understanding and dissemination of Borges' works, both in Spanish and through her translations into various languages. She served as an academic and held positions in several universities, promoting literature and translation studies. Notably, she published several essays and works that delve into the intricacies of Borges' writing, enriching the scholarship surrounding his contributions to literature.
Continue ReadingAlfonso XI of Castile
King of Castile known for the Black Death
Born
1312 714 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1350 675 years ago — 38 years old
Ruled Castile from 1311 until death in 1350. Expanded territorial boundaries significantly through military campaigns. Achieved victories against the Moors, notably at the Battle of Salado in 1340, which solidified Christian control in southern Spain. His reign faced challenges from the plague, which led to significant population decline. Recorded efforts to strengthen royal authority over nobility and promoted legislation.
Continue ReadingRaymond Chandler
Crime novelist and screenwriter
Born
July 23rd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1959 66 years ago — 70 years old
Chandler was an American novelist and screenwriter active during the early to mid-20th century. He is recognized for his contributions to the hard-boiled detective genre, creating complex characters and intricate plots. His most famous work, 'The Big Sleep', introduced the character Philip Marlowe, a private detective navigating a corrupt society. Chandler also worked on screenplays for films such as 'Double Indemnity' and 'Strangers on a Train'. His writing style, characterized by vivid descriptions and sharp dialogue, has influenced numerous authors and filmmakers.
Continue ReadingKrzysztof Kozłowski
Polish politician and journalist
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in Polish politics and journalism, served as the Polish Minister of Interior. Played a significant role in shaping internal policies during his tenure. Engaged in various political activities that influenced public discourse and governance in Poland.
Continue Reading