Theodoros Pangalos
Greek politician and military leader
Served as a prominent general and politician in Greece during the early 20th century. Held the position of President of Greece from 1926 to 1929. Participated in military campaigns and was involved in the political landscape during a tumultuous period in Greek history. Took part in the Greco-Turkish War and held various governmental positions, shaping the political environment of the era.
Served as President of Greece from 1926 to 1929
Participated in the Greco-Turkish War
Other People Born on January 11th
Carroll Shelby
Race car driver and automotive designer
Born
January 11th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
Achieved prominence as a race car driver and automotive designer. Competed in various race events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Developed the Shelby Cobra sports car, which became an iconic symbol of American automotive performance. Established Shelby American, a company that manufactures high-performance cars and parts. Collaborated with Ford to create the Mustang Cobra and the GT350, contributing significantly to the automotive industry.
Continue ReadingAbd-ar-Rahman III
Caliph of Córdoba and Umayyad leader
Born
January 11th, 889 1137 years ago
Became the first Caliph of Córdoba in 929 and established the Umayyad Caliphate in al-Andalus. Reinforced the power and prestige of Córdoba, making it a center of culture, science, and trade in the medieval world. Oversaw significant architectural advancements including the expansion of the Great Mosque of Córdoba. Cultivated relationships with various scholars, poets, and intellectuals, promoting a flourishing cultural environment.
Continue ReadingKwon Ki-ok
Korean pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
January 11th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1988 38 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1901, a significant figure in early Korean aviation. Achieved recognition as one of the first licensed pilots in Korea. Contributed to the development of aviation in Korea by participating in various flight exhibitions and training programs. Later, played a crucial role in promoting aviation education in the country.
Continue ReadingEzra Cornell
Businessman, founder of Cornell University
Born
January 11th, 1807 219 years ago
Died
1874 152 years ago — 67 years old
An American businessman and philanthropist established Western Union and Cornell University. The university was named after him and he served as its first trustee. In the 1850s, a revolution in telegraphy occurred, and he played a crucial role in its advancement, serving as a co-founder of the entities that would become known as Western Union. His philanthropic efforts focused on education, and he dedicated significant resources to the establishment of the university, ensuring it provided a broad and practical education.
Continue ReadingJerome Bixby
American author and screenwriter of sci-fi
Born
January 11th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1998 28 years ago — 75 years old
An influential author and screenwriter contributed significantly to science fiction through works in both film and literature. Wrote episodes for the original 'Star Trek' series, including the notable episode 'Mirror, Mirror'. Authored the short story 'It's a Good Life', adapted into an episode of 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked on the screenplay for 'Fantastic Voyage', which became a classic of the genre. His creative influences extended to the broader cultural landscape, impacting generations of sci-fi writers and fans.
Continue ReadingGrant Tinker
Television producer, co-founder of MTM Enterprises
Born
January 11th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 91 years old
Co-founded MTM Enterprises, a television production company recognized for creating successful television series. Played an instrumental role in developing popular shows such as 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and 'The Bob Newhart Show'. Tinker served as chairman and CEO of NBC from 1973 to 1978, a period marked by significant ratings growth and the introduction of innovative programming. After leaving NBC, continued to produce television content, contributing to the landscape of American television.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 26th
Roy Eldridge
Jazz trumpet player with a dynamic style
Born
January 30th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1989 37 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent jazz trumpet player, exemplified a vigorous and innovative playing style. Played in the big bands of the 1930s and 1940s, collaborating with figures such as Benny Goodman and Gene Krupa. Contributed significantly to the bebop movement in jazz music. His recordings with groups like the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra showcased technical skill and emotional depth. Eldridge's technique and approach influenced many trumpet players and left a lasting legacy on the genre. Throughout the career, performances at prestigious venues, including the Apollo Theater, further solidified his reputation within the jazz community. Through a direct approach to improvisation, he became a key figure in shaping jazz music during his era.
Continue ReadingTheodore Schultz
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 30th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1998 28 years ago — 95 years old
An economist and academic contributed significantly to the analysis of human capital. Emphasized the importance of education and training in improving economic productivity. Authored pivotal works that explored the relationship between education and economic growth. His research laid the foundation for the development of the human capital theory. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1979 for contributions to the understanding of how education affects economic performance.
Continue ReadingStéphane Hessel
Diplomat and author of 'Indignez-vous!'
Born
October 20th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2013 13 years ago — 95 years old
A diplomat and author, played a significant role in French politics and literature. Contributed to the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Authored 'Indignez-vous!', a bestseller advocating for social justice and political engagement at a global level. Engaged in various social and political movements throughout the latter half of the 20th century, influencing debates on human rights and democracy.
Continue ReadingMarie-Claire Alain
Organist and educator, notable for recordings
Born
August 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2013 13 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent organist and educator, contributed significantly to the field of organ music. Taught at the Conservatoire de Paris and published several educational works. Made numerous recordings, showcasing both classical pieces and contemporary works. Participated in international competitions as a juror and awarded multiple accolades for excellence in musicianship.
Continue ReadingNorm Van Lier
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2009 17 years ago — 62 years old
Played as a point guard in the National Basketball Association primarily for the Chicago Bulls from 1969 to 1976. Achieved three All-Star selections during the early 1970s. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting after retirement, sharing insights on basketball through various media platforms. Inducted into the Chicago Sports Hall of Fame recognizing contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingJoseph Wapner
Television Judge on The People's Court
Born
November 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2017 9 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court and later became a television personality. Gained recognition as the presiding judge on the reality courtroom series 'The People's Court', which premiered in 1981 and popularized the genre of court shows. Wapner's rigorous but fair adjudication style contributed to the show's success and longevity. His contributions to the legal and television fields made him a well-recognized figure in American popular culture.
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