Tom Gola
Basketball player and politician
A basketball player and coach, and later a politician. Played college basketball at La Salle University, where earned All-American honors. Had a successful professional career in the NBA, primarily with the Philadelphia Warriors, and was selected to multiple All-Star teams. Transitioned into coaching and served in various coaching roles after retiring from playing. Entered politics, serving in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Earned All-American honors at La Salle University
Played for the Philadelphia Warriors
Served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Other People Born on January 13th
Albert Lamorisse
Director of The Red Balloon
Born
January 13th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1970 55 years ago — 48 years old
A French director and producer contributed significantly to cinema through a unique storytelling style. Best remembered for the film 'The Red Balloon', which won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1957, the work showcased a poignant narrative with minimal dialogue. Lamorisse's career spanned various genres, but his enchanting children's films often featured themes of wonder and imagination. He also produced and directed 'White Mane', another acclaimed film that captured the beauty of nature and the bond between a boy and a wild horse. Lamorisse's innovative use of color and sound left a lasting impression on filmmakers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingClaudia Emerson
American poet with a Pulitzer Prize
Born
January 13th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 57 years old
An American poet and academic contributed significantly to contemporary poetry. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 2006 for the collection 'Late Wife.' Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Mary Washington. Engaged in literary discussions and criticism, published numerous works in respected literary journals, and edited anthologies that highlighted other poets' works.
Continue ReadingOrlando Bloom
English actor known for 'The Lord of the Rings'
Born
January 13th, 1977 48 years ago
An English actor rose to prominence through roles in blockbuster films. Gained recognition starring as Legolas in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy, which included 'The Fellowship of the Ring', 'The Two Towers', and 'The Return of the King'. Also played the character Will Turner in the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' series, starting with 'The Curse of the Black Pearl'. Other notable roles included performances in 'Troy' and 'Elizabethtown'. His career featured a blend of action, fantasy, and drama genres, leading to various award nominations.
Continue ReadingJack Johnson
Professional ice hockey player
Born
January 13th, 1987 38 years ago
This American ice hockey player competed in the NHL for various teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Columbus Blue Jackets. Established as a reliable defenseman, contributions included playing significant roles in defensive strategies and on special teams, particularly during playoff runs. His college career at the University of Michigan preceded a successful entry into professional hockey, where accolades included being selected for the NHL All-Star Game.
Continue ReadingShad Gaspard
American wrestler and actor in WWE
Born
January 13th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 39 years old
A professional wrestler and actor, gained recognition in the wrestling world as a part of the tag team Cryme Tyme, which gained significant popularity in WWE. Gaspard appeared in multiple WWE events, showcasing his skills in the ring. Transitioning into acting, featured in films and television, with roles in productions like 'Get Hard' and 'The Righteous Gemstones'. In addition to wrestling and acting, contributed to various projects and continued to engage with fans until his untimely passing.
Continue ReadingAndrew Yang
Entrepreneur and presidential candidate
Born
January 13th, 1975 50 years ago
An entrepreneur and advocate focused on economic issues, founded Venture for America to support startups and create jobs in cities across the United States. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, promoting a universal basic income and addressing technological unemployment. Initiated discussions on the implications of automation and the future of work. Engaged in public speaking and writing on economic topics and the role of technology in society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 26th
Duncan Gordon Boyes
English soldier; Victoria Cross recipient
Born
1846 179 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1869 156 years ago — 23 years old
Served as an officer in the British Army during the 19th century. Participated in the Indian Mutiny, where acts of bravery led to significant recognition. Awarded the Victoria Cross for valor during a battle in 1857, showcasing exceptional courage under fire.
Continue ReadingEdward G. Robinson
Actor in classic films like 'Double Indemnity'
Born
December 12th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1973 52 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Romania, significant work in American cinema spanned several decades. Achieved prominence in the 1930s and 1940s as part of the film noir movement. Gained acclaim for a distinctive portrayal of tough-guy characters, particularly in 'Little Caesar' and 'Key Largo'. Demonstrated versatility with performances in various genres, including drama and comedy. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for the film 'The Yearling'. Continued performing in film and television until death in 1973.
Continue ReadingBarbara Howard
Canadian sprinter and educator
Born
May 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2017 8 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent Canadian sprinter, contributed to athletics in Canada during the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, representing Canada in the women's 100 meters and 4x100 meter relay events. Achieved notable success in national competitions, securing multiple championships. Had a significant career as an educator, influencing physical education and athletics in schools across Canada.
Continue ReadingDietrich von Hildebrand
German Catholic philosopher and author
Born
October 12th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1977 48 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent philosopher and author engaged in the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and aesthetics. Contributed to the Catholic philosophical tradition through works on personalism, love, and the nature of beauty. Served as a professor at the University of Munich, influencing generations of students. Emigrated to the United States during World War II, where continued to teach and write on key philosophical issues, particularly relating to faith and reason.
Continue ReadingEdward Davy
Physician and engineer, inventor of the Davy lamp
Born
June 16th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1885 140 years ago — 78 years old
Started a career as a physician before transitioning into engineering. Developed an early safety lamp for mining, significantly improving working conditions in coal mines. Advocated for better health standards in the mining industry. Identified various methods to enhance ventilation in mines, contributing to safer mining practices.
Continue ReadingPaula Gruden
Slovenian-Australian poet and translator
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
Born in Slovenia, a significant figure in literature migrated to Australia. Engaged in poetry and translation, exploring themes of identity and culture. Contributed to both Slovenian and Australian literary landscapes. Published works encompass original poetry as well as translations that bridge languages and cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding. Involved in various literary initiatives and events that celebrated Slovenian heritage.
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