Vasily Smyslov

Chess player and World Champion

Vasily Smyslov - Chess player and World Champion
Born

March 24th, 1921
103 years ago

Died

2010
15 years ago — 89 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Russia

Links & References

Achieved prominence in chess as a top player during the mid-20th century. Claimed the title of World Chess Champion in 1957, defeating Mikhail Botvinnik, and successfully defended the title in a rematch in 1958. Contributed to chess literature and theory with many published works. Renowned for a strategic playing style and exceptional endgame skills.

World Chess Champion (1957)

Defeated Mikhail Botvinnik in 1957

Other People Born on March 24th

Sergey Ivanovich Vavilov

Russian physicist and academic leader
Born
March 24th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of optics and photometry. Served as the director of the Physical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Played a crucial role in the establishment of scientific institutions in the Soviet Union. Participated in the Soviet Academy of Sciences and promoted research in various scientific disciplines.

Continue Reading

Thomas E. Dewey

American politician and governor of New York
Born
March 24th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1971 53 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 47th Governor of New York from 1943 to 1954. Dewey gained national prominence for his role as a federal prosecutor in organized crime cases in the 1930s. He ran for President of the United States in 1944 and 1948, securing the Republican nomination both times. His 1948 presidential campaign included a significant focus on anti-communism and civil rights. Despite losing to Harry S. Truman in 1948, the campaign illustrated his influence within the Republican Party during the post-war era. Dewey's policies and governance style left a lasting mark on New York politics.

Continue Reading

Walter Baade

German astronomer and author of major theories
Born
March 24th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Germany in 1893, Baade significantly advanced the field of astronomy with pioneering research in stellar populations and supernovae. After moving to the United States in the 1930s, he worked at the Mt. Wilson Observatory, where he utilized the observatory's telescopes to deepen understanding of the universe. His research contributed to the formulation of the theory of explosive nucleosynthesis, explaining the origins of heavy elements. Baade also distinguished between the populations of stars, leading to the classification of Population I and Population II stars, which transformed the understanding of Galactic structure. His work has had lasting impacts on both observational and theoretical astronomy.

Continue Reading

John Wesley Powell

Geologist and explorer of the Colorado River
Born
March 24th, 1834 190 years ago
Died
1902 123 years ago — 68 years old

A soldier and geologist, contributions included extensive exploration of the American West. Led the first successful expedition through the Grand Canyon in 1869. Served as the second director of the U.S. Geological Survey from 1881 to 1894, advocating for the scientific understanding of the region's natural resources. Wrote works on geology and the importance of conservation, influencing future policies on land management.

Continue Reading

Alec Hurley

English music hall singer
Born
March 24th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1913 112 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1871, a music hall singer achieved recognition in the early 20th century. Gained popularity performing in London’s music halls, showcasing a blend of song and comedy. His performances often featured catchy tunes and comedic elements, captivating audiences during a vibrant period of musical entertainment in England.

Continue Reading

Kelly Le Brock

Actress in 'The Woman in Red'
Born
March 24th, 1960 64 years ago

Born in 1960, an English-American actress and model gained recognition for a leading role in the comedy film 'The Woman in Red' alongside Gene Wilder. Early in her career, appeared in television commercials, which led to modeling opportunities and eventual film roles. Featured in movies such as 'Weird Science' and 'Hard Bounty'. Transitioned into business with ventures in health and wellness products after stepping back from acting.

Continue Reading