Vern Mikkelsen
Basketball player and coach with Lakers
Basketball player and coach with Lakers
Athletes & Sports Figures
United States
Played professional basketball in the NBA for the Minneapolis Lakers from 1949 to 1959. Achieved success as a player by winning four championships. Transitioned to coaching and led teams at various levels including college basketball. Known for contributions to the sport during the early years of the NBA.
Won four NBA championships with the Minneapolis Lakers
Served as head coach for several college teams
Recognized as an All-Star during his playing career
Born in 1536, held the title of Prince of Anhalt. Played a significant role in the governance of the principality and contributed to the cultural and administrative development of the region. Led the principality through various political changes during the Reformation era. Engaged with other Protestant leaders to solidify alliances and strengthen the position of Anhalt in the context of the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingA television personality and former judge, this individual became prominent for presiding over small claims cases on the program "Judge Judy." The show premiered in 1996 and quickly gained a large following, leading to a lengthy run that lasted over two decades. Prior to television, served as a family court judge in New York City, developing a reputation for a no-nonsense approach to cases. This individual authored several books related to family law and legal issues, contributing to discussions about the judicial system.
Continue ReadingContributed to Italian literature as a poet and playwright. Giacosa collaborated on the libretto for Puccini's opera 'La Bohème', which premiered in 1896, gaining significant acclaim. Other works include 'L'Amico Fritz' and 'Il sogno di un artista'. Giacosa's writings often explored themes of love and social issues. He was also involved in the literary movement of verismo, which sought to depict realism in its narratives and character portrayals.
Continue ReadingAscended the throne as the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty in 1368 after leading a successful rebellion against the Yuan Dynasty. Established the Ming government and implemented major reforms in agriculture, trade, and military organization. Promoted Confucian values and centralized power. Known for initiating construction of the Great Wall of China in its current form and reviving the civil service examination system, which emphasized merit over birth. His reign marked the beginning of a significant period in Chinese history characterized by economic prosperity and cultural flourishing.
Continue ReadingAn American actress, pivotal in the silent film era, became most recognized as the leading lady for Charlie Chaplin. Collaborated with Chaplin on numerous films from 1915 to 1923, contributing to the success of his iconic work. Notable films included 'The Kid' and 'City Lights', where performances showcased versatility and depth. Transitioned to roles in sound films but faced challenges in adapting to the changing landscape of Hollywood. Continued to act sporadically in the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Continue ReadingA journalist and author, focused on the Vietnam War and American culture. Wrote the influential book 'Fire in the Lake: The Vietnamese and the Americans in Vietnam', which explored the history and impact of the Vietnam War. Contributed to various publications, including The New York Times and The New York Review of Books. FitzGerald's work often examined the complexities of American life and culture, shedding light on critical historical moments. Received the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction in 1973 for her writing.
Continue ReadingContributed to the development of the Libertarian Party in the United States. Played a significant role in advocating for individual liberties and limited government. Participated actively in political campaigns and served in various leadership positions within the party. Founded the Libertarian National Committee and organized numerous political events to promote libertarian principles.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1585, this mathematician, physician, and astronomer contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and astronomy during the Renaissance. Studied at various European universities, including Padua, and became a member of the scientific community in Poland. Emphasized the importance of mathematical methods in astronomy, particularly in his works that included studies on celestial mechanics. Engaged in the teaching of mathematics and sciences, influencing the education of future scholars.
Continue ReadingServed as a lawyer and politician in the United States. Pelly represented Washington's 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1945 to 1947. During his tenure, he focused on issues related to the Pacific Northwest and contributed to various legislative efforts. Prior to his congressional service, he engaged in local governance and participated in community development initiatives.
Continue ReadingAn author and illustrator gained recognition for the autobiographical work 'The Naked Civil Servant', which candidly depicted experiences as a gay man in mid-20th century Britain. The book's publication in 1968 drew considerable attention and was later adapted into a television film in 1975. Crisp's unique style and perspective contributed to the discourse on gender and sexuality in literature. He also published several other works, including 'Miss Crisp' and 'The Age of Consent', showcasing a distinctive voice and narrative approach. Later in life, emigrated to the United States, where continued to write and speak on various topics, influencing discussions on identity and society.
Continue ReadingA general in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, significant roles included leadership during the Vietnam War. Commanded troops in several key operations and was a prominent figure in military strategy against North Vietnamese forces. Participated actively in various battles and campaigns, showcasing tactical skills and military acumen. Later faced challenging political circumstances surrounding the fall of Saigon, which marked a turning point in Vietnamese history.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1890, a Swiss-Dutch pianist and composer contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Early education occurred in Switzerland, further training established in music theory and composition. Martin's work is characterized by innovation, combining elements from various musical traditions. The 'Concerto for 7 Wind Instruments,' composed in 1949, is among his most recognized works and showcases his unique style. Additionally, the 'Ballade for Piano and Orchestra' and 'Petite symphonie concertante' illustrate his orchestration skills. Teaching activities allowed dissemination of his musical ideas, influencing a generation of composers. Martin's extensive catalog includes chamber music, orchestral works, and vocal compositions, cementing his legacy in the classical music realm.
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