Victor Francis Hess
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in Austria, a physicist contributed significantly to the study of cosmic rays. Emigrated to the United States and held positions in various academic institutions. Conducted pioneering experiments using balloon flights to collect data on radiation from outer space, leading to groundbreaking findings in the field of high-energy physics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1936 for work related to cosmic radiation. Continued research and teaching, influencing future generations of scientists.
Conducted balloon experiments on cosmic rays
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1936
Other People Born on June 24th
Wayne Cashman
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
June 24th, 1945 80 years ago
Played as a left winger in the NHL primarily for the Boston Bruins from 1964 to 1983. Contributed to the Bruins' Stanley Cup victory in 1970. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving in various roles, including assistant coach for the Bruins. His extensive career in both playing and coaching has been significant in the development of ice hockey strategies.
Continue ReadingKarl Selter
Estonian Foreign Affairs Minister
Born
June 24th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1958 67 years ago — 59 years old
Contributed to Estonia's foreign policy as the 14th Minister of Foreign Affairs. Served in the role during a significant period of Estonian statehood. Engage in diplomatic efforts to strengthen international ties. Influenced foreign relations amidst regional challenges.
Continue ReadingBob Cole
Canadian sports announcer
Born
June 24th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
April 24th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Broadcasted hockey games for over 50 years, primarily with Hockey Night in Canada. Renowned for distinctive voice and memorable calls during pivotal sports moments. Covered numerous Stanley Cup Finals and Olympic Games, becoming a significant figure in Canadian sports broadcasting. Retired in 2020, leaving a legacy in sports media.
Continue ReadingDavid McTaggart
Badminton player and environmental activist
Born
June 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2001 24 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent Canadian badminton player, achieved recognition in international competitions during the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in multiple events and contributed significantly to the sport's development in Canada. Transitioned into environmentalism, playing a crucial role in advocating for ocean conservation and the protection of marine environments. Founded Greenpeace's first office in Canada and took part in various campaigns against nuclear testing and whaling, working towards increased awareness of environmental issues.
Continue ReadingJean Deslauriers
Canadian violinist and conductor
Born
June 24th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1978 47 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1909 in Canada, significant contributions were made to the fields of music as a violinist, composer, and conductor. Completion of formal studies led to a successful career in classical music. Conducted numerous orchestras and performed as a soloist in various prestigious venues. Composed original works that enriched the Canadian music scene and played a vital role in the promotion of classical music in Canada.
Continue ReadingHerbert Kitchener
Field Marshal and Governor-General
Born
June 24th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1916 109 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Ireland, served as a British field marshal and politician. Played a significant role in the Second Anglo-Boer War as a commander. Appointed Governor-General of Sudan and implemented strategic military reforms. Served as Secretary of State for War during World War I, overseeing the British military efforts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
James McCaffrey
American actor known for 'Life on Mars'
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2023 2 years ago — 65 years old
An American actor gained recognition for work in television and film. Best known for portraying Detective Sam Tyler in the series 'Life on Mars', which aired from 2006 to 2007. Appeared in other productions such as '24', 'The Killing', and 'The Last Ship'. McCaffrey also had a successful career in voice acting, contributing to notable video games, including the 'Max Payne' series. His performances garnered a loyal fanbase.
Continue ReadingLarry Sherry
Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
July 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 71 years old
A professional baseball player and coach, played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1959 to 1962. Played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1963 World Series victory, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying experience and knowledge of the game to help develop players.
Continue ReadingDorothy L. Sayers
English author and poet of detective fiction
Born
June 13th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1957 68 years ago — 64 years old
An English author and poet, contributions spanned novels, plays, and essays. Achieved acclaim for the creation of the fictional detective Lord Peter Wimsey, debuting in 'Whose Body?' in 1923. Was also a respected playwright and translator, notably adapting Dante's 'Divine Comedy' into English. In addition to fiction, engaged in writing about theology and literary criticism. Pursued academic studies in modern languages and held diverse roles in the publishing field.
Continue ReadingBenjamin A. Gilman
American soldier and politician
Born
December 6th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a U.S. Representative from New York from 1973 to 1998. Participated in World War II as a soldier in the Army, where significant contributions included leadership roles. Actively engaged in international relations, particularly in Latin America and Eastern Europe during the post-Cold War era. Advocated for veterans' issues and supported various community initiatives throughout the congressional tenure.
Continue ReadingOleh Lysheha
Ukrainian poet and playwright
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent poet and playwright from Ukraine, contributed significantly to contemporary Ukrainian literature. Active in the literary scene during the late 20th century, produced works that reflected social issues and personal experiences. His poetry often incorporated themes of nature and patriotism. In addition to poetry, engaged in playwriting. His literary style resonated with both domestic and international audiences.
Continue ReadingGregoire
Congolese chimpanzee, oldest recorded
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
Born in the 1960s, a chimpanzee resided at the Bobo Dioulasso Zoo in Burkina Faso. Gained recognition for longevity, becoming the oldest recorded chimpanzee in history. The chimpanzee's life spanned decades, showcasing resilience and adaptability in captivity. Survived various health challenges over the years.
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