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
Bob Neill
English lawyer and politician
Born
June 24th, 1952 74 years ago
Served as a Member of Parliament representing Bromley and Chislehurst. Held various positions in different parliamentary committees, contributing to legislative processes. Involved in legal practices before entering politics, with a focus on public services and law reform. Participated in multiple general elections since first being elected in 2005, supporting conservative policies during tenure.
Continue ReadingMark Parkinson
American politician, 45th Governor of Kansas
Born
June 24th, 1957 69 years ago
Served as the 45th governor of Kansas from April 2009 to January 2011 after succeeding Kathleen Sebelius. Held the position of lieutenant governor of Kansas from 2007 to 2009. Previously worked as a lawyer and served in various roles within the Kansas government. Elected as the chair of the Kansas Democratic Party in 2003 and later transitioned to the Republican Party. Involved in legislation addressing education, healthcare, and economic development during time in office.
Continue ReadingPeter Weller
Actor and director, starred in Robocop
Born
June 24th, 1947 79 years ago
An American actor and director, prominent for roles in film and television. Starred as the title character in the 1987 science fiction film 'RoboCop' and its sequel 'RoboCop 2'. Appeared in the television series '24' and 'Dexter', showcasing versatility in various genres. Also directed episodes for television, demonstrating skills behind the camera. Weller has a background in art history and has contributed to academic discussions on film and visual culture.
Continue ReadingOwen Paterson
English politician, Secretary of State
Born
June 24th, 1956 70 years ago
Served as a Member of Parliament representing North Shropshire. Held the position of Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from 2012 to 2014. Actively engaged in discussions regarding the welfare and governance of Northern Ireland during tenure. Contributed to various parliamentary committees and discussions regarding agriculture and environment policies.
Continue ReadingRobert Reich
Economist and U.S. Secretary of Labor
Born
June 24th, 1946 80 years ago
An economist and politician, served as the 22nd Secretary of Labor from 1993 to 1997 under President Bill Clinton. Focused on labor policies and economic issues, promoting middle-class interests and fair wages. Worked as a professor at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. Contributed to various publications and served on several boards and committees related to economic policy.
Continue ReadingJohn Illsley
English bassist and songwriter
Born
June 24th, 1949 77 years ago
A prominent bass player and songwriter, contributed significantly to the rock genre as a member of the band Dire Straits. Besides the group's commercial success, also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that showcased songwriting and musical skills. Collaborated with various artists and participated in charity concerts. Continues to influence aspiring musicians and songwriters through performances and mentorship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Peter Warlock
English composer and music critic
Born
October 30th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1930 95 years ago — 36 years old
A significant figure in early 20th-century music, contributed to the English musical landscape through composition and criticism. Worked under the pseudonym Peter Warlock and was influential in the revival of interest in English music, particularly through compositions for choral and vocal music. His most notable works include the famous collection of songs titled 'The Curlew' and orchestral pieces that combined traditional forms with modern techniques. Engaged in music criticism, providing insights and commentary that shaped public perception of contemporary composers and their works.
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 ReadingJeremy Bulloch
English actor best known for Star Wars
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2020 5 years ago — 75 years old
An English actor recognized for roles in television and film, gained prominence through the portrayal of Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy. Contributed to the British television landscape with appearances in series such as 'Doctor Who' and 'Robin of Sherwood'. Career spanned several decades, with performances in various genres including drama, science fiction, and action.
Continue ReadingLaurier LaPierre
Historian and politician in Canada
Born
November 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 83 years old
A historian, journalist, and politician contributed significantly to the Canadian political landscape. Served as a Member of Parliament and played a role in the Liberal party. Worked extensively in media, including roles with the CBC, where discussions on historical and political issues were prominent. Authored several works examining Canadian identity and history, helping to shape the national narrative. Engaged in various political and cultural discussions, often appearing as a commentator.
Continue ReadingIvan Vekić
Croatian politician and minister
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
Held the position of Minister of the Interior in Croatia, overseeing internal affairs and law enforcement. Served as a colonel in the Croatian Army during the Croatian War of Independence. Actively participated in shaping the country's post-war policies and legal framework. Contributed to the development of Croatian legislation and governance structures.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory VIII
Pope during the Third Crusade
Born
1100 926 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1187 838 years ago — 87 years old
Elected as pope in 1187, this religious leader played a significant role during the Third Crusade. His papacy was marked by efforts to rally support for Christian forces against Muslim armies. The pontiff issued the papal bull 'Audita Tremendi' to encourage European monarchs to unite for the campaign to reclaim Jerusalem following its capture by Saladin. His tenure as pope lasted only a few months until his death later that year.
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