Vitas Gerulaitis
Tennis player and coach, US Open finalist
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Competitor achieved significant success on the professional tennis circuit during the 1970s and 1980s. Won the US Open doubles title in 1975 alongside partner, and secured a singles title in 1979 at the Australian Open. Known for reaching the finals of the US Open in 1979, finishing as a runner-up. His career-high singles ranking was World No. 3. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into coaching and became a notable figure in tennis instruction. Active in various charitable endeavors related to sports and youth development.
Won the US Open doubles title in 1975
Reached the finals of the US Open in 1979
Achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 3
Other People Born on July 26th
Frank Scott Hogg
Canadian astronomer and academic
Born
July 26th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1951 75 years ago — 47 years old
An astronomer and academic, contributions included work on celestial mechanics and stellar photometry. Held a position as a professor at the University of Toronto. Founded the David Dunlap Observatory, which became an important institution for astronomical research in Canada. Hogg's research emphasized the study of variable stars and the dynamics of the Milky Way.
Continue ReadingMarjorie Lord
American actress from The Danny Thomas Show
Born
July 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
An American actress gained prominence in television during the mid-20th century. Starred as Kathy in the popular sitcom The Danny Thomas Show, which aired from 1953 to 1964. Appeared in various films and television series, showcasing a range of characters. Also featured in the show Make Room for Daddy, amplifying her visibility in the entertainment industry. Contributed to numerous theatrical productions and television movies throughout her career.
Continue ReadingAlbert Dunstan
Australian politician, Premier of Victoria
Born
July 26th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the 33rd Premier of Victoria from 1945 to 1947. Represented the Country Party and played a significant role in government during this period, focusing on rural development and economic strategies. Participated in key policy decisions that impacted the state's post-war recovery and agricultural sectors. Held various ministerial positions prior to becoming Premier, contributing to infrastructure and community development.
Continue ReadingJames Lovelock
Biologist and chemist, Gaia theory proposer
Born
July 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 103 years old
A biologist and chemist developed the Gaia theory, which proposed that the Earth functions as a self-regulating system. Contributed significantly to environmental science and climate change discourse. Invented the electron capture detector, enhancing detection of trace gases. Authored several books discussing ecological issues, including "Gaia: A New Look at Life on Earth."
Continue ReadingVolodymyr Vynnychenko
Ukrainian playwright and Prime Minister
Born
July 26th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1951 74 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent figure in Ukrainian literature and politics, contributed significantly to the cultural landscape through playwriting and political leadership. Served as the Prime Minister of Ukraine from 1919 to 1920, advocating for Ukrainian independence. Wrote notable works including plays that explored themes of social and political turmoil. After his political career, lived in exile due to the political climate in Ukraine, continuing to write and engage with Ukrainian cultural issues until death in 1951.
Continue ReadingKan Yuet-keung
Banker and politician from Hong Kong
Born
July 26th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent banker and lawyer, this individual served as a significant political figure in Hong Kong. After completing legal studies, held leadership roles in several banking institutions and contributed to the development of financial legislation in the region. Participation in the Legislative Council allowed for advocacy of economic and legal reforms. Played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the banking sector and government policy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 17th
Robert Bellarmine
Italian cardinal and saint
Born
October 4th, 1542 483 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1621 404 years ago — 78 years old
Elected cardinal in 1599, played a significant role in the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Authored numerous theological works, including 'Controversies', which examined various Protestant doctrines. Canonized as a saint in 1930, his life and contributions were recognized by the Church. Served as a prominent figure in debates against Protestant reformers, influencing Catholic doctrine during a turbulent period in religious history.
Continue ReadingEdmonia Lewis
American sculptor of marble works
Born
1844 182 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1907 118 years ago — 63 years old
An American sculptor created notable marble sculptures during the 19th century. Initially influenced by the abolitionist and women's rights movements, the artist's work often reflected themes of African American and Native American identity. Relocated to Europe for a significant part of the career, the sculptor gained recognition in Paris, where notable commissions ensued. Major works include 'The Death of Cleopatra' and 'Forever Free', which showcase neoclassical style and address social issues. This artist faced and overcame racial prejudice throughout the career, leaving a lasting impact in the realm of sculpture.
Continue ReadingMaarten Schmidt
Dutch astronomer and quasars researcher
Born
December 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2022 3 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, especially in the study of quasars. Discovered that quasars are powered by supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies and provided evidence of their redshift being related to distance, which supported the expanding universe theory. Conducted extensive research on the nature and properties of these distant astronomical objects. Schmidt's work provided crucial insights into the early universe and how galaxies evolve over time.
Continue ReadingLawrence O'Bryan Branch
American politician and Confederate general
Born
1820 206 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1862 163 years ago — 42 years old
Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Participated in battles such as the Battle of Sharpsburg. Held a position as a U.S. Congressman representing the 3rd district of North Carolina prior to the war. His military career ended with his death in 1862 at the Battle of Sharpsburg, marking a significant loss for the Confederate forces.
Continue ReadingCokie Roberts
Journalist and author, NPR contributor
Born
December 27th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent American journalist and author, contributed significantly to political commentary through various media outlets. Worked for NPR as a congressional correspondent and served as a political analyst for ABC News. Authored several books focusing on women in American history and inherited the legacy of reporting on the political landscape throughout her career. Garnered respect for insightful analysis and coverage of government and politics, particularly during elections.
Continue ReadingHans Feige
German Wehrmacht general
Born
1880 146 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1953 72 years ago — 73 years old
Served in the German military during World War II, eventually attaining the rank of general in the Wehrmacht. Commanded various units on the Eastern Front and took part in significant battles throughout the conflict. After the war, Feige faced the consequences of his service. His military career included various leadership positions and strategic roles within the army hierarchy.
Continue Reading