Vonetta Flowers
Bobsledder and Olympic gold medalist
A prominent bobsledder and former track athlete, achieved success in both sports. Transitioned from a collegiate track and field career in sprints and jumps to bobsledding. Competed in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, becoming the first African American woman to win a gold medal in the Winter Games. Established a significant presence in bobsledding after completing a successful career in track and field.
Won gold medal in women's bobsled at 2002 Olympics
Competed in sprinting and long jump at NCAA level
Other People Born on October 29th
R. A. Dickey
Baseball pitcher and Cy Young Award winner
Born
October 29th, 1974 51 years ago
A professional baseball player primarily recognized as a knuckleball pitcher. Played for several teams, including the Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, New York Mets, and Toronto Blue Jays. Achieved prominence with the New York Mets, where performance peaked in 2012, leading to a Cy Young Award win. Known for unique pitching style and resilience throughout his career, with a distinct ability to throw the knuckleball effectively, making a significant impact during games. Retired after the 2017 season after a successful career spanning over a decade in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingMarie of Romania
Queen and philanthropist of Romania
Born
October 29th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1938 87 years ago — 62 years old
Marie served as the Queen consort of Romania from 1914 to 1927. Born into the British royal family, she was the granddaughter of Queen Victoria. Marie played a significant role during World War I, advocating for the Romanian military and providing medical care to soldiers. She was a key figure in the establishment of the Romanian Red Cross and contributed to various charitable endeavors. After the war, she participated in the peace negotiations in Paris and supported the Greater Romania initiative. Marie also had a passion for art and literature, writing several books. Her leadership greatly influenced Romanian cultural life during her reign.
Continue ReadingRobert Pires
French footballer and World Cup winner
Born
October 29th, 1973 52 years ago
This individual was a professional footballer who played as a winger and attacking midfielder. A significant part of the career was spent at Arsenal FC from 2000 to 2006, where contributions helped the team secure multiple titles. Before joining Arsenal, played for Marseille, winning the Ligue 1 championship. Achieved international success with France, participating in the 1998 FIFA World Cup victory and the UEFA Euro 2000 triumph.
Continue ReadingDaniel J. Bernstein
Mathematician and cryptologist
Born
October 29th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in 1971, a mathematician and cryptologist contributed significantly to the field of computer security. Developed various cryptographic algorithms and software, including Salsa20, a stream cipher known for its performance and security. Actively engaged in research on the foundations of modern cryptography and programming languages.
Continue ReadingJean Giraudoux
French playwright and novelist
Born
October 29th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1944 81 years ago — 61 years old
An influential French playwright and novelist, this figure produced significant works that explored themes of identity, love, and war. Major contributions to the theater include the plays 'The Madwoman of Chaillot' and 'Electra'. The works often showcased a blend of poetic language and philosophical depth, reflecting the complexities of human emotion and society. Essays and novels also featured prominently in the literary output, contributing to a rich legacy that impacted French literature during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingPaul Bruchési
Canadian Archbishop of Montreal
Born
October 29th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1939 86 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Montreal from 1897 until death in 1939. Bruchési was influential in the Roman Catholic Church in Canada and played a significant role in its expansion and modernization during the early 20th century. He worked to improve education and social services through the Church and was actively involved in addressing the issues facing urban communities in Montreal. His advocacy for higher education led to the establishment of institutions that furthered the Catholic mission in Canadian society.
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