William John Wills

Explorer and surgeon of the Victorian era

William John Wills - Explorer and surgeon of the Victorian era
Born

January 5th, 1834
191 years ago

Died

1861
164 years ago — 27 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English surgeon and explorer, contributions included participating in the first successful expedition to cross Australia from south to north. Joined the Victorian Exploring Expedition led by Robert O'Hara Burke in 1860. The journey faced extreme hardships, including harsh weather and scarce supplies. Wills became a key figure in the ill-fated venture, which ultimately ended in tragedy. The expedition lost many members, including Wills, while seeking relief and returning to their starting point. Posthumously, he gained recognition for the challenges faced during the expedition and the ultimate sacrifice made in pursuit of exploration.

Participated in the Victorian Exploring Expedition

Crossed Australia from south to north

Other People Born on January 5th

John H. Reed

67th Governor of Maine
Born
January 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 67th Governor of Maine from 1975 to 1979. Before the governorship, held various leadership roles in local and state government, including serving as a member of the Maine House of Representatives. Played a significant role in state politics during tenure.

Continue Reading

Vinnie Jones

Footballer and actor in 'Lock, Stock...', 'The Mean Machine'
Born
January 5th, 1965 60 years ago

Played professional football primarily as a midfielder and defender, representing clubs such as Leeds United, Sheffield United, and Chelsea. Transitioned to acting following a successful football career, gaining recognition for roles in films like 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels' and 'The Mean Machine'. Garnered a reputation for tough, gritty characters in various action films and television series, frequently appearing in roles that reflect his athletic background.

Continue Reading

Glenn Strömberg

Footballer and sportscaster in Sweden
Born
January 5th, 1960 65 years ago

A footballer played as a midfielder, chiefly associated with the Swedish national team and clubs such as Örebro SK and IFK Göteborg. Achieved success in Italy with Atalanta, contributing to several prominent matches in Serie A during the late 1980s. Transitioned to a broadcast career after retirement, providing commentary and analysis on football events.

Continue Reading

Herbert Bayard Swope

American journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
January 5th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1882, a significant figure in American journalism, focusing on foreign affairs and investigative reporting. Contributed to notable publications including the New York World and the New York Evening Post. Received the first Pulitzer Prize for Reporting in 1917 for coverage of the Russian Revolution. His work helped shape public understanding of international issues during a transformative period in history. Later, involved in political commentary and served as a war correspondent during World War I.

Continue Reading

Jeane Dixon

Astrologer and psychic with predictions
Born
January 5th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1997 28 years ago — 93 years old

An American astrologer and psychic gained prominence through predictions related to political events, including the assassination of a U.S. president. Held an influential position as a columnist where astrology was a focal point, providing horoscopes and psychic readings to a widespread audience. Also wrote several books on the subject of astrology and her psychic experiences, further cementing a legacy in the field of astrology. Her work often blended astrology with spirituality, attracting both followers and skeptics alike.

Continue Reading

Stella Gibbons

English journalist and author of Cold Comfort Farm
Born
January 5th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1989 35 years ago — 87 years old

An English journalist and author, Gibbons gained prominence with the publication of the novel 'Cold Comfort Farm' in 1932. The book combines elements of satire and comedy, addressing and critiquing the romanticized views of rural life in earlier literature. Following this success, Gibbons authored numerous novels, short stories, and works of poetry, showcasing her literary talents. She worked as a journalist, contributing to various publications throughout her career, further solidifying her position within the literary world. Gibbons's distinctive style and wit left a lasting legacy, influencing subsequent generations of writers.

Continue Reading