What Happened This Year 1924
Born in 1924
Ranasinghe Premadasa
Served as the 3rd President of Sri Lanka from 1989 until assassination in 1993. Premadasa held multiple ministerial positions prior to the presidency, including Minister of Housing and Construction. His government focused on urban development and housing projects, leading to significant changes in the infrastructure of Sri Lanka. He sought to improve the living standards of the poor through various national programs. During his presidency, he faced challenges related to civil conflict within the country.
Continue ReadingJohn Backus
A mathematician and computer scientist contributed significantly to computer programming. Developed Fortran, the first high-level programming language, which was widely adopted for scientific and engineering applications. Led a team at IBM that created the language, revolutionizing how developers wrote code. Worked on various other projects including functional programming concepts, impacting the evolution of programming languages.
Continue ReadingCharlie Munger
A prominent businessman and investor, served as vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. Played a key role in the growth of the company alongside Warren Buffett. Munger was instrumental in various investments and strategies that shaped the company's path to success. Best known for his principles on investment philosophy and decision-making, emphasizing rationality and long-term thinking. Long-held a partnership and collaborative relationship with Buffett, contributing to Berkshire's reputation as a leader in investment management.
Continue ReadingMarcelle Ferron
A Canadian painter and stained glass artist, this individual played a significant role in the world of art through contributions to the automodernist movement. A member of the 'Les Automatistes' group, which focused on spontaneous and abstract art, this artist's work explored themes of light and color, influencing many contemporaries. The involvement in public art projects included numerous prominent stained glass installations in churches and public buildings, notably a large stained glass window at the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Montreal. Her dedication to both painting and stained glass artistry had a lasting effect on the Canadian art scene.
Continue ReadingQiao Shi
Held significant roles in the Chinese Communist Party and the government. Served as the Minister of Public Security and held the position of Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. Played a crucial role in reforms during the late 20th century. Contributed to advancements in public security policy and legislative processes in China.
Continue ReadingIrene Kane
Acted in the film 'The Wild One' alongside Marlon Brando in 1953. Gained recognition for roles in the soap opera 'As the World Turns.' Later transitioned to writing, publishing several works focused on personal development and spirituality. Contributed to the arts and literature throughout her career.
Continue ReadingLloyd Alexander
An influential American author and soldier, this individual became well recognized for writing children's and young adult fantasy novels. The most notable work is the 'Chronicles of Prydain' series, which includes 'The Book of Three' and 'The Black Cauldron'. The series is celebrated for its rich storytelling and memorable characters. Beyond literature, the author served at the end of World War II in the United States Army, which contributed to a depth of experience reflected in later writings. The individual's works combined adventure and moral themes, resonating with readers for decades.
Continue ReadingArdhendu Bhushan Bardhan
A lawyer and politician with a significant career in Indian politics. Served as a member of the Communist Party of India, representing the party in various capacities. Held the position of General Secretary of the All India Trade Union Congress and contributed to labor rights advocacy. Elected to the Lok Sabha from the Bhavnagar constituency in Gujarat, representing constituents for three terms. Participated actively in political discussions concerning labor and social justice.
Continue ReadingArthur Danto
A prominent philosopher and art critic associated with the philosophy of art, contributions included the theory of the 'artworld' and discussions on the nature and definition of art. Developed ideas around the role of interpretation and the importance of context in understanding artworks. Wrote extensively on many artists and the relationship between art and philosophy. Served as a professor at Columbia University and published influential essays and books, solidifying a significant legacy in art criticism. Inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
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