People/Celebrities/Historical Figures born on May 8

Day Overview

May 8th reverberates with victories and humanitarian dedication. Known as Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), this date in 1945 marks the formal acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germanys surrender, ending World War II in Europe and celebrating peace and liberation across continents. Meanwhile, in medical strides, 1980 saw the World Health Organization announce the official eradication of smallpox, a monumental achievement in public health triumphing over a devastating disease.


This date also marks the birth of the humanitarian and founder of the Red Cross, Henry Dunant, in 1828, who advocated for compassionate wartime care and established principles of humanitarian law. Additionally, May 8th is observed as World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, recognizing the commitment of volunteers and the impact of global humanitarian efforts. Through the echoes of peace, victory, and compassion, May 8th is a day of gratitude and reflection on collective human unity and service.

Enrique Iglesias

50 Years Old

A Latin pop sensation, he's a chart-topping singer-songwriter, producer, and actor, known for his catchy hooks and sultry ballads that have sold over 150 million records worldwide.

Don Rickles

Died in 2017, aged 90

Insult comedian known as "Mr. Warmth" for his biting, sarcastic humor and celebrity roasts, entertaining audiences with his quick wit and sharp tongue.

David Attenborough

99 Years Old

A renowned naturalist and broadcaster, sharing the wonders of the natural world through captivating documentaries and series, inspiring generations to care about the planet.

Harry S. Truman

Died in 1972, aged 88

The 33rd President of the United States, a strong leader who made tough decisions, including dropping atomic bombs on Japan and establishing the Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe aft...

Saul Bass

Died in 1996, aged 75

A pioneer of motion picture title sequences, creating iconic and influential opening credits for films like "Psycho" and "North by Northwest". His work continues to inspire graphic...

Robert Johnson

Died in 1938, aged 27

Legendary blues musician and songwriter who sold his soul to the devil at a crossroads in exchange for mastery of the guitar, creating iconic delta blues classics.

Alex Van Halen

72 Years Old

Legendary drummer and co-founder of the iconic rock band Van Halen, known for his powerful and dynamic drumming style that helped shape the sound of 80s rock music.

Bill Cowher

68 Years Old

A legendary NFL coach and TV analyst, known for leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to two Super Bowl appearances and offering expert commentary on CBS's The NFL Today.

Other Birthdays on May 8:

Kemba Walker

35 Years Old

Star point guard who led the Charlotte Hornets to multiple playoff appearances and was a four-time NBA All-Star, known for his clutch shooting and lightning-quick drives to the bas...

Philip Bailey

74 Years Old

A legendary vocalist and drummer, best known for his iconic falsetto and hits like "Shining Star" and "Easy Lover" as a member of Earth, Wind & Fire.

Keith Jarrett

80 Years Old

A virtuosic pianist and composer, renowned for his improvisational mastery and eclectic style, blending jazz, classical, and folk elements. His iconic Köln Concert album remains a ...

Ronnie Lott

66 Years Old

A legendary safety in the NFL, known for his intense and physical playing style, and later a successful sportscaster.

Henry Dunant

Died in 1910, aged 82

Co-founder of the Red Cross, a humanitarian organization providing aid in war zones and natural disasters, and a Nobel Peace Prize winner for his efforts. He pioneered the concept ...

Ricky Nelson

Died in 1985, aged 45

Teen idol of the 1950s and 60s, known for his rockabilly music and starring roles in films and television, including the hit show "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet."

Naomi Klein

55 Years Old

A prominent critic of globalization and capitalism, known for advocating for environmental and social justice through bestselling books like "The Shock Doctrine" and "This Changes ...

Stephen Amell

44 Years Old

Canadian actor known for playing the iconic superhero Oliver Queen/Green Arrow in the CW's Arrow and its spin-offs, bringing a new level of depth to the character.

Michel Gondry

62 Years Old

Acclaimed director and screenwriter behind imaginative and visually stunning films, often blending fantasy and reality, with a distinctive touch of whimsy and humor.

Pat Cummins

32 Years Old

Australian fast bowler and captain, leading the national team to numerous victories and earning recognition as one of the world's top players. Known for his exceptional pace, skill...

Bob Clampett

Died in 1984, aged 70

Pioneering animator, director, and producer behind beloved Looney Tunes characters like Porky Pig and Tweety Bird, creating zany, humorous cartoons that entertained generations.

6ix9ine

29 Years Old

Controversial rapper and social media personality known for his colorful hair, tattoos, and chart-topping hits like "Gummo" and "Fefe", as well as his legal troubles and feuds with...

Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla

Died in 1811, aged 58

A Mexican priest who sparked the country's war for independence from Spain with his famous "Grito de Dolores" cry for freedom, leading a rebellion against colonial rule.

Emilio Delgado

85 Years Old

Portrayed Luis, the friendly fix-it shop owner, on the iconic children's television show Sesame Street, educating and entertaining generations of kids. He was a beloved fixture on ...

H. Robert Horvitz

78 Years Old

Discovered genetic mechanisms controlling cell death and development, leading to a deeper understanding of human disease and potential therapeutic targets.

Melissa Gilbert

61 Years Old

An American actress and director, best known for her childhood role as Laura Ingalls on the popular TV series "Little House on the Prairie". She has also appeared in various films ...

Arthur Q. Bryan

Born in 1899

A talented actor and voice actor who brought iconic characters to life, including the beloved Looney Tunes character Elmer Fudd.

Peter Benchley

Died in 2006, aged 65

Author of thrilling novels and screenplays, including the iconic "Jaws," which revolutionized the thriller genre and terrified beachgoers worldwide.

Anthony Field

62 Years Old

Australian musician and children's entertainer behind the iconic Wiggles franchise, creating catchy tunes and energetic performances for kids worldwide.

Friedrich Hayek

Died in 1992, aged 92

Austrian economist and philosopher who championed free market capitalism and limited government intervention, warning of the dangers of socialism and totalitarianism. His work infl...

John C. Bogle

Died in 2019, aged 89

Founder of The Vanguard Group, revolutionized investing with low-cost index funds, making investing accessible to the masses.

Joe Bonamassa

48 Years Old

A highly acclaimed blues-rock virtuoso, celebrated for his mastery of the guitar and soulful, raspy vocals that evoke the spirit of classic blues legends.

Thomas Pynchon

88 Years Old

A postmodern novelist known for blending paranoia, history, and surrealism in complex, sprawling narratives that defy easy interpretation. His works often explore the interconnecte...

Jack Charlton

Died in 2020, aged 85

A legendary footballer and manager who led the Republic of Ireland to unprecedented success in major tournaments, earning iconic status in Irish football history.

Stephen Furst

71 Years Old

Noted for his iconic roles in film and television, particularly as Flounder in "Animal House" and Dr. Elliot Axelrod in "St. Elsewhere".

Gary Glitter

81 Years Old

A glam rock icon of the 1970s, known for catchy, upbeat hits like "Rock and Roll Part 2" and flamboyant stage presence.

Bill de Blasio

64 Years Old

The 109th Mayor of New York City is a progressive politician who implemented policies like universal pre-K and affordable housing, aiming to reduce income inequality. They're known...

Roddy Doyle

67 Years Old

Acclaimed author of novels, plays, and screenplays, known for his gritty, humorous, and poignant portrayals of working-class Irish life, particularly in his Barrytown trilogy.

Franco Baresi

65 Years Old

Legendary defender and captain of AC Milan, known for his tireless work rate, vision, and leadership on the pitch. He won numerous titles, including three European Cups.

Olivia Culpo

33 Years Old

A beauty pageant titleholder and actress, known for being crowned Miss USA and Miss Universe in 2012, and appearing in TV shows and films.

Martha Wainwright

49 Years Old

A critically acclaimed singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her emotive, poetic lyrics and soaring vocals, blending folk, rock, and pop to create a unique sound.

Vicky McClure

42 Years Old

A talented actress, best known for her roles in British TV dramas, particularly the critically acclaimed "This Is England" series, bringing gritty realism to the small screen.

Toni Tennille

85 Years Old

A legendary vocalist and songwriter behind the iconic duo Captain & Tennille, known for catchy pop hits like "Love Will Keep Us Together" and "Do That to Me One More Time".

Chris Frantz

74 Years Old

Drummer and producer for the iconic new wave band Talking Heads, known for his unique rhythmic style and work on hits like "Psycho Killer" and "Once in a Lifetime".

Edmund Wilson

Died in 1972, aged 77

A prominent literary critic and editor who shaped American literary culture with his insightful essays and reviews, influencing generations of writers and intellectuals.

Roberto Rossellini

Died in 1977, aged 71

Pioneering filmmaker behind neorealist classics like "Rome, Open City" and "Paisan", known for gritty, socially conscious storytelling that influenced generations of directors.

Doug Atkins

Died in 2015, aged 85

Legendary defensive end who played for the Cleveland Browns, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints, earning eight Pro Bowl selections and induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fa...

Korey Stringer

Died in 2001, aged 27

Professional football player who tragically died from heatstroke during training camp, leading to changes in NFL heat safety protocols.

Sid James

Died in 1976, aged 62

A comedian and entertainer, best known for his charismatic stage presence and starring roles in the Carry On film series.

Mike D'Antoni

74 Years Old

A pioneering NBA coach who popularized the fast-paced, offense-oriented "Seven Seconds or Less" style, leading teams to numerous playoff appearances and earning Coach of the Year a...

Edward Gibbon

Died in 1794, aged 56

Wrote "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire", a monumental work that shaped the field of historiography and remains a classic in the study of ancient civilizatio...

Jean Giraud

Died in 2012, aged 73

A renowned comic book creator, best known for his iconic and influential sci-fi series "The Airtight Garage" and "Arzach", as well as his work on the popular Western comic "Blueber...

Bill Lockyer

84 Years Old

The 30th Attorney General of California, a champion of environmental and consumer protection, known for his tireless efforts to combat climate change and promote social justice.

Kevin Hayes

33 Years Old

Center and alternate captain in the NHL, playing for teams like the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers, and representing the US in international competitions.

David Keith

71 Years Old

A veteran actor and director with a career spanning over 40 years, known for his rugged, authoritative presence in films and TV shows like "An Officer and a Gentleman" and "CSI: NY...

Luis Enrique

55 Years Old

A former Spanish midfielder and current coach, known for his successful stints at Barcelona and the Spanish national team, leading them to several major titles.

Marcus Brigstocke

52 Years Old

A British comedian, actor, and screenwriter, best known for his witty humor and appearances on popular TV shows like "Have I Got News for You" and "QI".

Evgeny Lebedev

45 Years Old

A Russian-born British businessman and philanthropist, known for owning several prominent newspapers, including The Independent and the London Evening Standard, and supporting vari...

Adrián González

43 Years Old

A professional baseball player who played for several teams, including the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers, and is a five-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner.

Lovie Smith

67 Years Old

A former NFL player and head coach, known for his defensive expertise and tenure with the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Mary Lou Williams

Died in 1981, aged 71

A pioneering jazz pianist and composer who broke barriers with her innovative, genre-bending style and mentorship of prominent musicians. Her legacy continues to inspire new genera...

Ted Sorensen

Died in 2010, aged 82

A skilled lawyer and trusted advisor who played a crucial role in shaping the policies and speeches of President John F. Kennedy, including his iconic inaugural address.

Gary Snyder

95 Years Old

A Beat Generation icon, known for blending spirituality and ecology in poetry and essays that explore humanity's relationship with nature.

Michelle McManus

45 Years Old

Scottish singer-songwriter and actress who rose to fame after winning the second season of UK's Pop Idol in 2003, known for her powerful vocals and energetic performances.

Turkey Stearnes

Born in 1901

Noted slugger and Negro Leagues legend, known for his impressive power and strong throwing arm, earning him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Ray Whitney

53 Years Old

A two-time NHL All-Star and Stanley Cup champion, known for his incredible stickhandling skills and 24-year professional hockey career.

Buakaw Banchamek

43 Years Old

A renowned Thai kickboxer with a storied career, holding multiple championship titles and known for his formidable fighting style and technical prowess.

Tommaso Ciampa

40 Years Old

A professional wrestler known for his intense in-ring performances and reigns as NXT Champion, leaving a lasting impact on the WWE's developmental brand.

Peter McNab

73 Years Old

A former NHL player turned sportscaster, known for his insightful commentary and analysis on hockey games and events.

Dave Rowntree

61 Years Old

Drummer for the British rock band Blur, also a Labour Party councillor and solicitor, known for his rhythmic beats and political activism.

Phyllida Law

93 Years Old

A Scottish actress who has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions, often playing strong, intelligent, and complex women. She is also the mother of actr...

Bobby Labonte

61 Years Old

A NASCAR champion and Hall of Famer, known for his versatility in racing various series and earning 21 Cup Series wins.

Mike Cuellar

88 Years Old

A four-time All-Star and Cy Young Award winner, known for his impressive pitching career with the Baltimore Orioles, particularly his mastery of the screwball pitch.

Teddy Wakelam

Died in 1963, aged 70

A pioneering rugby player and commentator who brought the sport to life with his vivid descriptions and charismatic voice, becoming a beloved BBC broadcasting icon.

Fulton J. Sheen

Died in 1979, aged 84

A charismatic Catholic television personality who preached to millions, promoting faith and morality through media, and was a pioneer in using television to spread religious messag...

Theodoros Papaloukas

48 Years Old

A dominant point guard who led the Greek national team to several international titles, including the 2005 EuroBasket championship, and is considered one of the greatest European p...

William Henry Vanderbilt

Died in 1885, aged 64

A wealthy railroad magnate and generous donor, he expanded his family's railroad empire and supported various educational and cultural institutions.

João Havelange

Died in 2016, aged 100

A Brazilian water polo player, lawyer, and businessman who served as the President of FIFA from 1974 to 1998, overseeing the expansion of the World Cup and introducing new tourname...

Fernandel

Born in 1903

A beloved French comedian and singer, known for his iconic mustache and starring roles in popular films like "Don Camillo" and "La Vache et le Prisonnier".

James Traficant

Died in 2014, aged 73

A flamboyant and outspoken politician who served in the US House of Representatives, known for his populist views and expulsion from Congress due to corruption charges.

Andrea Barzagli

44 Years Old

A skilled and decorated defender who won numerous titles with Juventus and the Italian national team, earning a reputation for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership.

Miyoshi Umeki

Died in 2007, aged 78

A Japanese-American actress and singer who won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Sayonara" and was a popular nightclub performer. She was also the first...

Lúcio

47 Years Old

A skilled and agile left-back who won two World Cups and is known for his attacking prowess and iconic goals.

Felix Jones

38 Years Old

A former NFL running back who played for the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers, known for his speed and elusiveness on the field.

Francis Ouimet

Died in 1967, aged 74

Won the 1913 U.S. Open in a stunning upset, defeating British professionals and popularizing golf in America. He's considered a pioneer in American golf, inspiring a new generation...

Leonard Hoffmann, Baron Hoffmann

91 Years Old

A renowned jurist who served as a Lord of Appeal in Ordinary, known for his influential judgments and speeches on human rights, constitutional law, and the role of judges.

Jacques Heim

Born in 1899

A pioneering French fashion designer credited with inventing the modern bikini, revolutionizing women's swimwear with his bold, daring designs.

Michael Bevan

55 Years Old

Australian left-handed batsman and coach, renowned for his exceptional finishing skills in One-Day Internationals, earning him the nickname "The Finisher".

Mark Noble

38 Years Old

A skilled midfielder who played his entire career at West Ham United, earning a reputation as a talented set-piece specialist and fan favorite.

Darren Hayes

53 Years Old

Australian singer-songwriter behind the iconic 90s pop duo Savage Garden, known for heartfelt ballads and catchy hooks.

Kurt Tippett

38 Years Old

A talented Australian Rules footballer who played for the Adelaide Crows and Sydney Swans, known for his impressive goal-kicking skills and controversial career moves.

André Michel Lwoff

Died in 1994, aged 92

French microbiologist and physician who discovered the lysogenic cycle of bacteriophages, revolutionizing our understanding of viral replication and earning a Nobel Prize in Physio...

Lex Barker

Born in 1919

Star of Tarzan films and Westerns, known for his rugged good looks and charming on-screen presence.

Tom of Finland

Died in 1991, aged 71

A prolific creator of homoerotic art, known for his hyper-masculine and fantastical depictions of gay men, which helped shape the modern gay identity and aesthetic.

Viviana Durante

58 Years Old

A renowned Italian ballerina and actress, celebrated for her powerful stage presence and iconic performances with the Royal Ballet, particularly in dramatic roles.

Pat Barker

82 Years Old

A novelist who explores the human cost of war and social class, particularly in the context of World War I, through powerful and poignant storytelling.

Samuel Leonard Tilley

Born in 1818

A Canadian pharmacist-turned-politician who served as the 3rd Premier of New Brunswick, known for playing a key role in the formation of the Dominion of Canada. He's also credited ...

Heather Harper

95 Years Old

A renowned opera singer celebrated for her performances in Wagner's operas, particularly her iconic portrayal of Ellen Orford in Benjamin Britten's "Peter Grimes".

Galen Rupp

39 Years Old

American distance runner who won the 2017 Chicago Marathon and is a three-time Olympian, holding multiple American records in track and field events.

Jordyn Huitema

24 Years Old

Professional soccer player known for being one of the youngest players to represent Canada in the FIFA Women's World Cup and scoring crucial goals in international competitions.

Nicolaes Witsen

Born in 1641

Mayor of Amsterdam who played a significant role in the Dutch Golden Age, mapping the world, and shaping the city's architecture.

Akebono Tarō

56 Years Old

The first non-Japanese born sumo wrestler to reach the highest rank of Yokozuna, known for breaking cultural barriers and achieving unprecedented success in a traditional Japanese ...

Irwin Cotler

85 Years Old

A Canadian lawyer and politician who served as Minister of Justice, known for advocating for human rights and combating antisemitism. He's a champion of justice and equality.

Jeff Wincott

69 Years Old

A martial artist and actor, known for his intense action sequences and starring roles in several martial arts films, particularly in the 1990s.

James H. Kindelberger

Died in 1962, aged 67

Pioneering aerospace executive who led North American Aviation and developed the P-51 Mustang fighter plane, a crucial asset for the Allies in World War II.

Moulay Hassan, Crown Prince of Morocco

22 Years Old

Heir to the Moroccan throne, known for his philanthropic efforts and representation of the Moroccan monarchy on the global stage.

Thomas B. Costain

Born in 1885

A journalist and author who wrote historical novels, blending fact and fiction to bring ancient civilizations to life, making history accessible and engaging to a wide audience.

John Snagge

Died in 1996, aged 91

A renowned BBC Radio newsreader and commentator, known for his distinctive voice and coverage of significant events, including the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Norman Lamont

83 Years Old

A Scottish banker and politician who served as Chancellor of the Exchequer, known for implementing unpopular policies that led to a deep recession in the early 1990s. He's infamous...

Candice Night

54 Years Old

Lead vocalist of the medieval folk rock band Blackmore's Night, known for her enchanting voice and lyrics inspired by Renaissance-era music and literature.

Emil Christian Hansen

Died in 1909, aged 67

A Danish physiologist and mycologist who pioneered yeast research, developing a method to purify yeast for brewing, revolutionizing the beer industry. Their discoveries also impact...

Oscar Hammerstein I

Born in 1846

A successful cigar manufacturer and opera composer, he founded the Manhattan Opera Company, which rivaled the Metropolitan Opera, and wrote operas like "Nora" and "Dream City".

David Winning

64 Years Old

A prolific filmmaker behind numerous sci-fi and horror movies, including the popular "Are You Afraid of the Dark?" TV series, known for his creative storytelling and eerie atmosphe...

Andrea Alciato

Born in 1492

A 16th-century Italian jurist and writer, he's most known for creating the first book of emblems, a collection of moral symbols and phrases that influenced art and literature for c...

Dan Brouthers

Born in 1853

A pioneering first baseman and manager in the late 19th century, known for his impressive batting skills and innovative playing style. He was one of the first superstars of the gam...

Cláudio Taffarel

59 Years Old

A Brazilian goalkeeper who won the 1994 World Cup and is known for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability. He later became a coach, training goalkeepers for several clu...

Giovanni Battista Gaulli

Born in 1639

A 17th-century Italian Baroque painter and architect, renowned for his dramatic and emotive frescoes, particularly the grand ceiling decoration in the Gesù Church in Rome.

Chinmayananda Saraswati

Born in 1916

A renowned Indian spiritual guru and educator who popularized the teachings of Vedanta, a philosophy that emphasizes self-realization and spiritual growth, through his writings, le...

Terry Neill

83 Years Old

Irish footballer and manager who played for Arsenal and Northern Ireland, and later managed Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, earning a reputation for his tactical acumen and ability ...

Iyo Sky

35 Years Old

A Japanese professional wrestler known for her high-flying moves and athleticism in the ring, entertaining fans worldwide with her energetic performances.

Ross Barnes

Died in 1915, aged 64

A pioneering second baseman and manager who revolutionized the game with his innovative playing style and strategic decisions. He is credited with developing the concept of the "sq...

Red Nichols

Died in 1965, aged 60

A virtuosic cornet player, composer, and bandleader who led the "Five Pennies" orchestra, blending jazz and swing styles in the 1920s-30s. Known for his innovative arrangements and...

Wilhelm Friedrich de Gaay Fortman

Born in 1911

A Dutch jurist and politician who served as Minister of the Interior, known for his efforts to reform the country's administrative law and decentralize government powers. He played...

Claude Louis Hector de Villars

Died in 1734, aged 81

A skilled military strategist and politician who played a crucial role in shaping 18th-century French politics and warfare, earning him a prominent place in French history.

George Woodcock

Born in 1912

A prominent anarchist thinker and literary critic, known for his influential writings on politics, history, and culture, which continue to inspire social activists and scholars tod...

John Reid, Baron Reid of Cardowan

78 Years Old

A Scottish politician who served as Secretary of State for Defence, known for his role in shaping the country's military policies and strategies. He's also a respected historian, h...

Charbel Makhluf

Died in 1898, aged 70

A 19th-century Maronite monk and mystic, known for his extreme asceticism, miraculous healings, and stigmata, revered for his intercession and spiritual guidance.

Heinrich Berté

Died in 1924, aged 66

A Slovak-Austrian composer who created the operetta "Das Dreimäderlhaus", which is still widely performed today, and is considered one of the most important operetta composers of t...

Ali Hassan Mwinyi

Died in 2024, aged 98

Tanzania's second president, serving from 1985 to 1995, known for introducing economic reforms and transitioning the country from a one-party to a multi-party system. He played a s...

John Vianney

Died in 1859, aged 73

A French priest and patron saint of parish priests, known for his extraordinary piety, humility, and dedication to his flock, and his reputation for performing miracles and healing...

Edward Tompkins

Born in 1815

A lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Kentucky, known for his role in the state's early development and politics.

Louis Moreau Gottschalk

Died in 1869, aged 40

A virtuosic pianist and composer who blended European classical music with African-American and Latin American influences, creating a unique sound that captivated 19th-century audi...

J. Meade Falkner

Died in 1932, aged 74

Wrote novels and poetry, particularly the classic adventure novel "Moonfleet", which has been adapted into films and remains a beloved tale of smuggling and treasure hunting.

Adriaan Pelt

Born in 1892

A Dutch journalist and diplomat who played a key role in the formation of the United Nations, serving as the chairman of the UN Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions....

Brooks Newmark

67 Years Old

A Conservative Party politician who served as a Lord of the Treasury and was involved in a scandal involving explicit photos sent to an undercover journalist. He resigned from his ...

Lars Eller

36 Years Old

Danish professional ice hockey player who plays as a center and has won the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018. He is known for his versatility and two-way playing st...

Nathaniel Dance-Holland

Died in 1811, aged 76

A prominent portrait painter of 18th-century British aristocracy, capturing likenesses with remarkable accuracy and nuance. His works adorn prominent museums and galleries worldwid...

George Bruce Malleson

Born in 1825

A British colonel and author who wrote extensively on Indian history and culture, producing influential works that shaped Western understanding of the region.

Edd Roush

Born in 1893

Hall of Fame center fielder and coach who excelled in the 1910s and 1920s, known for his strong batting average and innovative playing style.

Bad News Brown

48 Years Old

A Canadian rapper, harmonica player, and actor who blended hip-hop with blues and folk, known for his unique sound and energetic live performances.

Niels Juel

Died in 1697, aged 67

A 17th-century naval hero who led the Danish-Norwegian fleet to victory against Sweden in the Scanian War, earning a legendary status in Nordic naval history.

William Walker

Born in 1824

A 19th-century adventurer who led multiple private military expeditions in Central America, attempting to conquer and establish his own governments. He's infamous for his filibuste...

David King

41 Years Old

A British figure skater who won the 1984 European Championships and 1985 World Championships in men's singles, known for his artistic expression and technical skill.

Rick Zombo

62 Years Old

American ice hockey player and coach who played in the NHL and coached in the minor leagues, known for his brief but memorable playing career.

Charles Beauclerk, 1st Duke of St Albans

Died in 1726, aged 56

A prominent military leader and politician, he served as Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire and held significant influence in 17th-century England. He's most known for being an illegitim...

William Cavendish, 4th Duke of Devonshire

Died in 1764, aged 44

A British aristocrat who served as Prime Minister from 1756 to 1757, known for his brief tenure and lack of significant accomplishments. He was a prominent figure in 18th-century B...

Wesley Coe

Died in 1926, aged 47

An American athlete who excelled in multiple throwing events, including shot put and discus, and also competed in tug of war at the Olympic Games. He won several medals and set rec...

Charles Wriothesley

Born in 1508

An Officer of Arms who served as a herald and chronicler, recording events and genealogies of the English nobility, particularly during the Tudor period.

Peter Canisius

Died in 1597, aged 76

A 16th-century Jesuit priest and doctor of the church, he played a crucial role in counter-reformation efforts, and his writings helped shape Catholic theology.

Adolphe-Basile Routhier

Died in 1920, aged 81

A Canadian judge, author, and songwriter who penned the French lyrics to "O Canada", Canada's national anthem, and was a prominent figure in Canadian literature and politics.

Barbara Howard

Died in 2017, aged 96

A pioneering athlete and educator who broke racial barriers in Canadian sports, becoming the first black woman to represent Canada at the Olympics. She later dedicated her life to ...

Jesús Arellano

52 Years Old

A Mexican professional footballer who played as a midfielder and won several titles with clubs like Monterrey and Santos Laguna, including a CONCACAF Champions' Cup. He also repres...

John Tiptoft, 1st Earl of Worcester

Born in 1427

A 15th-century English nobleman who served as Lord High Treasurer and was known for his brutal suppression of a rebellion, as well as his scholarly pursuits and translations of cla...

Victor Amadeus I, Duke of Savoy

Died in 1637, aged 50

Ruler of Savoy from 1630 to 1637, he played a key role in the Thirty Years' War and expanded his duchy through strategic alliances and military campaigns.

David Hurst

99 Years Old

A German actor who appeared in numerous films and television shows, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, often playing villainous roles.

William B. Jordan

Died in 2018, aged 77

An American art historian specializing in Spanish art, particularly Velázquez and Goya, and a curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Henry Baker

Born in 1698

A British naturalist who contributed significantly to the field of entomology, particularly in the study of bees and wasps, and wrote several influential books on the subject.

Bertalan Székely

Died in 1910, aged 75

A Hungarian painter and academic, known for his Romanticist and Realist works, particularly his portraits and historical scenes, which captured the essence of Hungarian culture and...

Aloysius Stepinac

Died in 1960, aged 61

Croatian cardinal who played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence and was a vocal critic of fascism and communism, later beatified by the Catholic Church.

Mladen Markač

70 Years Old

A Croatian general who played a significant role in the Croatian War of Independence, leading the Croatian Army to several victories against Serbian forces. He's also known for his...

Frederick I, Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach

Died in 1536, aged 75

A 15th-century German nobleman who ruled Brandenburg-Ansbach and played a key role in the early modern German state's development, known for his military campaigns and territorial ...

Heino Heinrich Graf von Flemming

Born in 1632

A prominent military leader and statesman of 18th-century Prussia, known for his victories in the War of the Austrian Succession and his role as a close advisor to King Frederick t...

Pedro Lascuráin

Died in 1952, aged 96

The first president of Mexico to serve under the Constitution of 1857, holding the office for less than an hour, making him the shortest-serving president in Mexican history. He is...

Johan Jensen

Died in 1925, aged 65

Developed the theory of convex functions and made significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in the area of inequalities.

Joan I, Countess of Auvergne

Born in 1326

A 13th-century noblewoman who ruled Auvergne, a region in south-central France, and played a significant role in the country's medieval politics. She's known for her strategic marr...

Claes RÃ¥lamb

Died in 1698, aged 75

A 17th-century Swedish statesman and diplomat who played a key role in shaping the country's foreign policy and government administration. He's also credited with introducing the c...

Angelo Italia

Died in 1700, aged 71

A 17th-century Sicilian Jesuit and architect who designed numerous Baroque churches and buildings in Sicily, blending innovative styles with traditional elements. His works are ren...

Carl Stamitz

Died in 1801, aged 56

A virtuosic violinist and prolific composer, he wrote over 400 works, including symphonies, concertos, and chamber music, showcasing his mastery of classical music.

Margarete Böhme

Born in 1867

A German novelist who wrote influential and provocative works that explored themes of social justice, morality, and the human condition, particularly in the context of World War I.

Ludvig Karsten

Died in 1926, aged 50

A Norwegian painter of landscapes and seascapes, known for his vibrant and expressive use of color, capturing the mood and atmosphere of the natural world.

Gordon McClymont

Died in 2000, aged 79

Pioneering ecologist and academic who advanced understanding of Australian ecosystems and conservation, particularly in the fields of ecology, botany, and environmental science.