Born This Day October 14th

There’s something a little magical about sharing a birthday with someone famous, right? Maybe you and that legendary scientist both blew out candles on the same day—except they were making groundbreaking discoveries while you were just hoping your cake had extra frosting. Or perhaps some world-changing leader entered the world on your special day, and now you get to claim a tiny slice of their greatness by association (totally counts). Every day on the calendar has its roster of icons, geniuses, rebels, and artists—proof that whatever day you were born, you’re in pretty interesting company.

Dorothy Kingsley

American screenwriter and producer
Born
October 14th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1997 29 years ago — 87 years old

Acclaimed for significant contributions to the film industry, this screenwriter and producer developed a remarkable body of work that includes collaborations with prominent filmmakers. In the 1940s and 1950s, engaged in crafting screenplays for various popular musicals and comedies. Worked extensively with major studios, contributing to films that garnered critical and commercial success. Recognized for both her creative skills and her role in advancing opportunities for women in the entertainment industry.

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Bernd Rosemeyer

Race car driver, Mercedes-Benz champion
Born
October 14th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1938 88 years ago — 28 years old

Participated in automobile racing during the 1930s, achieving significant success in Grand Prix events. Rosemeyer drove for the Auto Union team and became widely recognized for high-speed performances on challenging tracks. Achieved victory in the 1936 European Grand Prix, securing a prominent place in motorsport history. Tragically died in a racing accident in 1938, leaving a legacy in the world of competitive racing.

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John Wooden

Basketball coach and author
Born
October 14th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2010 16 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent basketball coach, made significant contributions to the sport at the collegiate level. Coached the UCLA Bruins from 1948 to 1975, leading the team to ten NCAA championships, including a record seven consecutive titles from 1967 to 1973. Developed the 'Pyramid of Success', a philosophy of leadership and personal development, which became influential beyond basketball. Authored several books on coaching and personal achievement, sharing insights on success and teamwork.

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Lê Đức Thọ

Vietnamese general and Nobel laureate
Born
October 14th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1990 36 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a general in the Vietnam People's Army and played a key role in the Vietnam War. Represented the North Vietnamese government at the Paris Peace Accords, which aimed to establish peace in Vietnam. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1973, jointly with Henry Kissinger, for efforts in negotiating the end of the war. Declined to accept the award, stating that peace had not yet been achieved in Vietnam.

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Raymond Davis Jr.

Chemist and physicist, Nobel laureate
Born
October 14th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2006 20 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1914, a significant figure in the field of physics and chemistry. Developed techniques for detecting neutrinos, which contributed to the understanding of solar processes. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2002 for groundbreaking work in experimental particle physics. His research provided crucial insights into neutrino emissions from the sun and helped confirm theories regarding solar energy production.

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Harry Brecheen

Baseball pitcher and coach with Cardinals
Born
October 14th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2004 22 years ago — 89 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals from 1943 to 1952. Achieved significant success as a player, particularly noted for his performances in World Series games. After retirement, served as a coach, contributing to the development of future players. Inducted into the Cardinals Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to the team.

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Loris Francesco Capovilla

Italian cardinal and church leader
Born
October 14th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 101 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1940, significant roles included serving as secretary to Cardinal Giovanni Battista Montini. Elevated to bishop in 1959 and later became cardinal in 2013. Played a notable role during the Second Vatican Council, contributing to important documents and reforms within the Catholic Church. Appointed Archbishop of Venice in 1979 and later became the cardinal priest of Santa Maria della Scala. Participated in various papal conclaves, influencing church leadership.

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C. Everett Koop

Surgeon General and public health leader
Born
October 14th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 13th Surgeon General of the United States from 1982 to 1989, during a critical period for public health issues. Focused on tobacco control, AIDS awareness, and children's health. Advocated for a strong public health response to the AIDS epidemic, emphasizing education and prevention. His tenure was marked by significant efforts to improve health education and awareness across the nation.

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Thelma Coyne Long

Tennis player and captain, 1946 French Open
Born
October 14th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 97 years old

An accomplished Australian tennis player and captain, significant achievements occurred during the mid-20th century. Won the 1946 French Open singles title. Participated in multiple Wimbledon Championships, reaching the quarterfinals in 1949. Served as a captain for the Australian Fed Cup team, leading the nation in international competition. Contributed to Australian tennis through both her playing career and her leadership roles.

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Doug Ring

Cricketer and sportscaster
Born
October 14th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 85 years old

An Australian cricketer who played as a bowler for New South Wales and the national team. Represented Australia in Test cricket from 1946 to 1953, earning a total of 19 Test caps. After retiring from professional cricket, transitioned to a successful career in sportscasting, providing insights and commentary on cricket matches.

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José Arraño Acevedo

Chilean journalist and historian
Born
October 14th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2009 16 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of journalism and history in Chile. Served as editor for various publications and authored numerous works that covered Chilean history and culture. Focused on social and political issues within Chile, providing insights and analyses that shaped public understanding. Engaged with various historical events and offered critical perspectives through writing and lectures.

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Willy Alberti

Dutch singer and actor, known for 'My Heart is in Vienna'
Born
October 14th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1926, this individual gained prominence as a singer and actor in the Netherlands. The career included performances in various music genres, with a particular focus on the Dutch-language repertoire. Most notable was the song 'My Heart is in Vienna,' which became a defining hit. Additionally, the individual appeared in several television programs and theatrical productions that showcased vocal talent and artistry. The contributions to the entertainment industry extended through multiple decades, maintaining popularity with diverse audiences throughout the career.

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