Adolphe-Basile Routhier
Canadian judge and lyricist of 'O Canada'
Born in 1839, a Canadian judge and songwriter contributed significantly to Canadian culture. Routhier authored the lyrics for the national anthem, 'O Canada', intending to inspire patriotism among Canadians. He served as a judge in the District Court of Quebec, where he applied his legal expertise. His work in both the legal and musical realms reflects a commitment to the development of Canadian identity during a crucial period of the nation's history. Routhier continued to influence Canadian arts and jurisprudence until his passing.
Authored the lyrics of 'O Canada'
Served as a judge in Quebec
Other People Born on May 8th
Jesús Arellano
Mexican footballer and national player
Born
May 8th, 1973 52 years ago
Born in 1973, a professional footballer active primarily as a winger and attacking midfielder, played for Monterrey and represented the Mexican national team. Made appearances in two FIFA World Cups, reflecting a significant international competitive career. Known for skills that contributed to successful campaigns at club level.
Continue ReadingJoão Havelange
Water polo player and FIFA president
Born
May 8th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 100 years old
Played water polo at a competitive level and later became a prominent figure in sports administration. Served as the president of FIFA from 1974 to 1998. Implemented significant reforms in FIFA, leading to the expansion of the World Cup and increased global recognition of football. Contributed to the commercialization of football, impacting its development and popularity worldwide.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Hayek
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 8th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1992 33 years ago — 92 years old
An Austrian-German economist and philosopher, contributed significantly to economic theory and political philosophy. Gained prominence through writings that argued against the key principles of socialism and for the importance of free-market capitalism. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1974 for work on the theory of money and economic fluctuations. Influenced public policy and economic thought through publications such as 'The Road to Serfdom' and 'The Constitution of Liberty'.
Continue ReadingRoberto Rossellini
Italian filmmaker and director of war films
Born
May 8th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1977 48 years ago — 71 years old
One of the pioneers of Italian neorealism, a film movement that emerged in the 1940s, focused on the everyday lives of people and social issues. Directed films such as 'Rome, Open City' and 'Germany Year Zero', both crucial in depicting post-war realities. Also explored themes of spirituality in later works. Collaborated frequently with actress Ingrid Bergman, creating acclaimed films that included 'Stromboli' and 'Journey to Italy'. Engaged in television as a medium for storytelling, directing historical documentaries that contributed to the art form.
Continue ReadingEdmund Wilson
Literary critic and essayist
Born
May 8th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1972 53 years ago — 77 years old
An influential American critic and essayist who contributed significantly to literary criticism and cultural commentary. Edited several prominent publications including The New Republic and The Nation. Authored numerous works that explored literature and society, including 'Axel's Castle' and 'To the Finland Station'. His writings examined the relationship between literature and politics across different eras, establishing a critical framework that remains referenced today.
Continue ReadingJohn Snagge
English journalist and news presenter
Born
May 8th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 91 years old
A journalist and news presenter in England, played a significant role in broadcasting and news reporting. Worked at the BBC where provided coverage of major events, including World War II. Was the main presenter of the BBC's television news from the inception of the television service in 1955 until retirement in the early 1980s. His contributions to journalism included not only reporting but also the presentation of news in a clear and authoritative manner.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 27th
Sophie Germain
Mathematician and physicist, Euler's work
Born
April 1st, 1776 249 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1831 194 years ago — 55 years old
Born in France, contributed to number theory and elasticity theory. Gained recognition for work in mathematical physics despite challenges faced as a woman in science during her time. Utilized the pseudonym M. LeBlanc to publish results and correspond with prominent mathematicians. Played a significant role in advancing mathematical concepts through correspondence with famous contemporaries.
Continue ReadingRachid Solh
Politician and 48th Prime Minister of Lebanon
Born
June 22nd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 48th Prime Minister of Lebanon from 1970 to 1973. His tenure was marked by political instability in the country during the lead-up to the Lebanese Civil War. Held various governmental positions, contributing to national governance and policy-making. Played a role in the political landscape of Lebanon during a tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingKinky Friedman
Singer-songwriter and author
Born
November 1st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old
Singer-songwriter and author gained recognition for his country music career and literary contributions. Released albums like 'Sold American' and authored numerous books blending humor and political commentary. Participated in Texas politics, running for Governor in 2006, focusing on issues such as education and criminal justice reform. Founded the Texas Jewboys, known for blending music with social commentary. Established Kinky Friedman’s Literary & Historical Society to promote literacy and cultural awareness.
Continue ReadingGale Storm
American actress and singer from 'My Little Margie'
Born
April 5th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2009 16 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1922, a successful actress and singer. Gained fame through the television series 'My Little Margie' and the film 'Beyond the Blue Horizon.' Transitioned to music with several popular songs in the 1950s. Appeared in multiple television shows and musicals, delighting audiences throughout her career. Worked actively in the entertainment industry for several decades, achieving longstanding recognition.
Continue ReadingLeslie Manigat
Haitian educator and politician
Born
August 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
An educator and politician served as the 43rd President of Haiti from February to June 1988. Focused on educational reform and political stability, held academic positions and contributed to political discourse. Advocated for democratic governance and civil rights throughout a politically turbulent era in Haitian history.
Continue ReadingMilan Hodža
Prime Minister of Czechoslovakia
Born
February 1st, 1878 148 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1944 81 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 10th Prime Minister of Czechoslovakia from 1935 to 1938. Contributed to governmental policies and reforms during the interwar period. Worked as a journalist, influencing public opinion and political discourse. Advocated for agrarian interests and labor rights while navigating a complex political landscape marked by rising tensions in Europe. Participated in efforts to maintain Czechoslovakia’s sovereignty during a time of increasing pressure from neighboring powers.
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