Afonso VI of Portugal
King of Portugal, notable for conflicts
Ascended to the throne at a young age, ruling from 1656 to 1683. His reign was marked by territorial conflicts, particularly with Spain and ongoing wars in the Portuguese Empire. After health issues compromised governance, regency was established during his rule. His reign included participation in the Restoration War against Spain, striving for Portugal's independence following the Iberian Union. Additionally, political instability characterized Afonso VI's time as king. His eventual deposition led to the consolidation of power under his brother.
Ruled during the Restoration War against Spain
Established regency due to health issues
Deposed in favor of his brother
Other People Born on August 21st
John Wetteland
Baseball pitcher, 1996 World Series MVP
Born
August 21st, 1966 59 years ago
Played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball for teams such as the New York Yankees, Texas Rangers, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Achieved World Series MVP in 1996 while with the Yankees. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, sharing expertise with aspiring players. Wetteland's career was marked by his effective closing abilities and contributions to championship teams.
Continue ReadingScott McDonald
Professional Australian footballer
Born
August 21st, 1983 42 years ago
An Australian footballer played as a striker, starting his professional career at South Melbourne FC. Achievements include playing in Europe, notably for clubs such as Motherwell FC and Celtic FC, contributing significantly to their campaigns. McDonald represented the Australian national team, earning caps in international competitions, including the AFC Asian Cup.
Continue ReadingArthur Bremer
American attempted assassin
Born
August 21st, 1950 75 years ago
An individual attempted to assassinate George Wallace, the Governor of Alabama, in 1972 during a presidential campaign event in Laurel, Maryland. The assassination attempt resulted in Wallace being paralyzed from the waist down. Following the attempt, Bremer was charged, convicted, and sentenced to 63 years in prison. Bremer's motivations and actions raised discussions around mental health and political violence in the United States.
Continue ReadingEric Goles
Chilean mathematician and computer scientist
Born
August 21st, 1951 74 years ago
A mathematician and computer scientist contributed significantly to the field of cellular automata and algorithmic complexity. Developed Goles's theorem in 1995, which is a fundamental result in the theory of cellular automata. Served as a professor at various universities in Chile, specializing in the areas of mathematical logic and theoretical computer science. Engaged in research that explored intersections between mathematics and computer science, influencing both disciplines.
Continue ReadingPatrick Juvet
Swiss singer-songwriter and model
Born
August 21st, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Switzerland, a singer-songwriter emerged in the 1970s music scene, gaining recognition for contributions to the pop and disco genres. Released notable albums, including 'Lady of Ice' and 'Où sont les femmes?', which achieved commercial success in Europe. Transitioned from music to modeling, showcasing versatility across creative fields. Maintained a presence in the music industry for decades, influencing future generations.
Continue ReadingCharb
Journalist and cartoonist, Charlie Hebdo
Born
August 21st, 1967 58 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 48 years old
A journalist and cartoonist, contributed significantly to the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo. Worked as a cartoonist, drawing on social and political issues through his art. Gained attention for bold and controversial cartoons, particularly those that critiqued religion. Became the editorial director of Charlie Hebdo and continued to create artwork that sparked debates about free expression and the role of satire in society. Lost life in the attack on the newspaper's office in January 2015, which was an act aimed at silencing voices in journalism.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 12th
Bob Quinn
Australian footballer and coach
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 93 years old
Played Australian rules football for the South Melbourne Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Transitioned to coaching, leading teams to competitive success. Contributed to the development of players and strategies in Australian rules football throughout a coaching career spanning several decades. Remains a respected figure in the sport.
Continue ReadingAndronikos I Komnenos
Byzantine emperor and usurper
Born
1118 908 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1185 840 years ago — 67 years old
Ascended the throne in 1183, ruling as the Byzantine emperor until his death in 1185. Focused on military reforms and attempted to restore the authority of the emperor amid declining political stability. Implemented policies to consolidate power and address social unrest. His reign faced challenges from both internal factions and external threats, culminating in his deposition and death.
Continue ReadingValentine Baker
Welsh Aircraft Company Co-Founder
Born
August 24th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1942 83 years ago — 54 years old
Co-founded the Martin-Baker Aircraft Company in 1934. Contributed to the development of ejection seats for military aircraft, improving pilot safety. The ejection seat designs became standard in many combat aircraft, enhancing survival rates for pilots during emergencies. Held various positions within the company, influencing aircraft safety protocols and engineering practices significantly.
Continue ReadingBoris Yegorov
Russian physician and astronaut
Born
November 26th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 56 years old
Earned a medical degree from the First Moscow Medical Institute and served as a physician in the Soviet military. Participated in the Voskhod 2 mission as a flight engineer in 1965, which included the first spacewalk in history. After spaceflight, worked in various medical and scientific roles, contributing to space medicine and research related to human health in space environments.
Continue ReadingDerek Jameson
Journalist and radio host in England
Born
November 29th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
Began a career in journalism in the mid-20th century. Worked for several prominent newspapers, including the Daily Mirror, where served as editor. Transitioned to radio, hosting programs that attracted significant audiences. Gained recognition for engaging interviewing style and ability to connect with a broad listener base. Contributed to discussions on various social and cultural issues throughout a lengthy career. Published several books, including autobiographical works and analyses of the media industry.
Continue ReadingHugo Schmeisser
German weapons designer and engineer
Born
September 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1953 72 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1884 in Germany, significant contributions were made to the development of automatic firearms. Designed the MP 18, the first-ever submachine gun, which influenced modern firearm design. His experience included working with various military contracts during World War I and World War II, focusing on small arms development for military use. Schmeisser's designs helped shape infantry tactics and the evolution of weaponry in the 20th century.
Continue Reading