Airto Moreira
Drummer and composer, renowned jazz artist
Born in Brazil, played a significant role in the jazz fusion movement during the late 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated with renowned artists including Miles Davis and Weather Report. Moved to the United States, where contributions to numerous albums solidified his reputation in the music industry. Developed a unique style incorporating traditional Brazilian music with jazz elements, enhancing the global jazz scene.
Played on Miles Davis's 'Bitches Brew'
Co-founded the band 'Return to Forever'
Released influential solo albums
Other People Born on August 5th
Deodoro da Fonseca
Brazilian field marshal, 1st President
Born
August 5th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1892 133 years ago — 65 years old
Served as a Brazilian field marshal and politician. Led a military coup that resulted in the deposition of the Emperor of Brazil in 1889. Became the first President of Brazil, guiding the country through its early republican period. Faced political challenges and economic difficulties during the presidency, eventually resigning in 1891 amid growing opposition.
Continue ReadingRachel Scott
Victim of Columbine High School massacre
Born
August 5th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 17 years old
A student at Columbine High School in Colorado, became one of the first victims in the tragic school shooting on April 20, 1999. Prior to the incident, expressed a desire to spread kindness and compassion through various writings. After the event, her story resonated with many, leading to the establishment of a foundation that promotes Rachel's ideals and engages in anti-bullying initiatives. Her legacy endures through the influence of her writings and the ongoing discussions about school safety.
Continue ReadingGuy de Maupassant
French short story writer and novelist
Born
August 5th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1893 132 years ago — 42 years old
Born in France, contributed significantly to literature through short stories, novels, and poetry. Explored themes of love, social class, and human nature with a distinctive style. Worked in the late 19th century, a period characterized by realism in literature. Gained popularity with works that often featured ironic and satirical elements, influencing future generations of writers. His most acclaimed short story, 'The Necklace,' illustrates the pitfalls of vanity and materialism, while his novels, including 'Bel-Ami,' provided critical insights into Parisian society. His literary output remains a mainstay of French literature studies.
Continue ReadingSteve Lee
Swiss singer-songwriter with Gotthard
Born
August 5th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
October 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 47 years old
Born in Switzerland, this singer-songwriter gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the rock band Gotthard. The band achieved significant success in the European rock scene with their blend of hard rock and melodic sound. Their debut album, 'Gotthard,' released in 1992, rapidly ascended the charts, marking a powerful entry into the music industry. Over the years, the group released several albums that showcased their musical capabilities and garnered numerous awards, solidifying their status as one of Switzerland's leading rock bands. The singer's powerful voice and charismatic stage presence contributed to the band's popularity.
Continue ReadingOswaldo Cruz
Epidemiologist and disease researcher
Born
August 5th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1917 108 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent Brazilian physician and epidemiologist, contributions included interventions against yellow fever, smallpox, and bubonic plague in Brazil. Engagement in public health campaigns significantly reduced the incidence of these diseases. Instrumental in the establishment of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, dedicated to research and the development of vaccines and treatments for infectious diseases. His work laid the foundation for modern epidemiology in Brazil and influenced public health strategies globally.
Continue ReadingVitus Bering
Russian explorer of the North Pacific
Born
August 5th, 1681 344 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1741 284 years ago — 60 years old
Born in Denmark, this explorer became a significant figure in Russian exploration during the 18th century. Bering commanded the First and Second Kamchatka Expeditions, which aimed to explore the North Pacific and the coasts of Russia and Alaska. The expeditions provided crucial knowledge about the geography and indigenous peoples of these areas. The Bering Strait, separating Russia and Alaska, is named in his honor, highlighting his contributions to mapping and understanding the region.
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