Al Oerter
Discus thrower and Olympic champion
A standout discus thrower, earned four consecutive Olympic gold medals from 1956 to 1968. Set multiple world records during competitive career, demonstrating exceptional skill and consistency in the sport. Competed in various national and international events representing the United States. Continued involvement in athletics after retirement, contributing to the development of future athletes.
Won gold medal in discus at the 1956 Olympics
Set a world record in discus throwing
Won gold medal in 1960, 1964, and 1968 Olympics
Other People Born on September 19th
William Robertson
Scottish historian and author of works
Born
September 19th, 1721 305 years ago
Died
1793 233 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1721, a significant Scottish historian, contributed to historical literature with influential works. Focused on subjects such as Scotland's history and the history of America. Served as principal of the University of Edinburgh and published several important texts, which garnered attention and established a scholarly reputation. Worked on narratives that addressed the growth of empires and the history of the American Revolution.
Continue ReadingMike Royko
American journalist and author of columns
Born
September 19th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1997 29 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent journalist and author based in Chicago, contributed extensively to political commentary through newspaper columns. Worked for several major publications, including the Chicago Daily News and the Chicago Sun-Times. His writing style blended humor and sharp criticism, addressing social issues and local politics. Authored several books, sharing insights on urban life and American culture. Received the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished commentary in 1972, underlining the significance of his contributions to journalism.
Continue ReadingDamon Knight
Author and critic of science fiction
Born
September 19th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2002 24 years ago — 79 years old
Led a significant career as an author and critic within the science fiction genre. Founded the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, providing support for writers in these fields. Contributed reviews and essays to various publications, shaping the perception of science fiction literature. Authored several notable works, including 'The World and the Door' and 'The Other Side of the Moon', which explored complex themes and innovative ideas.
Continue ReadingJean Baptiste Joseph Delambre
French mathematician and astronomer
Born
September 19th, 1749 277 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1822 204 years ago — 72 years old
A mathematician and astronomer contributed significantly to the measurement of the meridian arc from Dunkirk to Barcelona. Published works on astronomy and the metric system further advanced scientific understanding. Collaborated on the redefinition of the meter in France, influencing global standards.
Continue ReadingAntoninus Pius
Roman Emperor during the Pax Romana
Born
September 19th, 86 1940 years ago
Died
March 7th, 161 1865 years ago — 74 years old
Served as Roman Emperor from 138 to 161 CE. Oversaw a period of relative peace and prosperity known as the Pax Romana. Implemented legal reforms that improved the judicial system. Known for his efforts in infrastructure, including building roads and temples. His reign is marked by stability and a lack of military conflict, apart from a few campaigns in Britain.
Continue ReadingKatrina Bowden
American actress, 30 Rock star
Born
September 19th, 1988 38 years ago
An actress featured prominently in television and film. Gained recognition for a role as Cerie in the television series 30 Rock. Appeared in the horror film Tucker and Dale vs. Evil and the comedy film Sex Drive. Participated in various television projects and made guest appearances on popular shows.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 1st
Emperor Tenmu of Japan
Japanese Emperor; Taika Reform initiator
Died
October 1st, 686 1339 years ago — None years old
Ascended the throne in 673 and ruled until death in 686. Known for establishing the Taika Reform, which restructured the government to centralize authority and enhance imperial power. Initiated significant changes in taxation and land ownership that influenced the administrative system of Japan. Oversaw a period of consolidation following the tumultuous period of the Jinshin War, focusing on strengthening the imperial line and restoring stability.
Continue ReadingPope Boniface IX
Pope and spiritual leader of the Catholic Church
Born
1356 670 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1404 621 years ago — 48 years old
Held the papacy from 1389 until 1404. Led the Church during the Western Schism, a period characterized by rival popes in Rome and Avignon. Worked to strengthen the authority of the papacy and reduce the influence of rival claimants. Presided over various church councils and was involved in diplomatic efforts to resolve the schismatic crisis. Initiated canonizations and promoted the establishment of various church institutions.
Continue ReadingZhou
Empress of Former Shu
Died
October 1st, 918 1107 years ago — None years old
Ruled as empress of the Former Shu during the Five Dynasties period. As an empress, played a crucial role in the administration of the state and its governance. Contributed to the stability and cultural development of the Former Shu dynasty. Gained prominence in a time marked by fragmentation in China following the fall of the Tang dynasty.
Continue ReadingEugene O'Keefe
Canadian businessman and philanthropist
Born
December 10th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1913 112 years ago — 85 years old
Established a successful brewing company in Ontario, O'Keefe Brewery. Contributed significantly to local communities through various philanthropic efforts. Supported educational institutions and health services. Helped expand the brewing industry in Canada.
Continue ReadingCharles Aznavour
French-Armenian singer-songwriter and actor
Born
May 22nd, 1924 102 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2018 7 years ago — 94 years old
Born in Paris to Armenian parents, a career in music and film began in the early 1940s. Gained widespread recognition for a unique blend of French chanson and pop music. His signature song, "La Bohème," highlighted the struggles and beauty of artistic life. Performed in multiple languages and toured globally, captivating audiences with emotive performances. Also had a successful acting career, appearing in films such as "The Tin Drum" and "The Voice of the Moon."
Continue ReadingPietro Carnesecchi
Italian scholar and Protestant reformer
Born
December 24th, 1508 517 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1567 458 years ago — 58 years old
Born in Italy in 1508, contributed significantly to religious and scholarly discussions of the time. Advocated for Reformation ideas and was involved with Protestant circles in Europe. Engaged in debates concerning church practices and doctrine, promoting reforms based on humanist and biblical principles. Faced persecution for his beliefs and was tried for heresy. Ultimately executed in 1567.
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