Alonso de Ercilla
Spanish soldier and poet, wrote 'La Araucana'
Became a soldier in the Spanish army and participated in the Arauco War in Chile. Authored the epic poem 'La Araucana', chronicling the struggles of the indigenous Mapuche people against Spanish colonization. This work is recognized for its literary merit and historical insight into the conflicts of the time. Ercilla's experiences as a soldier provided a unique perspective that shaped his writings, blending personal narrative with a broader commentary on imperialism and indigenous resistance.
Wrote the epic poem 'La Araucana'
Participated in the Arauco War
Other People Born on August 7th
Alain Corneau
French film director and screenwriter
Born
August 7th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 67 years old
Significant contributions to French cinema included directing feature films, often blending genres and exploring complex narratives. Gained recognition for the film 'Tous les matins du monde,' which was a critical and commercial success in France. Focused on themes of music, personal relationships, and psychological depth in storytelling. Directed several other notable works throughout the 1980s and 1990s, establishing a personal style characterized by careful pacing and atmospheric visuals.
Continue ReadingAbebe Bikila
Marathon runner, Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 7th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1973 52 years ago — 41 years old
Achieved worldwide recognition as a long-distance runner. Competed in the marathon at the 1960 Rome Olympics, finishing in a time of 2:15:16. Displayed remarkable endurance and skill, becoming the first athlete to win an Olympic marathon while running barefoot. Defended the Olympic title at the 1964 Tokyo Games, setting a new world record with a time of 2:12:11. His accomplishments brought attention to Ethiopian athletics and inspired future generations of runners.
Continue ReadingMary Frances Winston
American mathematician and educator
Born
August 7th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1959 67 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1869, a mathematician focused on mathematics education. Contributed to the field through teaching and curriculum development. Worked at several institutions, promoting mathematics among women and minorities. Published significant research aimed at improving mathematical understanding in educational settings. Played a role in advocating for increased opportunities in mathematics for underrepresented groups.
Continue ReadingLauren Hemp
English footballer and Women's Super League star
Born
August 7th, 2000 25 years ago
Played for Manchester City in the Women's Super League. Achieved success with the England national team, competing in major tournaments such as the UEFA Women's Euro 2022. Demonstrated exceptional skill as a winger, contributing significantly to both club and national team successes.
Continue ReadingUwe Nettelbeck
Record producer and film critic
Born
August 7th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2007 19 years ago — 66 years old
A German record producer, journalist, and film critic, contributed significantly to the music and film industries. Nettelbeck worked with several influential artists and bands, shaping the sound of various recordings. The individual was also involved in music journalism, providing insights and critiques that were published in notable publications. Additionally, contributions to film criticism offered in-depth analyses of cinematic works, leading to recognition within that field as well.
Continue ReadingFrancesca Eastwood
Actress and television personality
Born
August 7th, 1993 32 years ago
An actress and television personality, gained prominence through roles in film and television. Featured in the series 'True Crime' and the movie 'M.F.A.'. Appeared in various reality television shows, showcasing personal and family dynamics. Involved in modeling and occasionally in fashion projects, contributing to her visibility in entertainment.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Maurice Wilkes
Computer scientist; developed EDSAC
Born
June 26th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2010 15 years ago — 97 years old
A pioneer in computer science and physics, contributed significantly to the development of early computing technology. Developed the Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator (EDSAC), one of the first stored-program computers, which became operational in 1949. Played a critical role in the establishment of Cambridge University's Computer Laboratory and helped shape computer education and research. Engaged in various projects in computer architecture and programming languages, including the early development of the programming language ALGOL.
Continue ReadingBoyd Wagner
Colonel and pilot of WWII era
Born
October 26th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1942 83 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1916, a colonel and pilot served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Participated in several significant aerial campaigns in the Pacific Theater. After the war, continued a career in military aviation, contributing to various training programs and operational strategies. Retired from active duty, remained involved in aviation as a civilian, imparting knowledge and experience to future generations of pilots.
Continue ReadingPhilipp Scheidemann
German politician and journalist, Chancellor
Born
July 26th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1939 86 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1865, a prominent journalist and politician played a significant role in the early Weimar Republic. In 1918, proclaimed the establishment of the German Republic from the Reichstag, becoming the first Chancellor of Germany under the new republic. His tenure lasted until 1919, marked by challenges such as post-war recovery and political instability. Affiliated with the Social Democratic Party, advocated for social reforms and workers' rights during a tumultuous period in German history.
Continue ReadingDorothy Day
American journalist and social activist
Born
November 8th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1980 45 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent journalist and social activist, involvement in social justice issues spanned several decades. Co-founded the Catholic Worker Movement in 1933, which aimed to provide hospitality to the needy and promote social justice through nonviolent means. Edited the Catholic Worker newspaper, focusing on issues of poverty, labor rights, and pacifism. Advocated for workers' rights and played a vital role in the 1960s anti-war movement, organizing protests against the Vietnam War.
Continue ReadingDaniel Gélin
French actor and director, 'The Bridge of the River Kwai'
Born
May 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2002 23 years ago — 81 years old
Born in France, this actor, director, and screenwriter began a film career in the 1940s. Gained recognition in various films during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' directed by David Lean. Besides acting, also took on directing and screenwriting roles throughout the career. Worked in both French and international cinema, maintaining a significant presence in the film industry into the 21st century.
Continue ReadingKazuo Sakamaki
Japanese soldier in World War II
Born
November 8th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Participated in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. After the war, became one of the first Japanese soldiers to be captured by American forces. Remained a significant figure in discussions regarding wartime experiences and the aftermath for Japanese soldiers.
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