Amelia Boynton Robinson
American civil rights activist and leader
Born
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1911, this activist played a pivotal role in the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Actively participated in the Selma to Montgomery marches and was one of the first African American women to run for Congress from Alabama. Contributed to the establishment of the Selma Voting Rights Movement and was a key figure in advocating for voting rights for African Americans. Her work garnered national attention, leading to greater awareness of civil rights issues in the 1960s.
Participated in Selma to Montgomery marches
First African American woman to run for Congress from Alabama
Co-founded the Selma Voting Rights Movement
Other People Born on August 18th
Zdzisław Żygulski
Polish historian and academic
Born
August 18th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 94 years old
Specialized in Polish history and art history, contributing significantly to the understanding of historical narratives. Often engaged in academic teaching and disseminating knowledge through various publications. Authored several influential books and articles that explored topics within Polish historical contexts. Actively participated in scholarly discussions and was involved in the academic community throughout his career.
Continue ReadingRyan O'Hara
Rugby league player for Wests Tigers
Born
August 18th, 1980 46 years ago
Professional rugby league player represented Wests Tigers in the NRL. Had a successful career playing as a prop. Contributed to the team's performance during the 2005 NRL season and participated in representative games for New South Wales. Retired from professional play after several years in the league.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Pucci
Catholic Cardinal and diplomat
Born
August 18th, 1458 568 years ago
Died
1531 495 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1458, Lorenzo Pucci served as a prominent Catholic cardinal and diplomat during the Renaissance period. Pucci played a significant role in the politics of the Papal States, participating in diplomatic missions and negotiations with various European powers. He was a member of the House of Pucci and ascended through the ranks of the church due to his family's influence. His tenure included involvement in ecclesiastical reforms and efforts to strengthen the authority of the papacy. Pucci also contributed to various cultural and religious projects in Rome, reflecting the intertwining of politics and religion during his time.
Continue ReadingMarshall Field
American businessman and philanthropist.
Born
August 18th, 1834 192 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1906 120 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent businessman and philanthropist in the United States, established a highly successful department store in Chicago that became a model for modern retail. Developed a reputation for offering high-quality merchandise and exceptional customer service. Committed to philanthropy, supported various institutions, including art museums and educational organizations. Left a lasting legacy in both commerce and charitable endeavors.
Continue ReadingHerman Berlinski
Pianist, composer, conductor of symphonies
Born
August 18th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Poland, a pianist, composer, and conductor, actively contributed to classical music in the United States. Studied in Paris under notable teachers and later moved to the U.S., where a significant part of the career unfolded. Achieved recognition for original compositions and orchestral works, as well as arranging pieces for various ensembles. Conducted several orchestras, promoting the performance of contemporary and traditional repertoire. Also served as an educator, teaching music at various institutions, and held a passion for nurturing future musicians.
Continue ReadingMeriwether Lewis
Explorer of the Lewis and Clark Expedition
Born
August 18th, 1774 252 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1809 216 years ago — 35 years old
An American soldier, explorer, and politician, led the Corps of Discovery on an expedition from 1804 to 1806. The journey extended from St. Louis, Missouri to the Pacific Ocean, mapping new territory and establishing American presence in the West. Collaborated with William Clark, collecting scientific data and documenting various species. The expedition provided valuable insights into the geography, biology, and cultures encountered during the journey.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Frederick Reines
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 16th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1998 28 years ago — 80 years old
Contributions to particle physics included the discovery of the neutrino. Collaborated on experiments at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and later at the University of California, Irvine. Published over 200 scientific papers and mentored numerous students throughout an academic career. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1995 for work in detecting neutrinos.
Continue ReadingGeorge Band
Mountaineer and engineer, Everest climber
Born
February 2nd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2011 15 years ago — 82 years old
Born in England, contributions included significant achievements in both engineering and mountaineering. Climbed Mount Everest in 1953 as part of the first successful ascent of the mountain via the southern route. Participated in numerous expeditions across the world, including successful climbs of the Nanga Parbat and Kanchenjunga. Worked as an engineer on various projects throughout his career, employing technical knowledge in the field of mountaineering and the construction of high-altitude facilities.
Continue ReadingWilliam James
Psychologist and philosopher, 'The Principles of Psychology'
Born
January 11th, 1842 184 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1910 116 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to psychology and philosophy, emphasizing the functionalist perspective. Served as a professor at Harvard University, where influential lectures and writings shaped modern psychology. Introduced the concept of stream of consciousness and advocated for pragmatism as a philosophical approach. Published notable works including 'The Principles of Psychology' and 'The Varieties of Religious Experience'.
Continue ReadingLee Hays
American singer-songwriter, 'This Land Is Your Land'
Born
March 14th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1981 45 years ago — 67 years old
A significant figure in American folk music, made substantial contributions to the genre in the mid-20th century. Frequently collaborated with other prominent artists, particularly Pete Seeger. Played a pivotal role in the formation of the Weavers, a folk music group that gained worldwide popularity. The Weavers helped to revive interest in traditional folk songs during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s.
Continue ReadingLon Chaney
Silent film actor and makeup artist
Born
April 1st, 1883 143 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1930 96 years ago — 47 years old
An American actor, director, and screenwriter, celebrated for performances during the silent film era. Achieved fame through extraordinary makeup skills and various character portrayals. Starred in iconic films such as 'The Phantom of the Opera' and 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame', showcasing a unique ability to transform appearances for roles. Contributed to the early techniques of film acting and character development, significantly influencing the horror genre in cinema.
Continue ReadingGaston Thorn
Prime Minister of Luxembourg
Born
September 3rd, 1928 98 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2007 19 years ago — 78 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the 8th Prime Minister of Luxembourg from 1974 to 1979. Played a significant role in European integration, being a prominent advocate for the European Community. Served as a Member of the European Parliament and held various important governmental positions. Contributed to Luxembourg's foreign policy and economic development during tenure.
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