André Maurois
French soldier and author of novels
Born in France, a soldier served in World War I and later pursued a successful career in literature. Gained recognition for novels that explore themes of love, war, and human relationships. Became a member of the Académie Française in 1938, a testament to contributions in literature and storytelling. Wrote several acclaimed works including 'Climates,' 'The Silence of the Sea,' and biographies of notable figures such as Victor Hugo and the French Revolution. Engaged in diplomacy and cultural discussions, representing France during various international gatherings.
Published 'Climates'
Authored 'The Silence of the Sea'
Elected to the Académie Française in 1938
Other People Born on July 26th
Ken Wallace
Australian kayaker and Olympic medalist
Born
July 26th, 1983 42 years ago
Competitor in sprint kayaking events, participated in multiple World Championships. Represented Australia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics, winning a gold medal in the K-1 1000m event in 2008. Also secured a bronze medal in the K-1 200m at the same Games.
Continue ReadingRobert Gallery
American football offensive tackle
Born
July 26th, 1980 45 years ago
Played college football at the University of Iowa, where earned All-American honors. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders as the second overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft. Played primarily as an offensive tackle during a professional career spanning eight seasons in the NFL with the Raiders and the Seattle Seahawks. Known for contributions to the offensive line, providing protection for quarterbacks and paving the way for running backs.
Continue ReadingKelly Clark
American snowboarder and Olympic medalist
Born
July 26th, 1983 42 years ago
Acclaimed as one of the foremost snowboarders, a prominent career began in competitive snowboarding in the late 1990s. Achievements include three Olympic appearances, securing a gold medal in the women's halfpipe event at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, and a bronze medal at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Clark has garnered multiple wins at the X Games, demonstrating proficiency in halfpipe and superpipe competitions, shaping a significant legacy in the sport. With a commitment to promoting snowboarding and fostering young talent, Clark has contributed to the growth of the sport both competitively and inspirationally.
Continue ReadingJacinda Ardern
40th Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born
July 26th, 1980 45 years ago
Served as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023. Led the Labour Party and became the youngest female head of government at the age of 37. Implemented significant policies on climate change, housing, and child poverty. Guided the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on public health and community well-being. Focused on creating a more inclusive society and promoted various social justice initiatives.
Continue ReadingKyriakos Ioannou
High Jumper, 2010 European Champion
Born
July 26th, 1984 41 years ago
Competed in high jump at an elite level, achieving considerable success in international competitions. Excelled at the 2010 European Athletics Championships, securing the gold medal. Participated in multiple Olympic Games, including the 2008 Beijing and the 2012 London Olympics. Achieved personal bests that placed among the top jumpers globally, showcasing a consistent competitive performance throughout the career.
Continue ReadingSabri Sarıoğlu
Turkish footballer and Galatasaray captain
Born
July 26th, 1984 41 years ago
Born in 1984, a professional footballer played primarily as a right back. Spent the majority of his career at Galatasaray, joining the club's youth team in 1996 and making his first team debut in 2001. Contributed to the club's success in domestic and international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 9th
Horst Szymaniak
German footballer with Schalke 04 legacy
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2009 16 years ago — 75 years old
A professional footballer played as a defender primarily for Schalke 04. Szymaniak's career spanned from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, gaining recognition for his defensive skills and leadership on the field. His significant contributions helped the team secure the DFB-Pokal in 1972. After retirement, transitioned into coaching, impacting youth football in Germany.
Continue ReadingSammi Kane Kraft
American actress, known for 'A League of Their Own'
Born
1992 34 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 20 years old
An actress gained recognition for a leading role in the film 'A League of Their Own'. The film, which premiered in 1992, depicted the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during World War II. An early acting career featured appearances in various television series and motion pictures. Tragically, passed away in a car accident in 2012 at the age of 20.
Continue ReadingErnest Louis
Grand Duke of Hesse
Born
November 25th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1937 88 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1868, served as Grand Duke of Hesse from 1892 until 1918. Oversaw the region during significant political changes, including the decline of monarchy in Germany after World War I. Participated in cultural advancements and supported various public works throughout his reign. Abdicated in the wake of the German Revolution.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Howe
Deputy Prime Minister of the UK
Born
December 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a prominent British politician and lawyer. Held the office of Deputy Prime Minister from 1979 to 1987 under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Played a crucial role in shaping economic policies during the 1980s. Was a Member of Parliament for over 25 years, also serving as Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. Contributed significantly to the UK's stance in European affairs.
Continue ReadingAndrzej Wajda
Polish film director, Oscar winner
Born
March 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent film director, producer, and screenwriter emerged as a key figure in Polish cinema. Known for crafting films that often explored political and social themes, significant works included 'Man of Marble' and 'Katyń'. Wajda graduated from the National Film School in Łódź and began his career after World War II. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he tackled complex narratives that often criticized authoritarianism, gaining international recognition. In 2000, awarded an Honorary Academy Award for his lifetime achievements. His films influenced several generations of filmmakers and highlighted the struggles of the Polish people throughout history.
Continue ReadingJan Heemskerk
Dutch lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
July 30th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1897 128 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 16th and 19th Prime Minister of the Netherlands. Participated in significant political developments during the mid to late 19th century. Explored legal reforms and contributed to the establishment of municipal finances. Played a role in shaping the Dutch political landscape in the context of constitutional changes and the evolution of parliamentary democracy.
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