Andrej Hlinka
Slovak priest and politician
Involved in the Slovak national movement, played a prominent role in advocating for Slovak rights within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Elected as a member of the Hungarian Parliament, worked on issues concerning Slovak autonomy. Founded the Slovak People's Party in 1918, which aimed at the political representation of Slovaks. Contributed to the establishment of Czechoslovakia following World War I.
Founded the Slovak People's Party
Advocated for Slovak autonomy in Parliament
Other People Born on September 27th
Louis XIII of France
King of France during the Thirty Years' War
Born
September 27th, 1601 424 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1643 382 years ago — 41 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1610 until death in 1643. Ascended to the throne at a young age after the assassination of Henry IV. Worked closely with Cardinal Richelieu to strengthen royal authority and centralize power in France. His reign witnessed significant events, including involvement in the Thirty Years' War and the expansion of French influence in Europe. Launched military campaigns and supported protestant allies. Known for initiating architectural projects, including the expansion of the Louvre in Paris.
Continue ReadingDaniel Pudil
Czech professional footballer
Born
September 27th, 1985 40 years ago
A professional footballer with a career primarily as a defender, played for several clubs in Europe. Professional debut occurred in 2003 with Sigma Olomouc. Subsequent tenures included stints at Sheffield Wednesday and Watford in the English Football League, contributing significant performances in domestic and international competitions. Represented the Czech national team in various international matches, gaining experience in tournaments such as the UEFA European Championship.
Continue ReadingJon McLaughlin
Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
September 27th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, this American singer-songwriter gained recognition for combining pop and rock elements in music. The debut album, 'Indiana', featured the hit single 'Beautiful Disaster'. In 2007, the artist's song 'So Close' was featured in the Disney film 'Enchanted', which contributed to wider acclaim. Through the years, collaborations with various artists and contributions to soundtrack albums further showcased songwriting and production skills.
Continue ReadingMartin Ryle
Astronomer and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 27th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1984 41 years ago — 66 years old
An English astronomer contributed significantly to radio astronomy. Developed advanced techniques for observing celestial radio sources, leading to the discovery of pulsars. Ryle's work enabled the measurement of the structure of galaxies and the understanding of cosmic phenomena. Ryle served as a professor at the University of Cambridge and directed the Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory. His research played a pivotal role in expanding the field of astrophysics.
Continue ReadingVanessa James
French figure skater, 2018 Olympic Bronze Medalist
Born
September 27th, 1987 38 years ago
Competed in figure skating at international levels. Achieved significant success in pairs skating, forming a partnership with a British skater. Won multiple medals at the European Championships and World Championships. Represented France at the 2018 Winter Olympics, earning a bronze medal in team events. Acknowledged for technical proficiency and artistic performance on the ice, resulting in a lasting legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingJohn Lannan
Baseball pitcher with Nationals
Born
September 27th, 1984 41 years ago
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2007, playing as a starting pitcher primarily for the Washington Nationals. Achieved a career-high 9 wins in the 2012 season. Played a total of six seasons in MLB, known for his control and consistency on the mound. Transitioned to a coaching role in baseball after retirement.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 16th
Amanda Blake
American actress in 'Gunsmoke'
Born
February 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 60 years old
An actress with a prominent career in television and film, gained recognition for playing the role of Miss Kitty Russell on the series 'Gunsmoke'. The character was a bar owner in Dodge City, contributing to the show's success over its 20-year run. Blake also appeared in several films during her early career and made guest appearances in various television shows. After 'Gunsmoke', continued to work in television and maintain a public presence, including advocacy for animal rights.
Continue ReadingWanda Landowska
Harpsichordist and early music revivalist
Born
July 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1959 66 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent harpsichordist and pianist, contributed significantly to the revival of the harpsichord in the 20th century. Established a school for early music in Paris, influencing many musicians. Developed an interpretation style that melded historical performance with modern sensibilities. Published numerous works on early music and its instruments.
Continue ReadingAshikaga Yoshikatsu
Japanese shōgun during the Muromachi period
Born
March 19th, 1434 591 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1443 582 years ago — 9 years old
Served as the sixth shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan. Reigned from 1440 until his death in 1443. His tenure was marked by political instability and internal conflict within the shogunate. Following his early death, his younger brother assumed the position, continuing the lineage of the Ashikaga family. The era was characterized by power struggles that influenced the political landscape of Japan.
Continue ReadingSpyros Skouras
Businessman and movie studio executive
Born
March 28th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1971 54 years ago — 78 years old
A Greek-American businessman played a significant role in the film industry as an executive at 20th Century Fox. He oversaw production during the studio's peak, contributing to the success of numerous iconic films. Under his leadership, the studio saw growth and innovation in filmmaking and distribution. His influence extended beyond operational successes, as he navigated the complexities of Hollywood, dealing with changing market demands and competition. The expansion of the studio's library of films during his tenure solidified its importance in cinema history.
Continue ReadingJohn II of Trebizond
Emperor of Trebizond and scholar
Born
1262 763 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1297 728 years ago — 35 years old
Ruled as the Emperor of Trebizond from 1280 until death in 1297. Focused on consolidating power within the empire while engaging in diplomatic relations with neighboring states. Made significant contributions to the cultural and intellectual life of Trebizond, fostering a court that attracted scholars and artists. Presided over a vibrant period marked by the continuation of the Byzantine tradition in this region. His reign was characterized by efforts to maintain independence from external pressures and internal strife.
Continue ReadingJeff Corey
American actor and director
Born
August 10th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1914, an American actor and director made significant contributions to film and television. Career in acting began in the late 1930s, gaining prominence in productions during the 1940s. Accused of being a communist during the Red Scare led to a blacklisting in Hollywood. During this period, directed stage productions and taught acting at various institutions. Returned to film and television in the 1960s, appearing in notable roles in various series and movies. Gained recognition for performances in television series such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Fugitive'. Also directed several television episodes and stage plays, showcasing a range of talent within the industry.
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