Andres Larka
Estonian general and Minister of War
Served as the first Estonian Minister of War and played a significant role in shaping Estonia's military policies following the country's declaration of independence in 1918. Contributed to the establishment and organization of the Estonian Defence Forces during the War of Independence. Engaged in various military strategies to ensure the nation's security and sovereignty. Held various military ranks and participated in key military and political discussions pertaining to Estonia's defense and territorial integrity until his death in 1943.
Served as the first Minister of War in Estonia
Played a key role in the Estonian War of Independence
Other People Born on March 5th
Félix de Blochausen
Politician, 6th Prime Minister of Luxembourg
Born
March 5th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 6th Prime Minister of Luxembourg from 1885 to 1886. Held significant roles in the government and contributed to the development of Luxembourg's political landscape during a period of modernization. Played a key role in the establishment of legislative reforms and worked towards strengthening the national infrastructure. Involved in various political discussions that aimed at enhancing the governance system of the nation.
Continue ReadingDel Crandall
Baseball player and manager, Braves
Born
March 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old
Played as a professional baseball catcher primarily for the Milwaukee Braves from 1949 to 1963. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a managerial role in Major League Baseball, overseeing teams such as the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants. Crandall contributed to the game not only through his skills as a player but also through his leadership on the field as a manager.
Continue ReadingMike Hessman
Baseball player and coach, Minor League leader
Born
March 5th, 1978 47 years ago
Played professional baseball as a third baseman and designated hitter. Had a career spanning over a decade, primarily in the Minor Leagues, with a brief stint in Major League Baseball. Established a record for the most home runs in Minor League Baseball history. Transitioned to coaching roles following retirement from playing, contributing to the development of younger players.
Continue ReadingVincenzo Galeotti
Dancer and choreographer, danced for royalty
Born
March 5th, 1733 292 years ago
Died
1816 210 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Italy and later active in Denmark, this dancer and choreographer gained prominence in the world of ballet during the 18th century. Renowned for the introduction of innovative choreography that blended the Italian style with French influences, this individual contributed significantly to the development of ballet. In Denmark, served as a principal dancer and choreographer at the Royal Danish Theatre, where some of the most elegant and structured performances were crafted. Created numerous ballets, which were recognized for their aesthetic qualities and refinement, influencing the next generations of dancers and choreographers.
Continue ReadingMoussa Saïb
Footballer and manager of Algeria
Born
March 5th, 1969 56 years ago
A former footballer who played as a midfielder, recognition came during time with the Algerian national team. Played in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. Achieved success at the club level in France, with notable performances for several teams. Transitioned into management following playing career, focusing on developing young talent and coaching at various levels.
Continue ReadingJustin Fields
American football quarterback
Born
March 5th, 1999 26 years ago
Played college football at Ohio State University, leading the team to a Big Ten Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff in 2019. Selected by the Chicago Bears as the 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Established franchise records for most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single season during his second year in the NFL.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 8th
Arthur Cockfield
English lawyer and politician
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2007 19 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a prominent English lawyer and politician. Contributed significantly to business and innovation policies during tenure as Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills. Participated in various governmental reforms and initiatives aimed at improving economic conditions. Held important positions within the government, influencing legislative frameworks and policies related to business and industry.
Continue ReadingMelvin Calvin
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner
Born
April 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1997 29 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent chemist and academic contributed to the understanding of the photosynthetic carbon fixation process. Research led to significant advancements in biochemistry and plant physiology. Served as a professor and researcher, influencing many students and future scientists through teaching and mentorship. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1961 for work on the Calvin cycle, a crucial biochemical pathway in photosynthesis.
Continue ReadingJohnny Gruelle
American author and illustrator of Raggedy Ann
Born
December 24th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1938 88 years ago — 57 years old
An author and illustrator, contributed significantly to children's literature through the creation of Raggedy Ann. Published the first Raggedy Ann book in 1918, which introduced the beloved character to audiences. Established a series of stories featuring Raggedy Ann and her friends, appealing to the imagination of young readers. Worked as an illustrator for various publications and continued to create several Raggedy Ann books until death in 1938.
Continue ReadingTerry-Thomas
English actor and comedian in film
Born
July 10th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1990 36 years ago — 78 years old
An English actor and comedian gained popularity during the mid-20th century through his unique style, characterized by a gap-toothed smile and a distinctive voice. Became a well-recognized figure in British film and television. Achieved significant success in the 1950s and 1960s with performances in various comedies, including roles in 'The Adventures of Barry McKenzie' and 'It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.' Made numerous television appearances, becoming a staple of British entertainment during the era.
Continue ReadingArt Clokey
Animator of Gumby and animation pioneer
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2010 16 years ago — 89 years old
American animator created the character Gumby, an iconic stop-motion clay figure. Developed a distinctive style that utilized clay modeling, contributing significantly to the art of animation. Founded the production company Clokey Productions, producing educational and entertainment content. Directed and produced several animated shorts and television series throughout the 1950s to the 1980s. Gumby became a cultural icon, appearing in various merchandise, films, and spin-offs, which contributed to its popularity across generations.
Continue ReadingNicolai Gedda
Operatic tenor with international acclaim
Born
July 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2017 9 years ago — 91 years old
Acclaimed operatic tenor garnered recognition for a remarkable vocal range and the ability to perform in multiple languages. Made significant contributions to the opera world through numerous performances, particularly in roles such as the title character in Gounod's 'Faust' and Rodolfo in Puccini's 'La Bohème'. His career spanned over six decades, performing with leading opera houses globally, including the Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera. Gedda also participated in numerous recordings, showcasing his vocal abilities in various operatic arias and songs, cementing his legacy in the world of classical music.
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