Ashikaga Takauji
Japanese Shōgun during the Muromachi period
Established the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan, leading to a period known as the Muromachi period. Initially served the Kamakura shogunate before opposing it. His military strategies and political acumen played a pivotal role in the downfall of the Kamakura shogunate. Took control of Kyoto, marking the beginning of a new era in Japanese governance. Implemented policies that shaped the political landscape during his reign.
Founded the Ashikaga shogunate in 1336
Defeated the Kamakura shogunate
Unified various regions of Japan under his rule
Other People Born on August 18th
Yu Mengyu
Table tennis player representing Singapore
Born
August 18th, 1989 36 years ago
Born on August 18, 1989, this table tennis player represented Singapore in international competitions. Competing at the highest levels of the sport, achieved commendable success in singles and doubles events. Gained recognition for participation in multiple editions of the Southeast Asian Games and the World Table Tennis Championships. Demonstrated consistent performance against top competitors.
Continue ReadingSeiya Suzuki
Baseball player, MLB All-Star
Born
August 18th, 1994 31 years ago
A professional baseball player from Japan, Suzuki made a significant impact in Major League Baseball (MLB) after a successful career in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Suzuki played for the Hiroshima Carp in NPB before signing with the Chicago Cubs in 2021. In his rookie MLB season, he showcased exceptional skills, earning recognition as an MLB All-Star. His batting prowess combined with defensive excellence established him as a key player for the Cubs, contributing to their offensive lineup.
Continue ReadingBogdan Bogdanović
Professional Basketball Player
Born
August 18th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, a Serbian basketball player gained recognition for contributions to both club and national teams. Played in the NBA primarily with the Sacramento Kings and later the Atlanta Hawks. Achieved success in European leagues, notably winning the EuroLeague title with Fenerbahçe in 2017. Represented Serbia in international competitions, securing a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Continue ReadingBrian To'o
Rugby league player, Penrith Panthers
Born
August 18th, 1998 27 years ago
A rugby league player, competes in the National Rugby League for the Penrith Panthers. Represents the New South Wales State of Origin team with significant contributions. Played in the 2021 NRL Grand Final, leading the Panthers to victory and securing the premiership title. Also represents the Samoan national team in international competitions.
Continue ReadingEggert Jónsson
Icelandic footballer and national player
Born
August 18th, 1988 37 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a midfielder. Began career in youth teams before joining the senior squad at KR Reykjavík. Later transferred to various clubs in England, including Wolverhampton Wanderers. Represented the Iceland national team in international competitions. Participated in UEFA Euro 2016, contributing to Iceland's historic performance and advancement to the knockout stage.
Continue ReadingAlīna Fjodorova
Figure skater; 2019 World Junior bronze medalist
Born
August 18th, 1995 30 years ago
Competed in figure skating at the national and international levels, representing Latvia. Achieved notable success at the 2019 World Junior Championships, securing a bronze medal. Participated in various European and Grand Prix events, building a competitive career in the sport. Demonstrated significant technical skills and artistry on the ice throughout her career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 7th
Phillip V. Tobias
Paleontologist and academic in South Africa
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
June 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent paleontologist and academic, significant contributions were made to the understanding of human evolution. The focus included the study of fossil hominids from sites such as Sterkfontein and Swartkrans. Involved in the formation and support of various educational and paleontological institutions in South Africa. Served as a professor of anatomy and worked as a director at the Transvaal Museum, influencing the field through education and research publications.
Continue ReadingCahit Zarifoğlu
Turkish poet and author of notable works
Born
July 1st, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1987 38 years ago — 46 years old
A prominent figure in Turkish literature, contributed significantly to poetry and prose. Authored several influential books and poems that explored themes of spirituality, love, and nature. Became associated with the literary movement known as the Second New in Turkey, which focused on experimental styles and breaking conventions. Engaged with various cultural and social issues through writings, reflecting the complexities of modern life in Turkey.
Continue ReadingHenry Miller
Author of Tropic of Cancer
Born
December 26th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1980 45 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1891, this American author and painter gained prominence through innovative literary works that blended autobiography and fiction. His book 'Tropic of Cancer,' published in 1934, was initially banned in the United States due to its controversial content but later became a celebrated classic. Miller's writing often explored themes of sexuality, freedom, and the artistic experience. Throughout his life, he also produced a significant body of visual art, contributing to the understanding of the interplay between writing and visual creativity.
Continue ReadingJoseph von Fraunhofer
German physicist and astronomer
Born
March 6th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1826 199 years ago — 39 years old
Contributions to the field of optics and spectroscopy marked a significant advancement in physics. Established the method of using diffraction gratings for spectral analysis. Conducted extensive research on the properties of light and developed the first high-quality optical glasses. His work laid the foundation for future explorations in both astronomy and physical sciences.
Continue ReadingThe Iron Sheik
Wrestler and actor, WWE Hall of Famer
Born
September 9th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
June 7th, 2023 2 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Iran, this individual became a professional wrestler and gained fame in the 1980s. Played a significant role in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) alongside notable wrestlers of the era. Became recognized for his charisma and signature moves during his wrestling career. Transitioned into acting, appearing in several television shows and films. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, solidifying legacy within the wrestling community.
Continue ReadingHsuan Hua
Chinese-American monk and author
Born
April 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1995 30 years ago — 77 years old
A Chinese-American monk and author, this individual dedicated life to spreading Buddhist teachings and promoting meditation. In 1962, founded the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas in California, establishing an important center for Buddhist learning and practice in the West. Authored multiple texts on Buddhism, contributing to the understanding of the religion among English-speaking audiences. Actively translated various Buddhist scriptures, making significant works accessible.
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