Augustus
Elector of Saxony and patron of arts
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Germany
Links & References
Birth occurred on July 31, 1526. Served as Elector of Saxony from 1547 until death in 1586. Played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation by supporting Martin Luther and promoting Protestantism in Saxony. Established the University of Wittenberg, where reformist ideas flourished. Encouraged the development of the arts and culture, leading to notable advancements during the Renaissance period in Germany.
Supported the Protestant Reformation
Established the University of Wittenberg
Promoted arts and culture in Saxony
Other People Born on July 31st
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Born
July 31st, 1960 65 years ago
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Continue ReadingBryan Hextall
Ice hockey player and NHL All-Star
Born
July 31st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1984 41 years ago — 70 years old
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Continue ReadingMarion Talbot
Educator and advocate for women's education
Born
July 31st, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1948 78 years ago — 90 years old
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Continue ReadingPeter Benenson
Human rights lawyer, founded Amnesty International
Born
July 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2005 21 years ago — 83 years old
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Continue ReadingHank Bauer
Baseball player and manager, 1954 MVP
Born
July 31st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2007 19 years ago — 84 years old
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Continue ReadingAhmet Ertegun
Record producer, co-founder of Atlantic Records
Born
July 31st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
A Turkish-American music producer and composer, played a significant role in the development of rock and rhythm and blues music. Co-founded Atlantic Records in 1947, nurturing the careers of many influential artists. Worked with prominent musicians such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Led Zeppelin, shaping the sound of popular music in the mid-20th century. Held the position of Atlantic's president and was instrumental in expanding its catalog and reach within the music industry. Received numerous accolades for contributions to the music field until passing in 2006.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 19th
Giovanni Giorgi
Italian physicist and engineer
Born
November 27th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1950 75 years ago — 78 years old
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Continue ReadingStephanos Skouloudis
Greek banker and Prime Minister
Born
November 23rd, 1838 187 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1928 97 years ago — 89 years old
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Continue ReadingPierre Schaeffer
Composer and producer of musique concrète
Born
August 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1995 30 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France, this individual developed musique concrète, a form of experimental music that uses recorded natural sounds as raw material. He worked as a radio producer and composer, and began the interdisciplinary use of sound in art and music. The creation of the GRM (Groupe de Recherches Musicales) in 1958 marked a significant moment in the exploration of electronic music and sound manipulation. The contributions to sound and music aesthetics influenced generations of composers and musicians.
Continue ReadingAlcide De Gasperi
Prime Minister of Italy post-WWII
Born
April 3rd, 1881 145 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1954 71 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the 30th Prime Minister of Italy from 1945 to 1953. Played a crucial role in the formation of a democratic government after World War II and was instrumental in Italy's reconstruction. Advocated for European integration and was a founding member of the Christian Democracy party. Helped draft the new Italian Constitution, establishing democratic principles following the fall of fascism. His leadership significantly shaped Italy's political landscape during the post-war period.
Continue ReadingDick Gregory
Comedian and civil rights activist
Born
October 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2017 8 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent comedian and civil rights activist emerged in the 1960s, combining humor with social commentary. Started a career in stand-up comedy, gaining recognition for tackling race relations and social issues through performances. Authored several books, including 'Nigger' in 1964, which became a bestseller. Participated in civil rights marches alongside leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Muhammad Ali. Transitioned into activism, taking part in hunger strikes and advocating for various humanitarian causes. Acted in films and television throughout the career, contributing to series such as 'The Dick Gregory Show' and making guest appearances on talk shows. His work influenced both comedy and activism, paving the way for future generations.
Continue ReadingHermione Baddeley
English actress in film and television
Born
November 13th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1986 39 years ago — 79 years old
An English actress gained prominence in film and television. Career began on stage in the 1920s, appearing in numerous West End productions, which led to film roles. Notable for roles in 'A Room with a View' and 'The Time Machine'. TV appearances included the role of Mrs. Noved in 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir' and the character Endora in 'Bewitched'. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the film 'The Sandpiper'.
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