Bertalan Székely
Hungarian painter and academic
Born in 1835, this Hungarian painter and academic contributed significantly to the art world through a distinctive style combining realism and romanticism. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and established a prominent career as a painter. Focused on historical and religious subjects, receiving acclaim for works that depicted moments of Hungarian history. Participated in the 1867 Paris Exposition, further gaining recognition. Later became a professor at the Hungarian Academy of Fine Arts, mentoring future generations of artists and influencing the development of Hungarian arts.
Contributed to the 1867 Paris Exposition
Served as a professor at the Hungarian Academy of Fine Arts
Other People Born on May 8th
Johan Jensen
Danish mathematician and engineer
Born
May 8th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1925 100 years ago — 65 years old
Contributions to mathematics and engineering spanned various fields, particularly in geometry and mathematical analysis. Developed significant theories and published numerous papers that advanced understanding in these disciplines. Worked on practical engineering problems and contributed to the development of methods that improved computation and problem-solving in engineering applications. Held various positions in academia and was involved in teaching the next generation of engineers and mathematicians.
Continue ReadingBrooks Newmark
Businessman and British politician
Born
May 8th, 1958 67 years ago
A businessman and politician held the title of Lord of the Treasury. Served as a Member of Parliament for Braintree from 2005 until 2017, representing the Conservative Party. Contributed to various parliamentary committees and was involved in financial oversight and public finance matters. Resigned from parliamentary duties in 2017 following a controversy that arose from his personal conduct.
Continue ReadingClaes Rålamb
Swedish statesman and diplomat
Born
May 8th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1698 327 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in 17th-century Sweden, served as an influential statesman and diplomat. Held the position of Envoy Extraordinary to France and participated in various diplomatic missions. Played a vital role in negotiations during the Treaty of Karlowitz. Engaged in the governance of Sweden, contributing to the political landscape of the era. His efforts in diplomacy and statecraft were significant during a tumultuous period in Swedish history.
Continue ReadingCandice Night
Singer-songwriter of Blackmore's Night
Born
May 8th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in 1971, a prominent singer-songwriter emerged in the music scene, primarily associated with the band Blackmore's Night. Collaborative efforts with guitarist Ritchie Blackmore resulted in a unique blend of rock and Renaissance music. The duo released several albums that showcased a distinct sound, combining medieval themes with contemporary rock elements. The band's work received acclaim within the folk and progressive rock communities, with a loyal fanbase attending their performances. The lyrical content often drew inspiration from historical narratives and fantasy themes, which resonated with listeners.
Continue ReadingWilliam Walker
American mercenary and expedition leader
Born
May 8th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
1860 166 years ago — 36 years old
A physician, lawyer, and journalist, engaged in mercenary activities in Central America during the mid-19th century. He led expeditions to Nicaragua, aiming to establish English-speaking colonies under his control. Became president of Nicaragua in 1856 after a successful conquest, promoting the establishment of a slave state. Overthrown in 1857, he returned to Nicaragua in 1860, but was captured and executed in 1860.
Continue ReadingMelissa Gilbert
Actress and director of Little House
Born
May 8th, 1964 61 years ago
An American actress and director recognized for work in television and film. Achieved prominence through the role of Laura Ingalls Wilder in the series 'Little House on the Prairie.' Directed episodes of both 'Little House on the Prairie' and 'The Wonder Years.' Contend in various dramatic and comedy roles throughout a lengthy career, including appearances in stage productions and reality television.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 21st
Rex Shelley
Singaporean engineer and author
Born
November 27th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2009 16 years ago — 78 years old
An engineer and author focused on Singapore's history and culture. Wrote several works that explore local identity and experiences, including novels and non-fiction. Contributed to both technical fields and literary communities through publications and mentorship. Engaged in discussions about Singapore's progress and heritage.
Continue ReadingElizabeth P. Hoisington
American Army General and pioneer leader
Born
November 3rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
Achieved the rank of Brigadier General in the United States Army, serving as the first woman to hold this position. Led the Women's Army Corps during her tenure, advocating for the integration of women into the military. Played a significant role in the expansion and professionalization of women's roles in the armed forces. Contributed to the advancement of gender equality in the military by actively supporting legislation for women's inclusion in various military roles.
Continue ReadingLaurence Doherty
English tennis player and golfer
Born
October 8th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1919 106 years ago — 43 years old
Competed in tennis and golf during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Achieved significant success in tennis, winning the Wimbledon men's singles title twice in 1897 and 1898. Transitioned to professional golf and became a prominent player, participating in various tournaments and contributing to the popularity of the sport in England.
Continue ReadingConstant Lambert
English composer and conductor
Born
August 23rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1951 74 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1905, this English figure contributed significantly to the world of music as both a composer and conductor. He studied at the Royal College of Music and composed various works including operas, orchestral pieces, and ballets. His most notable work includes the ballet 'Horatio', which reflects his abilities as a notable composer of his time. Lambert also served as the conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, where he played an essential role in promoting contemporary music through performances and broadcasts.
Continue ReadingBenigno Aquino Jr.
Filipino politician and activist
Born
November 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1983 42 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent figure in Philippine politics, he emerged as a leading opposition voice during the regime of Ferdinand Marcos. His political career began in the 1950s, serving as a senator and becoming known for his vocal criticism of government corruption and authoritarianism. Aquino was imprisoned for nearly four years following the declaration of martial law in 1972. After his release, he went into exile in the United States. He returned to the Philippines in 1983, where he was assassinated at the Manila International Airport, an event that galvanized the opposition against Marcos. His death triggered a series of events leading to the People Power Revolution in 1986, which ultimately ousted Marcos from power.
Continue ReadingAlexander von Oettingen
Theologian and statistician
Born
December 24th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1905 120 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of theology and statistics. With a background in the study of sermons and religious interpretations, engaged in extensive theological research. Developed methodologies that combined statistical analysis with social sciences, influencing later developments in statistical theology. Published notable works that integrated these fields, providing insights into the application of statistics in religious contexts.
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