Bill Shoemaker
Jockey and author with multiple wins
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Achieved prominent success in horse racing, becoming one of the most celebrated jockeys in history. Won a record 8,833 races during a career spanning over four decades. Victories included the Kentucky Derby four times and the Preakness Stakes twice. Besides racing, authored works reflecting on experiences in the sport. Inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1958.
Won 8,833 career races
Victories in the Kentucky Derby four times
Preakness Stakes champion twice
Other People Born on August 19th
Frank McCourt
Pulitzer Prize-winning author
Born
August 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2009 16 years ago — 78 years old
An author and educator, achieved acclaim for a memoir detailing a challenging childhood in Ireland. The memoir chronicles experiences of poverty, family struggles, and immigration to America. Worked as a teacher in New York City for many years and incorporated experiences into writing. The culmination of this career came with the publication of 'Angela's Ashes' in 1996, which received widespread praise and the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1997.
Continue ReadingJ. J. Hardy
Baseball shortstop and All-Star player
Born
August 19th, 1982 43 years ago
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball for the Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins, and Baltimore Orioles. Achieved All-Star selections and won Gold Glove Awards for exceptional defensive skills. Contributed significantly to the Orioles' playoff run in 2014, helping the team reach the American League Championship Series.
Continue ReadingDanny Galbraith
Scottish footballer with Hibernian FC
Born
August 19th, 1990 35 years ago
A Scottish footballer, played as a winger and made significant contributions to club teams. Began youth career at Hibernian before transitioning to senior football. Played competitive matches across several clubs in the Scottish leagues. Experienced a series of loan spells that enhanced club performance. Retired from professional football, contributing to grassroots and local teams afterward.
Continue ReadingMelissa Fumero
American actress and Brooklyn Nine-Nine star
Born
August 19th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, this American actress gained prominence through roles in television and film. The character Amy Santiago in the comedy series 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' became a significant part of her career, showcasing her comedic talent alongside a strong ensemble cast. Additional work includes her role as Adriana Cramer on 'One Life to Live'. Besides acting, she has participated in various events and projects, further solidifying her presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingLuis Martín
Spanish religious leader, Superior-General
Born
August 19th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1906 120 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 24th Superior-General of the Society of Jesus, overseeing significant administrative and spiritual developments within the Order. Led the Society during a period of expansion and strengthening of its mission worldwide. Contributed to the revitalization of Jesuit education and the renewal of Jesuit spirituality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingKevin Rans
Belgian pole vaulter with notable records
Born
August 19th, 1982 43 years ago
A pole vaulter, achieved significant success in athletics, particularly in pole vault competitions. Competed in various European championships and earned a reputation within the sport through consistent performances. Participated in major events, representing Belgium and contributing to the country's presence in athletics on international stages.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 12th
Dean Acheson
U.S. Secretary of State during Truman era
Born
April 11th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1971 54 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 51st Secretary of State from 1949 to 1953. Acheson played a significant role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, promoting the Marshall Plan and supporting NATO. His tenure was marked by a focus on containing communism and establishing strong alliances with Western European nations. Involved in key decisions during the Korean War, Acheson's influence extended beyond his time in office through continued engagement in international affairs.
Continue ReadingDickie Peterson
American singer-songwriter and bassist
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2009 16 years ago — 61 years old
An American singer-songwriter and bassist, contributed significantly to the music scene through the band Blue Cheer. The group was pivotal in the development of heavy metal and psychedelic rock during the late 1960s. Peterson's distinctive voice and bass playing characterized the band’s sound, which was marked by its loud and powerful instrumentation. Blue Cheer gained considerable recognition with their cover of 'Summertime Blues' which topped the charts. The band released several albums throughout their career, solidifying their legacy in rock music.
Continue ReadingRegis Toomey
American actor in films and television
Born
August 13th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1991 34 years ago — 93 years old
An actor with a career spanning over five decades, gained recognition for roles in both film and television. Appeared in over 100 films and numerous television series. Notable performances included roles in the films 'The Maltese Falcon' and 'The Big Sleep', as well as a prominent role in the long-running television series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet'. Work encompassed a range of genres, showcasing versatility across drama and comedy.
Continue ReadingEdwin Abbott Abbott
Theologian, author of 'Flatland'
Born
December 20th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1926 99 years ago — 87 years old
An English theologian, author, and educator contributed significantly to literature and education in the 19th century. Wrote 'Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions', which explores complex ideas of dimensions and social hierarchy through a satirical narrative. Worked as a headmaster at the City of London School, influencing educational approaches and curriculum development. Engaged in theological discussions and authored several texts on theology, contributing to academic thought during his time.
Continue ReadingSonja Henie
Figure Skater and Actress, Olympic Champion
Born
April 8th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1969 56 years ago — 57 years old
Achieved prominence as a figure skater and actress, winning three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. Transitioned to a successful acting career in Hollywood, appearing in films such as 'One in a Million' and 'Sun Valley Serenade'. Combined athleticism with artistry, revolutionizing figure skating performances and popularizing the sport in the United States. Pioneered the integration of show business and competitive figure skating, influencing future generations of skaters.
Continue ReadingRoberta McCain
Socialite and oil heiress
Born
February 7th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2020 5 years ago — 108 years old
An American socialite and oil heiress, born into a prominent family in the oil industry, was active in various charitable and social causes throughout her life. Education included a degree from the University of Southern California. Gained attention as the mother of a notable political figure and through participation in high society events, offering insight into the lives of America's elite. Focused on philanthropy, particularly in support of the arts and education, while also being recognized for contributions to several organizations. Maintained a public presence into her later years, representing her family's legacy.
Continue Reading