Billie Burke
American actress in The Wizard of Oz
Active in the early to mid-20th century, this performer gained acclaim for roles in theater and film. Notably portrayed Glinda the Good Witch in the classic film 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939). Alongside a successful film career, she also had significant contributions to the Broadway stage, performing in productions such as 'The Royal Family'. This actress was recognized for her comedic talent and distinctive presence, becoming a prominent figure in both the theatrical and cinematic communities.
Portrayed Glinda the Good Witch in 'The Wizard of Oz'
Starred in 'The Royal Family' on Broadway
Other People Born on August 7th
Lauren Hemp
English footballer and Women's Super League star
Born
August 7th, 2000 26 years ago
Played for Manchester City in the Women's Super League. Achieved success with the England national team, competing in major tournaments such as the UEFA Women's Euro 2022. Demonstrated exceptional skill as a winger, contributing significantly to both club and national team successes.
Continue ReadingMary Frances Winston
American mathematician and educator
Born
August 7th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
1959 67 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1869, a mathematician focused on mathematics education. Contributed to the field through teaching and curriculum development. Worked at several institutions, promoting mathematics among women and minorities. Published significant research aimed at improving mathematical understanding in educational settings. Played a role in advocating for increased opportunities in mathematics for underrepresented groups.
Continue ReadingBeanie Wells
American football running back, 2009 Rose Bowl MVP
Born
August 7th, 1988 38 years ago
A running back played college football at the University of Ohio State. Achieved significant recognition in the 2009 Rose Bowl, earning MVP honors. Selected in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. Contributed to the Cardinals' offensive efforts during multiple seasons, including playoff appearances.
Continue ReadingKarol Zalewski
Polish Sprinter; European Champion
Born
August 7th, 1993 33 years ago
Born in 1993, this athlete specialized in sprinting, particularly the 400 meters. Achievements include competing in the 2016 Summer Olympics and winning a gold medal at the 2016 European Athletics Championships. Represented the Polish national team in various international competitions, demonstrating consistent performance on the European circuit.
Continue ReadingKyler Murray
American football quarterback, NFL MVP
Born
August 7th, 1997 29 years ago
An American football quarterback playing for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. Won the 2018 Heisman Trophy while playing for the University of Oklahoma. Drafted first overall by the Cardinals in the 2019 NFL Draft. Demonstrated exceptional dual-threat abilities as both a passer and a runner, contributing to the Cardinals' successes in various seasons.
Continue ReadingVictoria of Baden
Queen consort of Sweden, notable royal figure
Born
August 7th, 1862 164 years ago
Died
1931 95 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1862, a member of the Baden royal family, served as queen consort of Sweden from 1907 until death in 1930. The marriage to King Gustaf V established connections between German and Swedish nobility, influencing royal relationships in Europe. Victoria took on duties in support of her husband and was involved in cultural and social activities within Sweden, including charitable work and support for the arts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
William Randolph Hearst Jr.
Journalist and publisher of Hearst
Born
January 27th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1993 33 years ago — 85 years old
Worked as a journalist and publisher, contributing to the legacy of the Hearst media empire. Served as the president of Hearst Corporation and played a pivotal role in the expansion and modernization of the company's operations. Influenced American journalism and publishing industries through innovative practices and widespread distribution of print media. Supported various philanthropic initiatives and contributed to the arts.
Continue ReadingThomas Simpson
Mathematician known for numerical methods
Born
August 20th, 1710 316 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1761 265 years ago — 50 years old
Engaged in the field of mathematics, contributed to the development of numerical analysis. Developed Simpson's Rule, a method for numerical integration that approximates the definite integral of a function. Worked extensively on the calculus of finite differences and made advancements in the theory of approximation. Also served in academic roles, influencing education in mathematics.
Continue ReadingDarwyn Cooke
Writer and artist, graphic novels.
Born
November 16th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2016 10 years ago — 53 years old
A Canadian writer and artist specialized in graphic novels and comic books, creating a distinct style that garnered critical acclaim. Achievements included work on 'DC: The New Frontier', a celebrated miniseries that adapted the character of Green Lantern and showcased the early days of the Justice League. Also contributed to various projects for DC Comics and other publishers, affecting the direction of the medium with innovative storytelling and art. Recognized for a unique blend of design and narrative that influenced contemporary comic artistry.
Continue ReadingEmanuel Raymond Lewis
American librarian and author
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2014 12 years ago — 86 years old
Established a prominent career in librarianship and literature. Worked at various libraries, contributing significantly to the field of library science. Authored multiple influential texts, focusing on library practices and the profession. Contributed to the development of library education programs and promoted the importance of public libraries in communities.
Continue ReadingDoyle Brunson
Professional poker player and author
Born
August 10th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2023 3 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in the world of professional poker, contributed significantly to the popularity of the game. Played a crucial role in shaping modern poker strategies and authored several influential books on poker theory, including 'Super/System'. Successful participant in the World Series of Poker, securing ten championship titles over a career that spanned several decades. Brunson's strategies and gameplay became a blueprint for aspiring poker players and contributed to the growth of poker as a competitive sport.
Continue ReadingWillem Drees
Dutch Prime Minister (1948-1958)
Born
July 5th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1988 38 years ago — 101 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1948 to 1958. Played a significant role in post-war reconstruction and economic recovery. Led the Labour Party and was a key figure in Dutch politics during the period of rebuilding after World War II. Oversaw social reforms and the establishment of the welfare state in the Netherlands, contributing to the modernization of Dutch society.
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