Boyd Wagner
Colonel and pilot of WWII era
Born in 1916, a colonel and pilot served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Participated in several significant aerial campaigns in the Pacific Theater. After the war, continued a career in military aviation, contributing to various training programs and operational strategies. Retired from active duty, remained involved in aviation as a civilian, imparting knowledge and experience to future generations of pilots.
Served as a colonel in the U.S. Army Air Forces
Participated in campaigns in the Pacific Theater
Other People Born on October 26th
Martina Schild
Swiss alpine ski racer
Born
October 26th, 1981 44 years ago
A professional alpine ski racer with a focus on the downhill and super-G disciplines. Competed at the highest levels including the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup. Achieved significant success in various competitions, including the World Championships and Olympics. Recorded several podium finishes and consistently ranked among the top skiers globally during active career.
Continue ReadingFrançois Mitterrand
French politician and former president
Born
October 26th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1996 30 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent French politician served as the 21st President of France from 1981 to 1995. Played a significant role in shaping modern French politics. Launched several major reforms, including the abolition of the death penalty and the nationalization of key industries. Focused on European integration and was influential in the establishment of the Maastricht Treaty. Had a long political career spanning several decades, including leadership of the Socialist Party.
Continue ReadingDmitri Sychev
Russian footballer; UEFA Euro 2004 player
Born
October 26th, 1983 42 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a forward. Started career at FC Spartak Moscow, making an impact in the Russian Premier League. Transferred to French club Stade Rennais, where performances bolstered reputation. Continued career in various leagues, including stints in Greece and Russia. Represented the national team and participated in UEFA Euro 2004, contributing to the team's efforts during the tournament.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Liriano
Dominican MLB pitcher, 2006 Rookie of the Year
Born
October 26th, 1983 42 years ago
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for multiple teams including the Minnesota Twins, Chicago White Sox, and Pittsburgh Pirates. Debuted in 2005 and garnered attention for striking out various batters with a notable changeup. Achieved the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2006, showcasing a strong performance during his early career. Contributed to the 2015 Pittsburgh Pirates playoff team and remained active in the league through various seasons, finishing with over 1,300 strikeouts throughout his career.
Continue ReadingMiguel I of Portugal
Monarch of Portugal; restored Absolutism
Born
October 26th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1866 159 years ago — 64 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1828 after a coup, Miguel I ruled Portugal until 1834. His reign was marked by civil strife, particularly the Liberal Wars, where he opposed liberal constitutional changes. Miguel I was known for restoring absolutist monarchy and suppressing liberal movements. His controversial rule included a suspension of the charter constitution. After a defeat, he abdicated and went into exile in 1834, leading to the eventual establishment of constitutional monarchy in Portugal. He returned briefly to Portugal in the 1850s but remained mostly in exile until his death in 1866.
Continue ReadingChou Ssu-Chi
Taiwanese baseball player with MLB career
Born
October 26th, 1981 44 years ago
A professional baseball player from Taiwan, played as an outfielder for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball. Contributed to the team's roster during multiple seasons, participating in various leagues in Japan and Taiwan. Played college baseball at National Taiwan University before making a name in the Minor League system. Gained attention for performance in international tournaments representing Taiwan, showcasing skills and talent on a global stage. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from professional play.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Daniel Gélin
French actor and director, 'The Bridge of the River Kwai'
Born
May 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2002 23 years ago — 81 years old
Born in France, this actor, director, and screenwriter began a film career in the 1940s. Gained recognition in various films during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' directed by David Lean. Besides acting, also took on directing and screenwriting roles throughout the career. Worked in both French and international cinema, maintaining a significant presence in the film industry into the 21st century.
Continue ReadingFrank Waller
American middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
June 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1941 84 years ago — 57 years old
Won a silver medal in the 800 meters at the 1908 Olympic Games held in London. Competed in the 1906 Intercalated Games, securing a gold medal in the 800 meters. Represented the United States in multiple international competitions, achieving significant recognition in middle-distance running during the early 20th century. Contributed to the development of the sport through participation in prestigious events.
Continue ReadingCarl Stalling
American composer for animated films
Born
November 10th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1972 53 years ago — 81 years old
Stalling composed music primarily for animated films, contributing significantly to the genre's development. Stalling worked for Warner Bros. and became the chief composer for the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series. The use of classical music and original compositions in combination with cartoon sound effects became a defining characteristic of these animations. Stalling's work helped to establish a distinct style for animated feature music, marrying wit and creativity with a dynamic listening experience.
Continue ReadingS. Sivanayagam
Sri Lankan journalist and author
Born
September 7th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2010 15 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed extensively to journalism in Sri Lanka, primarily through articles and writings that addressed issues affecting the Tamil community. Served as a founding editor of the 'Tamil Times', a pioneering publication that catered to the Tamil diaspora. Engaged in advocacy for Tamil rights and social justice, bringing attention to the political and ethnic tensions in Sri Lanka through informative and poignant storytelling.
Continue ReadingPercy Williams
Canadian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 19th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 74 years old
Achieved significant acclaim as a sprinter representing Canada. Competed in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, securing two gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Dominated Canadian sprinting in the late 1920s, setting national records and becoming a prominent figure in athletics. His Olympic victories contributed to Canada's success in the event, showcasing sprinting talents on an international stage.
Continue ReadingNatalya Gorbanevskaya
Poet and activist advocating for rights
Born
May 26th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1936, a Russian-Polish poet and activist emerged as a significant figure in the dissent against the Soviet regime. Gorbanevskaya participated in the 1968 Red Square demonstration, protesting the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. Following her arrest, she faced extensive legal repercussions, including imprisonment and exile. Throughout her life, she published various works highlighting the plight of political prisoners and the need for freedom of speech. Gorbanevskaya's literary contributions often focused on themes of human rights and social justice, reflecting her commitment to these causes during a repressive era in her home country. In her later years, she lived in Poland, continuing to write and advocate for human rights.
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