Clive Churchill
Rugby league player and coach
Held a prominent role in Australian rugby league as a player and coach. Played as a fullback for the South Sydney Rabbitohs and represented New South Wales and Australia at the national level. Led South Sydney to several premierships during his playing career. Transitioned to coaching and guided the Rabbitohs to more championships, earning a reputation as a key figure in the sport. His contributions to rugby league were widely recognized and celebrated in Australia.
Won four NSWRFL premierships with South Sydney Rabbitohs
Coached South Sydney to premierships in the 1960s
Inducted into the Australian Rugby League Hall of Fame
Other People Born on January 21st
Gene Sharp
Political Scientist and Author of 'From Dictatorship to Democracy'
Born
January 21st, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 90 years old
An influential political scientist and academic focused on nonviolent action and strategies for political change. Founded the Albert Einstein Institution to promote the study and implementation of nonviolent methods of resistance. Authored numerous works on political philosophy, with 'From Dictatorship to Democracy' gaining international attention and being translated into multiple languages. Contributed to the understanding and effectiveness of nonviolent resistance movements worldwide, influencing activists and scholars alike. Sharp's ideas formed the theoretical foundation for various movements to challenge oppressive regimes throughout the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st.
Continue ReadingRichie Havens
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 21st, 1941 85 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 72 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained prominence during the 1960s folk music revival. Achieved fame for a powerful performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Released several albums, with notable works including 'Common Ground' and 'Richard P. Havens, 1983'. His musical style blended folk, blues, and rock elements, influencing a generation of musicians and activists.
Continue ReadingWilliam Henry Smyth
Royal Navy officer and hydrographer
Born
January 21st, 1788 238 years ago
Died
1865 161 years ago — 77 years old
A Royal Navy officer served as a hydrographer, astronomer, and numismatist. Contributed to nautical charts and the understanding of celestial navigation. Authored 'The English County Histories' and 'A Solar System'. Engaged in mapping and surveying various parts of the world, enhancing maritime safety. Had a role in the establishment of the Royal Geographical Society and contributed knowledge to the fields of astronomy and numismatics.
Continue ReadingEdith Tolkien
Muse of J. R. R. Tolkien's works
Born
January 21st, 1889 137 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1889, she inspired many of the characters in J.R.R. Tolkien's literature, particularly the elven character Lúthien in 'The Silmarillion', reflecting her profound influence on his storytelling. The couple's relationship played a significant role in Tolkien's creative process, with their early romance featured in his writings. Their partnership lasted until Tolkien's death in 1973, and she was a constant supporter of his literary ambitions.
Continue ReadingPrincess Maria Luisa of Bourbon-Two Sicilies
Royalty and member of the Bourbon dynasty
Born
January 21st, 1855 171 years ago
Died
1874 152 years ago — 19 years old
Born in 1855, the individual belonged to the Bourbon-Two Sicilies dynasty. As the youngest daughter of King Ferdinand II, spent early life within the royal court. After the unification of Italy, the royal family faced political changes, leading to various relocations. The individual played a role in the Bourbon family's efforts to maintain their heritage and connections in Europe. In later years, the individual engaged in charity and social work, aligning with many royal family traditions in philanthropy. Died in 1874.
Continue ReadingPrincess Marie of Hesse-Kassel
Consort of Grand Duke George of Mecklenburg
Born
January 21st, 1796 230 years ago
Died
1880 146 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1796, married George, Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz in 1818. The marriage linked prominent German noble families. Contributed to the cultural life of the duchy through patronage. Held various social events and charitable engagements during her time as Grand Duchess. Played a role in supporting local initiatives and enhancing the status of the Grand Duchy. Passed away in 1850.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 9th
Robbie Robertson
Singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer
Born
July 5th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2023 2 years ago — 80 years old
A Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to rock music through solo work and as a member of The Band. Collaborated on foundational albums and soundtracks, including the prominent work on Martin Scorsese films. Gained recognition for blending rock with Americana and folk influences.
Continue ReadingEd Nelson
American actor in 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
An American actor contributed to television and film, appearing in numerous series and movies over several decades. Most recognized for a prominent role in the classic series 'The Twilight Zone', portrayed a series of diverse characters that showcased versatility. Also played significant roles in daytime soap operas, including 'The Doctors' and 'Days of Our Lives', establishing a solid presence in the genre. Nelson's career spanned from the 1950s into the 2000s, involving collaborations with various notable directors and actors. Continued to engage in acting until retirement, leaving a legacy of performances remembered by audiences.
Continue ReadingDavid Raksin
Composer known for 'Laura' score
Born
August 4th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2004 21 years ago — 92 years old
A significant American composer and educator, contributions spanned film and concert music. Raksin's most recognized work, the score for the 1944 film 'Laura,' became a standard in American cinema. Raksin also composed music for other films, including 'Too Late for Tears' and 'The Bad and the Beautiful.' In addition to film scores, Raksin was an influential educator, teaching composition and music theory at various institutions, impacting numerous students in the field of music.
Continue ReadingEduardo Falú
Argentinian guitarist and composer
Born
July 7th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed significantly to Argentine folk music as a guitarist and composer. Developed a distinctive playing style that highlighted the rich traditions of Argentina. Worked on numerous musical compositions and arrangements, earning recognition in both national and international circles. Collaborated with various artists and participated in significant cultural events throughout his career.
Continue ReadingWilliam Lynch
American lawyer and politician
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old
Served as a lawyer and was involved in politics throughout a significant portion of his career. Contributed to various legal and political initiatives at local and state levels. Held positions within governmental bodies that shaped legislative processes. Participated in community service and various legal reforms aimed at improving civic engagement and legal representation.
Continue ReadingHarry Elliott
American baseball player and coach
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
Played professional baseball in the Major Leagues primarily as an outfielder. His career spanned from 1943 to 1951, where he played for teams such as the Chicago Cubs and the Cincinnati Reds. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of younger players in various minor league systems. Involved in baseball operations and mentoring, which influenced the next generation of players.
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