David Hart Smith
Canadian professional wrestler
Professional wrestler with a legacy in the Hart wrestling family. Competed in promotions such as WWE and Stampede Wrestling, showcasing technical skills and athleticism. Formed a tag team with Tyson Kidd, known for their matches in WWE's developmental territory, FCW. Gained recognition in the wrestling community for dedication to the sport and his lineage. Transitioned into independent wrestling, where he continued to perform under a variety of promotions.
Competed in WWE under the ring name DH Smith
Won the Stampede Wrestling International Tag Team Championship
Other People Born on August 2nd
Naná Vasconcelos
Brazilian singer and berimbau player
Born
August 2nd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1944, this artist gained recognition for contributions to Brazilian music, particularly in the genre of samba and bossa nova. The musician played the berimbau, a traditional Brazilian instrument, and blended various musical styles, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Brazil. The artist collaborated with renowned musicians and participated in numerous festivals, helping to bring Brazilian music to international audiences. The work spanned several decades, culminating in numerous recordings and performances that highlighted the uniqueness of Brazilian rhythms and melodies.
Continue ReadingSamuel Dirksz van Hoogstraten
Dutch painter and art theorist
Born
August 2nd, 1627 398 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1678 347 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1627, van Hoogstraten became a prominent figure in the Dutch Golden Age of painting. His work is characterized by the use of light and shadow, creating an illusion of depth. He studied under Rembrandt and developed a unique style that blended realism with an interest in the perception of space. Van Hoogstraten was also an art theoretician, contributing to the discourse on perspective and composition through his writings, particularly his treatise 'Illustration of the Art of Painting'. Throughout his career, he produced numerous still lifes and genre scenes, effectively demonstrating his skill in depicting textures and materials.
Continue ReadingAlan Whicker
Journalist and television presenter
Born
August 2nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Journalist and television presenter became well-known for the travel documentary series 'Whicker's World'. The series showcased many countries, cultures, and social issues from the 1950s to the 1990s. Whicker's approach to storytelling influenced a generation of documentary filmmakers. He also worked as a war correspondent during World War II, reporting on various fronts and contributing to the war effort. His career spanned over six decades, earning accolades for his contributions to journalism and television.
Continue ReadingFrédéric Auguste Bartholdi
French sculptor, designer of Statue of Liberty
Born
August 2nd, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1904 122 years ago — 70 years old
Born in France, a prominent sculptor emerged in the 19th century. Studied at the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts in Paris. Gained international recognition for designing the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States, completed in 1886. This monumental work symbolizes freedom and democracy. Bartholdi also created various other sculptures and participated in multiple exhibitions across Europe.
Continue ReadingJoe Hockey
Australian lawyer and Treasurer
Born
August 2nd, 1965 60 years ago
Served as the 38th Treasurer of Australia from 2014 to 2015. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1996 as a member of the Liberal Party. Held the position of Minister for Financial Services and Regulation from 2001 to 2004. Played a key role in delivering the 2014 federal budget, which aimed to address Australia's budget deficit and promote economic growth. Stepped down from the Treasury role in 2015 and continued his career in various international roles.
Continue ReadingPhilippe II
Duke of Orléans and regent of France
Born
August 2nd, 1674 351 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1723 302 years ago — 49 years old
Born in 1674, held the title Duke of Orléans. Served as regent for the young King Louis XV from 1715 to 1723. During the regency, implemented significant reforms in administration and finance, influenced the arts, and maintained stability in France after the death of Louis XIV. Established the first official Lottery in France, contributing to the royal finances. His court became a center for culture and politics, fostering the careers of several artists and intellectuals.
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