David L. Wolper
American director and producer, Roots
An influential director and producer, contributed significantly to television and film. Pioneered miniseries format with the critically acclaimed series 'Roots', which portrayed the history of American slavery. Produced successful documentaries and feature films, shaping the landscape of entertainment during the second half of the 20th century. Established the Wolper Organization, which developed numerous projects, becoming a prominent figure in the Hollywood industry. Received several awards and nominations for work, including multiple Emmys.
Produced the miniseries 'Roots'
Produced the documentary 'The Death of a President'
Established and led the Wolper Organization
Other People Born on January 11th
Alan Paton
South African author and activist
Born
January 11th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1988 37 years ago — 85 years old
An influential author and political activist, contributed significantly to anti-apartheid movements in South Africa. Wrote the acclaimed novel "Cry, the Beloved Country," which highlighted the struggles of apartheid. Engaged in various social and political issues throughout his life, working to promote human rights and social justice. Served as the first president of the South African Liberal Party from its founding in 1953 until 1968.
Continue ReadingWajima Hiroshi
Sumo wrestler, 54th Yokozuna
Born
January 11th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 70 years old
Acclaimed as the 54th Yokozuna, celebrated in the world of sumo wrestling. Achieved the prestigious title following a successful career marked by remarkable performance and technique. Competed for the Dewanoumi stable and demonstrated exceptional skill in the ring over multiple tournaments.
Continue ReadingGrant Tinker
Television producer, co-founder of MTM Enterprises
Born
January 11th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 91 years old
Co-founded MTM Enterprises, a television production company recognized for creating successful television series. Played an instrumental role in developing popular shows such as 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and 'The Bob Newhart Show'. Tinker served as chairman and CEO of NBC from 1973 to 1978, a period marked by significant ratings growth and the introduction of innovative programming. After leaving NBC, continued to produce television content, contributing to the landscape of American television.
Continue ReadingBlake Heron
American Actor from 'Shiloh' film
Born
January 11th, 1982 44 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2017 8 years ago — 35 years old
An actor gained prominence through roles in film and television. Featured in 'Shiloh', which presented a story about a boy and his dog, receiving significant attention. Also appeared in projects such as 'The Phantom' and 'The 7th Heaven'. Career included both acting and contributions to various productions in Hollywood, shaping a presence in the industry during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Continue ReadingAbd-ar-Rahman III
Caliph of Córdoba and Umayyad leader
Born
January 11th, 889 1137 years ago
Became the first Caliph of Córdoba in 929 and established the Umayyad Caliphate in al-Andalus. Reinforced the power and prestige of Córdoba, making it a center of culture, science, and trade in the medieval world. Oversaw significant architectural advancements including the expansion of the Great Mosque of Córdoba. Cultivated relationships with various scholars, poets, and intellectuals, promoting a flourishing cultural environment.
Continue ReadingConstantin Fehrenbach
Chancellor of Weimar Germany
Born
January 11th, 1852 174 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1926 99 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 4th Chancellor of Weimar Germany from 1920 to 1921. Before assuming the chancellorship, held various political roles, including leadership positions in the German People's Party. Advocated for democratic principles during a tumultuous period in German history, focusing on stabilizing the government amid significant political and economic challenges. Resigned during a critical financial crisis, which highlighted the difficulties faced by the Weimar Republic.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 10th
Jeffrey Epstein
Financier and convicted sex offender
Born
January 20th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2019 6 years ago — 66 years old
Engaged in financial consulting and investment management during the 1980s and 1990s. Managed a hedge fund and developed a network of high-profile connections. Faced legal issues related to sexual offenses, including a conviction in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Arrested again in 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. Died in custody in 2019.
Continue ReadingTony Esposito
Ice hockey player and Hall of Famer
Born
April 23rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2021 4 years ago — 78 years old
A Canadian-American ice hockey player, coach, and manager played as a goaltender primarily for the Chicago Blackhawks in the NHL. Esposito was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1988, after a successful career that included winning the Vezina Trophy three times. He was part of the Blackhawks for a majority of his playing career and was instrumental in their playoff runs. Later transitioned to a coaching role and took on various management positions, contributing to the development of the sport in both Canada and the United States.
Continue ReadingJohn Boyle O'Reilly
Poet and journalist of 'Songs from the Cell'
Born
June 28th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1890 135 years ago — 46 years old
An Irish-born poet, journalist, and fiction writer, this individual played a significant role in the literary world of the late 19th century. After being sentenced to prison in Ireland, a daring escape led to a new life in America. In the United States, contributions included writing for the Boston Pilot and publishing several acclaimed poetry collections. Works often reflected themes of freedom, social justice, and the Irish experience, earning admiration among readers and writers alike. The legacy includes promoting Irish nationalism and voices of the oppressed through both poetry and journalism.
Continue ReadingEstes Kefauver
American politician and senator
Born
July 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1963 62 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1949 to 1963. Gained national attention during the 1950s as the chair of the Senate Antitrust and Monopoly Subcommittee, leading high-profile investigations into organized crime. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1956 but was unsuccessful. Advocated for civil rights and health care reform during his political career, contributing to various legislative efforts.
Continue ReadingBuddy Baker
Race car driver and sportscaster
Born
January 25th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the world of auto racing, this individual achieved significant success in stock car racing during the 1970s and 1980s. Notable for winning the Daytona 500 in 1980, he became the first driver to complete the 500-mile race in under four hours. The individual transitioned into sportscasting after retiring from racing, providing insights and commentary on events including NASCAR races, enhancing the sport's appeal to fans. With a deep passion for racing, this person also contributed knowledge and expertise to aspiring drivers, showcasing a commitment to the sport beyond personal achievements.
Continue ReadingEriek Verpale
Belgian author and poet
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 63 years old
A Belgian author and poet focused on the nuances of human experience through literature. Contributed significantly to contemporary Flemish poetry and prose. Published several works exploring themes of identity, existence, and the passage of time. Played a key role in the Belgian literary scene, engaging with various literary movements and incorporating elements of modernism and surrealism in writings.
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