David Wilkie

Swimmer, Olympic gold medalist

David Wilkie - Athletes & Sports Figures born March 8th, 1954
Born
Died
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

Born in Sri Lanka and raised in Scotland, a competitive swimmer specialized in breaststroke events. Achieved significant success in the 1970s, winning a gold medal in the 200-meter breaststroke at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. Set world records in multiple events, contributing to the prominence of swimming in the United Kingdom. Retired from competitive swimming after an illustrious career and later engaged in coaching and sports commentary.

Gold medal in 200m breaststroke at 1976 Olympics

Set world record in 200m breaststroke

Won multiple medals at Commonwealth Games

Other People Born on March 8th

Boris Kodjoe

Austrian-German actor and model
Born
March 8th, 1973 53 years ago

Born in Austria and raised in Germany, a career in entertainment began with modeling before transitioning to acting. Gained recognition for roles in the television series 'Soul Food' and 'Station 19'. Also starred in films such as 'Resident Evil: Apocalypse' and 'Love & Basketball'. Has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, focusing on health and wellness initiatives.

Continue Reading

Nick Zano

Television and film actor, 'Happy Endings'
Born
March 8th, 1978 48 years ago

An actor began a career in entertainment with a role in the television series 'What I Like About You'. Gained recognition for playing the character of Brad Williams in the sitcom 'Happy Endings'. Also appeared in the series 'Legends of Tomorrow' as Vince Chase. Acted in several films, including 'The Final Destination' and 'My Name Is Bruce'. Appeared in various television shows and has worked in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Continue Reading

Greg Barker

English politician and Baron
Born
March 8th, 1966 60 years ago

Baron Barker of Battle served as a member of the House of Lords. Contributed to various parliamentary committees and played a significant role in shaping policies related to energy and environment while serving as Minister of State for Energy. Engaged in discussions regarding climate change and sustainable energy solutions. Had a notable career in politics, representing the interests of constituents in the context of national policy-making.

Continue Reading

Aidan Quinn

Actor in film and television
Born
March 8th, 1959 67 years ago

Born in Chicago, a prominent American actor rose to fame in the 1990s. Gained recognition for roles in the films 'Desperately Seeking Susan' and 'Legends of the Fall.' Also starred in the acclaimed television series 'Banshee,' demonstrating versatility across drama and action genres.

Continue Reading

Preston Smith

Governor of Texas
Born
March 8th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2003 23 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 38th Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Oversaw significant educational reforms, including the establishment of programs aimed at improving higher education access. Previously held the position of Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969. His administration focused on infrastructure development and public service improvements.

Continue Reading

Juvénal Habyarimana

Rwandan politician, President of Rwanda
Born
March 8th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1994 32 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the President of Rwanda from 1973 until 1994. Came to power following a military coup that ousted the previous government. Implemented policies that favored the Hutu ethnic group and led to increased tensions with the Tutsi minority. His presidency was marked by civil unrest and violence. Assassination in April 1994 precipitated the Rwandan Genocide, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 800,000 people within a span of 100 days. His leadership style was described as autocratic, consolidating power within the executive branch.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 22nd

Gaetano Bresci

Italian anarchist assassin of royalty
Born
November 11th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1901 125 years ago — 31 years old

An Italian anarchist assassinated King Umberto I of Italy in 1900. Emigrating to the United States, Bresci became involved in anarchist movements. In a quest against monarchy and oppression, he viewed the assassination as a means to inspire radical change. Bresci was arrested immediately following the act and subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment. He died under unclear circumstances in prison in 1901.

Continue Reading

Cecil Day-Lewis

Anglo-Irish poet and novelist
Born
April 27th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1972 54 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1904, this individual gained recognition as a prominent poet and novelist in the 20th century. Contributed significantly to both children's literature and adult poetry. Served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1968 until death in 1972. Engaged in academia and literary criticism, holding positions at various universities throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Renata of Lorraine

Duchess consort of Bavaria
Born
April 20th, 1544 482 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1602 424 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1544, served as Duchess consort of Bavaria through marriage to Duke Albrecht V. Contributed to the cultural and political landscape of the time, linking the Lorraine and Bavarian dynasties. Played a significant role in fostering relationships between noble families. Renata's marriage helped strengthen alliances during a time of political intrigue in Europe. Later, became a figure in philanthropic efforts, particularly in the context of her family’s influence.

Continue Reading

Cevdet Sunay

Turkish general and 5th President
Born
February 10th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1982 44 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a general in the Turkish military and held the position of the 5th President of Turkey from 1966 to 1973. During his presidency, focused on maintaining stability during a time of political unrest and economic challenges. Over his career, contributed to military and political developments in Turkey, advocating for modernization and reforms. Retired from the presidency in 1973, leaving a legacy in Turkish governance.

Continue Reading

François-Marie

French general and diplomat
Born
January 11th, 1671 355 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1745 281 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1671, served as a prominent military leader and diplomat. Achieved the rank of général and played a significant role in several battles during the War of the Spanish Succession, influencing military strategies of the time. Also, held various diplomatic positions, negotiating treaties and alliances to advance French interests.

Continue Reading

Constantine the Great

Roman Emperor and First Christian Emperor
Born
February 27th, 272 1754 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 337 1689 years ago — 65 years old

Ruled as Roman Emperor from 306 to 337. Founded the city of Constantinople, which became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. Played a pivotal role in the Edict of Milan, granting religious tolerance within the empire and promoting Christianity. Initiated significant reforms in military and administrative structures.

Continue Reading