Dorothy Day
American journalist and social activist
A prominent journalist and social activist, involvement in social justice issues spanned several decades. Co-founded the Catholic Worker Movement in 1933, which aimed to provide hospitality to the needy and promote social justice through nonviolent means. Edited the Catholic Worker newspaper, focusing on issues of poverty, labor rights, and pacifism. Advocated for workers' rights and played a vital role in the 1960s anti-war movement, organizing protests against the Vietnam War.
Co-founded the Catholic Worker Movement
Edited the Catholic Worker newspaper
Advocated for civil rights and social justice
Other People Born on November 8th
Dale Gardner
American astronaut and mission commander
Born
November 8th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
An American captain and astronaut, played a crucial role in space exploration during the 1980s. Flew on two Space Shuttle missions, STS-7 in 1983 and STS-51G in 1985, participating in satellite deployment and scientific experiments. Served in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot before joining NASA. Contributed to the development and testing of new technologies for space missions. Upon retiring from NASA, worked in various engineering and management roles in the aerospace industry.
Continue ReadingPeter Arundell
Race car driver with success in Formula One
Born
November 8th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in motorsport as a race car driver, primarily competed in Formula One during the early 1960s. Achieved notable results with the Team Lotus and drove a variety of cars, including the Lotus 24. Contributed to the development of competitive racing techniques and participated in several Grand Prix events throughout his career. Also raced in the British Saloon Car Championship and secured significant podium finishes.
Continue ReadingPatti Page
Singer and actress of pop music
Born
November 8th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2013 13 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent singer and actress, recognized for contributions to the pop genre. Rose to fame in the late 1940s and 1950s with a series of hit records. Achieved significant success with the song 'Tennessee Waltz,' which became a million-seller. Also featured in films and television, noted for her warm vocal style and engaging performances. Released numerous albums over her career, solidifying a place in American music history.
Continue ReadingTomoyuki Yamashita
Japanese general during World War II
Born
November 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Commanded Japanese forces in the Malayan Campaign and the Battle of Singapore, leading to the capture of the British stronghold in 1942. Led troops in various campaigns throughout the Pacific, demonstrating tactical skills in land warfare. Post-war, faced trial for war crimes and was executed in 1946.
Continue ReadingDmitry Yazov
Last Marshal of the Soviet Union
Born
November 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2020 5 years ago — 95 years old
Served in the Soviet military, rising through the ranks to become Marshal. Held the position of Minister of Defence from 1987 to 1991 during a turbulent period for the Soviet Union. Participated in the events surrounding the August Coup in 1991, which aimed to reverse the reforms of Mikhail Gorbachev. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, transitioned to a political career, serving in various roles including as a member of the Federation Council.
Continue ReadingMeg Wynn Owen
British actress in 'The Onedin Line'
Born
November 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished actress, notable for performances in theatre and television. Gained recognition for the role of Caroline in the long-running drama series 'The Onedin Line', which aired from 1971 to 1980. Also appeared in various other television productions. Pursued a career that spanned several decades, contributing to both stage and screen.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Alonso de Ercilla
Spanish soldier and poet, wrote 'La Araucana'
Born
August 7th, 1533 492 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1594 431 years ago — 61 years old
Became a soldier in the Spanish army and participated in the Arauco War in Chile. Authored the epic poem 'La Araucana', chronicling the struggles of the indigenous Mapuche people against Spanish colonization. This work is recognized for its literary merit and historical insight into the conflicts of the time. Ercilla's experiences as a soldier provided a unique perspective that shaped his writings, blending personal narrative with a broader commentary on imperialism and indigenous resistance.
Continue ReadingFerenc Münnich
Hungarian soldier and politician
Born
November 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1967 58 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 47th Prime Minister of Hungary from 1958 to 1961. Participated in World War I as a soldier and later in the Hungarian Soviet Republic. After the fall of the Soviet Republic, faced imprisonment but returned to political life following World War II. Held key positions in the Hungarian Socialist Workers' Party and played a significant role in the political restructuring of Hungary in the post-war period. Contributed to various reforms during the 1950s.
Continue ReadingMark Strand
Poet and essayist, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
April 11th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Canada and later becoming an American citizen, this poet and essayist contributed significantly to contemporary literature. Completing a bachelor's degree from Antioch College and a master's degree from the University of Arizona laid the foundation for a prolific career. The poet served as the U.S. Poet Laureate from 1990 to 1991. His work explored themes of solitude, memory, and the ephemeral nature of life. He translated works of several notable poets, extending the reach of international literature to English-speaking audiences.
Continue ReadingHarry Danning
Baseball player and coach, Giants icon
Born
September 6th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2004 21 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, played as a catcher for the New York Giants from 1933 to 1942. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching and contributed to the development of young talent. Danning was an All-Star selection in 1943, showcasing his skills on the field. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the team's successes.
Continue ReadingJohn Drew Barrymore
American actor in various films
Born
June 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2004 21 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1932, an American actor featured in multiple films and television series. Started in the industry with a family legacy in acting. Gained attention for roles in productions such as 'Around the World in 80 Days' and 'The Big Show'. The career spanned several decades, with significant work during the 1950s and 1960s. Encountered challenges in personal life that affected professional trajectory. Despite these struggles, maintained a presence in the film industry and occasionally appeared in TV shows.
Continue ReadingJuan N. Méndez
Mexican General and Interim President
Born
July 2nd, 1820 205 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1894 131 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a general in the Mexican army and held the position of interim president from 1876 to 1877. Participated in the political and military conflicts during the late 19th century, particularly during the upheavals surrounding the presidency of Porfirio Díaz. Worked to stabilize the government and address various issues arising from the ongoing political instability. Engaged in military campaigns that defined the era and influenced the future direction of the country.
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