Eric Medlen
Race Car Driver, NHRA Funny Car Champion
A race car driver competed primarily in the NHRA Funny Car division. Medlen drove for John Force Racing during his career. Achieved significant success on the track with multiple wins. Tragically passed away in 2007 following an accident during testing. His contributions to the sport left a lasting legacy within the NHRA community.
Won multiple NHRA Funny Car races
Drove for John Force Racing
Other People Born on August 13th
Camillien Houde
Canadian lawyer and Mayor of Montreal
Born
August 13th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1958 68 years ago — 69 years old
A Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the 34th Mayor of Montreal. Held office from 1928 to 1935, and again from 1936 to 1938. Took notable actions to improve municipal infrastructure during tenure. Associated with significant political reforms in Montreal and played a key role in promoting the city internationally.
Continue ReadingKatrina Gorry
Australian football player, World Cup participant
Born
August 13th, 1992 34 years ago
Professional football player primarily engaged in women’s soccer. Competed for multiple clubs in Australia, including Brisbane Roar and Melbourne City. Represented the Australian national team in various international tournaments, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Known for contributions to club championships and international matches.
Continue ReadingNeville Brand
American actor in film and television
Born
August 13th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1992 34 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent American actor featured in numerous films and television shows, recognized for a substantial career spanning several decades. Starred in the classic Western film 'The Wild One' alongside Marlon Brando. Also appeared in the series 'M*A*S*H' and had significant roles in 'The Untouchables' and 'The Green Berets'. Brand's commanding presence made a mark in both action and drama genres.
Continue ReadingGeorge Shearing
Jazz Pianist and Composer, 'Lullaby of Birdland'
Born
August 13th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2011 15 years ago — 91 years old
An English-American pianist and composer, noted for pioneering the art of jazz piano. Grew up in London, where a visual impairment shaped musical style. Moved to the United States in 1947 and gained recognition for unique arrangements that blended swing, bebop, and classical elements. Formed the George Shearing Quintet, achieving commercial success in the 1950s. Founded the popular standard 'Lullaby of Birdland', which became a jazz classic. Collaborated with numerous prominent jazz musicians and maintained a prolific recording career, spanning several decades until retiring in the mid-2000s.
Continue ReadingLouis Baraguey d'Hilliers
French general during the Napoleonic Wars
Born
August 13th, 1764 262 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1813 213 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a general in the French Army during the Napoleonic Wars. Participated in several key battles including the Battle of Austerlitz and the Battle of Borodino. Promoted to general and recognized for military leadership. Commanded various divisions and brought strategic insights to engagements.
Continue ReadingSalvador Luria
Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 13th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1991 35 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a biologist and physician. Conducted pioneering research in bacteriophage genetics and molecular biology. Contributed significantly to the understanding of the genetic mechanisms in bacteria. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1969 for discoveries related to the genetic regulation of virus synthesis.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 23rd
Boris Berezovsky
Businessman and mathematician
Born
January 23rd, 1946 80 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2013 13 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Russia, a mathematician and businessman emerged as a prominent figure in the post-Soviet economy. In the 1990s, became one of the leading oligarchs, gaining wealth through investments in various sectors including oil and media. Actively involved in the media landscape, acquired stakes in influential outlets and was instrumental in the rise of several businesses. Emigrated to the United Kingdom, where engaged in political activities, supporting opposition to the Russian government. Legal disputes and accusations from the Russian state followed, leading to significant media attention.
Continue ReadingAbdullahi Yusuf Ahmed
Somali President and politician
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 14 years ago — 78 years old
Served as President of Somalia from 2004 to 2008, leading the Transitional Federal Government during a period of political instability. Held the position of the military leader of the Somali National Alliance and played a significant role in the civil war. Worked towards establishing a federal government and promoting peace in the region.
Continue ReadingRaúl Macías
Mexican boxer and trainer, world champion
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2009 17 years ago — 75 years old
Competed as a professional boxer primarily during the 1950s. Held the WBC world bantamweight title, with notable fights against opponents like Ruben Olivares and others. Transitioned into a career as a trainer after retirement, mentoring young boxers in Mexico. Continued involvement in the sport until death in 2009.
Continue ReadingNicolas Fouquet
French politician and finance minister
Born
1615 411 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1680 346 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the Superintendent of Finances under King Louis XIV. Fouquet played a significant role in managing the finances of France during a time of considerable war expenditure. His lavish lifestyle and the construction of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte drew the attention of the king. In 1661, Fouquet hosted an extravagant party, which led to his arrest on charges of embezzlement and conspiracy, resulting in a life sentence in prison.
Continue ReadingAdolfo Suárez
Spanish lawyer and first Prime Minister
Born
September 25th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2014 12 years ago — 81 years old
A significant figure in Spanish politics, served as the first Prime Minister of Spain after the dictatorship of Francisco Franco. Took office in 1976 and played a critical role in transitioning the country to democracy. Oversaw the drafting of the 1978 Spanish Constitution, which established a parliamentary monarchy. Resigned in 1981 amid political challenges but remained influential in Spanish political life.
Continue ReadingJoe Garagiola
Baseball Player and Sports Broadcaster
Born
February 12th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 10 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1946 to 1954, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, and Chicago Cubs. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, becoming a prominent commentator. Served as a host for the television game show 'The Today Show' along with baseball coverage on NBC. Authored a memoir titled 'Baseball is a Funny Game', reflecting on experiences in the sport.
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