Erich Honecker

German politician and East Germany leader

Erich Honecker - German politician and East Germany leader
Born

August 25th, 1912
112 years ago

Died

May 29th, 1994
30 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

A prominent figure in East German politics, served as General Secretary of the Socialist Unity Party from 1971 to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Oversaw the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961, which became a symbol of the Cold War. Promoted the stability of the German Democratic Republic during his leadership, maintaining a close relationship with the Soviet Union. After the fall of communism, faced charges related to human rights violations.

Served as General Secretary of East Germany

Oversaw the Berlin Wall's construction

Presided over East Germany during the Cold War

Other People Born on August 25th

Louis Antoine de Saint-Just

French soldier and revolutionary figure
Born
August 25th, 1767 257 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1794 230 years ago — 26 years old

A prominent figure during the French Revolution, contributed to the establishment of the First French Republic. Served as a delegate to the National Convention and played a crucial role in the Reign of Terror. Advocated for the principles of radical democracy and social equality. Supported the execution of King Louis XVI and aimed to implement a new societal order based on virtuous citizenship. Formed alliances with leading revolutionaries and was instrumental in drafting significant political documents.

Continue Reading

Innocenzo Cybo

Italian cardinal and papal diplomat
Born
August 25th, 1491 533 years ago
Died
1550 475 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1491, served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church. Held the position of Cardinal-Deacon and played a significant diplomatic role during the pontificate of Pope Leo X. Worked on various ecclesiastical affairs and was involved in the political dynamics of the church during the Renaissance period. His contributions included participation in significant church councils and assistance in the administration of the papal states. Died in 1550.

Continue Reading

Adrian Lam

Rugby league player and coach
Born
August 25th, 1970 54 years ago

Born in Papua New Guinea, this rugby league player transitioned into coaching after a successful playing career. As a player, he represented the Sydney Roosters in the NRL and earned selections for the Papua New Guinea national team. After retiring, he took on coaching roles, including head coach of the Papua New Guinea national team, where he guided the team in international competitions. His experience and expertise contributed to the development of rugby league in the region.

Continue Reading

John McGeoch

Scottish guitarist, band member of Siouxsie
Born
August 25th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 49 years old

A Scottish guitarist gained recognition in the post-punk music scene. Played guitar for bands such as Magazine and Siouxsie and the Banshees. Contributed to the albums 'Real Life' and 'The Scream,' showcasing innovative guitar techniques and sound exploration. Worked with various artists throughout the 1980s, including the band Primal Scream. His work left a mark on the genre and influenced subsequent musicians.

Continue Reading

Ludwig II of Bavaria

King of Bavaria, patron of Wagner
Born
August 25th, 1845 179 years ago
Died
1886 139 years ago — 41 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1864, this monarch oversaw significant cultural developments in Bavaria, particularly through patronage of the arts. A notable supporter of Richard Wagner, the king financed several of Wagner's operas and established the Bayreuth Festival to celebrate Wagner's work. The king is remembered for his extravagant building projects, including the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle and the unfinished Herrenchiemsee Palace. His reign reflected a blend of personal eccentricity and a deep commitment to artistic endeavors, contributing to Bavaria's cultural heritage until his mysterious death in 1886.

Continue Reading

Eric Millegan

Television actor, starred in Bones
Born
August 25th, 1974 50 years ago

An American actor, prominent in television, starred in the series 'Bones' as Zack Addy, a forensic intern. Earned recognition for his role throughout the show's twelve seasons. Also appeared in various theater productions, showcasing a strong background in performing arts. Other television credits include 'Law & Order' and 'The Twilight Zone'.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 29th

Cornelius Sim

Bruneian cardinal and church leader
Born
September 16th, 1951 73 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2021 3 years ago — 69 years old

Ordained a priest in 1989, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including as the Bishop of the Diocese of Brunei. Appointed as a cardinal in 2016, holding significant influence within the Vatican. Actively engaged in interfaith dialogue and the growth of the Catholic community in Brunei, emphasizing the importance of education and social services.

Continue Reading

Barry Goldwater

American politician and author
Born
January 2nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1998 26 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent U.S. politician and businessman, contributed significantly to the conservative movement in America. Served as a U.S. Senator from Arizona from 1953 to 1965 and as the Republican Party's nominee for President in 1964. His political career was marked by a strong emphasis on individual liberty, limited government, and a staunch anti-communist stance. Authored several books, including 'The Conscience of a Conservative', which became influential in the development of modern conservative thought. Goldwater's legacy includes a lasting impact on the Republican Party's direction in the subsequent decades.

Continue Reading

Winfield Scott

American general and Civil War leader
Born
June 13th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1866 158 years ago — 79 years old

A military figure who played a significant role in multiple conflicts including the War of 1812 and the Mexican-American War. Developed the Anaconda Plan during the American Civil War, aiming to suffocate the Confederacy through blockades. Held the rank of general-in-chief of the United States Army during the Civil War, overseeing strategies that influenced wartime tactics. Also served as a presidential candidate for the Whig Party in 1852.

Continue Reading

Katarína Kolníková

Slovak actress; starred in 'Kozie mlieko'
Born
April 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2006 18 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1921 in Slovakia, an actress gained prominence in theater and film. Worked in various Slovak performances, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. Achieved recognition for contributions to the Slovak film industry, particularly through performances in classic productions.

Continue Reading

May Whitty

English actress best known for films
Born
June 19th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1948 76 years ago — 82 years old

An English actress had a successful career in theater and film, becoming a prominent figure in the early cinema era. Significant work included performances in films such as 'Night Must Fall' and 'The Lady Vanishes'. Whitty's career spanned several decades, showcasing talent both on stage and screen. Later in life, she appeared in television series, contributing to the medium's growth. Whitty received critical acclaim for her performances, solidifying a legacy in the performing arts.

Continue Reading

Ronnie Hawkins

Rockabilly singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 10th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2022 2 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in American rockabilly music, this artist gained recognition in the 1950s and 1960s. He was born in Arkansas and later moved to Canada, where he contributed significantly to the country's music scene. His energetic performances and distinctive sound influenced many musicians. Hawkins helped launch the careers of several future stars, including members of The Band. The artist's music catalog includes hits like 'Mary Lou' and 'Who Do You Love', reflecting his unique style that blended rock and country elements. Throughout his career, Hawkins performed at various festivals and venues, leaving a lasting legacy in rockabilly history.

Continue Reading