Eusebio Kino
Italian missionary and explorer in Mexico
A Jesuit priest and missionary, contributed significantly to the exploration and evangelization of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Established several missions in what is now Arizona and northern Mexico, facilitating the spread of Christianity among Indigenous populations. Advocated for the rights of Native Americans, opposing the enslavement and mistreatment of Indigenous peoples. His work laid the groundwork for later European settlement in the region.
Founded the San Xavier del Bac Mission
Mapped parts of the present-day American Southwest
Other People Born on August 10th
Bobby Hatfield
American singer-songwriter, The Righteous Brothers
Born
August 10th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2003 22 years ago — 63 years old
An American singer-songwriter gained prominence as part of the duo The Righteous Brothers during the 1960s. The duo was known for its soulful sound, particularly blending rhythm and blues with pop music. Hit songs included 'You Lost That Lovin' Feelin'' and 'Unchained Melody,' both of which became timeless classics. In addition to chart success, the duo's performance style contributed to their lasting legacy. The influence of the duo extended beyond their active years, inspiring future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingBetsey Johnson
Fashion designer with bold designs
Born
August 10th, 1942 83 years ago
An American fashion designer established a reputation in the fashion industry for her playful and exuberant designs. She founded the Betsey Johnson label in 1969, creating a signature style that incorporated vibrant colors, unique patterns, and whimsical designs. The designer is recognized for her theatrical fashion shows, which often included gymnastics elements, and her distinctive brand of femininity and fun. Johnson became a fixture in the fashion world, celebrated for her ability to blend punk aesthetics with a romantic flair. In 1984, she won the CFDA Award for New Talent in Fashion, underscoring her influence in the field. Over the decades, collections featured ready-to-wear clothing, evening wear, and accessories, garnering a dedicated following.
Continue ReadingPatti Austin
Singer-songwriter and Grammy Award winner
Born
August 10th, 1950 75 years ago
Originated in New York City, an influential figure in the music industry with a career spanning several decades. First gained recognition through performances and recordings in the 1970s. Collaborated with various prominent artists and contributed to the development of the R&B and jazz genres. Achieved notable success with the hit single 'Baby, Come to Me,' a duet with James Ingram, which topped the charts. Received a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1986 for the album 'Every Home Should Have One.' Continues to be active in music and has collaborated with numerous artists throughout her career.
Continue ReadingJuan Manuel Santos
Colombian President and Peace Advocate
Born
August 10th, 1951 74 years ago
A businessman and politician, served as the 59th President of Colombia from 2010 to 2018. Spearheaded the peace negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to end over five decades of conflict, resulting in a historic peace accord in 2016. Focused on economic development, social equity, and strengthening international relations during presidency. Previously held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Defense, where strategies were implemented to reduce violence and improve security in the country.
Continue ReadingBarry Unsworth
English-Italian author and academic
Born
August 10th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 82 years old
An author and academic, contributed significantly to literature through a range of novels that often explore themes of historical and social significance. Achieved recognition for works that delve into the complexities of human experience, and the impact of history on modern life. Received prestigious accolades, including the Booker Prize in 1992 for the novel 'Sacred Hunger', which examines the transatlantic slave trade and its ramifications. His writing includes both fiction and historical narratives that reflect deep research and engagement with historical contexts.
Continue ReadingMichael Mantler
Trumpet player and composer, Jazz Workshop
Born
August 10th, 1943 82 years ago
A prominent trumpet player and composer associated with the avant-garde jazz movement. Established the Jazz Company and published numerous works that blend jazz with modern classical elements. Contributed significantly to the jazz genre through collaborations with notable musicians and orchestras. Composed music for both recordings and theatrical performances, demonstrating a unique approach to jazz composition that often incorporated spoken word and orchestral arrangements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 15th
Vittorio Gregotti
Italian architect & cultural designer
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2020 6 years ago — 93 years old
An architect and urban planner who played a significant role in shaping contemporary Italian architecture. Operated a design studio in Turin, producing works that integrated architecture with urban planning. Engaged in various projects throughout Italy and internationally. Contributed to discussions on architecture and society through writings and academic roles. Designed cultural and public buildings, focusing on coherence with their environment.
Continue ReadingBooth Gardner
American politician, Governor of Washington
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2013 13 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 19th Governor of Washington from 1985 to 1993. Focused on education reform and economic development during tenure. Prior to governorship, held positions as the Pierce County Executive and in the Washington State Legislature. Advocated for environmental issues and played a role in the establishment of the state's growth management policy.
Continue ReadingSmiley Culture
English singer and DJ known for reggae
Born
1963 63 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2011 15 years ago — 48 years old
An English singer and DJ, prominent in the genre of reggae and reggae fusion. Best recognized for contributions to British reggae music, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. Achieved significant success with the single 'Nine to Five' released in 1984. The artist combined elements of DJing and singing, contributing to the evolution of the genre within the UK music scene. Smiley Culture's work addressed social issues alongside showcasing cultural influences from Jamaica. His career spanned over three decades and included a variety of performances and recordings.
Continue ReadingBarbara Maier Gustern
Vocal coach and singer
Born
February 10th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2022 4 years ago — 87 years old
A vocal coach and singer, she contributed significantly to the music industry through training and mentoring numerous artists. Gustern was a prominent figure in the world of vocal instruction, participating in various prestigious music events and performances. Her career spanned decades, during which she worked with both classical and contemporary vocalists, helping to develop their techniques and artistry. She also performed in musical theater productions, showcasing her talent on stage while nurturing the next generation of singers.
Continue ReadingCurtis Gans
Political Scientist and Author
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed to the field of political science with a focus on elections and voter behavior. Authored influential works that analyzed civic engagement and public opinion. Conducted extensive research on the relationship between democracy and voter turnout. Served as a director at the Committee for the Study of the American Electorate.
Continue ReadingSarla Thakral
Pioneer female pilot in India
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2008 18 years ago — 94 years old
The first Indian woman to earn a pilot's license, achieved this milestone in 1936. Received training at the Lahore Flying Club and flew K. L. Malhotra's De Havilland Puss Moth. Maintained a passion for aviation throughout life and inspired future generations of women in aviation. Continued to contribute to the field even after her aviation career ended due to World War II.
Continue Reading