France Gall
French singer with hits like 'Poupée de cire'
A prominent figure in French pop music, began career in the early 1960s. Gained popularity with the song 'Poupée de cire, poupée de son,' which won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1965 representing Luxembourg. Collaborated with notable songwriters including Serge Gainsbourg and Michel Berger, producing a series of successful albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Continued to perform and release music until the late 1990s, remaining a cherished icon in the French music scene until passing in 2018.
Won Eurovision Song Contest in 1965
Popularized 'Poupée de cire, poupée de son'
Collaborated extensively with Serge Gainsbourg
Other People Born on October 9th
Peter Saville
Graphic designer and art director
Born
October 9th, 1955 71 years ago
Active in the design field since the late 1970s, this graphic designer became prominent for album artwork, especially with the British band Joy Division. The design for the band's iconic album 'Unknown Pleasures' has been widely recognized and influential in music and art circles. Collaborations continued with notable musicians and companies throughout the 1980s and beyond. Additionally, worked as an art director for various projects, enhancing visual aesthetics in the British music scene.
Continue ReadingLéopold Sédar Senghor
Senegalese poet and first president
Born
October 9th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2001 24 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent poet and politician, served as the first president of Senegal from 1960 to 1980. Contributed to the development of Senegal's cultural identity and promoted the concept of African socialism. Senghor's poetry reflected his belief in the unique spirit of Africa and the importance of cultural heritage, with notable works such as 'Chants d'ombre' and 'Hosties noires'. He was a member of the Académie Française, highlighting his influence in literature and politics.
Continue ReadingMário de Andrade
Brazilian author and modernist pioneer
Born
October 9th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1945 81 years ago — 51 years old
A key figure in Brazilian modernism, contributed significantly to the development of Brazilian literature. Authored notable works including 'Macunaíma', a landmark novel that reflects Brazilian culture and folklore. Also engaged in music and was a prominent musicologist, promoting Brazilian folk music. His literary and musical efforts shaped the identity of Brazilian art in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingCharles X of France
French monarch and last Bourbon king
Born
October 9th, 1757 269 years ago
Died
1836 190 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1757, ascended to the throne in 1824 as the last king from the House of Bourbon. His reign was characterized by conservative policies and resistance to liberal changes in French society. Faced with increasing unrest and opposition, he was forced to abdicate in 1830 during the July Revolution, leading to the establishment of the July Monarchy under Louis-Philippe. Exiled to Germany, some royalists continued to regard him as the legitimate king until his death in 1836.
Continue ReadingTodd Kelly
Australian race car driver and champion
Born
October 9th, 1979 47 years ago
Competed in the V8 Supercar Championship series. Achieved multiple victories driving for the Kelly Racing team. Notable for contributions to the sport as both a driver and a team owner. Expanded involvement in motorsports through team management and development of young drivers.
Continue ReadingRube Marquard
Baseball pitcher and Hall of Famer
Born
October 9th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 94 years old
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1908 to 1925. Debuted with the New York Giants and gained prominence with the team. Recognized for an impressive pitching career, marked by significant strikeout totals and winning a record 19 consecutive games in 1912. Later managed several teams and contributed to the development of baseball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 7th
Mompati Merafhe
Botswana General and Vice-President
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2015 11 years ago — 79 years old
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Continue ReadingHeinrich Harrer
Austrian mountaineer and author
Born
July 6th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2006 20 years ago — 93 years old
Austrian mountaineer, geographer, and author participated in the first ascent of the north face of the Eiger in 1938. During World War II, captured by British forces, escaped from a prisoner of war camp in India and traveled to Tibet. In Tibet, lived for several years and became a close associate of the 14th Dalai Lama. Authored several books, with 'Seven Years in Tibet' achieving significant popularity and leading to a film adaptation in 1997. Harrer's explorations in Tibet contributed to western knowledge about the region and its culture.
Continue ReadingJim Anderton
Former New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2018 8 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a member of the New Zealand Parliament for many years. Held various cabinet positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Played a significant role in the Labour Party and was instrumental in its leadership. Founded the Progressive Party, advocating for social justice and economic reform. Contributed to significant policy changes in New Zealand's economic landscape.
Continue ReadingJean-Marie Le Pen
French politician and far-right leader
Born
June 20th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2025 1 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a French politician and founded the National Front, a far-right political party. Held a position in the French National Assembly for several terms and was a prominent figure in French politics for decades. Advocated for strict immigration policies and was known for controversial statements regarding race and nationality. Ran for presidency multiple times, securing a significant portion of the vote in the 2002 election, reaching the second round against Jacques Chirac.
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South African politician and academic leader
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2008 18 years ago — 91 years old
Served as Vice State President of South Africa, contributing to the political landscape during a significant period in the country's history. Held various academic positions, focusing on education and governance. Engaged in initiatives aimed at improving higher education standards and policies. Participated actively in the political processes that shaped South Africa during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingMagnus Magnusson
Icelandic journalist and popular author
Born
October 12th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2007 19 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to Icelandic literature and media. Served as a television presenter for the quiz show 'Mastermind,' which became a defining feature of televised trivia in the UK. Authored numerous books on Icelandic history, culture, and travel, enhancing the global understanding of the country's heritage. Worked extensively in journalism, notably as a reporter and editor, shaping public discourse through articles and broadcasts.
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