Francis Ouimet
American golfer, 1913 U.S. Open champion
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1893, a significant figure in the world of golf. Achieved prominence in 1913 by winning the U.S. Open, a victory that helped to popularize the sport in America. The win was notable not only for the accomplishment itself but also for the dramatic nature of the tournament, where an amateur triumphed against established professionals. Competed in various tournaments throughout the 1910s and 1920s and influenced the game's growth.
Won the 1913 U.S. Open
Pioneered amateur golf in the U.S.
Other People Born on May 8th
Claude Louis Hector de Villars
French General, Minister of Defence
Born
May 8th, 1653 372 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1734 291 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1653, a prominent French general and politician served as the Minister of Defence. Achieved significant military success during the War of the Spanish Succession, particularly at the Battle of Denain in 1712, where his leadership played a critical role in securing victory for France. Held esteemed positions, including governor of several territories and managing military strategies that impacted national security. Recognized for contributions to military reforms and strengthening the French army.
Continue ReadingBob Clampett
Animator and director of Looney Tunes
Born
May 8th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1984 41 years ago — 70 years old
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Mexican footballer and national player
Born
May 8th, 1973 52 years ago
Born in 1973, a professional footballer active primarily as a winger and attacking midfielder, played for Monterrey and represented the Mexican national team. Made appearances in two FIFA World Cups, reflecting a significant international competitive career. Known for skills that contributed to successful campaigns at club level.
Continue ReadingPeter Canisius
Dutch-Swiss priest and saint
Born
May 8th, 1521 504 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1597 428 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1521, served as a priest in the Society of Jesus. Contributed significantly to the Counter-Reformation, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands. Played a key role in establishing Catholic educational institutions and authored catechisms that became vital to Catholic teachings. His efforts in promoting the Catholic faith led to many conversions during a period of religious turmoil. Canonized as a saint in 1621, he was later declared a Doctor of the Church.
Continue ReadingTom of Finland
Finnish illustrator and gay art pioneer
Born
May 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1991 34 years ago — 71 years old
An influential Finnish illustrator, this individual gained prominence through the creation of homoerotic art characterized by idealized male forms. The work often featured muscular men in various suggestive scenarios, celebrating male sexuality and embracing a bold aesthetic. Active during the latter half of the 20th century, this artist's illustrations helped shape gay culture and are frequently referenced and admired within LGBTQ+ communities. The art was widely published in various forms and remains celebrated in museums and exhibitions worldwide. Later in life, focus shifted to art that combined eroticism with more mainstream themes.
Continue ReadingEdmund Wilson
Literary critic and essayist
Born
May 8th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1972 53 years ago — 77 years old
An influential American critic and essayist who contributed significantly to literary criticism and cultural commentary. Edited several prominent publications including The New Republic and The Nation. Authored numerous works that explored literature and society, including 'Axel's Castle' and 'To the Finland Station'. His writings examined the relationship between literature and politics across different eras, establishing a critical framework that remains referenced today.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 3rd
Nikita Balieff
Puppeteer and director of theatrical productions
Born
1876 150 years ago
Died
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An Armenian-Russian puppeteer and director, this individual gained prominence through innovative puppetry and theatrical direction. Established the famous Balieff's Russian Puppet Theatre, which captivated audiences with unique performances blending traditional puppetry techniques and contemporary themes. The theatre became a significant cultural presence in the early 20th century, showcasing the art of puppetry in a new light. Contributions included pioneering methods of character portrayal and engaging storytelling through puppets, which influenced future generations of puppeteers and theatre artists.
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World Record Holder for Shortest Man
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Nepal, achieved the title of the shortest adult man in recorded history. Dangi measured 54.6 cm (21.5 in) tall. He received recognition from the Guinness World Records in 2012, drawing significant media attention. Dangi traveled internationally, participating in various events and interviews as representatives of the record holding community. His stature and achievement brought awareness to the condition of dwarfism.
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American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 4th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1970 55 years ago — 27 years old
Originated as a prominent figure in the American music scene during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Gained recognition as a founding member of the band Canned Heat. Contributed to the band's unique blues-rock sound and co-wrote several of their notable songs, including 'On the Road Again' and 'Going Up the Country'. Exhibited skills as a slide guitarist and harmonica player, enhancing the band's performances. Participated in music festivals, including Woodstock in 1969, and contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of the blues genre.
Continue ReadingSun Myung Moon
Religious Leader, Founder of Unification Church
Born
January 6th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
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American composer of experimental music
Born
January 12th, 1926 100 years ago
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September 3rd, 1987 38 years ago — 61 years old
An influential composer and academic, contributions included innovative works in the realm of experimental music. Developed a unique style characterized by quiet, sparse sounds and extended durations. Collaborated with various artists and musicians throughout a lengthy career, contributing significantly to the avant-garde movement. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in contemporary classical music, teaching composition at various institutions and mentoring future generations of composers.
Continue ReadingArchibald Bower
Scottish historian and author
Born
January 17th, 1686 340 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1766 259 years ago — 80 years old
A Scottish historian and author, contributions focused on the history of England and Scotland during the early 18th century. Authored several works that investigated various historical aspects, particularly in relation to national identity and politics. Became involved in scholarly debates of the time, offering interpretations of historical events and figures. Later life included a focus on historical analysis regarding the Protestant Reformation and its impacts on society. Engaged in discussions surrounding the nature of historians and the reliability of their narratives.
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