François Hotman
French lawyer and legal theorist
A prominent lawyer and legal theorist, contributed significantly to the development of legal thought in France during the 16th century. Authored notable works that discussed the nature of law and governance, often focusing on the criticism of arbitrary power. Engaged in rigorous defense of the rights and privileges of the legal profession. Advocated for the principles of justice and political liberty, intertwining legal discussions with contemporary political issues. His teachings and writings influenced both legal thought and political philosophy in subsequent generations.
Authored 'Franco Gallia', exploring French governance
Contributed to the defense of the legal community
Critiqued the monarchy's authority through legal arguments
Other People Born on August 23rd
Rayfield Wright
American football player and coach
Born
August 23rd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 77 years old
Played as an offensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL) for the Dallas Cowboys from 1967 to 1979. Contributed to the team's success during an era that included multiple playoff appearances, culminating in Super Bowl victories. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, sharing knowledge and experience with younger players. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, reflecting a distinguished career in professional football.
Continue ReadingSun Mingming
Chinese basketball player
Born
August 23rd, 1983 42 years ago
A professional basketball player from China, played in the center position. Standing at 7 feet 9 inches tall, gained attention for exceptional height and presence on the court. Played for the Beijing Ducks in the Chinese Basketball Association and participated in international competitions. Also appeared in the film 'Jackie Chan's The Spy Next Door'.
Continue ReadingLexi Alexander
Film and television director, Punisher: War Zone
Born
August 23rd, 1974 51 years ago
A film and television director born in 1974. Directed the action film 'Punisher: War Zone', which was released in 2008. In addition to directing, contributed to various projects in the industry, including television series. Has a background in both film and television, combining skills as a director and writer.
Continue ReadingHarry Frank Guggenheim
Businessman, co-founded Newsday
Born
August 23rd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1971 54 years ago — 80 years old
A businessman and publisher, contributed significantly to the media landscape. Co-founded Newsday in 1940, which became a prominent newspaper in Long Island, New York. Served as the president of the company for many years, overseeing its growth and development. Also involved in various philanthropic efforts, including support for educational and cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingGene Kelly
Actor and dancer in Singing in the Rain
Born
August 23rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, singer, dancer, and director prominently featured in musical films during the mid-20th century. Best remembered for choreography and performances in iconic films, particularly in 'Singing in the Rain.' Also directed and choreographed several productions, showcasing a unique blend of dance and film. Played a pivotal role in popularizing the musical genre, leaving a lasting legacy in cinematic history.
Continue ReadingVolin
Anarchist intellectual from Russia
Born
August 23rd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1945 80 years ago — 63 years old
An influential anarchist intellectual engaged in revolutionary politics in early 20th-century Russia. Participated in the Russian Revolution, advocating for a form of anarchism that emphasized worker's self-management and autonomy. Contributed significantly to anarchist literature and theory, particularly through the publication of 'La Révolte' and 'The Unknown Revolution'. His writings articulated a vision of a stateless society rooted in voluntary cooperation and direct democracy. After the revolution, faced persecution and fled to Western Europe, where continued advocacy for anarchist principles took place.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 12th
Zina Bethune
Actress and choreographer of 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
February 17th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 66 years old
An actress and choreographer, Bethune built a career in the entertainment industry, especially in television and stage productions. Gained recognition for performances in the classic series 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked as a choreographer for various dance performances and collaborated with multiple artists throughout her career. Also contributed to educational programs focusing on the performing arts. Competed in various dance competitions and earned accolades for her choreography.
Continue ReadingPeter Alexander
Austrian singer and actor, hosted shows
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
A celebrated figure in Austrian entertainment, gained fame as a singer and comedian. Achieved widespread popularity through musical performances and television appearances. Starred in numerous films and hosted successful television shows, contributing significantly to the Austrian cultural landscape. Maintained a prolific career spanning several decades, leaving a lasting legacy in entertainment until death in 2011.
Continue ReadingRen Xinmin
Chinese rocket scientist and engineer
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 102 years old
Significant contributions to China's space program occurred throughout a career as a rocket scientist and engineer. Played a crucial role in several major projects involved in the development of satellite launch vehicles. Led efforts in the design and testing of the Long March rocket series, pivotal for China's space missions. Oversaw advancements in propulsion technology that facilitated the successful launch of various satellites.
Continue ReadingAvraham Stern
Militant leader of the Lehi group
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1942 83 years ago — 35 years old
Founded the Lehi group, a militant organization in British Mandate Palestine, aiming for the establishment of a Jewish state. Engaged in guerrilla warfare against British authorities and contributed to the Jewish resistance during World War II. Led operations that targeted British officials and sought to gain international attention for the Zionist cause. Died in a confrontation with British police, cementing his status as a symbol of Jewish nationalism.
Continue ReadingMoses Gomberg
Chemist known for free radical theory
Born
February 8th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1947 78 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1866, a chemist and academic expanded the understanding of organic chemistry and contributed significantly to the study of free radicals. Emigrated to the United States, where research was conducted primarily at the University of Michigan. The introduction of free radical theory revolutionized various chemical reactions and opened up new avenues for research. Published numerous papers and became a prominent figure in the scientific community, guiding future chemists and researchers.
Continue ReadingYan Su
Chinese general and composer
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a general in the People's Liberation Army of China and contributed significantly to military strategies during key conflicts. Also composed music, enhancing the cultural landscape through military-themed compositions. Leadership in military operations during the Sino-Vietnamese War showcased tactical proficiency. In the realm of music, compositions achieved recognition within military and formal events, blending military discipline with artistic expression.
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