Gene Autry
Singer and actor in Western films
Gained fame as a singer and actor, starring in numerous Western films and television series during the mid-20th century. Created a signature style that blended music with compelling storytelling. Became a cultural icon with the popularization of numerous country music songs. Established a successful career in entertainment and business, which included ownership of a Major League Baseball team.
Starred in 'The Gene Autry Show'
Sang 'Back in the Saddle Again'
Owned the California Angels baseball team
Other People Born on September 29th
Michał Waszyński
Film director and producer in Poland
Born
September 29th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1965 60 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent figure in Polish cinema, this individual directed and produced films primarily during the interwar period and post-World War II. Contributions include work on notable films such as 'The Last Day of Summer' and 'The Broken Hearts'. The individual also produced several successful adaptations and collaborated with many influential Polish artists of the time. His career spanned various genres, showcasing a commitment to exploring complex themes within society through cinema, becoming a respected figure in the industry.
Continue ReadingFidel LaBarba
Boxer and sportswriter, Olympic gold medalist
Born
September 29th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 76 years old
An accomplished boxer and sportswriter, achieved prominence in the boxing world during the 1920s and 1930s. Won the gold medal in the bantamweight division at the 1924 Paris Olympics. Had a successful professional boxing career, competing against top fighters of the era. Transitioned to sportswriting, where contributed to various publications, sharing insights on the sport and athletes. Authored books on boxing, further solidifying a legacy in both boxing and journalism.
Continue ReadingEric Lubbock
British politician and engineer
Born
September 29th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old
Served as a member of the House of Lords and contributed to political and engineering discussions. Held the title of 4th Baron Avebury, participating in various committees and debates during his tenure. Engaged in engineering professions prior to his political career, leveraging technical expertise in legislative matters. Active in community affairs and addressed various social issues throughout his life. Passed away in 2016.
Continue ReadingFerdinand the Holy Prince of Portugal
Portuguese Prince and military leader
Born
September 29th, 1402 623 years ago
Died
1443 582 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1402, served as a military leader and participated in several campaigns during the 15th century. Played a significant role in the conquest of Ceuta in 1415, which marked the beginning of the Portuguese Empire in North Africa. Later, took part in the campaigns aimed at expanding Portuguese influence and contributed to early maritime exploration efforts. Governed over various territories and was involved in navigating the complex politics of his time, particularly concerning relationships with other European powers. Died in 1443, leaving a legacy tied to the early stages of Portugal's empire.
Continue ReadingMargaret of England
Queen consort of Scots
Born
September 29th, 1240 785 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1275 750 years ago — 34 years old
Margaret served as the queen consort of Scotland from 1286 until her death in 1290. She married King Alexander III of Scotland in 1285, strengthening ties between England and Scotland. Following the king's untimely death, her claim to the Scottish throne came into focus during a succession crisis. Her life was marked by significant political maneuvering and her role in the dynastic struggles of the time. Despite her early death, she played a pivotal role in the political landscape of Scotland.
Continue ReadingRichard Challoner
English bishop and religious writer
Born
September 29th, 1691 334 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1781 244 years ago — 89 years old
Served as an English bishop and played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the 18th century. Established the Catholic mission in England and worked to strengthen the faith among English Catholics. Authored various religious texts and catechisms that contributed to Catholic education. His efforts were particularly influential during a time of religious strife in England following the Protestant Reformation.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 2nd
August Wilson
American playwright of notable plays
Born
April 27th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 60 years old
An influential author and playwright, this individual focused on the African American experience across a series of ten plays, collectively titled 'The Pittsburgh Cycle.' The works explore themes of race, identity, and community, often set in different decades of the 20th century. Major plays include 'Fences,' which won a Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and 'The Piano Lesson,' which also secured the Pulitzer Prize. Contributions to American theater have been recognized for their profound cultural relevance and textual richness.
Continue ReadingJamal Khashoggi
Saudi journalist and Washington Post columnist
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2018 7 years ago — 60 years old
A journalist and opinion writer, contributed extensively to the discourse on Middle Eastern politics. Served as the editor-in-chief of Al Watan, a Saudi Arabian newspaper, before going into self-imposed exile. Worked for major international media outlets, including The Washington Post, where analysis and criticism of the Saudi government were prominent themes. Advocated for freedom of expression and press rights. Circumstances surrounding death at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul garnered global attention and sparked debates about human rights in Saudi Arabia.
Continue ReadingWilliam Cavendish
English politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 8th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1764 261 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1720, held the title of 4th Duke of Devonshire. Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1756 to 1757 during the Seven Years' War. His administration struggled with military challenges and faced a turbulent political atmosphere. The duke served as a member of the Whig party, holding various political positions prior to premiership, including Lord Chamberlain and a role in the Board of Trade. His tenure as Prime Minister was short-lived, marked by the challenges of the war and political dissatisfaction. Cavendish was influential in the politics of his time, engaging in discussions regarding military strategy and international relations.
Continue ReadingPaul Halmos
Mathematician & author of 'Naive Set Theory'
Born
March 3rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Hungary, a mathematician emigrated to the United States where significant contributions to mathematical logic, statistics, and functional analysis were made. Authored several influential texts, including 'Naive Set Theory', which provided accessible insights into the foundations of mathematics. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Illinois and the University of Michigan. His work in mathematical writing emphasized clarity and precision, influencing generations of mathematicians.
Continue ReadingTom Petty
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Free Fallin''
Born
October 20th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2017 8 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in rock music, this singer-songwriter gained fame as the frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The band released several successful albums, with hits like 'American Girl' and 'Free Fallin''. Additionally, collaborated with other artists, including Jeff Lynne and Bob Dylan. The work encompassed a mix of rock, folk, and a hint of new wave, appealing to a wide audience. The career included induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, recognizing contributions to music over decades. A commitment to artistic integrity was evident throughout the career, influencing a generation of musicians.
Continue ReadingRock Hudson
Hollywood actor in classic films
Born
November 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1985 40 years ago — 59 years old
An American actor achieved stardom during the 1950s and 1960s with a career spanning over three decades. Frequently collaborated with director Douglas Sirk, starring in films like 'All That Heaven Allows' and 'Giant,' which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Transitioned to television, with a prominent role in the series 'McMillan & Wife.' Later in life, became one of the first high-profile celebrities to openly discuss being diagnosed with AIDS, raising awareness about the disease.
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