George Band
Mountaineer and engineer, Everest climber
Born in England, contributions included significant achievements in both engineering and mountaineering. Climbed Mount Everest in 1953 as part of the first successful ascent of the mountain via the southern route. Participated in numerous expeditions across the world, including successful climbs of the Nanga Parbat and Kanchenjunga. Worked as an engineer on various projects throughout his career, employing technical knowledge in the field of mountaineering and the construction of high-altitude facilities.
Climbed Mount Everest in 1953
Completed ascents of Nanga Parbat and Kanchenjunga
Other People Born on February 2nd
Tochigiyama Moriya
Japanese sumo wrestler, 27th Yokozuna
Born
February 2nd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Japan, this sumo wrestler achieved the prestigious rank of Yokozuna, the highest in the sport. Competing during the early 20th century, this athlete earned recognition for his skill and power in the ring. With a career that spanned over a decade, he showcased his abilities and contributed to the popularity of sumo wrestling in Japan. His style and technique provided a template for future wrestlers in the sport.
Continue ReadingFrederick Lane
Australian swimmer and Olympic champion
Born
February 2nd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1969 56 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished swimmer specializing in freestyle events, competed in the early 20th century. Won two gold medals at the 1900 Paris Olympics in the 200 meters and 400 meters freestyle events. Set multiple world records during his career and was a prominent figure in the sport at the time. His achievements contributed to the popularity of swimming in Australia and laid the groundwork for future generations of swimmers.
Continue ReadingJackie Burroughs
Canadian actress in 'Road to Avonlea'
Born
February 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2010 15 years ago — 71 years old
Born in England and later moving to Canada, this actress gained recognition for her performances in television and film. She portrayed Marilla Cuthbert in the beloved series 'Road to Avonlea', which showcased her talent and garnered a devoted fan base. Over the years, she appeared in various Canadian productions, demonstrating a strong presence on stage and screen. With a career spanning several decades, she contributed greatly to Canadian theatre and film.
Continue ReadingEva Cassidy
Singer known for 'Songbird' album
Born
February 2nd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1996 29 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1963, a talented American singer and guitarist. Gained recognition posthumously for powerful vocal performances. Blended various musical genres including folk, jazz, and pop. Released the album 'Songbird' in 1998, which showcased unique interpretations of classic songs. Her renditions of 'Over the Rainbow' and 'Fields of Gold' contributed to a strong cult following. Although initially underappreciated during her lifetime, her music gained significant airplay and sales years after her death, leading to multiple posthumous awards and accolades.
Continue ReadingMary-Dell Chilton
Chemist and pioneer of plant biotechnology
Born
February 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Contributions to plant biotechnology include the development of techniques for genetic engineering of plants. Played a significant role in the advent of recombinant DNA technology in plants. Co-founded a notable biotechnology company that further advanced agricultural science. Received many awards for groundbreaking work that established new methodologies in the field.
Continue ReadingJustin I
Byzantine Emperor, reformed the empire
Born
February 2nd, 450 1575 years ago
Died
August 1st, 527 1498 years ago — 77 years old
Ascended to the throne as the Byzantine emperor in 518. Implemented various reforms that strengthened the central authority of the empire. Oversaw a period of consolidation and stability during reign. Appointed Justinian I as co-emperor, laying the groundwork for future developments in law and governance. Died in 527, leaving a lasting legacy in the Byzantine tradition.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Frans Hals
Dutch painter known for portraiture
Born
1580 445 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1666 359 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent Dutch painter associated with the Golden Age of Dutch painting, focused on capturing character and emotion in portraiture. Active in Haarlem, known for dynamic compositions and lively brushwork. Significant contributions to portrait painting were made during the 17th century. Major works include portraits of civic guard companies and other notable figures of his time.
Continue ReadingChristian Bourquin
French lawyer and politician
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a prominent French politician with a career in law. Held the position of President of the Regional Council of Languedoc-Roussillon. Engaged in various legislative roles within the French Senate, representing the Department of Pyrénées-Orientales. Focused on issues related to regional development, public transport, and local governance throughout tenure in office.
Continue ReadingMoondog King
Wrestler and politician from Canada
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 56 years old
Began a wrestling career in the late 1970s, gaining recognition in various territories across North America. Known for performances in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and for his distinctive persona as a 'Moondog.' Transitioned into politics, serving as a city councillor in the late 1990s in his local community. His dual career brought attention to the challenges faced by athletes pursuing political office.
Continue ReadingDominick Dunne
Journalist and author of bestsellers
Born
October 29th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed to various publications including Vanity Fair. Explored high-profile criminal cases and social issues through a critical lens. Wrote several best-selling novels, drawing from personal experiences and societal themes. Achieved recognition in both journalism and literature, becoming a significant voice in discussing crime and justice in American culture.
Continue ReadingLaura Branigan
Singer-songwriter with hit 'Gloria'
Born
July 3rd, 1952 73 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 52 years old
A successful singer-songwriter rose to fame in the 1980s with a powerful voice and emotional delivery. The debut album, 'Branigan,' featured the hit single 'Gloria,' which became a major pop and dance chart success. Other notable songs include 'Self Control' and 'Power of Love,' further solidifying a career in the music industry. Branigan's focus on pop and adult contemporary music earned multiple Grammy nominations, showcasing talent and appeal across various audiences. She continued to perform and record throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.
Continue ReadingRainer Barzel
Politician and Minister of Intra-German Relations
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2006 19 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1924, a Polish-German lawyer and politician held a significant role in shaping German politics during the late 20th century. Served as a member of the Bundestag and led the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) from 1961 to 1973. Instrumental in advocating for intra-German relations during a critical period in post-war Germany. Appointed Minister for Intra-German Relations in 1963, a position that focused on improving communication between East and West Germany. Involved in various political negotiations and discussions aimed at reducing tensions during the Cold War.
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