Graham Mourie
New Zealand rugby player, 1987 Rugby World Cup
Born in 1952, a rugby union player who represented New Zealand at both domestic and international levels. Primarily played as a loose forward and captained the national team. Played a key role in New Zealand's victory in the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching and management roles within rugby, contributing to the sport’s development.
Captained New Zealand to win the 1987 Rugby World Cup
Played for Wellington representative team
Earned 48 caps for the All Blacks
Other People Born on September 8th
Adrian Cronauer
American radio host and Armed Forces sergeant
Born
September 8th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2018 7 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a United States Air Force sergeant during the Vietnam War, gaining recognition as a radio host. Created a popular radio show that featured comedy, music, and news, aiming to boost troop morale. The radio program inspired the film 'Good Morning, Vietnam,' where Robin Williams portrayed his character. Cronauer's unique style and humor captured the attention of servicemen throughout the region, providing a morale boost during difficult times.
Continue ReadingSancho II of Portugal
King of Portugal and significant ruler
Born
September 8th, 1209 816 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1248 778 years ago — 38 years old
Ruled as king from 1223 until 1248, overseeing significant territorial expansions in the kingdom. He took part in military campaigns against Muslim territories, contributing to the Christian Reconquista efforts in the Iberian Peninsula. His reign was marked by internal strife and conflicts with nobility, which led to his eventual exile. Sancho II's leadership was characterized by both military challenges and the struggle to secure his authority within Portugal.
Continue ReadingMaria Lassnig
Austrian painter and academic
Born
September 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old
Austrian painter specialized in body awareness and self-portraiture. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and later became a professor at the University of applied Arts in Vienna. Developed a unique style, focusing on the representation of the body through emotional and psychological lenses. Spent years in Paris and New York, where engagement with contemporary art developed significantly. Won the distinguished Grand Austrian State Prize for Fine Arts in 2011, cementing a significant academic career and establishing a legacy in the field of modern painting.
Continue ReadingJohn de Vere
English commander and politician
Born
September 8th, 1442 583 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1513 512 years ago — 70 years old
Thirteenth Earl of Oxford served as an English commander and politician during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Held the title of Lord High Constable of England, a position of significant authority in the monarchy. Played a crucial role in the Wars of the Roses, aligning with the Yorkists and later supporting Henry VII. His contributions were pivotal in shaping the political landscape of England during a time of civil unrest.
Continue ReadingAli al-Hadi
Imam of Shia Islam, influential scholar
Born
September 8th, 828 1197 years ago
Died
June 21st, 868 1157 years ago — 39 years old
Tenth Imam in Shia Islam, contributed to religious thought and teachings. Born in 829, held significant influence during the Abbasid Caliphate. Oversaw a period marked by intellectual engagement and spiritual leadership. Regarded as an important figure within Shia Islam, despite facing political challenges. Died in 868 under circumstances believed to involve political repression, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire Shia Muslims.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich Gronovius
German scholar and critic of plants
Born
September 8th, 1611 414 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1671 354 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1611, a prominent figure in botany and classical scholarship. Focused on the study of plants and contributed significantly to the field of natural history. Published various works that illustrated and classified plant species, establishing a framework for future botanical studies. Served as a professor and emphasized the importance of empirical observation in botany. Contributions helped shape the understanding of plant taxonomy during the early modern period.
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