Gudrun Ensslin
German militant leader, Red Army Faction founder
Born
Died
1977
49 years ago — 37 years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Germany
Links & References
A prominent figure in leftist militancy during the 1970s. Played a critical role in the founding of the Red Army Faction, a West German terrorist organization. Engaged in numerous acts of political violence aiming to oppose capitalism and U.S. influence in Europe. Captured and imprisoned in connection with various terrorist activities. Died in custody under controversial circumstances.
Founded the Red Army Faction in 1970
Participated in multiple armed robberies and kidnappings
Other People Born on August 15th
Oscar Peterson
Pianist known for jazz compositions
Born
August 15th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 82 years old
A Canadian pianist and composer, this individual gained prominence in the jazz genre with a career spanning several decades. Renowned for an exceptional technique and incredible improvisation skills, he showcased his talents through numerous recordings and performances. He performed with jazz legends such as Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, further elevating the genre's status. The artistry extended beyond live performances, contributing significantly to the development of jazz music. Recognition included numerous awards, showcasing mastery and influence in jazz.
Continue ReadingPaul Outerbridge
American photographer and educator
Born
August 15th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 62 years old
Significant contributions were made to photography, especially through the use of color photography in the early to mid-20th century. Outerbridge combined modernist aesthetics with commercial approaches, producing work that spanned advertising, fashion, and still life. A notable advocate for the artistic potential of color photography, educational roles were fulfilled through teaching at institutions such as the California School of Fine Arts. Outerbridge's innovative techniques influenced future generations of photographers.
Continue ReadingAntonín Petrof
Czech piano maker, founded Petrof Pianos
Born
August 15th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent piano maker, established a piano manufacturing company in 1864 in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic. Contributed to the development of high-quality pianos, which gained recognition in Europe and beyond. The company operated under the name Petrof and became one of the largest piano manufacturers in the world. Instrumental in advancing piano design and craftsmanship, the company produced a range of has continued into the 21st century.
Continue ReadingStanley Milgram
American social psychologist, Milgram Experiment
Born
August 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 51 years old
A social psychologist conducted groundbreaking research on obedience to authority. The Milgram Experiment, which began in 1961, demonstrated individuals' willingness to perform actions conflicting with their personal conscience when instructed by an authority figure. The study involved participants administering electric shocks to a subject in a controlled setting, revealing alarming insights into human behavior and conformity. This influential work raised ethical questions in psychology and highlighted the complexities of authority dynamics in social situations.
Continue ReadingValentin Varlamov
Soviet pilot and cosmonaut instructor
Born
August 15th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 46 years old
Served as a pilot and cosmonaut instructor in the Soviet space program. Engaged in training cosmonauts for various space missions. Participated in the development of aviation and space exploration techniques. Contributed to the preparation of crew members for spaceflight, focusing on both technical and psychological aspects of space travel.
Continue ReadingThomas-Alfred Bernier
Canadian politician and journalist
Born
August 15th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1908 117 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1844, a Canadian journalist, lawyer, and politician, played a significant role in provincial politics. Served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Manitoba. Contributed to various public initiatives and was involved in legislative reforms. His work in journalism focused on political commentary and advocacy for social issues, which shaped local discourse.
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