Harald Ertl
Race car driver and journalist
Competed in Formula One during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Participated in 29 Grands Prix, with a best finish of sixth place. Also worked as a journalist, providing insights and analysis on motorsport events. His tenure in racing was cut short by an untimely death in a plane crash.
Competed in 29 Formula One Grands Prix
Achieved best finish of sixth place
Other People Born on August 31st
Edwin Moses
Hurdler and Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 31st, 1955 70 years ago
A prominent American hurdler, excelled in 400-meter hurdles during the late 1970s and 1980s. Competed in the 1976 and 1984 Summer Olympics, securing a gold medal in 1976 and a silver medal in 1984. Dominated the sport with an impressive winning streak of 122 consecutive races, setting multiple world records. Contributed to the development of track and field after retirement through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingSomchai Wongsawat
Thai lawyer and former Prime Minister
Born
August 31st, 1947 78 years ago
Served as the 26th Prime Minister of Thailand from September 2008 to December 2008. Prior to held the premiership, contributed to politics as a member of the Thai Rak Thai Party. Worked in various capacities within the political sphere, supporting policies of the party's leadership. Involved in legal practice, leveraging a background in law to influence legislative matters.
Continue ReadingRudolf Schenker
Guitarist and songwriter for Scorpions
Born
August 31st, 1948 77 years ago
A guitarist and songwriter, contributions to rock music include founding the band Scorpions in 1965. The band achieved global success with the album 'Blackout' and the power ballad 'Wind of Change', which became an anthem during the fall of the Berlin Wall. Significant involvement in songwriting and production, shaping the band's sound over the decades. Tours and performances across the world showcased the band's influence in the heavy metal genre.
Continue ReadingRick Roberts
Country-rock singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 31st, 1949 76 years ago
Born in 1949, this American musician contributed significantly to the country-rock genre as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. He first gained attention as a member of the Flying Burrito Brothers and later formed the band Firefall, known for their hit single 'You Are the Woman.' The blend of rock and country elements in his music helped shape the sound of the 1970s. His work with Firefall led to commercial success and a dedicated following in the United States.
Continue ReadingAnthony Thistlethwaite
Saxophonist and bass player, The Waterboys
Born
August 31st, 1955 70 years ago
An English musician played saxophone and bass guitar. Collaborated with the band The Waterboys in the 1980s, contributing to the albums 'This Is The Sea' and 'Fisherman's Blues'. In addition to work with The Waterboys, played with artists such as The Pogues and collaborated with various projects, which showcased versatile musicianship across different genres.
Continue ReadingStephen Cottrell
Bishop and author of spiritual works
Born
August 31st, 1958 67 years ago
Ordained in the Church of England, served in various capacities, including bishop of Reading and Bishop of Chelmsford. Holds the position of Archbishop of York. Recognized for contributions to theological discussions and for leading initiatives in the Church. Involved in interfaith dialogue and community outreach programs, emphasizing the importance of spirituality in contemporary life. Authored several books on faith and spirituality, influencing many within and beyond the church community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 7th
Les Blank
Documentary filmmaker and producer
Born
November 27th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American director and producer, noted for a body of work that celebrates culture, music, and the arts. Focused on documentary filmmaking, his style incorporated immersive storytelling and vibrant visuals. Major works include the award-winning documentary 'Marley' which explores the life of reggae musician Bob Marley. His films often highlighted regional cultures, showing traditional music and the lives of ordinary people. Throughout his career, Blank contributed significantly to the documentary genre, influencing both filmmakers and audiences with his unique approach to storytelling.
Continue ReadingDave Arneson
Game designer, co-created Dungeons & Dragons
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old
A game designer specialized in tabletop role-playing games. Contributed significantly to the gaming industry by co-creating the seminal game Dungeons & Dragons alongside Gary Gygax. This game introduced innovative mechanics and storytelling elements that set the foundation for modern role-playing games. The first edition was published in 1974, capturing the imagination of countless players and influencing the development of future tabletop and video game genres. Arneson also worked on various other games and expansions, showcasing creativity in game design.
Continue ReadingShimazu Tadatsune
Japanese daimyō of the Shimazu clan
Born
November 27th, 1576 449 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1638 387 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a daimyō during the early Edo period. Led the Shimazu clan's governance in Satsuma Province, significantly influencing the region's political landscape. Fostered the clan's military strength and supported the arts and culture in the region. Played a key role in the administration and consolidation of power within the clan, ensuring its prominence in Japanese feudal society.
Continue ReadingJoe Kinnear
Football manager and player
Born
December 27th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
Played for clubs including Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United as a defender. Transitioned to management after retirement, taking charge of various clubs including Wimbledon, Luton Town, and Newcastle United. Guided the teams through various league campaigns and had a notable stint at Newcastle where significant attention was drawn during management due to his outspoken nature.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste de La Salle
French priest and educational reformer
Born
April 30th, 1651 374 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1719 306 years ago — 67 years old
A priest and educational reformer contributed significantly to the development of education in France. Founded the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in 1680, focusing on the education of the poor and the creation of a system of schools. Established a curriculum that emphasized the importance of education for all children, regardless of social status. Canonized as a saint in 1900, recognized for dedication to teaching and improving education standards.
Continue ReadingDick Turpin
English criminal and highwayman
Born
1705 321 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1739 286 years ago — 34 years old
Active in the early 18th century, a notorious English highwayman gained infamy for robbery and violent crimes. Originally a butcher, transitioned to highway robbery, operating mainly in the countryside of England. Earned notoriety for a dramatic horseback ride from London to York, a distance of over 200 miles, accomplished in a single night. Captured and tried for murder and robbery, faced execution in 1739.
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