Helena Blavatsky
Theosophist and co-founder of Theosophy
Born in 1831 in Russia, this scholar and occultist co-founded the Theosophical Society in 1875, promoting spiritualism and Eastern religions. The society aimed to explore the mystical and esoteric aspects of various philosophies and religions. Significant contributions included writings such as 'Isis Unveiled' and 'The Secret Doctrine,' which examined the underlying truths of the universe and human existence. The teachings emphasized the unity of all life and the importance of spiritual awakening, influencing various spiritual movements in the West. Her work laid foundations for modern esotericism and New Age beliefs.
Co-founded the Theosophical Society in 1875
Wrote 'Isis Unveiled'
Authored 'The Secret Doctrine'
Other People Born on August 12th
John Nathan-Turner
Television producer for Doctor Who
Born
August 12th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 55 years old
An English author and television producer, significant contributions were made to the long-running series Doctor Who. Serving as producer from 1980 to 1989, introduced new elements to the series, refreshing its narrative style and character development. Oversaw the transition of the show to a more modern format and expanded its reach to new audiences. Worked on various other television projects and has written books on media and television production.
Continue ReadingMikko Lindström
Finnish guitarist, member of HIM
Born
August 12th, 1976 49 years ago
Born in 1976, played as the lead guitarist for the rock band HIM, which formed in 1991. The band gained significant popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, particularly in Europe and North America, known for their gothic rock sound and passionate fanbase. The group released multiple successful albums, with their 2003 work 'Love Metal' achieving critical and commercial success. Lindström contributed to the band's distinctive style, blending heavy metal and goth influences. HIM disbanded in 2017, capping an influential career in the rock music scene.
Continue ReadingTerry Nutkins
Television host and wildlife expert
Born
August 12th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 66 years old
Worked extensively in wildlife television, particularly noted for contributions to educational programs. Led the popular children's show 'The Really Wild Show' for several years, providing insights into nature and animals. Authored several books aimed at young audiences, emphasizing wildlife education. Also worked on other series such as 'Wildlife with Terry Nutkins' and participated in numerous documentaries, engaging viewers with his enthusiasm for nature.
Continue ReadingDale Bumpers
American politician and Governor
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 38th Governor of Arkansas from 1971 to 1975. Bumpers was a member of the Democratic Party and represented Arkansas in the United States Senate from 1975 to 1999. During gubernatorial tenure, focused on education and infrastructure improvements. Advocated for farmers and rural communities. In the Senate, Bumpers was influential in various committees and played a significant role in legislative processes.
Continue ReadingCharlie O'Donnell
American radio and television announcer
Born
August 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 78 years old
An American announcer worked extensively in radio and television. Gained prominence as the voice of the TV game show 'Hollywood Squares'. Served as the announcer for various other game shows and television programs throughout a career spanning decades. Developed a distinctive style and became a familiar voice to audiences across America.
Continue ReadingSid Bernstein
American record producer and promoter
Born
August 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent record producer and concert promoter, played a vital role in shaping the careers of several iconic artists. In the 1960s, organized concerts for The Beatles in the United States, including their historic Shea Stadium performance in 1965. Additionally, worked with artists like The Rolling Stones and The Dave Clark Five. Contributed significantly to the music industry through innovative marketing strategies and by introducing rock music to larger audiences on American soil.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
Iain Macmillan
Photographer known for iconic Beatles photo
Born
October 20th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1938, a Scottish photographer and educator. Gained prominence for work capturing the essence of the Beatles in the 1969 album cover for 'Abbey Road'. In addition to music photography, contributed to various artistic projects and educational endeavors in photography. Engaged in projects that explored the intersection of art and society.
Continue ReadingEddy Arnold
American country singer and songwriter
Born
May 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2008 17 years ago — 89 years old
One of the leading voices in country music, Arnold gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He pioneered the Nashville Sound, a movement that blended country music with pop elements, which significantly broadened the genre's appeal. Arnold recorded numerous hit songs, including 'Make the World Go Away' and 'I'll Hold You in My Heart.' His career spanned several decades, and he became a key figure in the transition of country music into mainstream culture. In addition to music, Arnold appeared in films and on television, showcasing his talents beyond the recording studio.
Continue ReadingRudolf Serkin
Czech-American pianist and educator
Born
March 28th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1903, this pianist and educator gained prominence in classical music, particularly through performances and recordings of works by composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. Trained in Europe, he emigrated to the United States in the 1920s, where he became a dynamic presence in the concert scene. He served as a faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music, influencing generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingÉtienne François
French General and Prime Minister of France
Born
June 28th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1785 240 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1719, served as a prominent general and politician in France. Served as Prime Minister from 1758 to 1763, overseeing military and foreign policy during the Seven Years' War. Advocated for reforms in the French military and managed diplomatic relations with other European powers. Played a significant role in the allocation of resources during wartime and contributed to the administrative structure of the French government.
Continue ReadingAntoine Lavoisier
French chemist, father of modern chemistry
Born
August 26th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1794 231 years ago — 50 years old
Contributed significantly to the establishment of modern chemistry. Conducted experiments that led to the identification of oxygen and the role it plays in combustion. Introduced methods for chemical nomenclature and classification. Played a crucial role in debunking the phlogiston theory, thus paving the way for the chemical revolution of the late 18th century. Provided critical insights into the conservation of mass, formulating the law that mass is neither created nor destroyed in chemical reactions. His work laid the foundations for analytical chemistry and shaped future research in the field.
Continue ReadingGino Bianco
Brazilian racing driver and competitor
Born
July 22nd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1984 41 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Brazil in 1916, a notable racing driver participated in various competitions during the mid-20th century. Competed in the Formula One World Championship in the early 1950s, showcasing skills on international tracks. Achieved several significant results in regional and international races, contributing to the sport's popularity in Brazil.
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