Helmut Rahn

German footballer and World Cup champion

Helmut Rahn - German footballer and World Cup champion
Born

August 16th, 1929
95 years ago

Died

August 14th, 2003
21 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Germany

Links & References

This footballer played as a forward and is primarily associated with FC Schalke 04. He achieved significant success with the West Germany national team, contributing to their victory in the 1954 FIFA World Cup. Renowned for his goal-scoring ability, he scored two goals in the final match against Hungary, securing a historic win often referred to as the 'Miracle of Bern'. His career spanned the late 1940s to the early 1960s, during which he became a prominent figure in German football.

Scored two goals in the 1954 World Cup final

Played for FC Schalke 04

Won the 1954 FIFA World Cup

Other People Born on August 16th

Karen Chen

Figure skater and U.S. champion
Born
August 16th, 1999 25 years ago

Competed in figure skating, earning recognition in national and international competitions. Achieved prominence by winning the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in 2017. Represented the United States at the World Figure Skating Championships and the Olympic Games, contributing to the sport through individual competitions and performances. Known for grace and technical proficiency on the ice, specializing in singles events.

Continue Reading

Christine Cavanaugh

Voice artist in animation and video games
Born
August 16th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2014 10 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent voice artist, contributed to various animated series and video games during a successful career. Gained recognition for distinct voice work in popular characters, including Dexter from 'Dexter's Laboratory' and Babe in the film 'Babe'. Worked on numerous other projects, showcasing versatility across different media. Cavanaugh's unique vocal skills left a lasting imprint in animation, entertaining audiences of all ages.

Continue Reading

Willie Jones

Baseball player and All-Star third baseman
Born
August 16th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1983 41 years ago — 58 years old

Played third base for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets during a career spanning from 1947 to 1962. Made a significant contribution to teams with great defensive skills and offensive abilities. Selected to the National League All-Star team in 1950. After retirement, became involved in coaching and youth baseball programs.

Continue Reading

Masoud Barzani

Kurdish politician, former President of Kurdistan
Born
August 16th, 1946 78 years ago

Born in 1946, this individual served as the President of the Kurdistan Region in Iraq from 2005 to 2017. Originally involved in the Kurdish liberation movement, headed the Kurdistan Democratic Party, and played a key role in establishing the autonomous status of the Kurdistan Region within Iraq. The presidency focused on economic development and attempts to negotiate more autonomy for the Kurdish population. Promoted Kurdish nationalism and played a significant role during Iraq's constitutional processes post-2003 invasion.

Continue Reading

Ivan Bilibin

Illustrator and stage designer of Russia
Born
August 16th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1942 83 years ago — 65 years old

An illustrator and stage designer, this individual specialized in Russian folklore and fairy tales. Worked extensively in book illustration, combining traditional Slavic motifs with modernist styles. Contributed to the design of theatrical productions, incorporating detailed and vibrant visuals. His distinctive style influenced both literature and theatre in early 20th century Russia.

Continue Reading

Yu Darvish

Japanese baseball pitcher, MLB All-Star
Born
August 16th, 1986 38 years ago

A professional baseball pitcher, played in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily for the Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres. Achieved recognition for outstanding performance on the mound and received multiple All-Star selections. Known for an array of pitches, including a signature slider and the ability to strike out batters. Initially gained fame in Japan, playing for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters before transitioning to MLB. Has represented Japan in international competitions, contributing to the nation's success.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 14th

Jill Janus

American singer and heavy metal vocalist
Born
September 2nd, 1975 49 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2018 6 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1975, this American singer gained recognition as the lead vocalist for the heavy metal band Huntress. The band released several albums, showcasing a blend of traditional heavy metal and modern influences. Janus was also noted for her distinctive vocal style and theatrical stage presence, which contributed to the band's popularity in the metal scene. She performed at prominent music festivals and toured extensively in support of the band's releases. Janus was open about her struggles with mental health, advocating for awareness in the music industry.

Continue Reading

James R. Thompson

Politician, Governor of Illinois
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2020 4 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 37th Governor of Illinois from 1977 to 1991. Oversaw significant economic changes and was instrumental in the state's fiscal policies. During tenure, focused on education reform and infrastructure development. Appointed as a member of several influential boards and committees post-governorship, contributing to various public initiatives.

Continue Reading

Bertolt Brecht

Theatrical director and playwright
Born
February 10th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1956 68 years ago — 58 years old

Born in Germany, a prominent director, playwright, and poet. Developed the theory of epic theatre, emphasizing social and political themes. Created landmark works such as 'The Threepenny Opera' and 'Mother Courage and Her Children', influencing contemporary theatre. Brecht's techniques sought to provoke critical thinking among audiences. His legacy includes the continued use of his methods in modern performance art and literature.

Continue Reading

Julian Bream

Classical guitarist and lutenist
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2020 4 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent classical guitarist and lutenist, contributions included a revitalization of the lute repertoire and popularization of the guitar in the classical music world. Collaborated with notable composers and musicians, expanding the repertoire for both instruments. Released numerous acclaimed recordings, earning recognition for interpretations of works by Bach, Dowland, and other composers. Achieved international acclaim through performances around the world, establishing a legacy in the realm of classical music.

Continue Reading

Clifford Odets

American playwright and screenwriter
Born
July 18th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1963 61 years ago — 57 years old

A significant figure in American theater, achieved prominence during the 1930s. Played a key role in the development of the social and political themes in drama. Best known for the plays 'Waiting for Lefty' and 'Rocket to the Moon', which reflect the struggles of the working class. Also contributed to film as a screenwriter and director. Worked with prestigious studios, creating memorable works that combined social commentary with compelling storytelling.

Continue Reading

Polly Farmer

Australian footballer and coach
Born
March 10th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2019 5 years ago — 84 years old

Played Australian rules football primarily for Geelong Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Competed during the 1950s and 1960s, earning recognition for exceptional skills and contributions to the team. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, influencing the development of the sport. Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame, celebrating significant achievements as a player and coach.

Continue Reading