Hendrik Verwoerd
Politician and Prime Minister of South Africa
Served as South Africa's 7th Prime Minister from 1958 until 1966. Before becoming Prime Minister, held the position of Minister of Native Affairs. Played a significant role in the establishment and implementation of apartheid policies in South Africa. Initiated various reforms that focused on segregation and racial classification, which contributed to systemic discrimination.
Implemented apartheid laws
Served as Minister of Native Affairs
Led South Africa during 1958-1966
Other People Born on September 8th
John 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 ReadingJimmie Rodgers
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 8th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1933 92 years ago — 35 years old
An influential figure in country music, contributed to the genre's development with a distinct sound and storytelling lyrics. Rose to prominence in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Recorded more than 100 songs, with significant popularity during the early years of the Grand Ole Opry. His work laid the groundwork for future artists in country music. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961, acknowledging the enduring legacy of his contributions.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich Gronovius
German scholar and critic of plants
Born
September 8th, 1611 414 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1671 353 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.
Continue ReadingCharles Martel of Anjou
French noble and military leader
Born
September 8th, 1271 754 years ago
Died
1295 730 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1271, a member of the House of Anjou, an influential noble in France. Served as the Count of Anjou and Maine, and held the title of Duke of Anjou. Played a significant role in the political and military affairs of the French kingdom during the late medieval period. Engaged in various campaigns and conflicts to expand territorial control and strengthen the influence of the Anjou dynasty. His leadership contributed to several notable events in the region.
Continue ReadingMike Simpson
American dentist and politician
Born
September 8th, 1950 75 years ago
Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1999 to 2021. Held the position of Chairman of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee. Prior to political career, practiced dentistry in Idaho and contributed to local community health initiatives.
Continue ReadingLars Nootbaar
Baseball player for St. Louis Cardinals
Born
September 8th, 1997 28 years ago
This baseball player, born in 1997, made a name playing as an outfielder in Major League Baseball (MLB). Drafted in 2018 by the St. Louis Cardinals, achieved significant recognition during the 2021 season, contributing to the team's performance. Promoting baseball in Japan, he played for the Samurai Japan team in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where the team secured victory. His strong batting skills and defensive capabilities have defined his career in the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 6th
Santiago Rosario
Baseball player and coach
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A Puerto Rican-American baseball player and coach, contributed significantly to the sport during the 20th century. Played for multiple Minor League teams and served as a coach after his playing career. Instrumental in the development of players and worked within various baseball organizations, enhancing training and skill development for future athletes.
Continue ReadingRichard DeVos
American billionaire businessman and philanthropist
Born
March 4th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2018 7 years ago — 92 years old
Co-founded the Amway Corporation, a direct selling company, in 1959. Served as president of the company for many years and played a significant role in its global expansion. Was an accomplished businessman and engaged in various philanthropic endeavors, including support for the arts and education. Held ownership stakes in various sports franchises, including the Orlando Magic of the NBA.
Continue ReadingLord Charles Beresford
Irish admiral and politician
Born
February 10th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1919 106 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1846, served in the Royal Navy and achieved the rank of admiral. Commanded various ships, including HMS Revenge and HMS Temeraire. Played a prominent role in naval strategy during the early 20th century. Engaged in political affairs, serving as a Member of Parliament and advocating for naval modernization. Participated in significant naval battles, contributing to maritime strategy during the First World War.
Continue ReadingJames W. Gerard
Diplomat and U.S. Ambassador to Germany
Born
August 25th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1951 74 years ago — 84 years old
Served as United States Ambassador to Germany from 1913 to 1917. Oversaw diplomatic relations during World War I. Advocated for American interests in Europe while navigating complex political landscapes. Authored several books sharing insights on diplomacy and international relations.
Continue ReadingErnest Tubb
Singer-songwriter of country music
Born
February 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1984 41 years ago — 70 years old
Influential figure in country music, particularly recognized for helping to establish the honky-tonk style. Rose to prominence in the late 1940s with the release of hits such as 'Walking the Floor Over You' and 'It's Been So Long, Darling.' Tubb's career spanned several decades, during which he gained a significant following and contributed to the development of the genre. He also founded the Texas Troubadours, a legendary backing band that supported various artists in live performances and recordings. Tubb's impact helped pave the way for future country artists and left a lasting legacy in music history.
Continue ReadingMetius
Dutch mathematician and astronomer
Born
December 9th, 1571 454 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1635 390 years ago — 63 years old
A mathematician and astronomer contributed to the fields of trigonometry and astronomy. Developed a star catalog and worked on improving astronomical instruments. Associated with the introduction of a novel method for surveying. Helped in the advancement of mathematical techniques in the 17th century.
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