Henri Cartan
Mathematician who contributed to topology
Born in 1904, a French mathematician engaged in the field of topology and algebraic topology. Worked at various institutions, including the Institut Henri Poincaré and the Université de Paris. Contributed to the development of sheaf theory and cohomology, influencing the study of complex analysis and algebraic geometry. Made significant advancements in the theory of homotopy and played a pivotal role in the establishment of modern topology. Actively participated in academic communities, promoting mathematics in France and internationally until passing in 2008.
Developed sheaf theory
Contributed to homotopy theory
Other People Born on July 8th
Philip Johnson
Architect, designed PPG Place
Born
July 8th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 98 years old
An architect who significantly contributed to modern architecture, designed notable structures such as PPG Place in Pittsburgh and the Crystal Cathedral in California. Studied at Harvard and collaborated with various architects, including Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. His work often reflected shifting trends in architecture over several decades. Johnson's architectural philosophy embraced both the modernist movement and the postmodern reactions that followed. He received multiple awards for his designs, establishing a legacy in the field of architecture.
Continue ReadingWalter Scheel
German politician, 4th President of West Germany
Born
July 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1919, a soldier served during World War II before transitioning into politics. Played a significant role in the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and served as the party's chairman. Held various governmental positions, including Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs. Elected as the 4th President of West Germany in 1974, serving until 1979. Advocated for European integration and contributed to the development of West Germany's role within the European Community.
Continue ReadingKen Farnes
English cricketer and Test player
Born
July 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1941 84 years ago — 30 years old
Contributed to English cricket primarily as a fast bowler. Made an appearance in 16 Test matches for England between 1936 and 1939. Played domestic cricket for Essex, developing a reputation for his bowling skills. Recognized for his outstanding performances in first-class cricket, taking over 750 wickets over his career. Served in World War II and resumed his cricket career post-war, continuing to excel until retirement.
Continue ReadingAlejandra Soler
Spanish politician and activist
Born
July 8th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 104 years old
Active in the political landscape during the Spanish Civil War, Soler engaged in significant political activities. She worked to promote workers' rights and participated in various social reforms. Throughout her career, she served in leadership roles advocating for equality and justice, becoming a notable figure within the Spanish socialist movement.
Continue ReadingAnjelica Huston
Actress and director of 'The Addams Family'
Born
July 8th, 1951 74 years ago
An actress and director born in 1951, celebrated for contributions to film and television. Gained recognition for roles in 'The Addams Family', 'Prizzi's Honor', and 'The Royal Tenenbaums'. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for 'Prizzi's Honor' in 1985. In addition to acting, directed several films, including 'Bastard Out of Carolina'.
Continue ReadingTerry Puhl
Baseball player and coach
Born
July 8th, 1956 69 years ago
A former professional baseball player and coach. Played as an outfielder and spent the majority of his career with the Houston Astros in Major League Baseball. Contributed to the Astros reaching the postseason multiple times during the 1980s. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, providing guidance to various teams at different levels of the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 13th
Louis Bastien
French cyclist and fencer
Born
October 26th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1963 62 years ago — 81 years old
Accomplished in both cycling and fencing, contributions in these sports spanned multiple competitions. Competed prominently in cycling events during the early 20th century and represented France in various national and international fencing tournaments. Achieved recognition for skill and technique in both disciplines, earning respect within the sporting community.
Continue ReadingJulien Green
French-American author of novels
Born
September 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1900, a prolific author who wrote in both French and English. Published numerous novels, essays, and plays. Examined themes of identity, spirituality, and the complexity of human relationships. Achieved recognition in literary circles for contributions to literature, particularly with works that explore the human experience. His literature often drew upon his own experiences and identity as an American living in France. Won several prestigious awards including the Prix de l'Académie Française.
Continue ReadingSigizmund Levanevsky
Soviet aircraft pilot of Polish origin
Born
May 15th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1937 88 years ago — 35 years old
Became a notable pilot in the Soviet Air Force, participating in various aviation expeditions. Achieved recognition for pioneering long-distance flights. Engaged in the quest to establish transpolar air routes, advancing logistical capabilities for the Soviet military during the 1930s.
Continue ReadingLonnie Mayne
American professional wrestler
Born
September 12th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1978 47 years ago — 33 years old
A professional wrestler active during the 1960s and 1970s, participated in major wrestling promotions including the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and American Wrestling Association (AWA). Gained recognition for a charismatic persona in the ring, with memorable storylines and rivalries. Wrestled alongside and against notable wrestlers of the era, contributing to the popularization of professional wrestling. Helped to enhance the spectacle of sports entertainment during this period.
Continue ReadingJan Křesadlo
Psychologist and author of notable works
Born
December 9th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1995 30 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed to psychology with an emphasis on the relationship between psychology and literature. Authored several works that analyze the psychological aspects of literary creation and its impact on society. Explored themes of identity, culture, and existentialism through a psychological lens. Engaged in academic discourse and published articles discussing psychological theories and literature. Also translated significant literary texts, enriching the cultural exchange between Czech and English literature.
Continue ReadingJulia Child
Chef and author of Mastering the Art of French Cooking
Born
August 15th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent chef and author, she revolutionized American cooking with an emphasis on French cuisine. Child studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and gained fame through the television series 'The French Chef', which premiered in 1963. Her approachable style and clear instructions made gourmet cooking accessible to many home cooks in the United States. She authored multiple cookbooks, with 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' being particularly significant for its impact on culinary practices. Child won several awards, including a Peabody Award and an Emmy Award, cementing her legacy in the culinary world.
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