Hermann Weingärtner
German gymnast and Olympic champion
Competed in artistic gymnastics during the late 19th century. Participated in the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens, where gymnastics was featured as a new sport. Achieved significant success by winning three medals, including a gold in the team event, contributing to the early prominence of gymnastics in Olympic history.
Won three medals at the 1896 Summer Olympics
Secured gold in the team event
Achieved silver in the parallel bars and horizontal bar events
Other People Born on August 27th
Anne Marie d'Orléans
Queen of Sardinia
Born
August 27th, 1669 356 years ago
Died
1728 297 years ago — 59 years old
Born into French nobility, served as Queen consort of Sardinia from 1684 until 1720 through marriage to Victor Amadeus II. Played a vital role in the royal court and contributed to the cultural life of the kingdom. Promoted the arts and supported various charitable initiatives. Following her husband's ascension to the throne, was involved in numerous diplomatic activities that aided in strengthening the position of Sardinia in Europe.
Continue ReadingAlexander Farnese
Duke of Parma and military commander
Born
August 27th, 1545 480 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1592 433 years ago — 47 years old
Served as the Duke of Parma and Piacenza and held significant roles in Spanish military campaigns during the Eighty Years' War. Led forces in notable battles, including the Siege of Antwerp, contributing to Spanish control in the Low Countries. Managed the governance of the duchies effectively, maintaining loyalty and stability amidst political challenges. Established policies that supported both military efforts and local governance.
Continue ReadingAgustín Gamarra
Peruvian general and politician, President
Born
August 27th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1841 184 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1785, a prominent general and politician in Peru. Served as the 10th and 14th President of Peru during the early 19th century. Engaged in various military campaigns and political struggles during a time of national upheaval and conflict. His leadership spanned significant events, including the War of the Confederation. Worked towards establishing a stable government and addressing the challenges faced by the nation after its independence. His presidency was marked by both achievements and controversies, reflecting the turbulent nature of Peruvian politics at the time.
Continue ReadingIra Levin
American novelist and playwright recognized for thrillers
Born
August 27th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2007 18 years ago — 78 years old
A novelist, playwright, and songwriter, work included the psychological thriller 'Rosemary's Baby,' which explores themes of paranoia and motherhood. 'Deathtrap,' a play, gained acclaim for its twists and clever plot. Other significant works include 'The Stepford Wives,' addressing gender dynamics and societal roles. Levin's writing often blended elements of horror and satire, capturing the anxieties of contemporary life. Contributions spanned across novels, plays, and screenplays.
Continue ReadingErnst Wetter
Swiss lawyer and 48th President
Born
August 27th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1963 62 years ago — 85 years old
A Swiss lawyer and politician served as the 48th President of the Swiss Confederation. Active in politics during the early to mid-20th century, contributed to various legal frameworks and participated in significant political discussions within the Swiss government. Prestigious position allowed for influence in legislative matters.
Continue ReadingAase Foss Abrahamsen
Norwegian writer and literary figure
Born
August 27th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2023 2 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Norway in 1930, a writer focused on poetry, novels, and children's literature. Wrote works that explored themes of identity, nature, and human emotions. Played a significant role in Norwegian literature and contributed to various literary magazines. Actively engaged in cultural and educational initiatives to promote literature in Norway. Continued to write and share literary insights throughout her life.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 22nd
Elena Mukhina
Russian gymnast and World Champion
Born
June 1st, 1960 65 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2006 19 years ago — 46 years old
Competed in gymnastics during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Achieved significant success by winning multiple titles, including the gold medal at the 1978 World Championships in Strasbourg. Suffered a career-ending injury in 1980 before the Moscow Olympics, affecting the opportunity to compete at a major international event. Made a comeback in the following years, but continued to face challenges due to the injury.
Continue ReadingChuck Cherundolo
Football player and coach, US national team
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
Cherundolo played as a defender in professional soccer, primarily with Hannover 96 in Germany from 1999 to 2014. He earned 87 caps for the United States national team, participating in the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups. After retirement, he transitioned to coaching, serving as an assistant for various clubs and with the U.S. youth national teams.
Continue ReadingRyan Freel
Baseball player for Cincinnati Reds
Born
1976 49 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 36 years old
Played Major League Baseball for the Cincinnati Reds, Florida Marlins, and Chicago Cubs. Primarily known as a utility player, Freel spent a significant portion of his career with the Reds, where he exhibited versatility by playing multiple positions. He debuted in the MLB in 2001 and played until 2010. His notable season was in 2007, when he achieved a batting average of .281 and a career-high stolen bases total. Freel was recognized for his energetic playing style and commitment to the game.
Continue ReadingAlbert Scanlon
Footballer and Manchester United winger
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2009 16 years ago — 74 years old
Signed with Manchester United in 1953, contributed to winning the FA Youth Cup in 1953. Made his first-team debut in 1954 and became a key player during the 1950s. Played as a winger and was part of the team that won the 1956 league title. Injuries and competition for places affected later career, leading to a transfer to Newport County in 1960, where he continued to play professionally. Retired from professional football in 1963.
Continue ReadingWalter Newton Read
American lawyer and casino commission chairman
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent American lawyer served as the second chairman of the New Jersey Casino Control Commission. Played a crucial role in the regulation and oversight of the gaming industry in New Jersey. Under leadership, the commission established guidelines and policies that helped shape the growth of legal casinos in the state. The commission's efforts contributed to making New Jersey a key player in the gaming sector of the United States.
Continue ReadingButterfly McQueen
American actress and dancer in film
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1995 30 years ago — 84 years old
An American actress and dancer became notable for her role as Prissy in the classic film 'Gone with the Wind'. Her performance in the 1939 movie highlighted a character that was both memorable and pivotal to the story. Beyond acting, McQueen also worked as a dancer and appeared in various theatrical productions, showcasing her talents. She became a prominent figure during a time when African American actresses faced significant barriers in Hollywood, navigating a challenging industry to secure significant roles.
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