Inge de Bruijn
Dutch swimmer, Olympic gold medalist
An accomplished swimmer, achieved international recognition for outstanding performances in freestyle and butterfly events. Dominated the 2000 Sydney Olympics by winning two gold medals in the 100m and 200m butterfly. Set multiple world records throughout the career, contributing to the sport's evolution. Contributed to the Netherlands' prominence in competitive swimming during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Won two gold medals at the 2000 Sydney Olympics
Set multiple world records in swimming
Other People Born on August 24th
Madsen Pirie
British academic and president of Adam Smith Institute
Born
August 24th, 1940 85 years ago
An academic focused on free market economics and public policy. Co-founded the Adam Smith Institute in 1975, an influential think-tank advocating for economic liberalism. Served as president, contributing to discussions on various economic reforms and public policies. Engaged in writing and public speaking, promoting the principles of classical liberalism and encouraging entrepreneurial initiatives.
Continue ReadingDuchess Sophia Frederica of Mecklenburg-Schwerin
Duchess and royal family member
Born
August 24th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
1794 231 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1758, served as the Duchess of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Married Duke Friedrich Franz I, contributing to the political alliances of the time. Hosted cultural events and maintained a court that encouraged the arts and intellectual discussions. Was involved in charitable activities, supporting various social initiatives.
Continue ReadingMarsha P. Johnson
Gay Liberation Activist and Drag Queen
Born
August 24th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1992 33 years ago — 46 years old
An activist advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and co-founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) alongside Sylvia Rivera. Contributed to the Stonewall uprising, which became a catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Johnson's work focused on supporting homeless transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals, providing essential services and advocacy. Her legacy includes a lasting influence on LGBTQ+ activism and visibility.
Continue ReadingFerdinand I of Romania
Romanian Monarch during World War I
Born
August 24th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1927 98 years ago — 62 years old
Reigned as King of Romania from 1914 until death in 1927. Oversaw Romania's involvement in World War I on the side of the Allies. Played a pivotal role in the Greater Union of 1918, which united Transylvania and other territories with Romania. Worked towards modernization and reform within the kingdom during his rule. His reign witnessed significant territorial expansions and the establishment of a parliamentary monarchy.
Continue ReadingOscar Hijuelos
American author of 'The Mambo Kings'
Born
August 24th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 62 years old
An American author and academic, this individual gained recognition for literary works that explored the immigrant experience. The debut novel, 'The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love', released in 1989, garnered widespread acclaim and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1990. This work tells the story of two Cuban brothers who emigrated to America and sought success in the world of music. Alongside fiction, significant contributions to literature also included essays and stories that reflected the complexities of cultural identity. An academic career complemented the literary pursuits, teaching at various universities and contributing to dialogues on Latin American literature.
Continue ReadingJorge Luis Borges
Argentine short-story writer and poet
Born
August 24th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1986 39 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1899, a prominent figure in literature whose works explored themes of identity, reality, and infinity. Wrote numerous short stories, essays, and poems while being deeply influenced by philosophy and diverse literary traditions. Notable works include 'Ficciones' and 'The Aleph'. Despite losing his sight later in life, continued to write and lecture on literature and philosophy. Held various positions in libraries and cultural organizations, contributing to literary criticism and scholarship.
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