Isaac Hayes
Soul singer and composer of 'Shaft'
Born in 1942, this American singer-songwriter and pianist gained prominence in the 1970s as a leading figure in soul music. Debuting with the album 'Hot Buttered Soul' in 1969, the work showcased a distinctive style combining orchestral arrangements and deep basslines. The song 'Theme from Shaft', which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, solidified a place in popular culture. In addition to music, involvement in film included a notable voice role in the animated series 'South Park', voicing the character Chef. His contributions to music and film established a legacy that shaped both genres.
Composed and performed 'Theme from Shaft'
Released the influential album 'Hot Buttered Soul'
Voiced Chef in 'South Park'
Other People Born on August 20th
José Wilker
Brazilian actor and director
Born
August 20th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
An influential actor, director, and producer in Brazilian cinema and television. Started career in the late 1960s with performances in various telenovelas and films. Gained prominence for roles in popular shows such as 'Dancing with the Stars' and films like 'Bye Bye Brazil.' Served as a director and producer, contributing significantly to the arts in Brazil. His work has played a crucial role in shaping Brazilian cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingStefan Aigner
Footballer with Eintracht Frankfurt
Born
August 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Played as a winger, starting professional career in 2006. Competed in Germany's Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga. Achieved promotion to the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt during the 2011-2012 season. Contributed to the team's success in the DFB-Pokal, leading to victory in the tournament in 2018.
Continue ReadingVilhelm Moberg
Swedish author of 'The Emigrants'
Born
August 20th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1973 52 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent Swedish historian, journalist, author, and playwright, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on the Swedish emigration experience. 'The Emigrants' series, which includes titles such as 'The Emigrants' and 'Unto a Good Land', depicts the journey of Swedish emigrants to America. In addition to fiction, worked extensively in journalism and history, highlighting the cultural and social aspects of his topics. Also involved in writing plays that reflected societal issues of the time.
Continue ReadingAl López
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
August 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, this individual had a successful career as both a player and a manager. As a catcher, played for the Brooklyn Dodgers, Boston Braves, and Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to managing, leading teams such as the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Indians. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977 for outstanding contributions to the sport. Served as the first Hispanic manager in the American League, breaking barriers in baseball management.
Continue ReadingBolesław Prus
Polish journalist and novelist
Born
August 20th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1912 113 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent journalist and novelist in the 19th century, contributed significantly to Polish literature. Authored the novel 'The Doll', which explores social issues and the complexities of human emotion against the backdrop of the rapidly changing society of the time. Worked as a journalist for various publications, where writings reflected on social and political matters. Involved in the progressive thought of the era, analyzing the condition of Polish society during partitions. Engaged in debates regarding educational reforms and modernization.
Continue ReadingRaymond Poincaré
French politician and President
Born
August 20th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1934 91 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 10th President of France from 1913 to 1920. Held the position of Prime Minister multiple times in the early 20th century. Contributed to post-World War I reconstruction efforts and was involved in the Treaty of Versailles negotiations. Also served as Minister of Finance and Minister of Foreign Affairs, influencing French economic and foreign policy during a critical period.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 10th
Ruth Pfau
German-Pakistani doctor and humanitarian
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Germany, pursued a medical degree and joined a religious order. Moved to Pakistan in 1960, where focused on treating leprosy and worked tirelessly for the welfare of those affected by the disease. Established several leprosy treatment centers and advocated for the rights and dignity of marginalized populations. Played a significant role in raising awareness and improving healthcare responses to leprosy and other health issues in Pakistan. Received recognition for medical contributions and social activism.
Continue ReadingPeggy Moffitt
Model and actress, The Moffitts' Style
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
A model and actress gained prominence in the 1960s. Played a significant role in shaping the fashion and beauty industry during this era. Worked closely with renowned designer Rudi Gernreich, becoming a muse and central figure in Gernreich's innovative designs. Featured in influential publications such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. Her work embodied the spirit of the '60s avant-garde aesthetic and embraced bold styles that challenged conventional norms. Continued to influence the world of fashion through various projects and exhibitions.
Continue ReadingEriek Verpale
Belgian author and poet
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 63 years old
A Belgian author and poet focused on the nuances of human experience through literature. Contributed significantly to contemporary Flemish poetry and prose. Published several works exploring themes of identity, existence, and the passage of time. Played a key role in the Belgian literary scene, engaging with various literary movements and incorporating elements of modernism and surrealism in writings.
Continue ReadingKristen Nygaard
Norwegian computer scientist, Turing Award
Born
August 27th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2002 23 years ago — 75 years old
Contributed to the development of computer science, particularly in programming languages and software engineering. Developed the programming language Simula, which introduced the concept of object-oriented programming. Held academic positions at various institutions and influenced the field through both teaching and research. Published numerous papers addressing theoretical aspects of computer science and programming.
Continue ReadingEstes Kefauver
American politician and senator
Born
July 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1963 62 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1949 to 1963. Gained national attention during the 1950s as the chair of the Senate Antitrust and Monopoly Subcommittee, leading high-profile investigations into organized crime. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1956 but was unsuccessful. Advocated for civil rights and health care reform during his political career, contributing to various legislative efforts.
Continue ReadingLou Boudreau
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
July 17th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2001 24 years ago — 84 years old
Played shortstop in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Cleveland Indians. Served as a player-manager for the Indians. Achieved the 1948 World Series title with the Indians. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1970. After retiring as a player, continued a career in baseball as a manager and broadcaster.
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