István Horthy
Hungarian fighter pilot and deputy regent
Served as a fighter pilot during World War II, participating in various missions in the Eastern Front. Held the position of deputy regent of Hungary under Miklós Horthy from 1944 until the end of the war. Involved in political and military affairs during a tumultuous period in Hungarian history. Post-war, faced challenges as Hungary transitioned away from a monarchy.
Served as a fighter pilot in World War II
Held the position of deputy regent of Hungary
Other People Born on September 12th
Vernon Maxwell
Basketball player; two-time NBA champion
Born
September 12th, 1965 60 years ago
Played for the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. Contributed to the Rockets' championship victories in 1994 and 1995. Recognized for scoring ability and defensive skills. Had a career average of 14.3 points per game over 13 seasons. His time with the Rockets included key moments in playoff performances that led to the team's success in the mid-1990s.
Continue ReadingZiaire Williams
Basketball player, Memphis Grizzlies
Born
September 12th, 2001 24 years ago
A professional basketball player, born in 2001, played collegiate basketball at Stanford University before declaring for the NBA draft. Selected in the first round of the 2021 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. Contributed to the Grizzlies' playoff appearances during early career.
Continue ReadingJesse Owens
American sprinter and long jumper
Born
September 12th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1980 46 years ago — 66 years old
Competed in track and field, specializing in sprinting and long jump. Gained global notoriety at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where four gold medals were won in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4x100 meter relay. Defended titles at the 1935 Big Ten Conference, setting multiple world records in a single day. His athletic achievements challenged the prevailing notions of racial superiority during that era.
Continue ReadingAtli Dam
Faroese politician and engineer
Born
September 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 7th, 2005 21 years ago — 72 years old
An engineer and politician, served as the 5th Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands. Held office from 1981 to 1985. Focused on issues such as autonomy and economic development during tenure. Contributed to the growth of the Faroe Islands' political landscape and governance.
Continue ReadingGeorge Chuvalo
Canadian Heavyweight Boxer
Born
September 12th, 1937 88 years ago
A professional boxer from Canada, competed as a heavyweight from 1956 to 1978. Fought for the heavyweight championship multiple times, facing notable opponents including Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. Remarkably known for his durability and never being knocked down during his career. After retirement, became an advocate for mental health awareness.
Continue ReadingHan Suyin
Chinese-Swiss physician and author
Born
September 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
A physician and author contributed significantly to literature, particularly through works that reflect on life in China during the 20th century. The novel 'A Many-Splendored Thing' gained international recognition and inspired film adaptations. Contributions also included non-fiction works that detailed personal experiences and perspectives on Chinese culture and history. Writings often highlighted themes of love and conflict amid cultural and political upheaval, providing insight into the historical context of China.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Edward Herbert
English-Welsh soldier and diplomat
Born
March 3rd, 1583 443 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1648 377 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1583, served as a soldier and diplomat during the early 17th century. Engaged in military campaigns for the English crown. Achieved the title of 1st Baron Herbert of Cherbury. Contributed to historical documentation through writings that reflected on the political and social conditions of the time. His works offered insights into the complexities of his era, including religious and philosophical discussions.
Continue ReadingAnton Buslov
Astrophysicist and journalist
Born
November 4th, 1983 42 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 30 years old
An astrophysicist and journalist associated with research in the field of astrophysics. Contributed to various studies and publications related to cosmic phenomena and space exploration. Engaged in science communication to enhance public understanding of astrophysical concepts. Worked with academic institutions and media outlets to disseminate knowledge on celestial events and discoveries.
Continue ReadingJohn W. Morris
American general, World War II veteran
Born
September 10th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
A general in the United States Army, distinguished military career included service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Played significant roles in various military operations and leadership positions. Achieved the rank of brigadier general, showcasing extensive experience and dedication to military service. Contributed to strategic planning and execution of operations during critical periods of conflict.
Continue ReadingJames Whyte
Scottish-Australian politician, 6th Premier
Born
March 30th, 1820 206 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1882 143 years ago — 62 years old
A Scottish-Australian politician served as the 6th Premier of Tasmania from 1887 to 1889. During the premiership, significant focus was placed on governance reforms and public works in the region. Whyte's tenure was marked by engagement with various social and economic issues in Tasmania, aiming to promote development and address the needs of the constituents. Prior to becoming Premier, Whyte held various positions within the government, contributing to the legislative processes of the time. His work helped shape early Tasmanian policy and administration.
Continue ReadingPaul Ehrlich
Physician and biologist, Nobel laureate
Born
March 14th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1915 110 years ago — 61 years old
Contributions to immunology and chemotherapy marked significant advancements in medicine. Developed the first effective treatment for syphilis, employing Salvarsan, a compound that showed efficacy against the disease. Conducted pioneering work in the field of serology, and established concepts of antibodies and antigens, which laid the foundation for modern immunology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1908, along with Emil von Behring, for work on immunity. His research influenced the development of vaccines and therapeutic agents.
Continue ReadingB. K. S. Iyengar
Yoga Instructor and Iyengar Yoga founder
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old
An influential yoga instructor and author, established a method of yoga that emphasizes precision and alignment. Founded Iyengar Yoga, which integrates a systematic approach to the practice through the use of props. Authored several books on yoga, including 'Light on Yoga', which serves as a foundational text for many practitioners. The teachings and methodologies contributed significantly to the global spread and practice of yoga.
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