Jacques Rogge
International Olympic Committee President
Served as the eighth president of the International Olympic Committee from 2001 to 2013. Played a significant role in the organization of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics. Became a member of the IOC in 2000 and was instrumental in promoting the Olympic values and addressing issues related to doping. Also held the position of president of the Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee before ascending to the IOC presidency.
President of the International Olympic Committee
Oversaw 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics
Other People Born on May 2nd
Jeong Jinwoon
South Korean actor and singer
Born
May 2nd, 1991 34 years ago
Born in South Korea, a career in entertainment began in 2008 as a member of the boy band 2AM, which achieved significant popularity. This individual also gained recognition for acting, particularly through roles in television dramas such as 'Dream High 2' and 'A Witch's Love'. The transition between music and acting showcased versatility in the entertainment industry. Participation in various reality shows further contributed to visibility and connection with fans.
Continue ReadingVăn Tiến Dũng
Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Born
May 2nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the sixth Minister of Defence of Vietnam from 1974 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding the North Vietnamese Army during key offensives. Participated in various military strategies leading to the reunification of Vietnam. After the war, contributed to the military reform policies within the country until retirement. Influenced defense policies during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history.
Continue ReadingOwain Doull
Welsh track cyclist with Olympic gold
Born
May 2nd, 1993 32 years ago
Competed in track cycling, achieving significant success at both national and international levels. Secured a gold medal in the team pursuit at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, contributing to Team GB's overall performance. Participated in various UCI Track Cycling World Championships, earning medals and contributing to the overall strength of the British cycling team.
Continue ReadingEddie Collins
Baseball player and manager with accolades
Born
May 2nd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1951 74 years ago — 63 years old
A distinguished baseball player and manager, excelled as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Philadelphia Athletics and Chicago White Sox, achieving significant success during the early 20th century. Collected over 3,300 hits throughout a career spanning nearly three decades. Managed the Chicago White Sox after his playing career, contributing to the team's strategy and performance during a transformative period in baseball. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949, reflecting a legacy of excellence in the sport.
Continue ReadingMaría Teresa Torró Flor
Tennis Player; French Open Doubles Winner
Born
May 2nd, 1992 33 years ago
A professional tennis player from Spain, made significant strides in women's tennis during the early 2010s. Competed in various international tournaments on the WTA Tour, demonstrating skill on both singles and doubles courts. Achieved notable success by winning the French Open women's doubles title, showcasing proficiency in high-pressure match situations. Represented Spain in several international team competitions, contributing to the development and presence of Spanish players in the global tennis scene.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Gustav Magnus
German chemist and physicist
Born
May 2nd, 1802 223 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1870 155 years ago — 67 years old
An influential chemist and physicist in the 19th century, contributions spanned various scientific fields, particularly thermodynamics and gas behavior. Developed Magnus' effect, which describes the phenomenon of pressure differences due to a rotating body in a fluid. His research provided foundational insights into the thermodynamic properties of gases and liquids, contributing to advancements in physical chemistry. Held a professorship at the University of Berlin, influencing a generation of scientists through teaching and research. Authored significant papers and textbooks that deepened the understanding of physical sciences during his era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 29th
Pál Tomori
Hungarian archbishop and military leader
Born
1475 550 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1526 499 years ago — 51 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Esztergom and a military commander during the early 16th century. Played a significant role in the defense of Hungary against the Ottoman Empire. Died at the Battle of Mohács in 1526 while leading Hungarian forces in a crucial military confrontation. This battle marked a pivotal moment in Hungarian history, leading to significant territorial losses.
Continue ReadingEvelyn Ankers
Actress in classic horror films
Born
August 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1985 40 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1918, an actress who gained prominence during the 1940s. Best recognized for performances in classic horror films, particularly collaborations with Universal Pictures. Featured in numerous films including 'The Wolf Man' and 'The Ghost of Frankenstein'. Transitioned to television in the later years of her career.
Continue ReadingStefan Dunjov
Bulgarian Colonel and Military Leader
Born
July 28th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1889 136 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a colonel in the Bulgarian military during the 19th century. Contributed to military reforms and the organization of the Bulgarian armed forces. Participated in several key military campaigns aimed at establishing Bulgarian autonomy and independence from Ottoman rule. Influenced military strategy and training within the ranks of the Bulgarian army.
Continue ReadingWilliam Archibald Spooner
English priest and scholar known for Spoonerisms
Born
July 22nd, 1844 181 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1930 95 years ago — 86 years old
An English priest and scholar, this individual gained recognition for contributions to education and linguistics in the late 19th century. Holding a position at the University of Oxford, he engaged in teaching and echoed a commitment to the development of the Anglican Church. His legacy includes the creation of verbal errors called Spoonerisms, characterized by the transposition of sounds in phrases, which has since entered popular culture and linguistic studies. The individual's work helped foster interest in phonetics and language play.
Continue ReadingPeter Scott
Ornithologist and wildlife artist
Born
September 14th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1989 36 years ago — 79 years old
An ornithologist, painter, and sailor, this individual contributed significantly to the study and conservation of birds. Founded the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust in 1946, promoting wetland conservation in the UK. Renowned for paintings depicting wildlife, particularly birds, and authored several books on the subject. Played a key role in the establishment of the World Wildlife Fund and served as its first chairman, influencing global conservation efforts.
Continue ReadingGene Wilder
Actor in 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory'
Born
June 11th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2016 9 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, director, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the film industry. Featured prominently in the comedy genre, starred in 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory' as the eccentric chocolatier and in 'Young Frankenstein' as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein. His collaborations with Mel Brooks yielded iconic films including 'Blazing Saddles' and 'The Producers'. Wilder's career spanned several decades, making him a familiar face in popular cinema, often recognized for his distinctive performances and trademark humor.
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