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
Harry J. Capehart
American lawyer and politician
Born
May 2nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1955 70 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1881, a prominent lawyer and politician conducted a successful career in American politics and business. Served as a member of the United States Senate from 1943 to 1945, representing Indiana. Played a crucial role in various local and state-level initiatives, contributing to legislative advancements. Additionally, engaged in business ventures, expanding professional influence beyond law and government. Remained active in public affairs throughout the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingJigme Dorji Wangchuck
Bhutanese king during modernization efforts
Born
May 2nd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1972 53 years ago — 43 years old
Ascended the throne in 1952, this monarch initiated significant reforms in Bhutan, leading the country towards modernization while maintaining its cultural heritage. Administrative changes included the establishment of the first constitution and the introduction of a democratic process. Efforts were made to develop infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems. Supported the establishment of the National Assembly, contributing to the formation of a new political structure. This king's reign was marked by efforts to balance tradition with progress, and he played a crucial role in shaping contemporary Bhutan.
Continue ReadingJohn Glascock
Singer and bass player, Carpenters
Born
May 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1979 46 years ago — 28 years old
A bassist and singer prominent in the 1970s rock scene, contributed to the band Carpenters. Played bass guitar on the albums 'Horizon' and 'A Kind of Hush'. Joined the band after the departure of the original bassist and became an integral part of their sound during a successful period. Also known for work with bands such as C.T.A. and demonstrated versatility as a talented musician.
Continue ReadingYongle Emperor of China
Chinese Emperor and Ming Dynasty ruler
Born
May 2nd, 1360 665 years ago
Died
1424 602 years ago — 64 years old
Ruled from 1402 to 1424 and was the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Launched the Yongle Encyclopedia, one of the largest works of its kind in history. Oversaw the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing, which became the imperial palace. Expanded maritime exploration, commissioning voyages led by Zheng He to establish trade and diplomatic relations. Revamped the military and administrative structures of the empire, contributing to a period of stability and consolidation.
Continue ReadingEleanor of Viseu
Portuguese queen and noblewoman
Born
May 2nd, 1458 567 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1525 500 years ago — 67 years old
Married to King João II of Portugal, served as queen consort. Played a significant role in the affairs of the kingdom during the late 15th century. Managed the royal household and engaged in political matters, contributing to Portugal's affairs alongside her husband. Following the death of João II, took on responsibilities related to the royal family's legacy and maintained her influence within the court.
Continue ReadingCatherine the Great
Empress of Russia, Westernization advocate
Born
May 2nd, 1729 296 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1796 229 years ago — 67 years old
Catherine the Great ascended to the throne of Russia in 1762 after a coup d'état against her husband, Emperor Peter III. During her reign, she expanded the Russian Empire significantly, establishing a powerful and influential state. She implemented a series of reforms aimed at modernizing Russia's administration and economy, inspired by Enlightenment ideas. Patron of the arts, she founded the Smolny Institute for Noble Maidens, the first state-financed higher education institution for women. Catherine also engaged in foreign affairs, promoting territorial expansion through successful military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and Poland.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 29th
Björn Waldegård
Swedish Rally driver and champion
Born
November 12th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
Achieved significant success in rally racing during the 1970s and 1980s. Became the first driver to win the World Rally Championship drivers' title in 1979. Competed for various teams including Ford and Porsche, and excelled in grueling events such as the Safari Rally. Developed a reputation for skillful driving in challenging conditions, which contributed to the popularity of rally sports in Sweden and beyond.
Continue ReadingPierre Lallement
Bicycle inventor and businessman
Born
1843 183 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1891 134 years ago — 48 years old
An influential figure in transportation history, contributed to the development of the bicycle. Invented the pedal-powered bicycle in 1866, which incorporated a chain mechanism. Promoted the bicycle's use in both Europe and the United States, impacting personal mobility. Established businesses related to bicycle manufacturing and sales, navigating early market challenges.
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.
Continue ReadingAlesso Baldovinetti
Italian painter, notable for frescoes
Born
October 14th, 1425 600 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1499 526 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Florence, a prominent painter of the Early Renaissance. Developed a unique style characterized by clarity and delicate color palette. Contributions included altarpieces and frescoes, highlighting scenes from the Virgin Mary's life. Worked closely with the Florentine tradition and demonstrated influences from both Gothic and early Renaissance art. Renowned for achievements in religious art, particularly in the San Miniato al Monte church. Collaborated with other significant artists of the period, enhancing the visual culture of Florence.
Continue ReadingManly Palmer Hall
Mystic and author of 'The Secret Teachings'
Born
March 18th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1990 35 years ago — 89 years old
A Canadian mystic, author, and philosopher, contributed extensively to esoteric and philosophical literature. Authored over 150 books and articles, with 'The Secret Teachings of All Ages' being a seminal work exploring ancient wisdom traditions. Founded the Philosophical Research Society in 1934, promoting the study of philosophy, religion, and the arts. Delivered numerous lectures on occultism, mysticism, and the symbolism of religions, becoming a prominent figure in the esoteric community.
Continue ReadingLale Andersen
Chanson singer-songwriter with 'Lili Marleen'
Born
March 23rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1972 53 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1905 in Germany, a chanson singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1940s with the song 'Lili Marleen', which became an enduring war-time anthem. Originally a cabaret performer, she transitioned to recording and gained widespread popularity throughout Europe. Her music captured the emotions of her time, resonating deeply with both soldiers and civilians during World War II. Following the war, continued to perform and record, leaving a lasting legacy in the German music scene.
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