James FitzJames
French general and politician
Born
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
France
Links & References
Born in 1670, served as a military leader in the French army. Held the title of 1st Duke of Berwick and played a key role in various battles during the War of the Spanish Succession. Appointed Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, overseeing local governance. Recognized for efforts in military strategy and administration.
Commanded forces in the War of the Spanish Succession
Served as Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire
Other People Born on August 21st
Jerry DaVanon
Baseball player with the St. Louis Cardinals
Born
August 21st, 1945 81 years ago
Played as an infielder in Major League Baseball from 1965 to 1970. Notable for time spent with the St. Louis Cardinals and the California Angels. Concluded playing career with a total of 391 games in the MLB, primarily filling roles at shortstop and second base. Was part of the Cardinals organization during their competitive years.
Continue ReadingEmiliano Mercado del Toro
Puerto Rican-American soldier
Born
August 21st, 1891 135 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2007 19 years ago — 115 years old
Served in the United States Army during World War II. Participated in significant battles such as the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Achieved the rank of sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. Later served in the Puerto Rican National Guard and continued to advocate for veterans' rights.
Continue ReadingÉdouard Fabre
Canadian Runner at 1908 Olympics
Born
August 21st, 1885 141 years ago
Died
1939 87 years ago — 54 years old
Competed in long-distance running events, representing Canada at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London. Participated in the 5000 meters and marathon events, showcasing talent in distance races. Contributed to the early development of athletics in Canada and emerged as one of the prominent athletes of his era.
Continue ReadingAfonso VI of Portugal
King of Portugal, notable for conflicts
Born
August 21st, 1643 383 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1683 343 years ago — 40 years old
Ascended to the throne at a young age, ruling from 1656 to 1683. His reign was marked by territorial conflicts, particularly with Spain and ongoing wars in the Portuguese Empire. After health issues compromised governance, regency was established during his rule. His reign included participation in the Restoration War against Spain, striving for Portugal's independence following the Iberian Union. Additionally, political instability characterized Afonso VI's time as king. His eventual deposition led to the consolidation of power under his brother.
Continue ReadingMartin Andanar
Filipino journalist and radio host
Born
August 21st, 1974 52 years ago
Worked as a journalist and radio host in the Philippines. Served as the Assistant Secretary for the Presidential Communications Operations Office under a previous administration. Led various media initiatives and contributed to the development of public communication strategies. Hosted radio programs that discussed current events and issues impacting Filipino society.
Continue ReadingConsuelo Velázquez
Pianist and songwriter of Bésame Mucho
Born
August 21st, 1916 110 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 21 years ago — 88 years old
Began composing music at a young age. Gained recognition as a pianist and songwriter, with much of the work centered in Mexico. Created the iconic bolero 'Bésame Mucho' in 1940, which became a standard in Latin music and was covered by numerous artists globally. Other songs contributed to the music scene, showcasing a blend of classical and popular styles. Her work significantly influenced Latin American music, and she received various awards in recognition of her contributions. Continued to perform and compose throughout her life, leaving a lasting legacy in the music community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Nicole Brown Simpson
Restaurant employee and murder victim
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1994 32 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1959, worked in various restaurants and was previously married to NFL player O. J. Simpson. Resided in Los Angeles, where she became a significant figure in a high-profile criminal case. Brown Simpson was found murdered in 1994, and the case garnered extensive media attention and public interest, leading to one of the most publicized trials in American history.
Continue ReadingTeresa Carreño
Venezuelan-American pianist and composer
Born
December 22nd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1917 109 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Venezuela, a prominent pianist and composer emerged as a major figure in the world of classical music. Carreño began performing at a young age, showcasing exceptional talent in piano and composition. The musician toured extensively in Europe and the United States, earning acclaim for performances with orchestras and recitals. Carreño's repertoire included works by classical composers, as well as her own compositions. Throughout her career, multiple musical societies and institutions recognized her contributions to music education and performance. The musician's legacy continues through the preservation of her works and influence on future generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingPrince Augustus William of Prussia
Prussian Prince and military leader
Born
August 9th, 1722 304 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1758 268 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1722, a member of the House of Hohenzollern. Served as a military leader in the Prussian Army during the Seven Years' War. Played a significant role in several battles, including the Battle of Rossbach in 1757. Held the title of Governor of Magdeburg and contributed to the administrative efforts of the Prussian state during a time of military conflict. Engaged in various diplomatic missions supporting Prussian interests across Europe.
Continue ReadingJon Hiseman
English drummer with Colosseum fame
Born
June 21st, 1944 82 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2018 8 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent drummer in the British progressive rock and jazz genres, contributions included founding the band Colosseum, which formed in 1968. The band released several notable albums, with 'Valentyne Suite' being a significant work that showcased innovative jazz-rock fusion. Hiseman also played with other influential musicians and bands throughout his career, including the groups Tempest and the band’s latter incarnation, Colosseum II. His style influenced many drummers in the jazz and rock scenes during the late twentieth century.
Continue ReadingTreat Williams
American actor in 'Hair' and 'Everwood'
Born
December 1st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2023 3 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor became recognized for performances in film and television. Achieved prominence with the film 'Hair' in 1979, capturing attention for a musical role. Later starred in the television series 'Everwood', portraying a central character and receiving acclaim for the performance. Throughout his career, appeared in various films, including 'Deep Rising' and 'Prince of the City', showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed significantly to the entertainment industry with both comedic and dramatic roles, leaving a lasting legacy in the field.
Continue ReadingNeil Goldschmidt
American politician and former governor
Born
June 16th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2024 2 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 33rd Governor of Oregon from 1987 to 1991. During the governorship, implemented significant education reform and economic development initiatives. Previously held the position of Mayor of Portland and served in the Oregon House of Representatives. After the governorship, worked as a consultant and in other business ventures, including significant roles in real estate and transportation.
Continue Reading