Jana Novotná
Czech tennis player and sportscaster
A professional tennis player achieved success in both singles and doubles competitions. Won the Wimbledon singles title in 1998 and was recognized for outstanding performances throughout the 1990s. Transitioned into a successful career as a sportscaster after retiring from professional play.
Won 1 Wimbledon singles title in 1998
Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 2
Secured 16 Grand Slam doubles titles
Other People Born on October 2nd
Persis Khambatta
Indian model and actress in Star Trek.
Born
October 2nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1998 27 years ago — 49 years old
Born in 1948, one of the early Indian models to gain international recognition, participated in the Miss India pageant in 1965. Transitioned to acting and achieved prominence through roles in Indian television and films. Achieved notable recognition for the role of Ilia in the 1979 film 'Star Trek: The Motion Picture', becoming one of the first Indian actresses to enter Hollywood. Dedicating later years to various philanthropic efforts, she contributed to health and education initiatives in India. Passed away in 1998, leaving a legacy as a pioneer for Indian representation in global cinema.
Continue ReadingMahatma Gandhi
Indian freedom fighter and activist
Born
October 2nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1948 78 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent leader in the Indian independence movement against British rule, dedicated life to nonviolent civil disobedience. Advocated for the rights of the oppressed and sought to unite the diverse communities in India. Played a crucial role in various campaigns including the Salt March in 1930, which highlighted the injustice of British salt laws. Championed topics such as economic self-sufficiency through cottage industries, promoting the use of khadi. His philosophy and tactics influenced civil rights movements globally.
Continue ReadingYokozuna
Professional wrestler and two-time champion
Born
October 2nd, 1966 59 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2000 25 years ago — 34 years old
A professional wrestler recognized in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the 1990s. This wrestler held the WWF Championship twice, with the first title win occurring at the 1993 Royal Rumble. Competed against various prominent wrestlers and headlined multiple pay-per-view events, including WrestleMania IX and WrestleMania X. Known for a powerful wrestling style and unique persona, which made a lasting impression in the wrestling community.
Continue ReadingRichard III of England
King of England and military leader
Born
October 2nd, 1452 573 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1485 540 years ago — 32 years old
Reigned as King of England from 1483 until death in battle in 1485. Born in 1452, served as Duke of Gloucester and fought in the Wars of the Roses. Led the Yorkist armies during the conflict. Was the last king from the House of York and the last of the Plantagenets. His reign was marked by attempts to strengthen the monarchy and address the ongoing civil strife of his time. Died at the Battle of Bosworth Field, a decisive battle that marked the end of the Wars of the Roses and the rise of the Tudor dynasty. The remains were later discovered in 2012 under a parking lot in Leicester.
Continue ReadingWard Churchill
American author and activist
Born
October 2nd, 1947 78 years ago
Born in 1947, this individual is an author and activist. He gained recognition for writings on American history and indigenous rights. The individual served as a professor at the University of Colorado, where controversial opinions on U.S. policies and involvement in wars generated significant debate. Known for strong critiques of government actions, his works focused on topics such as environmental justice and native sovereignty. This person’s activism included participation in demonstrations advocating for indigenous peoples' rights.
Continue ReadingAlexander R. Todd
Scottish Biochemist, Nobel Prize Winner
Born
October 2nd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1997 29 years ago — 89 years old
A Scottish biochemist and academic, contributed significant advancements in the study of nucleotide chemistry. Won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1957 for work related to the synthesis of nucleotides and nucleic acids. Held academic positions at various institutions, advancing research and education in biochemistry. Engaged in teaching and mentoring future scientists throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 19th
Rudolf Kinau
German author and playwright
Born
March 23rd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1975 50 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1887, an author and playwright produced various works that contributed to German literature. Kinau's writings often explored themes of nature, identity, and the human experience. Many of his plays were performed in German theatres, and he was highly regarded for his contributions to dramatic literature in the early 20th century. Kinau's ability to blend poetic language with compelling narratives earned him recognition in literary circles. His craft helped shape modern German dramatization.
Continue ReadingBruno Schulz
Ukrainian-Polish author and painter
Born
July 12th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1942 83 years ago — 50 years old
This individual was an influential author and painter active in the early 20th century. His literary works, particularly the short story collections 'The Street of Crocodiles' and 'Sanatorium Under the Sign of the Hourglass', exhibit a blend of surreal imagery and rich, evocative language. The stories reflect the complexities of life in a small town and personal experiences during a tumultuous period in history. As a painter, this individual also contributed to the modernist movement, with artworks that complement the themes present in his writings. His contributions to literature and art have been studied and appreciated long after his death.
Continue ReadingFranz Schubert
Austrian composer of classical music
Born
January 31st, 1797 229 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1828 197 years ago — 31 years old
Born in Austria, a prominent figure in the early Romantic era, contributed significantly to classical music. Composed over 600 works, including symphonies, sonatas, operas, and song cycles. Renowned for contributions to the Lied, a form of German art song. Works like 'Symphony No. 8 in B minor', known as the 'Unfinished Symphony', showcased innovative use of melody and harmony. Other notable compositions include 'Die schöne Müllerin' and 'Winterreise'.
Continue ReadingTitumir
Bengali revolutionary leader
Born
January 27th, 1782 244 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1831 194 years ago — 49 years old
A significant figure in the early 19th century, played a crucial role in leading a peasant revolt against British feudal landlords in Bengal. Organized the movement in the region of Dhaka, advocating for the rights and welfare of farmers. His leadership inspired many and marked a pivotal moment in the struggle against colonial oppression.
Continue ReadingGeorge Brunies
Trombonist with a prominent jazz band
Born
February 6th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1974 51 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1902, a prominent American trombonist became influential in the jazz genre during the early to mid-20th century. Brunies played with several notable orchestras, contributing significantly to the sound of New Orleans jazz. He was a member of the famous New Orleans Rhythm Kings and later performed with the Paul Whiteman Orchestra. His performances featured a blend of traditional jazz and swing, showcasing his technical skills and improvisational abilities. Brunies left a lasting legacy through his recordings and performances, bringing trombone music to the forefront of the jazz scene.
Continue ReadingTsarevich Ivan Ivanovich of Russia
Tsarevich and heir of Russia
Born
1554 472 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1581 444 years ago — 27 years old
The son of Ivan IV, served as Tsarevich of Russia until death in 1581. Birth occurred in 1554, during a tumultuous period in Russian history marked by Ivan IV's rule. His early life included training for future leadership, but health issues impacted his role. Tsarevich involved himself in state affairs, but never ascended to the throne as he passed away before his father's reign ended. His death led to instability, influencing the subsequent succession crisis in Russia.
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