Jean Bolland
Flemish priest and hagiographer
A priest in the Society of Jesus, contributed significantly to the study of saints' lives. Established a systematic chronological collection of hagiographies, known as the 'Acta Sanctorum', which served as a reference for future studies on saints. Focused on the critical examination of sources, promoting a scholarly approach to hagiography. Worked extensively in Belgium and had lasting influence in the field of religious literature.
Founded the collection 'Acta Sanctorum'
Promoted critical examination of hagiographical sources
Other People Born on August 18th
Nick Fuentes
Far-right political commentator
Born
August 18th, 1998 27 years ago
A political commentator focused on far-right perspectives. Gained prominence through online platforms, particularly for hosting a popular livestream show. Engaged in discussions about conservative viewpoints, often controversial in nature. Founded a political organization aimed at promoting America First policies and ideas. Participated in various political events and discussions, advocating for a distinct conservative ideology.
Continue ReadingPatrick Swayze
Actor and dancer in film and television
Born
August 18th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2009 16 years ago — 57 years old
An actor and dancer, this individual gained widespread recognition for performances in several popular films. Starred in the iconic movie 'Dirty Dancing' alongside Jennifer Grey, where the dance scenes and soundtrack became legendary. Also featured in 'Ghost', showcasing a blend of romance and supernatural elements, earning accolades and a dedicated following. Early in his career, earned acclaim on stage in various dance productions before transitioning to film. Had a notable television presence in the series 'The Beast'.
Continue ReadingCaspar Weinberger
Secretary of Defense under Reagan
Born
August 18th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2006 19 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 15th United States Secretary of Defense from 1981 to 1987. Oversaw a significant military buildup during the Cold War. Played a crucial role in shaping defense policies, including the Strategic Defense Initiative. Prior to this role, practiced law and held various positions in government and business, including Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. His tenure in defense was marked by a focus on modernizing U.S. military capabilities.
Continue ReadingGrand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna of Russia
Russian Grand Duchess and patron of arts
Born
August 18th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 57 years old
Born into the Russian imperial family, served as Grand Duchess. Engaged in numerous charitable activities and patronage of the arts. Played a significant role in cultural life of Russia during the 19th century. Contributed to the development of educational institutions and social welfare programs.
Continue ReadingRafael Pineda Ponce
Honduran academic and politician
Born
August 18th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2014 12 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a prominent academic and politician in Honduras. Contributed significantly to national politics and educational reforms. Held the position of Minister of Education, where major initiatives were implemented to improve the education system. Actively participated in various political movements aimed at advancing social and economic development in the country.
Continue ReadingRobert Horton
American television actor and star of 'Wagon Train'
Born
August 18th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2016 9 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor gained prominence through the role of Flint McCullough on the television series 'Wagon Train,' which aired from 1957 to 1965. Horton also made appearances in various other television shows and films throughout his career. He was noted for work in productions such as 'The Green Hornet' and 'The Twilight Zone.' In addition to acting, he pursued a career in music and authored a book detailing his life experiences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 12th
Boris Yegorov
Russian physician and astronaut
Born
November 26th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 56 years old
Earned a medical degree from the First Moscow Medical Institute and served as a physician in the Soviet military. Participated in the Voskhod 2 mission as a flight engineer in 1965, which included the first spacewalk in history. After spaceflight, worked in various medical and scientific roles, contributing to space medicine and research related to human health in space environments.
Continue ReadingClément Marot
French poet of the Renaissance era
Born
November 23rd, 1496 529 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1544 481 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent poet during the French Renaissance, contributed to the development of French literature through lyrical poetry and translations of classical works. Associated with the court of King Francis I, Marot produced a variety of poems that showcased his skill in the rondeau form. His writings explored themes of love, human experience, and social commentary. His translation of the Psalms into French made a significant impact on religious and secular poetry, influencing both contemporaries and later poets. Marot's work helped pave the way for future literary movements in France.
Continue ReadingNorman Borlaug
Agronomist and Nobel Peace Prize winner
Born
March 25th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2009 16 years ago — 95 years old
This agronomist significantly advanced agricultural science and food production. Work in developing high-yielding, disease-resistant wheat varieties contributed to the Green Revolution, leading to increased agricultural output in countries like Mexico, India, and Pakistan. Advocacy for sustainable farming practices and efforts to alleviate hunger and poverty were central to activities. The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded in recognition of contributions to alleviating hunger worldwide.
Continue ReadingSarah Frances Whiting
American physicist and astronomer
Born
August 23rd, 1847 178 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1927 98 years ago — 80 years old
Contributions in physics and astronomy included work on the properties of spectral lines and the development of laboratory methods for the study of light. Served as director of the observatory at Wellesley College and became the first woman to hold such a position in the United States. Additionally, played a role in the early education of women in science, mentoring students and advocating for women's involvement in higher education in scientific fields.
Continue ReadingJacques Henri Lartigue
Photographer known for candid photography
Born
June 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1986 39 years ago — 92 years old
Born in France, distinguished as a photographer and painter. Developed a passion for photography at an early age, capturing moments of daily life and leisure activities. His unique perspective on life was evident in his work, portraying the joy of movement and the elegance of the early 20th century. In 1975, the Museum of Modern Art in New York hosted a retrospective of his work, showcasing his early photographs. He also published a number of books that included his photography and writings. His archives provide valuable insight into the evolution of photography and the art of capturing fleeting moments.
Continue ReadingValentine Baker
Welsh Aircraft Company Co-Founder
Born
August 24th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1942 83 years ago — 54 years old
Co-founded the Martin-Baker Aircraft Company in 1934. Contributed to the development of ejection seats for military aircraft, improving pilot safety. The ejection seat designs became standard in many combat aircraft, enhancing survival rates for pilots during emergencies. Held various positions within the company, influencing aircraft safety protocols and engineering practices significantly.
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