Jerry Falwell
American minister and television host
Founded the Thomas Road Baptist Church in 1956, serving as its pastor for decades. Established Liberty University in 1971, which became one of the largest Christian universities. Created the Old-Time Gospel Hour, a television program that broadcasted religious content nationwide. Played a significant role in the Moral Majority, a political organization that mobilized conservative Christians in the 1980s.
Founded Liberty University
Established the Moral Majority
Hosted the Old-Time Gospel Hour
Other People Born on August 11th
Gianluca Pessotto
Italian footballer and Juventus defender
Born
August 11th, 1970 55 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a left-back. Spent most of his career at Juventus, contributing to the team's successes in domestic and international competitions. Was part of the squad that won several Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League in 1996. Represented the Italian national team, earning significant caps and participating in major tournaments during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Continue ReadingMarie François Sadi Carnot
French politician and engineer, 4th President
Born
August 11th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1894 132 years ago — 56 years old
Served as the 4th President of the French Republic from 1887 until his assassination in 1894. Prior to his presidency, held various engineering positions in French government, contributing to infrastructure development. Focused on improving the French economy and advocating for military reforms. His presidency was marked by internal political tensions and challenges arising from colonial issues in Africa.
Continue ReadingAlejandra Barros
Mexican actress and screenwriter
Born
August 11th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in 1971, this actress and screenwriter gained prominence in the Mexican television and film industry. She started her career in telenovelas, earning recognition through roles in productions such as 'Amor Real' and 'El Privilegio de Amar.' Additionally, her work in film includes performances in 'En la Oscuridad' and 'Los olvidados.' Throughout her career, she has received several accolades for her acting, showcasing her talent across multiple genres in both television and cinema.
Continue ReadingSophie Okonedo
British actress with Oscar nomination
Born
August 11th, 1968 57 years ago
An acclaimed actress gained recognition for performances in film and television. Notable roles include a significant performance in the film 'Hotel Rwanda', which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Achieved critical acclaim for her work in the BBC series 'Criminal Justice' and appeared in the miniseries 'The Hollow Crown'. Her extensive career includes collaborations with theater companies, showcasing talent in stage productions as well.
Continue ReadingGregoria Mariska Tunjung
Indonesian badminton player, 2018 Asian Games medalist
Born
August 11th, 1999 26 years ago
An accomplished badminton player, highlighted in singles events. Competed at various international tournaments, showcasing talent and skill on the court. Achieved a significant milestone by winning a bronze medal in women's singles at the 2018 Asian Games held in Jakarta. Ranked among the top players in national circuits, contributing to Indonesia's legacy in badminton through consistent performances.
Continue ReadingKristin Armstrong
American cyclist, Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 11th, 1973 52 years ago
A prominent competitive cyclist, excelled in road racing. Achieved significant success in time trial events, securing three Olympic gold medals. Competed professionally for various teams, including the USA Cycling team. Additionally, claimed multiple national championships and participated in world championship events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 15th
Jackie Brookner
Sculptor and educator, notable work in public art
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent American sculptor and educator, this individual created large-scale installations that often integrated environmental themes and community engagement. Studied at Harvard University and received a Master of Fine Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles. Worked extensively in materials such as concrete and bronze, and designed public artworks that were installed in various national and international locations. Taught sculpture at institutions including the School of Visual Arts in New York City, influencing a generation of artists through education and mentorship.
Continue ReadingGordon Prange
Historian and author of WWII works
Born
July 16th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1980 46 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent historian and educator specialized in World War II, focusing on the Pacific theater. Played a crucial role in documenting and analyzing the events surrounding the attack on Pearl Harbor. Authored several influential books including 'At Dawn We Slept', which provided a comprehensive account of the attack and its implications. His research and writings contributed extensively to the understanding of military history and the dynamics of warfare during this pivotal time.
Continue ReadingJoe Malone
Ice hockey player with scoring prowess
Born
1890 136 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1969 57 years ago — 79 years old
An ice hockey player played primarily for the Montreal Canadiens in the early 20th century. Achieved recognition as a prolific scorer, leading the NHL in goals during the 1917-1918 season and finishing as the league's top point producer multiple times. Contributed significantly to the Canadiens' success, winning the Stanley Cup in 1918. Also represented Canada in international competitions, showcasing skills on the global stage. His influential style of play shaped tactics in the sport.
Continue ReadingKazimir Malevich
Painter and art theoretician, Suprematism
Born
February 23rd, 1878 148 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1935 91 years ago — 57 years old
A pioneering Ukrainian painter and art theoretician, contributed significantly to the development of abstract art. Founded the art movement known as Suprematism, emphasizing geometric forms and a limited color palette. Developed the influential work 'Black Square' in 1915, which symbolized a break from traditional representation in art. Engaged in teaching and wrote extensively on art theory, influencing successive generations of artists.
Continue ReadingJohn Hale
American minister and author
Born
June 3rd, 1636 390 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1700 326 years ago — 63 years old
A minister and writer, played a significant role in the Salem witch trials. Served as a pastor in Beverly, Massachusetts, and became an influential voice against the witch hunt. Authored works that reflected religious and social issues of the time, including 'A Modest Inquiry into the Nature of Witchcraft'. His later writings expressed remorse for his participation in the trials, advocating for justice and reason.
Continue ReadingUmegatani Tōtarō I
Japanese sumo wrestler, 15th Yokozuna
Born
March 16th, 1845 181 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1928 98 years ago — 83 years old
Became a prominent sumo wrestler in Japan, achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest honor in the sport. Competed during the early 20th century, contributing to the legacy of sumo during that era. After a successful career, retired from wrestling, leaving a significant mark on the sumo world.
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