Jim Brunzell
Professional wrestler, AWA tag team champion
A professional wrestler participated in the American Wrestling Association and World Wrestling Federation. Competed in tag team matches, forming a notable duo with Greg Gagne. Achieved significant success in the AWA, capturing the AWA World Tag Team Championship. Retired from professional wrestling in the late 1990s and made occasional appearances in wrestling events afterward.
Won the AWA World Tag Team Championship
Wrestled in WWE under the ring name 'The Birdman'
Competed alongside Greg Gagne
Other People Born on August 13th
Valerie Plame
CIA agent and author of 'Fair Game'
Born
August 13th, 1963 62 years ago
A former operations officer for the CIA, this individual specialized in weapons of mass destruction. In 2003, exposure as a covert agent occurred after a newspaper column by Robert Novak revealed their identity. This controversy led to the outing of a CIA operative and prompted investigations into the subsequent leak. Authored the memoir 'Fair Game: My Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by the White House' detailing experiences in the agency and the fallout from the leak. This work discusses the implications of secrecy and national security in the context of personal and professional life.
Continue ReadingWilliam Wentworth
Australian journalist and explorer
Born
August 13th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
1872 154 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1790, this individual was a prominent figure in Australia during the 19th century. Pursuing a career in journalism, published influential works advocating for self-government and land rights. His explorations contributed to the understanding of the Australian landscape and resources. Entered politics and became a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council, playing a crucial role in the political development of the colony. His legacy includes efforts in promoting the aspirations of the Australian colonies and shaping early colonial governance.
Continue ReadingAnders Jonas Ångström
Physicist and astronomer, spectroscopy pioneer
Born
August 13th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1874 151 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1814, a physicist and astronomer contributed significantly to the understanding of light and spectroscopy. Ångström developed a method for measuring the wavelengths of spectral lines. He created the spectral classification system and was the first to accurately measure ultraviolet and infrared light. His work laid the foundation for modern spectroscopy, facilitating advancements in various scientific fields.
Continue ReadingJean Borotra
French tennis player and Davis Cup champion
Born
August 13th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 95 years old
Achieved significant success in tennis during the 1920s and 1930s. Borotra won four Grand Slam singles titles, including the French Open and Wimbledon. He played an integral role in the French Davis Cup team, contributing to their victories in 1927 and 1928. Known for his powerful serve and competitive spirit, Borotra was part of a group of players that helped elevate the sport's popularity in France. In addition to his singles titles, he excelled in doubles, winning multiple championships with various partners.
Continue ReadingKarl Liebknecht
German socialist politician and revolutionary
Born
August 13th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1919 107 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent socialist politician and revolutionary in Germany, played a significant role in the German Workers' Party and later co-founded the Spartacus League. Active in opposition to World War I, advocated for ending the conflict and promoted socialist ideals. Participated in the German Revolution of 1918-1919, which sought to establish a socialist state. Authored several works on socialism and workers' rights, influencing the labor movement in Germany and beyond. Captured and assassinated in January 1919 during the political turmoil of the revolutionary period.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Petit
Tightrope walker; World Trade Center feat
Born
August 13th, 1949 76 years ago
A tightrope walker gained attention for walking between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center on August 7, 1974. This remarkable act involved a highwire strung between the two skyscrapers without any safety measures. The performance captured international media attention and has been documented in various forms, including the 2015 film 'The Walk'. Petit has also authored books detailing his experiences and philosophies about balancing and performing. Following this feat, he continued to perform across the globe, pursuing various artistic projects.
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