Jim Davis

American cartoonist of Garfield comic

Jim Davis - American cartoonist of Garfield comic
Born

August 26th, 1909
115 years ago

Died

April 26th, 1981
44 years ago — 71 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Created the comic strip Garfield, which debuted on June 19, 1978. The strip follows the life of a lazy cat named Garfield, his owner Jon Arbuckle, and Odie, a dog. Garfield became one of the most popular comic strips in the world, leading to the production of animated television specials, movies, and a successful merchandising empire. The character's cynicism and love for lasagna resonated with audiences, making it a staple in popular culture. Davis expanded the franchise with several spin-offs, including other comic series featuring different characters from the Garfield universe.

Created Garfield comic strip

Produced multiple animated specials and movies

Other People Born on August 26th

James Franck

German physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
August 26th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1964 61 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, focusing on atomic and molecular interactions. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1925 for the Franck-Hertz experiment, which demonstrated the quantized nature of atomic energy levels. Held a position as a professor at the University of Göttingen and later emigrated to the United States, where continued academic work at various institutions. Engaged in research that informed advancements in quantum mechanics and atomic structure.

Continue Reading

Therese Alshammar

Swedish competitive swimmer, Olympic medalist
Born
August 26th, 1977 47 years ago

A competitive swimmer specializing in freestyle and butterfly events, notable achievements include competing in multiple Olympic Games and long course World Championships. Established numerous records throughout her career. Alshammar participated in the 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012 Olympics, earning three Olympic medals. Achieved success on the European stage as well, securing gold medals in the European Championships. Known for longevity in the sport, remaining competitive for over a decade.

Continue Reading

Elvis Andrus

Venezuelan baseball shortstop and infielder
Born
August 26th, 1988 36 years ago

Born in Venezuela, this baseball shortstop debuted in Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2009. The player spent the majority of early career with the Texas Rangers, helping the team reach the World Series in 2010 and 2011. A reliable infielder, the player contributed significantly to the team’s defense and offensive efforts throughout the seasons. In 2021, joined the Chicago White Sox after a successful tenure with the Rangers. The player's consistent performance and ability to adapt to different roles on the field highlighted a strong professional career.

Continue Reading

Melissa McCarthy

Actress and comedian from 'Bridesmaids'
Born
August 26th, 1970 54 years ago

Born in Plainfield, Illinois, this actress and comedian gained recognition for her work in film and television. Major roles included the character Megan Price in the film 'Bridesmaids', which received critical acclaim and commercial success. Another notable work was the lead role in the television series 'Mike & Molly', which aired from 2010 to 2016 and won multiple Emmy Awards. As a producer and writer, contributions included the screenplay for the film 'Tammy'.

Continue Reading

Maxwell D. Taylor

U.S. General and South Vietnam Ambassador
Born
August 26th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1901, served as a U.S. Army general and later as a diplomat. Played a significant role during the Vietnam War as the United States Ambassador to South Vietnam from 1964 to 1965. Earlier, held key positions such as the Chief of Staff of the Army and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Forces Command. Contributed to military strategy and policy during crucial periods of military engagement. Retired in 1965, continued to influence defense policy through writings and research.

Continue Reading

Jules Romains

French author and poet
Born
August 26th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1972 52 years ago — 86 years old

An author and poet associated with the literary movement of Unanimism, which emphasized collective human experience. Created the characters of the 'Les Hommes de bonne volonté' series, a significant work spanning multiple volumes. Explored themes of society and human solidarity in various writings. Involved in the French literary and cultural scene throughout the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 26th

Richard Hatfield

Canadian lawyer and politician, Premier
Born
April 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1991 34 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the 26th Premier of New Brunswick from 1970 to 1987. Played a significant role in provincial politics during the latter half of the 20th century, implementing various policies and initiatives. Focused on economic development, infrastructure, and education during tenure. Contributed to the establishment of the New Brunswick Lottery and improved the province's financial management. Held several key positions within the Progressive Conservative Party and was influential in party politics at the provincial level.

Continue Reading

Maria Schell

Austrian-Swiss actress in film and theater
Born
January 15th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1926, this actress gained international recognition for performances in both German and American cinema. Key roles included appearances in 'The Brothers Karamazov' and 'Giselle', showcasing talent across various genres. The actress also appeared in notable films such as 'The Last Chance' and 'The Man Between', contributing to her status as a prominent figure in the film industry during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

George Jones

Country music singer-songwriter
Born
September 12th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old

A country music singer-songwriter and guitarist, this artist started a career in the early 1950s and became prominent during the genre's golden age. Signature hits included 'He Stopped Loving Her Today' and 'The Grand Tour.' Known for a distinguished vocal style and heartfelt lyrics, the career spanned over five decades, earning widespread acclaim. Collaborations with other artists and performances on various stages solidified a legacy in country music. Received numerous awards, including the Country Music Association's Entertainer of the Year in 1980.

Continue Reading

Carl Bosch

German chemist and engineer, Nobel laureate
Born
August 27th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1940 85 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry and engineering. Developed the Haber-Bosch process for synthesizing ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen, which revolutionized agricultural practices by facilitating the production of fertilizers. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1931 for this work. Contributed to the development of high-pressure technology and advancements in chemical manufacturing.

Continue Reading

Sigmund Rascher

German physician and experimenter
Born
February 12th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 36 years old

A German physician worked in the field of aviation medicine and conducted experiments during World War II. Rascher often collaborated with the Luftwaffe, studying the effects of high altitude on the human body and establishing protocols for pilots exposed to extreme conditions. His studies included infamous experiments related to hypothermia and freezing at Dachau concentration camp. He was also involved in unethical medical practices, resulting in his later trial for war crimes post-war.

Continue Reading

Gichin Funakoshi

Martial artist and Shotokan founder
Born
1868 157 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1957 68 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Okinawa, contributed significantly to the development of modern karate. Systematized martial arts techniques and philosophy, establishing Shotokan as a major style of karate globally. Introduced karate to Japan in the early 20th century, where it gained popularity and influence. Authored several books, including 'Karate-Do: My Way of Life', which detailed the principles of karate. Promoted physical fitness and discipline through martial arts training.

Continue Reading