Jim Neidhart
Professional wrestler, tag team champion
Professional wrestling career began in the late 1970s. Joined the World Wrestling Federation in 1985 as part of the tag team known as The Hart Foundation alongside Bret Hart. Captured the WWF Tag Team Championship twice, contributing to the popularity of the team during the late 1980s. Additionally, competed in various promotions, including WCW and independent circuits, establishing a reputation in the wrestling community. Known for his strongman persona and memorable performances in the ring. Retired from active competition in the mid-2000s but remained involved in the wrestling industry. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2019 as part of the Hart Foundation.
Wrestled as part of The Hart Foundation
Won WWF Tag Team Championship twice
Inducted into WWE Hall of Fame in 2019
Other People Born on February 8th
Terry Melcher
Singer-songwriter and music producer
Born
February 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2004 21 years ago — 62 years old
An American singer-songwriter and producer contributed significantly to the music scene in the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated with various artists, most notably as a producer for the Byrds, contributing to their hit singles. Also worked with other musicians, enhancing their recordings. Son of actress Doris Day, Melcher’s career included work on notable projects in popular music, leaving a lasting influence in the industry.
Continue ReadingGuercino
Italian painter of Baroque era
Born
February 8th, 1591 434 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1666 359 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent Baroque painter, recognized for mastery of light and shadow. Created numerous significant works, achieving acclaim for naturalistic and emotive depictions. Established a successful workshop, influencing many artists in the region. His dynamic compositions and innovative use of foreshortening marked a pivotal shift in painting styles during the 17th century. Notable works include 'The Calling of Saint Matthew' and 'The Aurora,' showcasing dramatic use of chiaroscuro. Remained active until death in 1666, leaving a rich legacy in the world of art.
Continue ReadingDaniele Barbaro
Venetian diplomat and scholar
Born
February 8th, 1514 511 years ago
Died
1570 455 years ago — 56 years old
A Venetian churchman and diplomat during the Renaissance, contributions centered around culture and architecture. Served as a bishop in the Diocese of Padua and held significant roles in the Venetian government. Engaged in diplomatic missions, particularly to the papal court. Actively studied and promoted the works of ancient philosophers and theorists, contributing to the understanding of classical texts. Authored influential treatises on architecture and was involved in the planning of the Venetian state’s cultural strategies.
Continue ReadingHenry Walter Bates
Geographer and biologist, Amazon explorer
Born
February 8th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1892 133 years ago — 67 years old
Bates conducted extensive research in the Amazon rainforest, contributing significantly to the field of natural history. His work focused on the study of butterflies and other insects, and he was a proponent of natural selection, collaborating with Charles Darwin. Bates published 'The Naturalist on the River Amazons,' detailing his explorations and observations during his 11-year expedition in South America. His research laid foundational knowledge for future studies in ecology and entomology.
Continue ReadingBa Maw
Burmese politician, Prime Minister
Born
February 8th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1977 48 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Burma from 1946 to 1947. Played a significant role in the country's political landscape during the mid-20th century. Actively involved in the independence movement and advocated for national sovereignty. Contributed to the establishment of the Burmese Way to Socialism, influencing the political and economic framework of the nation. Later became a prominent figure in the post-war era of Burma, shaping policies and governance.
Continue ReadingRoger Lloyd-Pack
English actor from 'Only Fools and Horses'
Born
February 8th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent English actor, his career spanned television, film, and stage. Best recognized for his role as Trigger in the British sitcom 'Only Fools and Horses', portrayed the character with a memorable performance that resonated with audiences. Also appeared in the series 'The Vicar of Dibley' as Owen, showcasing a talent for both comedy and drama. In film, contributed to projects including 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' as Barty Crouch Sr. His work on stage included significant performances in classic and contemporary plays, demonstrating versatility.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 13th
Hayato Ikeda
Japanese Prime Minister and economist
Born
December 3rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1965 60 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 58th Prime Minister of Japan from 1960 to 1964. Focused on economic growth and modernization during the post-war era. Implemented policies that fostered industrialization and improved living standards in Japan. Prior to his premiership, held several key government positions, including Minister of Finance. His leadership helped solidify Japan's recovery and growth following World War II.
Continue ReadingJulien Green
French-American author of novels
Born
September 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1900, a prolific author who wrote in both French and English. Published numerous novels, essays, and plays. Examined themes of identity, spirituality, and the complexity of human relationships. Achieved recognition in literary circles for contributions to literature, particularly with works that explore the human experience. His literature often drew upon his own experiences and identity as an American living in France. Won several prestigious awards including the Prix de l'Académie Française.
Continue ReadingMary Hunter Austin
American author and poet
Born
September 9th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1934 91 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1868, this individual achieved recognition as an author, poet, and critic in American literature. The works often explored themes of nature and the Western landscape, contributing to the literary depiction of the American Southwest. The Desert and the Forest is among the important writings, showcasing the connection between environmental elements and human experience. This author also engaged actively in literary criticism, influencing contemporary writers and poets through insightful analysis and commentary.
Continue ReadingMargaret Fownes-Luttrell
English painter and watercolorist
Born
February 7th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1766 259 years ago — 40 years old
Born in 1726, this individual gained recognition as a significant English painter. Active during the 18th century, worked primarily in watercolor and oil painting, creating innovative landscape and floral designs. Regarded for contributions to the artistic scene of her time, particularly through landscapes that depicted the English countryside. Engaged in the artistic community, exhibited works that reflected contemporary styles and themes. Left behind a legacy that influenced future generations of artists, contributing to the growth of watercolor as a respected medium.
Continue ReadingEugène Delacroix
French Romantic painter and lithographer
Born
April 26th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1863 162 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in the Romantic movement, this artist's work is characterized by expressive use of color and dynamic compositions. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and was influenced by both classicism and baroque art. Notable works include 'Liberty Leading the People' and 'The Death of Sardanapalus'. He also played a significant role in introducing the expressive brushwork that became a hallmark of modern painting. His contributions extended into lithography, where innovations helped to popularize the technique.
Continue ReadingPramukh Swami Maharaj
Indian guru and spiritual leader
Born
December 7th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1921, served as the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Contributed to the promotion of Indian culture and values through various community projects and religious activities. Led numerous efforts in building temples and promoting spirituality within the community. His teachings focused on devotion, ethics, and service to humanity, inspiring thousands across the globe.
Continue Reading