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
Nam Woo-hyun
South Korean singer and solo artist
Born
February 8th, 1991 34 years ago
A prominent South Korean singer gained recognition as a member of the boy band INFINITE, which debuted in 2010. The group achieved critical acclaim with hits such as 'Be Mine' and 'The Chaser.' In addition to group activities, pursued a successful solo career, releasing multiple albums and singles. Showcased strong vocal abilities and has been active in various musical genres. Participated in television programs as a cast member, enriching the entertainment landscape in South Korea.
Continue ReadingPetra Cetkovská
Czech tennis player and Grand Slam participant
Born
February 8th, 1985 40 years ago
A professional tennis player from the Czech Republic, contributed to the sport primarily in singles and doubles events. Competed on the WTA tour and achieved career-high rankings within the top 30 in singles and top 20 in doubles. Participated in all four Grand Slam tournaments, with notable performances in singles and doubles events. Her 2011 doubles title at the prestigious WTA event in Charleston marked a significant career highlight.
Continue ReadingJohn Williams
Composer of iconic film scores
Born
February 8th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1983 42 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1932, this American composer, conductor, and pianist created some of the most recognizable film scores in cinematic history. Achievements include scoring blockbuster films such as 'Star Wars,' 'Jaws,' 'Indiana Jones,' and 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.' His music often became integral to the films themselves, enhancing their emotional resonance. In addition to film scores, several concert works and arrangements have been composed, demonstrating a wide-ranging musical talent. Recipient of multiple Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and other accolades, this composer has achieved legendary status in the film industry throughout his career.
Continue ReadingVital-Justin Grandin
Bishop and missionary in Canada
Born
February 8th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1902 123 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the bishop of Saint-Albert in Alberta, Canada. Contributed significantly to the pastoral care and development of the French-speaking Catholic communities in the region. Established numerous missions and worked to support the spiritual and educational needs of Indigenous peoples and settlers. Advocated for the inclusion of French language and culture in the church's activities.
Continue ReadingThomas Selfridge
American aviator and military officer
Born
February 8th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1908 117 years ago — 26 years old
An American lieutenant and pilot, contributions to aviation history include being the first person to die in an aircraft accident. Selfridge graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1903 and served in various military capacities. He became involved in aviation, working on developing flight technology. Selfridge participated in multiple flights, gaining experience as an aviator. Loss of life occurred during a flight with Orville Wright in 1908 when the Wright Flyer crashed, marking a significant moment in aviation history.
Continue ReadingGary Coleman
American actor in 'Diff'rent Strokes'
Born
February 8th, 1968 57 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2010 15 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1968, an American actor gained fame for the role of Arnold Jackson in the television series 'Diff'rent Strokes.' The show aired from 1978 to 1986 and explored the lives of two girls who are adopted by a wealthy businessman and his family. Coleman became a prominent figure in pop culture, recognized for his catchphrase, 'What'choo talkin' 'bout, Willis?' After 'Diff'rent Strokes,' faced a range of challenges and transitions in both personal and professional life, including significant legal battles regarding finances and contracts. Despite these difficulties, continued to make guest appearances in television and worked in various capacities within the entertainment industry until the end of his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 13th
Helen Gurley Brown
American journalist and author of 'Sex and the Single Girl'
Born
February 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to the fields of women's lifestyle and self-help literature. Authored the groundbreaking book 'Sex and the Single Girl' in 1962, which examined the sexual liberation and independence of women in the modern era. Took on the role of editor-in-chief at Cosmopolitan magazine, transforming its content and establishing it as a leading voice for young women in the 1960s and 1970s. Advocated for women's rights and personal empowerment through her writings, influencing generations of readers.
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 ReadingHayato 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 ReadingZwentibold
King of Lotharingia, 870-900
Died
August 13th, 900 1125 years ago — None years old
Ascended the throne of Lotharingia in 895 following the division of Middle Francia. Played a significant role in the Frankish territories during a time marked by political fragmentation. Strengthened his rule through military campaigns against rebellious nobles and external threats. His reign was characterized by efforts to consolidate power in Lotharingia, a region that faced considerable challenges from neighboring states. Died in 900, leaving a mixed legacy amid ongoing political turmoil.
Continue ReadingAntónio de Spínola
Portuguese general and President
Born
April 11th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1996 29 years ago — 86 years old
A military officer and politician, this individual served as a general in the Portuguese Army and became the 14th President of Portugal in 1974. Holding significant influence during the Carnation Revolution, a pivotal moment that led to the end of the Estado Novo regime, the leadership included the drafting of a new constitution aimed at establishing democratic governance. His presidency was short-lived but marked by notable political transitions in Portugal.
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