João Havelange
Water polo player and FIFA president
Born
May 8th, 1916
109 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2016
9 years ago — 100 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Brazil
Links & References
Played water polo at a competitive level and later became a prominent figure in sports administration. Served as the president of FIFA from 1974 to 1998. Implemented significant reforms in FIFA, leading to the expansion of the World Cup and increased global recognition of football. Contributed to the commercialization of football, impacting its development and popularity worldwide.
Served as FIFA president for 24 years
Expanded the FIFA World Cup tournament format
Promoted the global growth of football
Other People Born on May 8th
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla
A Mexican priest initiated the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule. He issued the Grito de Dolores, a call to arms that mobilized the population in 1810. He became a symbol of Mexican independence and is commemorated on national holidays and monuments. After leading a series of military campaigns, he was captured and executed in 1811, but his actions paved the way for subsequent victories in the independence movement.
Continue ReadingMike Cuellar
A Cuban-American baseball player, Cuellar played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. He debuted in 1959 and had a notable career primarily with the Baltimore Orioles. Cuellar was recognized for his skills on the mound, leading the league in earned run average in 1969 and earning the Cy Young Award in 1969. He was a critical part of the Orioles' pitching rotation during their successful seasons in the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to their World Series victory in 1970.
Continue ReadingEdmund Wilson
An influential American critic and essayist who contributed significantly to literary criticism and cultural commentary. Edited several prominent publications including The New Republic and The Nation. Authored numerous works that explored literature and society, including 'Axel's Castle' and 'To the Finland Station'. His writings examined the relationship between literature and politics across different eras, establishing a critical framework that remains referenced today.
Continue ReadingMichelle McManus
A Scottish singer-songwriter and actress, achieved prominence after winning the second series of 'Pop Idol' in the UK in 2003. After the victory, released debut album 'The Meaning of Love' which included several successful singles. Transitioned into acting with appearances in various Scottish theatre productions and television.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Battista Gaulli
Active during the Baroque period, this artist contributed significantly to the development of ceiling frescoes. His works often featured dramatic compositions and vibrant colors. He trained under influential artists and became known for his work at the Church of the Gesù in Rome, where a grand ceiling fresco exemplifies the height of Baroque art. This artist also painted numerous altarpieces and exhibited proficiency in both religious and mythological themes.
Continue ReadingKurt Tippett
Professional Australian rules footballer, played for the Sydney Swans and the Adelaide Crows in the Australian Football League (AFL). Made his debut in 2008 with Adelaide, where he quickly gained recognition for his scoring ability and versatility on the field. Transferred to the Sydney Swans in 2013, contributing to the team's success in multiple seasons. Known for his height and athleticism, Tippett played as a forward and was instrumental in key matches throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 16th
Theutbald I
Served as bishop of Langres and held significant influence in the ecclesiastical sphere of the time. Contributed to the consolidation of the church's power in the region. Played a key role in church politics and the establishment of religious authority. Engaged in the promotion of Christianity and was involved in various ecclesiastical matters.
Continue ReadingDorothy West
Contributed to the Harlem Renaissance through literature and journalism. Worked as a writer for several publications, including The Chicago Defender and The New York Age. Published the novel 'The Living is Easy' in 1948, which explored African American life and identity. Involved in various literary societies and advocated for the rights and recognition of African American authors. Edited 'Challenge' magazine, providing a platform for Black writers during the 1930s.
Continue ReadingJaime Sáenz
A significant figure in Bolivian literature, contributions spanned poetry, novels, and essays. Work explored themes of identity, existentialism, and the human condition. 'El Hermano' and 'Los Viejos' are among the most recognized works, reflecting deep cultural introspection. Additionally, held a notable position at the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés, influencing future generations of writers and poets.
Continue ReadingMasanobu Fukuoka
Pioneered a farming philosophy emphasizing minimal intervention in nature. Developed a system called 'Natural Farming' that advocated for no-till agriculture and use of cover crops. Authored several influential books including 'The One-Straw Revolution,' which described his practices and philosophy. Fukuoka's techniques inspired sustainable agriculture movements worldwide, promoting ecological balance and biodiversity.
Continue ReadingJohn Roseboro
An American baseball player and coach, he played as a catcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) for several teams, primarily the Los Angeles Dodgers. He achieved recognition as an All-Star and was part of three World Series championship teams with the Dodgers during the 1960s. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of future players. His skills behind the plate and leadership on the field distinguished his career.
Continue ReadingAtal Bihari Vajpayee
Served as the 10th Prime Minister of India, holding office from 1998 to 2004. Was a prominent leader in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and played a significant role in shaping Indian politics. Prior to his tenure as Prime Minister, served in various ministerial roles and was a member of the Lok Sabha for multiple terms. Recognized for his oratory skills and poetic contributions, published several volumes of poetry in Hindi.
Continue Reading