John Buchan
Governor General of Canada, historian
A Scottish-Canadian historian and politician served as the Governor General of Canada from 1935 until death in 1940. Buchan authored several historical and adventure novels, with a notable work being 'The Thirty-Nine Steps,' which contributed to the spy fiction genre. His career in public service included roles in the British Parliament, emphasizing loyalty to the British Empire. His tenure as Governor General was marked by his efforts to promote national unity and support for wartime contributions during World War II.
Authored 'The Thirty-Nine Steps'
Served as Governor General of Canada
Other People Born on August 26th
Carsten Wolf
Professional cyclist and competitor
Born
August 26th, 1964 61 years ago
Born in Germany in 1964, a professional cyclist participated in various road racing competitions throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Represented Germany in national and international events, contributing to the country's presence in the cycling sport. Achieved notable results during several championships, further establishing a reputation within the cycling community.
Continue ReadingChen Yi
Chinese general and politician
Born
August 26th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1972 53 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a general in the People's Liberation Army during the Chinese Civil War. Became the second Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China from 1958 to 1972. Participated in various military campaigns and played a significant role in the establishment of the People's Republic. Contributed to foreign policy during a crucial period in China's international relations.
Continue ReadingHumilis of Bisignano
Franciscan friar and saint
Born
August 26th, 1582 443 years ago
Died
1637 388 years ago — 55 years old
Born in Italy in 1582, a Franciscan friar devoted life to spirituality and service. Founded a convent that emphasized humility and obedience. Known for deep commitment to the teachings of St. Francis and for living a life exemplifying simplicity and faith. Several miracles attributed after death, leading to eventual canonization as a saint in the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingSparky Adams
Baseball player with Chicago Cubs
Born
August 26th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 95 years old
An American baseball player, primarily played as an outfielder. Played in Major League Baseball from 1919 to 1932. Represented teams including the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and Philadelphia Phillies. Contributed to multiple teams' efforts with a solid batting average and defensive skills. After retiring from professional baseball, engaged in farming.
Continue ReadingJulio Cortázar
Argentinian author and poet
Born
August 26th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1984 41 years ago — 69 years old
An influential author and poet, this figure significantly contributed to the literary landscape of Latin America. As a central figure in the literary movement known as the Latin American Boom, this writer produced works that explored themes of reality and identity. Noteworthy works include the novel 'Hopscotch', which challenged conventional narrative structures and is considered a landmark of modern literature. Other notable writings include short stories collected in 'Blow-Up and Other Stories', which reflect a unique blend of fantasy and reality. This individual engaged with Marxist ideology and often expressed political views through literature.
Continue ReadingMeredith Eaton
Actress, best known for 'Boston Legal'
Born
August 26th, 1974 51 years ago
Active in television and film, one prominent role occurred in the legal drama 'Boston Legal' where played the character Bethany Fong. Featured in the series 'NCIS' as a recurring character and appeared in the comedy-drama 'Family Law'. Also worked in various guest roles across multiple TV shows, showcasing versatility in acting skills.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 11th
Chuck Tanner
Baseball manager, led Pirates to victory
Born
July 4th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2011 14 years ago — 82 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, guided the Pittsburgh Pirates to a World Series championship in 1979. Managed several teams, including the Chicago White Sox and Oakland Athletics. As a player, competed primarily as an outfielder in Major League Baseball, playing for teams such as the Milwaukee Braves and the Chicago Cubs. Transitioned into management and left a notable mark in the game during two decades of coaching.
Continue ReadingSylvia Plath
American poet and novelist, author of 'The Bell Jar'
Born
October 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1963 62 years ago — 30 years old
An American poet, novelist, and short story writer produced influential works in the 20th century. Plath published the semi-autobiographical novel 'The Bell Jar,' which explores themes of identity and mental illness. Poetry collections such as 'Ariel' exhibited innovative language and form. Her writing often incorporated personal experiences, detailing struggles with depression and societal expectations. A posthumous winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1982, Plath's impact on contemporary literature continues to resonate in discussions surrounding mental health and feminist themes.
Continue ReadingKevin Randleman
Mixed martial artist and wrestler champion
Born
August 10th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2016 9 years ago — 44 years old
This individual was an American mixed martial artist and wrestler who gained prominence in the sport during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Randleman competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and was known for his powerful wrestling background. He won the UFC Heavyweight Championship title in 1999, becoming one of the early stars in mixed martial arts. His athletic career also included significant accomplishments in collegiate wrestling, establishing a solid foundation for his transition to MMA. Randleman's dynamic fighting style and resilience were significant aspects of his career, influencing many athletes within the sport until his untimely death in 2016.
Continue ReadingFrank Herbert
Science fiction author with Dune series
Born
October 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1986 39 years ago — 65 years old
An American author and journalist, best recognized for the science fiction novel 'Dune' published in 1965. The book became a cornerstone of the genre, exploring themes of politics, environment, and religion. Herbert continued to expand the Dune universe through several sequels, solidifying the series' status in literature and later inspiring films and adaptations. Herbert's writing style and world-building garnered a significant following and critical acclaim during his lifetime. He was also engaged in journalism and various environmental causes throughout his career, reflecting his interests in ecology and philosophy.
Continue ReadingLéon Foucault
French physicist known for pendulum experiment
Born
September 18th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1868 157 years ago — 48 years old
Contributed significantly to experimental physics and is recognized for the invention of the Foucault pendulum, demonstrating the Earth's rotation. Conducted experiments in optics, notably measuring the speed of light with an accuracy that improved upon previous efforts. Served as a professor at the Collège de France, influencing the academic landscape of physics in the 19th century.
Continue ReadingEstelle Bennett
American singer and Ronettes member
Born
July 22nd, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 67 years old
Active during the 1960s and 1970s, she was part of the girl group The Ronettes, which was influential in the pop and rock music scene. Their hit single "Be My Baby" became an iconic song of the era and helped pave the way for future girl groups. The Ronettes were known for their distinctive sound, style, and their association with producer Phil Spector. After the group's initial success, she faced challenges but continued contributing to music, including some solo performances and collaborations. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, recognizing their influence on music and culture.
Continue Reading