John Byron
Admiral and 24th Governor of Newfoundland
Served as a naval officer and politician during the 18th century. Commanded British naval forces and held the position of Commodore Governor of Newfoundland from 1765 to 1766. Participated in various military campaigns and was involved in shaping naval policies. His tenure focused on the British expansion in the North American colonies, particularly in Newfoundland.
Held the title of 24th Commodore Governor of Newfoundland
Contributed to naval operations during the Seven Years' War
Commanded British naval vessels in various military engagements
Other People Born on November 8th
Akram Tawfik
Egyptian footballer, Al Ahly midfielder
Born
November 8th, 1997 28 years ago
Born in 1997, a professional footballer has played primarily as a midfielder. Development in youth academies led to a career in the Egyptian Premier League with Al Ahly, contributing to multiple domestic titles. Represented the national team, participating in various competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.
Continue ReadingJoshua Ferris
American author of 'Then We Came to the End'
Born
November 8th, 1974 51 years ago
An author based in the United States, gained prominence through the novel 'Then We Came to the End', which explores themes of office life and disillusionment. The narrative received significant acclaim and won the O Henry Award. Other works include 'The Unnamed' and 'To Rise Again at a Decent Hour', both of which merged elements of humor and existential reflection. Contribution to contemporary literature includes a range of essays and shorter pieces in well-regarded literary magazines.
Continue ReadingCharles X Gustav of Sweden
King of Sweden; Great Northern War Leader
Born
November 8th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
1660 366 years ago — 38 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1654, led Sweden during the Great Northern War against a coalition of Poland, Denmark, and Russia. His reign focused on expanding Swedish territory, achieving significant military victories. Known for the decisive Battle of Fehrbellin in 1675, which helped establish Swedish control in Northern Europe. Initiated reforms to strengthen royal authority and the Swedish army. Died in 1660, leaving a strengthened monarchy and a larger Swedish empire.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel-Bevern
Duchess and patron of the arts
Born
November 8th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
1797 229 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1715, a member of the House of Brunswick, became the Duchess of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel-Bevern through marriage. Instrumental in promoting arts and culture within her court. Fostered relationships with artists and intellectuals during her tenure as Duchess, creating a vibrant cultural environment. Spent much of her life in exile after her husband’s deposition, but continued to influence and support artistic endeavors from afar.
Continue ReadingDmitry Yazov
Last Marshal of the Soviet Union
Born
November 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2020 5 years ago — 95 years old
Served in the Soviet military, rising through the ranks to become Marshal. Held the position of Minister of Defence from 1987 to 1991 during a turbulent period for the Soviet Union. Participated in the events surrounding the August Coup in 1991, which aimed to reverse the reforms of Mikhail Gorbachev. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, transitioned to a political career, serving in various roles including as a member of the Federation Council.
Continue ReadingMartha Gellhorn
Journalist and author, WWII correspondent
Born
November 8th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 89 years old
Worked as a journalist and author with a focus on war reporting. Covered World War II as a correspondent for Collier's Weekly, establishing a reputation for insightful and unflinching reporting. Authored several novels and works of nonfiction throughout a prolific career. Contributed to notable publications such as The New Republic and The Atlantic Monthly. Known for her strong humanitarian views and her advocacy for social justice issues.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 10th
Howard Marks
Cannabis smuggler and writer
Born
August 13th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2016 9 years ago — 70 years old
Engaged in large-scale cannabis smuggling operations during the 1970s and 1980s, utilizing various aliases and connections. Arrested in 1988, served a significant prison term in the United States. After release, authored several books, including 'Mr. Nice', an autobiographical account detailing experiences in drug trafficking. Became an advocate for drug law reform and the legalization of cannabis. Marks appeared in media discussions advocating for changes in drug policy.
Continue ReadingPeter Walsh
Australian politician, Finance Minister
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the 6th Australian Minister for Finance from 1975 to 1983, contributing to significant fiscal policy reforms during a transformative period for the country. Was actively involved in agricultural policies and representation, advocating for the needs of farmers and rural communities. His political career spanned several important issues including economic management and social welfare. Represented the Country Party, now known as the National Party of Australia, during his tenure.
Continue ReadingJudith Malina
Theatre director and actress, co-founder of The Living Theatre
Born
June 4th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in the American avant-garde theatre movement, co-founded The Living Theatre in 1947. Pioneered innovative theatrical styles and experimental approaches, often integrating political themes into productions. The company became a platform for counterculture expression and anti-establishment sentiments, especially during the 1960s. Active in productions like 'The Brig' and 'Paradise Now', which challenged conventional narrative structures and audience engagement. Continued to direct and perform in various works until later in life, contributing significantly to the experimental theatre landscape.
Continue ReadingKarl Leonhard Reinhold
Austrian philosopher and academic
Born
October 26th, 1757 268 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1823 202 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed to the development of German Idealism and played a significant role in the philosophical education of the time. Emphasized the importance of ethical considerations in philosophy and sought to bridge the gap between rationalism and empiricism. Worked closely with prominent thinkers such as Immanuel Kant and influenced later philosophers through lectures and writings. Authored several key texts that outlined his philosophical positions and defended critical ideas of his contemporaries.
Continue ReadingHendrik Nicolaas Werkman
Dutch printer and typographer
Born
April 29th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1945 80 years ago — 62 years old
A significant figure in the field of printing and typography, focused on experimental graphics and typographical design. Werkman established his own printing workshop in Groningen, where innovative techniques were employed. He produced unique works that merged philosophy, poetry, and visual art, influencing the modern graphic design movement. His works, particularly those from the 1940s, showcased a distinctive blend of color and form, contributing greatly to modern typographic practices. Werkman was also involved with the Dutch resistance during World War II.
Continue ReadingDixie Carter
Actress known for Designing Women
Born
May 25th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2010 15 years ago — 70 years old
An American actress and singer became prominent for roles in television and theater. Best recognized for the role of Julia Sugarbaker on the TV series 'Designing Women,' which aired from 1986 to 1993. The character was a strong and independent woman, drawing significant public attention. Also performed in various stage productions and made guest appearances in several television shows, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. Additionally, had a successful career in musical theater, appearing in productions such as 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.'
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