John D. Rockefeller
Businessman, founder of Standard Oil
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1839, this individual founded the Standard Oil Company in 1870, which revolutionized the petroleum industry and defined the structure of modern philanthropy. The company dominated the oil industry and was a pivotal player in the creation of the U.S. oil market. In addition to business pursuits, engaged in significant philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the University of Chicago and the Rockefeller Foundation. This individual significantly influenced the economic landscape of the United States and expanded the role of philanthropy in society.
Founded the Standard Oil Company
Established the University of Chicago
Created the Rockefeller Foundation
Other People Born on July 8th
Walter Scheel
German politician, 4th President of West Germany
Born
July 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1919, a soldier served during World War II before transitioning into politics. Played a significant role in the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and served as the party's chairman. Held various governmental positions, including Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs. Elected as the 4th President of West Germany in 1974, serving until 1979. Advocated for European integration and contributed to the development of West Germany's role within the European Community.
Continue ReadingMiki Roqué
Spanish footballer with Real Betis
Born
July 8th, 1988 37 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 23 years old
A Spanish footballer played as a defender and made significant contributions to teams primarily in Spain's La Liga. Roqué started his youth career at Barcelona before moving to other clubs, including Real Betis. During his time at Real Betis, he was part of the team that achieved promotion to La Liga in 2011. His career was cut short due to health issues, leading to a diagnosis of a rare form of cancer. Roqué's determination and spirit were evident throughout his life and career, earning him respect and admiration from fans and teammates alike.
Continue ReadingMarty Feldman
English actor and screenwriter
Born
July 8th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1982 43 years ago — 48 years old
An actor and screenwriter who gained recognition for work in comedy, particularly in the 1974 film 'Young Frankenstein.' Feldman contributed to television with notable appearances on shows such as 'The Marty Feldman Comedy Machine' and 'At Last the 1948 Show.' His distinctive appearance, characterized by bulging eyes, contributed to a unique comedic style that endeared him to audiences. Feldman also wrote for various programs, showcasing talent in blending humor with creative narratives. He left a lasting legacy in British comedy before passing in 1982.
Continue ReadingJohn David Crow
American football player and coach
Born
July 8th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2015 11 years ago — 79 years old
A professional football player and coach, played primarily as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Chicago Cardinals from 1958 to 1961 and the San Francisco 49ers from 1962 to 1963. Achieved recognition as the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1960. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving in various capacities at the college level.
Continue ReadingPhilip Johnson
Architect, designed PPG Place
Born
July 8th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2005 21 years ago — 98 years old
An architect who significantly contributed to modern architecture, designed notable structures such as PPG Place in Pittsburgh and the Crystal Cathedral in California. Studied at Harvard and collaborated with various architects, including Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. His work often reflected shifting trends in architecture over several decades. Johnson's architectural philosophy embraced both the modernist movement and the postmodern reactions that followed. He received multiple awards for his designs, establishing a legacy in the field of architecture.
Continue ReadingTerry Puhl
Baseball player and coach
Born
July 8th, 1956 69 years ago
A former professional baseball player and coach. Played as an outfielder and spent the majority of his career with the Houston Astros in Major League Baseball. Contributed to the Astros reaching the postseason multiple times during the 1980s. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, providing guidance to various teams at different levels of the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 23rd
Ismail I
First Emperor of Safavid Empire
Born
1487 539 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1524 502 years ago — 37 years old
Founded the Safavid Empire in Persia, establishing Shia Islam as the state religion. Reigned from 1501 until his death in 1524, expanding territory and centralizing power. Established cultural and religious practices that defined the empire, influencing Persian identity.
Continue ReadingWilliam Kidd
Scottish pirate hunter and privateer
Born
January 22nd, 1645 381 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1701 325 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1645 in Scotland, served as a sailor and privateer. Gained notoriety during the late 17th century while undertaking missions to combat piracy. Commanded the adventure ship 'Lauretta' and was granted a privateering commission by the British government. Later faced charges of piracy himself. Captured in 1699, tried, and hanged in 1701. His story contributed to legends surrounding piracy and privateering in the Caribbean.
Continue ReadingUrban I
Pope of the Catholic Church
Died
May 23rd, 230 1796 years ago — None years old
Served as pope in the early 3rd century. Focused on spiritual leadership and consolidation of the Church's authority during a period of persecution. Advocated for Christian communities amid external challenges. Played a significant role in establishing early Church doctrine, promoting unity among believers.
Continue ReadingBonnie Parker
American criminal and bank robber
Born
October 1st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1934 92 years ago — 23 years old
Born in Texas, pursued a life of crime alongside Clyde Barrow. Engaged in a series of bank robberies during the Great Depression, gaining notoriety across the United States. The criminal couple became legendary figures due to their escapades, evading law enforcement multiple times. Documented in numerous books and films, their story symbolizes the romanticized view of outlaws in American culture. Their life of crime ended in a shootout with law enforcement in 1934, leading to their deaths.
Continue ReadingAntipope Benedict XIII
Antipope and Avignon Papacy leader
Born
1328 698 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1423 603 years ago — 95 years old
Served as antipope from 1394 to 1423 during the Western Schism, refusing to accept the legitimacy of the Roman popes. His pontificate was marked by attempts to consolidate power and maintain the influence of the Avignon papacy. Benedict XIII faced challenges from rival factions and was eventually confined to Avignon. He continued to claim authority until death in 1423, leaving a legacy of political and religious division within the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingJean Van Houtte
Belgian Prime Minister and academic leader
Born
March 17th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1991 35 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1907, an academic and politician served as the 50th Prime Minister of Belgium. Held various positions in government and contributed to higher education policy and reform. Engaged in significant political activities during the mid-20th century, focusing on issues pertinent to Belgian society. Played a role in Belgium's post-war recovery efforts and fostered relationships within political institutions.
Continue Reading