John of Bohemia
King of Bohemia and military leader
Ruled as King of Bohemia from 1310 until death in 1346. Prominent figure in the Hundred Years' War, fought at the Battle of Crécy. Known for promoting the rights of nobility and fostering the cultural development of Bohemia. Participated in numerous military campaigns across Europe.
Led the Bohemian forces in the Battle of Crécy
Served as a key ally to France during the Hundred Years' War
Established significant cultural contributions in Bohemia
Other People Born on August 10th
Ad van Luyn
Dutch bishop and church leader
Born
August 10th, 1935 90 years ago
Served as a bishop in the Roman Catholic Church in the Netherlands. Held the position of bishop of the Diocese of Rotterdam from 1993 until retirement in 2010. Contributed to various church activities and social programs within the community. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and worked on issues relating to social justice and humanitarian efforts during tenure.
Continue ReadingCamillo Benso
Italian politician, 1st Prime Minister of Italy
Born
August 10th, 1810 215 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1861 164 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent Italian soldier and politician, served as the 1st Prime Minister of Italy. Played a crucial role in the unification of Italy during the 19th century. Instrumental in diplomatic negotiations and military strategies that led to the consolidation of the Italian states into a single nation. Emphasized modernization and economic development during tenure. His leadership significantly shaped the modern Italian political landscape.
Continue ReadingIan Anderson
Musical artist and frontman of Jethro Tull
Born
August 10th, 1947 78 years ago
A prominent figure in rock music, particularly in the progressive rock genre. Established the band Jethro Tull in 1967, blending rock with elements of folk, jazz, and classical music. Gained acclaim for unique flute playing and distinctive stage performances. Released the album 'Aqualung' in 1971, which is often regarded as a seminal work. Continued to release music and tour extensively, maintaining a significant presence in the music industry.
Continue ReadingLouise Forestier
Singer-songwriter and actress, 'L’amour existe encore'
Born
August 10th, 1943 82 years ago
A Canadian singer-songwriter and actress, contributed significantly to the music and entertainment scene. Released notable songs in the late 20th century, including 'L’amour existe encore.' Established a presence in the French-speaking music milieu and gained acclaim for both music and acting. Appeared in various television series and films, becoming a recognized figure in Canadian arts.
Continue ReadingAnwar Ibrahim
Malaysian politician, 10th Prime Minister
Born
August 10th, 1947 78 years ago
A prominent Malaysian politician and academic, served as the 10th Prime Minister of Malaysia. Over decades, engaged in various governmental roles, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Played a significant role in Malaysian politics and governance, advocating for socio-economic reforms. Following years of political turmoil and imprisonment, returned to power in 2022, focusing on unity and development amidst a challenging political landscape.
Continue ReadingKate O'Mara
English actress in 'Dynasty'
Born
August 10th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
An English actress appeared in various television series and films, gaining recognition for a prominent role in the soap opera 'Dynasty' as Cassandra. O'Mara's career spanned several decades, with a notable presence in British television. She also appeared in the series 'Doctor Who' as the character The Rani. In addition to her television roles, she performed in theatre and took part in productions across the UK.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Ralph Vaughan Williams
English composer of classical music
Born
October 12th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1958 67 years ago — 85 years old
An English composer and educator contributed significantly to classical music during the 20th century. Vaughan Williams was a prominent figure in the revival of English folk music and incorporated folk elements into his compositions. His most recognized works include symphonies, choral pieces, and operas. He was influenced by the British landscape and the spiritual life of the nation, which is reflected in his music. The composer served as a director of the Royal College of Music and influenced generations of musicians through his teaching.
Continue ReadingJeanie MacPherson
American actress and screenwriter
Born
May 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old
An actress and screenwriter contributed to the early film industry. Active in the 1910s and 1920s, she appeared in and wrote for silent films. Collaborated with prominent directors and actors of the era, shaping the narrative structure of early cinema. MacPherson’s work displayed a strong understanding of storytelling and character development. Most noted for writing the screenplay for the classic film 'The Sheik', which starred Rudolph Valentino, a significant film of its time that contributed to the popularity of romantic adventure stories in cinema. Also performed in numerous silent films, establishing a career that spanned both acting and writing.
Continue ReadingFrederick Reines
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1998 27 years ago — 80 years old
Contributions to particle physics included the discovery of the neutrino. Collaborated on experiments at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and later at the University of California, Irvine. Published over 200 scientific papers and mentored numerous students throughout an academic career. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1995 for work in detecting neutrinos.
Continue ReadingFrancis Chichester
English pilot and pioneering solo sailor
Born
September 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1972 53 years ago — 70 years old
Aviation and sailing achievements include solo flights across the Atlantic and a historic solo circumnavigation of the globe. Completed the first solo flight from England to Australia, demonstrating remarkable skill and determination. His journey around the world was accomplished in a single-engine aircraft, showcasing both navigational prowess and endurance. The journey inspired many in the fields of aviation and maritime exploration.
Continue ReadingGeorg Wittig
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 16th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1987 38 years ago — 90 years old
A German chemist contributed significantly to organic chemistry, particularly in the area of phosphorus chemistry. Developed the Wittig reaction, a method for synthesizing alkenes from aldehydes or ketones and phosphonium ylides. Served as a professor at the University of Heidelberg. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1979 for advancements in organic synthesis.
Continue ReadingLee Hays
American singer-songwriter, 'This Land Is Your Land'
Born
March 14th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1981 44 years ago — 67 years old
A significant figure in American folk music, made substantial contributions to the genre in the mid-20th century. Frequently collaborated with other prominent artists, particularly Pete Seeger. Played a pivotal role in the formation of the Weavers, a folk music group that gained worldwide popularity. The Weavers helped to revive interest in traditional folk songs during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s.
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