John of God

Portuguese friar and saint

John of God - Portuguese friar and saint
Born

March 8th, 1495
530 years ago

Died

March 8th, 1550
475 years ago — 55 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Portugal

Links & References

Born in Portugal, this friar devoted life to caring for the sick and the needy. Established a hospital in Granada, Spain, which became a prominent model for the care of the poor and sick. Founded the Brothers Hospitalers, an order dedicated to healthcare and charity. Canonized as a saint for his humanitarian efforts and service to others.

Founded the Order of Brothers Hospitallers

Established a hospital in Granada, Spain

Devoted efforts to care for the sick and needy

Other People Born on March 8th

Carl Furillo

Baseball player, Brooklyn Dodgers star
Born
March 8th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1989 36 years ago — 66 years old

A professional baseball player, played as an outfielder for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1940 to 1960. Joined the team after serving in World War II. Part of the Dodgers' historic 1955 World Series championship victory. Known for significant contributions to the team's success during the 1940s and 1950s. Earned All-Star selections and a reputation as a strong hitter and fielder.

Continue Reading

Jennings Randolph

Journalist and U.S. Senator
Born
March 8th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent journalist and politician, made significant contributions to U.S. legislative processes. Served in the U.S. Senate from 1958 to 1985, representing West Virginia. Worked on numerous committees focusing on labor, education, and public works. Advocated for various civil rights initiatives and played a key role in amending laws concerning voting rights and education reform. Held several leadership positions within the Senate, influencing important public policy.

Continue Reading

Anselm Kiefer

German painter and sculptor, influenced by themes of history
Born
March 8th, 1945 80 years ago

Born in 1945 in Germany, Kiefer studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich. The work often explores German history, mythology, and the relationship between nature and art. Kiefer’s distinctive style incorporates materials like straw, ash, and lead, creating textured, layered works. Major exhibitions include the 1980 Venice Biennale and a retrospective at the Guggenheim Museum in New York. Kiefer’s pieces often confront the weight of historical narratives and are characterized by their monumental scale and somber palettes.

Continue Reading

Gerald Potterton

Animator and director of 'Heavy Metal'
Born
March 8th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 91 years old

An English-Canadian animator, director, and producer. Studied at the Royal College of Art in London. Worked on the television series 'The Magic Roundabout.' Directed the animated film 'Heavy Metal,' which gained a cult following and was released in 1981. Contributed to various other animated projects and worked in both television and film throughout a career spanning several decades.

Continue Reading

Jason Elam

American football placekicker
Born
March 8th, 1970 55 years ago

Played as a placekicker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Denver Broncos and the Miami Dolphins. Achieved distinction for consistency and accuracy throughout a 15-season career. Participated in three Super Bowls, winning two championships with the Broncos. Earned Pro Bowl selections and ranks among the all-time leaders in scoring for kickers in the league.

Continue Reading

Dick Allen

Baseball player; 1972 American League MVP
Born
March 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 4 years ago — 78 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as a first baseman and designated hitter. Had a significant career in Major League Baseball, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Atlanta Braves. Acclaimed for powerful hitting and unique style on and off the field. Achieved the American League MVP award in 1972 while playing for the White Sox, leading the league in multiple offensive categories. Inducted into various halls of fame and recognized for contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 8th

Simin Daneshvar

Iranian author and academic with 'Savushun'
Born
April 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

An Iranian author and academic, contributed significantly to Persian literature and cultural discourse. Authored 'Savushun', a celebrated novel depicting the struggles of a woman during the political upheaval in Iran. Engaged in various literary and academic activities, focusing on the representation of women in literature. Also served as an editor for various literary journals, enhancing the visibility of contemporary Iranian literature on both national and international stages.

Continue Reading

Hulusi Behçet

Turkish dermatologist and physician
Born
February 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1948 77 years ago — 59 years old

A significant figure in dermatology, developed Behçet's disease as a recognized condition in the 1930s. Conducted extensive research on various skin disorders and contributed to advancements in the field. Served as a professor of dermatology and influenced medical education in Turkey. Engaged in clinical practice while establishing a comprehensive understanding of autoimmune diseases through systematic study.

Continue Reading

Pope Celestine II

Pope and leader in the Catholic Church
Died
March 8th, 1144 881 years ago — None years old

Served as pope from 1143 until death in 1144. Elected pope during a politically turbulent period, focused on establishing a strong papal presence in the political and spiritual matters of Europe. His short tenure witnessed continued efforts to assert papal authority against secular powers. Addressed various church reforms and maintained relations with prominent rulers of the time. Deputized Church officials to oversee Christian practices in different regions, solidifying the Church's influence in governance.

Continue Reading

Ray Nitschke

Professional American football linebacker
Born
December 29th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 61 years old

A linebacker, achieved prominence in professional American football during the 1960s and 1970s. Played for the Green Bay Packers from 1958 to 1972. Contributed significantly to the team's success in winning the first two Super Bowls, Super Bowl I and Super Bowl II. Renowned for aggressive playing style and leadership on the field. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand von Zeppelin

Airship designer and businessman
Born
July 8th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1917 108 years ago — 78 years old

A German general and businessman, contributed significantly to the development of rigid airships in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Established the Zeppelin Company, which produced airships that were widely used for passenger transport and military reconnaissance. Demonstrated the practicality of air travel with the successful launch of the LZ 1 in 1900. The design and engineering principles laid the groundwork for future developments in aviation, influencing both commercial and military air travel.

Continue Reading

William III of England

King of England, Scotland and Ireland
Born
November 14th, 1650 374 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1702 323 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1650, ascended to the English throne in 1689 following the Glorious Revolution, which resulted in the deposition of James II. Became known as King William III and ruled alongside Mary II. His reign was marked by significant political changes, strengthening the constitutional monarchy in England. Oversaw the establishment of the Bill of Rights in 1689, which limited the powers of the monarchy and outlined the rights of Parliament. Led military campaigns against France during the Nine Years' War, forming an alliance with other European powers. Maintained a focus on Protestantism, contributing to the larger Protestant Reformation.

Continue Reading