John van Melle

Author and educator of South Africa

John van Melle - Author and educator of South Africa
Born

1887
138 years ago

Died

November 8th, 1953
71 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

South Africa

Links & References

Born in the Netherlands, later moved to South Africa where contributions to literature and education were significant. Engaged in various educational initiatives and authored several works that reflected cultural and social themes in South Africa. Played a key role in promoting education and literacy during a time of significant change.

Authored notable literary works in Afrikaans

Contributed to educational reforms in South Africa

Other People Who Died on November 8th

Alex Trebek

Game show host of Jeopardy!
Born
July 22nd, 1940 84 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2020 4 years ago — 80 years old

A game show host and producer, he became a prominent television personality through the long-running quiz show 'Jeopardy!', which debuted in 1964. He hosted 'Jeopardy!' from 1984 until his passing in 2020, guiding contestants in their pursuit of trivia knowledge. Trebek was awarded multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his television career. His experience in broadcasting also included hosting and producing various other shows before and during his time on 'Jeopardy!'. Trebek helped popularize quiz shows in America and became synonymous with the format.

Continue Reading

Adeodatus I

Pope during early Catholic Church formation
Died
November 8th, 618 1406 years ago — None years old

Served as pope from 615 to 618, overseeing the Catholic Church's activities during a significant period of its early development. Focused on maintaining church order and addressing various theological issues that arose during this era. Engaged with leaders of the Byzantine Empire and sought to affirm papal authority in spiritual matters. Established policies aimed at the administration of the church and its practices, contributing to the foundation for future popes.

Continue Reading

Vitaly Ginzburg

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 2003
Born
October 4th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2009 15 years ago — 93 years old

Contributions spanned theoretical physics, particularly in the areas of condensed matter physics and astrophysics. Played a key role in the development of the Ginzburg-Landau theory of superconductivity. Also served as a professor at several prestigious institutions, influencing numerous students and researchers. Investigated the properties of superfluidity and the radiation transfer in astrophysical contexts. Published extensively, contributing to the scientific literature with influential papers and books.

Continue Reading

Doc Holliday

Dentist and gambler in the Wild West
Born
August 14th, 1851 173 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1887 137 years ago — 36 years old

Trained as a dentist and practiced in Georgia. Relocated to the American West during the mid-19th century, gaining notoriety as a gambler in saloons. Became a prominent figure in gunfights, most notably participating in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona. Developed a reputation for quick wit and skill in poker, alongside a tumultuous friendship with lawman Wyatt Earp. Struggled with tuberculosis throughout his life, which influenced his decision to move westward for health reasons. Largely regarded as a legendary figure in Wild West history, embodying the lawlessness and intrigue of that era.

Continue Reading

Chiyoko Shimakura

Japanese singer and actress with a legacy
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2013 11 years ago — 75 years old

A celebrated singer and actress, contributed significantly to Japanese entertainment. Career spanned several decades, featuring a remarkable blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Gained fame as a singer of enka, a popular genre in Japan, with numerous hit songs. Acted in films and television series, showcasing versatility and depth in performances. After a prolific career, left a lasting legacy in the Japanese music and film industry.

Continue Reading

César Franck

Belgian composer and organist of symphonic works
Born
December 10th, 1822 202 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1890 134 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1822 in Belgium, a composer and organist contributed significantly to the musical landscape of the 19th century. Primarily recognized for symphonic compositions, his works include symphonies, sacred music, and chamber music. During his career, he held the position of organist at the Basilica of Saint Clotilde in Paris, where he became known for his virtuosic organ performances. Strongly linked to the French Romantic movement, Franck blended classical forms with innovative harmonic language. He also played a pivotal role in the development of the symphonic poem as a genre. His works gained popularity posthumously, influencing generations of composers.

Continue Reading