Jonathan M. Wainwright
American general, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1883, served as a general in the United States Army during World War II. Commanded forces in the Philippines, especially during the early stages of the Japanese invasion. Surrendered at Corregidor in 1942, enduring significant hardships as a prisoner of war. Demonstrated resilience and leadership in captivity, ultimately awarded the Medal of Honor in 1945 for his service and bravery.
Commanded forces in the Philippines
Surrendered at Corregidor
Awarded the Medal of Honor
Other People Born on August 23rd
Volin
Anarchist intellectual from Russia
Born
August 23rd, 1882 144 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1945 81 years ago — 63 years old
An influential anarchist intellectual engaged in revolutionary politics in early 20th-century Russia. Participated in the Russian Revolution, advocating for a form of anarchism that emphasized worker's self-management and autonomy. Contributed significantly to anarchist literature and theory, particularly through the publication of 'La Révolte' and 'The Unknown Revolution'. His writings articulated a vision of a stateless society rooted in voluntary cooperation and direct democracy. After the revolution, faced persecution and fled to Western Europe, where continued advocacy for anarchist principles took place.
Continue ReadingLouis XVI of France
French monarch during the French Revolution
Born
August 23rd, 1754 272 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1793 233 years ago — 38 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1774, a reign characterized by financial difficulties and political turmoil. Faced challenges from Enlightenment ideas and calls for reform in France. Attempted to implement fiscal reforms but faced resistance from the nobility. Initiated the Estates-General in 1789, leading to the French Revolution. Captured in 1792 and put on trial for treason, resulting in execution by guillotine in 1793.
Continue ReadingTrixie Mattel
Drag queen, actor, and country singer
Born
August 23rd, 1989 37 years ago
This individual rose to prominence as a drag performer and gained widespread recognition after winning the third season of RuPaul's Drag Race: All Stars. Successful as a musician, released multiple albums, including the critically acclaimed 'One Stone' and 'Moving Parts'. Additionally, starred in the web series 'UNHhhh' alongside fellow drag performer Katya Zamolodchikova, showcasing a blend of humor and commentary. Known for a distinctive style characterized by exaggerated makeup and Barbie doll aesthetics, this performer has become an influential figure in the drag community and LGBTQ+ culture.
Continue ReadingMartin Cauchon
Canadian Lawyer, 46th Justice Minister
Born
August 23rd, 1962 64 years ago
A Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the 46th Minister of Justice and Attorney General in the early 2000s. Focused on various legal reforms and legislative initiatives during the term. Played a role in the development of the same-sex marriage legislation in Canada. Elected as a Member of Parliament, representing the riding of Outremont for the Liberal Party. Contributed to the legal landscape and political discussions during a significant period in Canadian politics.
Continue ReadingSky Blu
Rapper and DJ; part of LMFAO
Born
August 23rd, 1986 40 years ago
Born in 1986, this American rapper and DJ gained fame as a member of the musical duo LMFAO. The project, formed in 2006, achieved significant commercial success with hits such as "Party Rock Anthem" and "Sexy and I Know It." A vibrant blend of hip-hop and dance music characterized their style, and the duo became known for high-energy performances and colorful visuals. While the group enjoyed massive hits, the artist also pursued a solo career with his own music projects and ventures in entertainment. The impact of LMFAO's music was evident in popular culture, particularly in the early 2010s when dance clubs were dominated by their infectious tracks.
Continue ReadingGene Kelly
Actor and dancer in Singing in the Rain
Born
August 23rd, 1912 114 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1996 30 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, singer, dancer, and director prominently featured in musical films during the mid-20th century. Best remembered for choreography and performances in iconic films, particularly in 'Singing in the Rain.' Also directed and choreographed several productions, showcasing a unique blend of dance and film. Played a pivotal role in popularizing the musical genre, leaving a lasting legacy in cinematic history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
Elvera Sanchez
American dancer with The Joffrey Ballet
Born
1905 121 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2000 26 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent dancer and choreographer, contributed significantly to the art of ballet. Joined The Joffrey Ballet and showcased extraordinary talent on stage, becoming an integral part of its evolution. Participated in numerous performances, earning recognition in the dance community. Established a legacy within the ballet world through dedication and artistry.
Continue ReadingHenry Austin Dobson
English poet and author known for poetry
Born
January 18th, 1840 186 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1921 105 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1840, a prominent poet and author contributed significantly to English literature. An advocate of metrical poetry, engaged in literary circles of the 19th century. Authored works that reflected themes of nostalgia and romanticism. Contributed to various periodicals, gained recognition for refined verse and wit. Later works included biographical and critical studies of fellow writers.
Continue ReadingJames Darren
Actor known for 'Gidget' and 'T.J. Hooker'
Born
June 8th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2024 2 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor and singer, gained prominence during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in the television series 'Gidget' as Moondoggie and later portrayed Lieutenant Jim Corrigan in the series 'T.J. Hooker'. Achieved success in music with hits such as 'Goodbye Cruel World'. Also appeared in films like 'The Guns of Navarone' and 'The Golden Spoon'. In addition to acting, Darren has enjoyed a career in music, releasing albums that resonate with his film and television audiences.
Continue ReadingWilli Ninja
Choreographer and voguing pioneer
Born
1961 65 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2006 20 years ago — 45 years old
An influential figure in the dance scene, this individual gained recognition as a pioneering voguer and choreographer. During the 1980s and 1990s, contributed significantly to the development of the voguing dance style, which emerged from the ballroom culture of New York City. Collaborated with several prominent artists and appeared in the documentary 'Paris is Burning.' Established a reputation as a mentor for many dancers in the ballroom community, emphasizing the importance of performance and personal expression.
Continue ReadingIslam Karimov
Politician, 1st President of Uzbekistan
Born
January 30th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2016 10 years ago — 78 years old
Held the position of the first President of Uzbekistan from 1991 until death in 2016. Served as the Secretary of the Communist Party of Uzbekistan from 1989 to 1990. Oversaw the country's transition to independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Implemented policies aimed at maintaining political stability and state control over the economy.
Continue ReadingMark Abrahamian
Guitarist for the band Shadowfax
Born
1966 60 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2012 14 years ago — 46 years old
A guitarist, contributed to the fusion and world music genres. Played with the instrumental band Shadowfax, which gained popularity in the 1980s. Released several albums that blended jazz, rock, and folk influences. Shadowfax received a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Performance in 1988 for their album 'Shadows'. Abrahamian's playing style incorporated both technical skill and an emotional depth, earning recognition among peers and fans alike.
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