Kader Asmal

South African politician and academic

Kader Asmal - South African politician and academic
Born

October 8th, 1934
90 years ago

Died

2011
14 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

South Africa

Links & References

An academic and politician with significant contributions to South Africa's education system and policy reform. Played a pivotal role during the transition from apartheid to democracy. Served as a member of the African National Congress and held various ministerial positions. Actively advocated for human rights and democratic values throughout his career. Also involved in drafting important legislation to improve access to education and promote social justice.

Served as Minister of Education from 1994 to 1999

Contributed to the post-apartheid education reform

Played a role in the drafting of the South African Constitution

Other People Born on October 8th

Angus T. Jones

American actor from Two and a Half Men
Born
October 8th, 1993 31 years ago

An American actor gained prominence through the role of Jake Harper on the television series 'Two and a Half Men', which aired from 2003 to 2015. The character, a young boy, provided comedic moments and captured significant attention during the show's run. Jones appeared in over 200 episodes, becoming one of the highest-paid child actors in television. Following his departure from the series, he explored other interests and shifted focus away from acting.

Continue Reading

Darrell Hammond

Comedian and actor on Saturday Night Live
Born
October 8th, 1955 69 years ago

This individual gained prominence as a comedian and actor through his long tenure on the sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live. His impressions of various public figures became a defining feature of his performances. He joined the cast in 1995 and became the longest-serving cast member. Additionally, he provided the voice of the character in the animated series The Simpsons. Hammond also authored a memoir detailing personal struggles, with reflections on his career and life experiences.

Continue Reading

Walter Gretzky

Ice hockey coach and author
Born
October 8th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a coach and mentor in ice hockey, providing guidance to young players and contributing to the sport through his extensive knowledge and experience. Authored several books sharing insights about the game and personal experiences. Played a significant role in developing future generations of hockey talent in Canada.

Continue Reading

Toru Takemitsu

Composer and musician renowned for 'Corona'
Born
October 8th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent Japanese composer, pianist, and guitarist, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Born in 1930, began composing in the 1950s, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese music and Western classical forms. Collaborated with various notable musicians and artists throughout the career, including conducting performances of own compositions. The work 'Corona for Strings' received particular acclaim, showcasing innovative orchestration and the blending of styles. Additionally, composed film scores, enhancing cinematic storytelling in numerous Japanese films. Earned a distinguished reputation in both the national and international music scenes before passing in 1996.

Continue Reading

Harriet Taylor Mill

Philosopher and women's rights advocate
Born
October 8th, 1807 217 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1858 166 years ago — 51 years old

Born in England in 1807, a prominent philosopher and advocate for women's rights emerged as a key figure in the 19th century. Collaborated extensively with her husband, John Stuart Mill, on various philosophical works and social reform issues. Contributed to the discourse on equality, particularly in the context of women's suffrage and liberation. Authored essays that explored the conditions of women in society and broader philosophical themes such as liberty and justice.

Continue Reading

Bella Thorne

American actress and filmmaker
Born
October 8th, 1997 27 years ago

In film and television, an actress gained prominence through roles in the Disney Channel series 'Shake It Up' and movies such as 'The Duff' and 'The Babysitter'. Additionally, she ventured into directing with the film 'Puppet'. Thorne identified as a creative force in both acting and filmmaking, and her work often turned towards themes of empowerment and personal expression. Also known for significant contributions to the music industry, she released several singles showcasing her artistic versatility.

Continue Reading