Karl-Otto Koch
German SS officer in World War II
Served as an officer in the Schutzstaffel (SS) during World War II, leading various operations. Oversaw the concentration camps at Buchenwald and later at Dachau. Became involved in various activities associated with the Nazi regime's internment and extermination efforts. His actions as a camp commandant were marked by brutality and harsh conditions for prisoners. Arrested in 1945 by fellow SS members and faced charges for corruption and abuse.
Oversaw Buchenwald concentration camp
Commanded Dachau concentration camp
Charged with corruption and abuse
Other People Born on August 2nd
Anthony Seldon
Historian and author on contemporary politics
Born
August 2nd, 1953 72 years ago
A historian focused on contemporary British political history and education. Authored several books, including a biography of former Prime Minister Tony Blair. Served as the Headmaster of Brighton College and the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buckingham. Regularly contributed to discussions on politics and governance in various media outlets.
Continue ReadingGiampaolo Pazzini
Italian footballer and striker
Born
August 2nd, 1984 41 years ago
Born in 1984, this footballer began his career at Atalanta, progressing to play for clubs like Fiorentina, Sampdoria, and Inter Milan. During his time at Sampdoria, he gained recognition for his goal-scoring ability. His tenure at Inter Milan included winning the Serie A title. The player also represented the Italian national team, earning caps and participating in international competitions. Later, he played for various clubs in Italy's Serie A and abroad, contributing to the teams with his striking prowess.
Continue ReadingIke Williams
Professional boxer, lightweight champion
Born
August 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1994 32 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1923, this American boxer competed primarily in the lightweight division during the mid-20th century. A prominent figure in boxing, he captured the World Lightweight title and became a significant competitor in his weight class. His boxing career included a series of high-profile fights against top contenders. After retiring from the sport, he continued to be a part of the boxing community, mentoring young athletes and participating in various events.
Continue ReadingAndrew Gold
Singer-songwriter known for "Thank You for Being a Friend"
Born
August 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 14 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1951, this American singer-songwriter and producer gained prominence in the 1970s. Played key roles as a session musician and solo artist. Achieved significant recognition with the hit single "Thank You for Being a Friend," which became synonymous with the television series "The Golden Girls." Also produced music for artists like Linda Ronstadt and had his own charting songs. Continued to write and record music throughout his career until his passing in 2011.
Continue ReadingSamuel Dirksz van Hoogstraten
Dutch painter and art theorist
Born
August 2nd, 1627 398 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1678 347 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1627, van Hoogstraten became a prominent figure in the Dutch Golden Age of painting. His work is characterized by the use of light and shadow, creating an illusion of depth. He studied under Rembrandt and developed a unique style that blended realism with an interest in the perception of space. Van Hoogstraten was also an art theoretician, contributing to the discourse on perspective and composition through his writings, particularly his treatise 'Illustration of the Art of Painting'. Throughout his career, he produced numerous still lifes and genre scenes, effectively demonstrating his skill in depicting textures and materials.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste du Casse
French admiral and buccaneer
Born
August 2nd, 1646 379 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1715 310 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1646, the individual served as a prominent French admiral and buccaneer. His naval career included significant engagements in the Caribbean during the late 17th century. The individual played a crucial role in securing French naval interests and led several successful raids against Spanish territories. Notably, this admiral commanded French naval forces that captured key locations, contributing to the expansion of French colonial power in the region.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Paul Ritter
English actor in 'Friday Night Dinner'
Born
1966 60 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2021 4 years ago — 55 years old
An English actor, starred in various television and film productions. Gained widespread recognition for the role of Martin Goodman in the television series 'Friday Night Dinner'. Featured in notable films such as 'The Other Boleyn Girl' and 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince'. Acted in several stage productions and received critical acclaim for performances in the theatre, especially in works like 'The Homecoming'.
Continue ReadingJuliana of Liège
Belgian canoness and saint
Died
April 5th, 1258 767 years ago — None years old
Served as a canoness in Liège, played a significant role in the establishment of the Feast of the Corpus Christi. Had visions that influenced the Catholic Church's approach to the Eucharist. Recognized for her devout life and dedication to spiritual matters.
Continue ReadingIsao Takahata
Japanese film director and co-founder
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2018 7 years ago — 83 years old
A director and co-founder of Studio Ghibli, contributed significantly to animated cinema. Directed acclaimed films like 'Grave of the Fireflies' and 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya', showcasing depth in storytelling and animation. Worked with notable animator Hayao Miyazaki to create a unique cinematic style that gained international recognition.
Continue ReadingNikolaos Pappas
Greek Navy admiral recognized for leadership
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
Served in the Hellenic Navy with various positions leading to the rank of admiral. Held significant leadership roles and contributed to naval operations during crucial periods. Advocated for advancements in naval strategy and capabilities within the Greek military framework. Influenced naval policy and training programs, ensuring preparedness and modernity in maritime defense strategies. His career reflected dedicated service to the nation through strategic planning and execution of naval missions.
Continue ReadingPaul O'Neill
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
February 25th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 54 years old
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball, primarily with the New York Yankees. Contributed to the team's success in the late 1990s, winning four World Series titles. After retirement, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary for Yankee games.
Continue ReadingSydney Brenner
Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 13th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 92 years old
Significant contributions to molecular biology and genetics occurred throughout a distinguished career. Pioneered research on the development of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism, which provided insights into gene function and development. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Human Genome Project, leading to groundbreaking advancements in genomics. Recognized for efforts in unifying the fields of genetics and developmental biology, contributing foundational knowledge in the study of life sciences.
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