Karl-Otto Koch
German SS officer in World War II

Born
August 2nd, 1897
128 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1945
80 years ago — 47 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
Germany
Links & References
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
Kristaps Porziņģis
Born in Latvia in 1995, a basketball player gained attention as a skilled center and power forward. Moved to the NBA, where select teams included the New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and the Boston Celtics. Achieved recognition for versatility, shot-blocking, and three-point shooting. Selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Knicks. Earned an NBA All-Star selection in 2018, showcasing performance and skill at a high level. Contributed to international competitions representing Latvia, helping to elevate the profile of basketball in the country.
Continue ReadingJD Vance
Elected as Vice President of the United States in 2024, played a significant role in political discourse through the lens of his experiences in Ohio. Authored a memoir titled "Hillbilly Elegy" which examined the plight of working-class Americans, contributing to national conversations on culture and socioeconomic issues. Served as a venture capitalist and established a legal career prior to entering politics, further shaping perspectives on economic development.
Continue ReadingLinda Fratianne
Achieved prominence in figure skating during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Won the gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, becoming a significant figure in the sport. Also secured the title at the World Figure Skating Championships in 1977 and 1979. Retired from competitive skating and contributed to the sport as a coach and choreographer, influencing future generations of skaters.
Continue ReadingEric Simms
A rugby league player and coach had a notable career primarily with the St. George Dragons. Played as a fullback in the New South Wales Rugby League, achieving recognition for performance during the 1960s and 1970s. Coached teams in subsequent years, contributing to the development of the sport at the club level.
Continue ReadingDave Balon
A professional ice hockey player and coach, made significant contributions to the sport. Played for the New York Rangers, the Detroit Red Wings, and the Minnesota North Stars. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, guiding players in various leagues. Participated in the NHL during the 1960s and 1970s.
Continue ReadingAlbert Bloch
A significant figure in American modernism, contributed to the development of regionalist and expressionist art movements. Worked as a painter and educator, influencing many students during a teaching career spanning several decades. Participated in prominent exhibitions and was a member of the innovative St. Louis art scene. Created various significant works that represented the landscape and social life of the time, often characterized by bold colors and emotional intensity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Carlos Prío Socarrás
Served as President of Cuba from 1948 until 1952. His term was marked by political instability and growing opposition from various groups, including Fidel Castro's movement. Prío Socarrás sought to modernize the Cuban economy and improve relations with the United States. His administration faced challenges such as corruption, labor strikes, and rising unrest. In March 1952, a military coup led by Fulgencio Batista ousted him from power, which resulted in his exile. After the coup, he lived in various countries, including the United States and Mexico, until returning to Cuba after the Cuban Revolution in later years. Prío Socarrás passed away in 1977.
Continue ReadingEmilio Greco
An Italian sculptor and engraver, this individual became prominent in the 20th century for creating artworks that reflected a deep understanding of the human form. Greco's work in bronze and stone showcased a unique stylistic approach, characterized by fluidity and emotion. Significant contributions to monumental art were made, particularly in Siena, where many of his sculptures were installed. Greco also worked in various prestigious settings, including exhibitions across Europe and the United States. His artistic legacy includes a blend of traditional techniques and modern interpretations, making his pieces highly regarded in art circles.
Continue ReadingAlla Tarasova
A prominent ballerina, gained renown for performances in classical ballet during the early 20th century. Contributed significantly to the Bolshoi Theatre as a principal dancer and choreographer. Participated in various ballet productions that showcased technical skill and artistry. After a successful performing career, transitioned into choreography, influencing future generations of dancers.
Continue ReadingBaruch Samuel Blumberg
A physician and geneticist contributed significantly to medical science. Discovered the Hepatitis B virus, leading to the development of a vaccine that has saved millions of lives. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for the discovery of the virus. Served as a professor and director at various institutions, which included the quest for new ways to combat viral diseases.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Tucci
An Italian scholar specialized in the study of Asian cultures, contributed significantly to the understanding of Tibetan and Indian culture through extensive research and exploration. Conducted numerous expeditions through Asia in the early to mid-20th century, documenting languages, religions, and art forms. Established important academic institutions and fostered cultural exchange, which enriched Western understanding of Eastern traditions. Authored several influential books and papers that served as primary sources in the field of oriental studies.
Continue ReadingBarney McKenna
Originally from Dublin, a prominent figure in Irish traditional music, playing the banjo and tenor banjo. Co-founded the famous folk group The Dubliners in 1962, which contributed significantly to the global popularity of Irish folk music. Performed for decades, showcasing unique instrumentation and storytelling in songs. Contributed to numerous albums and appeared in various television and festival events, promoting Irish cultural heritage. His work influenced many musicians in the genre, and he continued to perform until his passing in 2012.
Continue Reading