Kofi Annan
Diplomat and 7th UN Secretary-General
An economist and diplomat served as the 7th Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006. Played a significant role in international diplomacy and global peace efforts. Oversaw major initiatives including the UN Millennium Development Goals and efforts to reform the UN. Most notably, received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001 alongside the United Nations for their work in fostering a better organized and more peaceful world.
Served as UN Secretary-General from 1997 to 2006
Won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001
Led initiatives on global health and development
Other People Born on April 8th
David Wu
Lawyer and politician; U.S. Congressman
Born
April 8th, 1955 70 years ago
A Taiwanese-American lawyer and politician served as a U.S. Congressman from Oregon's 1st congressional district from 1999 to 2011. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during tenure. Advocated for issues related to education, health care, and civil rights. Worked on the House Committee on Education and Labor, focusing on improving public education and labor rights. Resigned from Congress amid controversy in 2011.
Continue ReadingPaddy Lowe
Automotive engineer and racing executive
Born
April 8th, 1962 63 years ago
An English engineer specialized in motorsport engineering. Worked with various teams in Formula One, including Williams, McLaren, and Mercedes. Played a pivotal role in developing winning cars that contributed to multiple Constructors' Championships. Instrumental in bringing technological advancements to racing, enhancing vehicle performance and safety. Held the position of Technical Director and contributed to championship-winning seasons at McLaren and Mercedes.
Continue ReadingSeth Tobias
American businessman and investor.
Born
April 8th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 44 years old
Started a career in finance focused on asset management. Co-founded an investment firm, successfully managing various investment portfolios. Became well-known within financial circles for strategic investment decisions. Engaged in philanthropic efforts and local community initiatives, supporting various charitable organizations. Actively participated in discussions on financial trends and investment strategies.
Continue ReadingBrian McDermott
Football manager and player for Reading
Born
April 8th, 1961 64 years ago
Played professionally in football primarily as a midfielder. Initiated a management career with various teams, most notably leading Reading FC to the Football League Championship title in the 2011-12 season. Guided the team through several seasons in the Premier League, achieving notable success. During his playing career, represented several clubs including the likes of Arsenal and Cardiff City.
Continue ReadingGary Carter
Professional baseball player and coach
Born
April 8th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 57 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the New York Mets and the Montreal Expos. Achieved notable recognition for contributing to the Mets' victory in the 1986 World Series. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, sharing knowledge and experience with younger players. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003, celebrating a successful career with multiple All-Star appearances.
Continue ReadingAlain Bondue
French cyclist, 1980 Olympic competitor
Born
April 8th, 1959 66 years ago
Competed as a professional cyclist and participated in the Olympic Games. Made a significant mark in cycling events during the 1980s. Achieved notable results in various national and international competitions, representing France. His career included participation in road racing and track cycling, showcasing talent and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 18th
Phil Donahue
Television talk show host and producer
Born
December 21st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
A television talk show host and producer played a central role in pioneering the daytime talk show format. The career began in local television before launching a nationally syndicated program, 'The Phil Donahue Show', in 1970. The show became one of the longest-running talk shows in history, renowned for addressing controversial topics and encouraging audience participation. This innovative format set the stage for future talk shows and established a new genre of programming.
Continue ReadingGordon Faber
American politician and soldier, Mayor
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 39th Mayor of Hillsboro, Oregon, from 1993 to 2005. Had a distinguished career in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Colonel. Engaged in local politics following military service, contributing to community development and urban planning in Hillsboro. Remarkably oversaw significant growth and development in the city during tenure as mayor, focusing on infrastructure and public services. Involved in various local organizations and initiatives to enhance community well-being.
Continue ReadingLevente Lengyel
Hungarian chess player and competitor
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Chess player achieved success in national and international competitions. Participated in several Chess Olympiads representing Hungary. Contributed to the chess community through coaching and mentorship, influencing upcoming players in the region. Competed in various prestigious tournaments throughout career, demonstrating skills in both classical and rapid formats.
Continue ReadingRuth Johnson Colvin
Literacy advocate and author
Born
December 16th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 107 years old
An American author and educator, dedicated efforts focused on adult literacy and education. Founded ProLiteracy Worldwide, an organization aimed at improving literacy rates across the globe. Developed innovative programs and resources to support adult learners. Actively collaborated with various organizations to enhance educational outreach and access for underprivileged populations.
Continue ReadingMichael Deaver
Deputy White House Chief of Staff
Born
April 11th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old
Served as Deputy White House Chief of Staff under President Ronald Reagan. Played a key role in the public relations strategy of the Reagan administration. Was influential in crafting the administration's image and communications. Worked on the 1984 presidential campaign, which resulted in Reagan's re-election. Continued a career in political consulting after leaving the government, advising clients on strategy and public image.
Continue ReadingKhaled al-Asaad
Syrian archaeologist and author
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of ancient sites in Syria, particularly within the Palmyra region. Worked as the head of antiquities at the Palmyra Museum and dedicated efforts to preserve and document archaeological artifacts. Authored publications on the history and significance of the Palmyra ruins, influencing the field of archaeology. Captured and executed by ISIS in 2015 for refusing to reveal the location of hidden artifacts.
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