Konstantin von Neurath
German politician, Foreign Affairs Minister
Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Germany during the early to mid-20th century. Held the position of Reich Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1932 to 1938. Participated in several key diplomatic negotiations and represented Germany at international conferences. His tenure was marked by challenges in foreign policy amidst the rising tensions in Europe leading up to World War II. After the war, faced trials for war crimes.
Served as Reich Minister of Foreign Affairs
Participated in diplomatic negotiations
Other People Born on February 2nd
James Joyce
Irish novelist and modernist writer
Born
February 2nd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1941 84 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in modernist literature, a groundbreaking novelist, short story writer, and poet. The most substantial works include 'Ulysses', a complex and innovative retelling of Homer's epic, set in Dublin. 'A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man' presents a semi-autobiographical account of the development of an artist through a personal and social lens. 'Dubliners', a collection of short stories, captures the life of Dublin's inhabitants with rich detail and depth. Joyce's unique narrative techniques and stream-of-consciousness style significantly influenced 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingFrederick Lane
Australian swimmer and Olympic champion
Born
February 2nd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1969 56 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished swimmer specializing in freestyle events, competed in the early 20th century. Won two gold medals at the 1900 Paris Olympics in the 200 meters and 400 meters freestyle events. Set multiple world records during his career and was a prominent figure in the sport at the time. His achievements contributed to the popularity of swimming in Australia and laid the groundwork for future generations of swimmers.
Continue ReadingMary-Dell Chilton
Chemist and pioneer of plant biotechnology
Born
February 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Contributions to plant biotechnology include the development of techniques for genetic engineering of plants. Played a significant role in the advent of recombinant DNA technology in plants. Co-founded a notable biotechnology company that further advanced agricultural science. Received many awards for groundbreaking work that established new methodologies in the field.
Continue ReadingTochigiyama Moriya
Japanese sumo wrestler, 27th Yokozuna
Born
February 2nd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Japan, this sumo wrestler achieved the prestigious rank of Yokozuna, the highest in the sport. Competing during the early 20th century, this athlete earned recognition for his skill and power in the ring. With a career that spanned over a decade, he showcased his abilities and contributed to the popularity of sumo wrestling in Japan. His style and technique provided a template for future wrestlers in the sport.
Continue ReadingLes Dawson
Comedian and author, classic humorist
Born
February 2nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1993 32 years ago — 62 years old
An English comedian and author widely recognized for a unique brand of humor that often combined wit and pathos. Career began in the 1950s with a focus on stand-up comedy, leading to numerous performances on television. Gained prominence through appearances on shows such as 'The Les Dawson Show' and 'Blankety Blank'. Authored several books, sharing personal anecdotes and comedic observations. Emphasized the comedic potential of everyday life and relationships, which resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingThomas M. Disch
American author and poet of science fiction
Born
February 2nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2008 17 years ago — 68 years old
An author and poet, this individual contributed significantly to science fiction literature. Writings included novels, poetry, and essays, showcasing a unique style and imagination. Works ranged from dystopian narratives to critiques of contemporary society. The individual also engaged in literary criticism and was influential in the science fiction community. In addition to writing, poetry collections were published, with themes often exploring human existence and the complexities of modern life. This individual was an advocate for the genre, participating in various literary discussions and panels.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 14th
Saitō Tatsuoki
Japanese daimyō during Sengoku period
Born
1548 477 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1573 452 years ago — 25 years old
Served as a daimyō in the Mino Province during the Sengoku period. Controlled the Saitō clan and held power from 1556 until 1573. Faced significant challenges during his rule, including conflicts with rival clans. His tenure marked notable events in the power struggles of feudal Japan, particularly his opposition to the Takeda clan. Ultimately, lost power to Oda Nobunaga, leading to a swift decline of his clan.
Continue ReadingGena Rowlands
Film and television actress, The Notebook
Born
June 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2024 1 years ago — 94 years old
Gena Rowlands is an American actress recognized for significant contributions to film and television. Rising to prominence in the 1950s, she received acclaim for outstanding performances in independent films, particularly those directed by her former husband, John Cassavetes. Starred in 'A Woman Under the Influence' and 'Faces,' both showcasing her ability to portray complex emotional characters. In 2004, starred in 'The Notebook,' which gained a cult following and solidified her status in popular culture. Throughout her career, she earned three Primetime Emmy Awards and nominations for prestigious Academy Awards. Rowlands' work spans several genres, emphasizing character-driven narratives that explore human experiences.
Continue ReadingMichael Aung-Thwin
Historian of Southeast Asian history
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2021 4 years ago — 75 years old
A historian and scholar specialized in Burmese and Southeast Asian history. Contributed significantly to the understanding of the region's historical narratives. Published works include 'The Mists of Ramanna: Culture and Process in the Restoration of the Burmese Empire' and 'Burmese History in the British Period: 1824-1948'. Played a crucial role in academics and research related to Southeast Asia. Worked at various institutions where scholarship influenced the study of this region.
Continue ReadingGeorge V. Hansen
American politician and congressman
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a U.S. Representative from Idaho from 1975 to 1985. Participated in various legislative efforts and was involved in prominent political issues during his tenure. Elected to the House as a member of the Republican Party, played a role in shaping policies related to agriculture, natural resources, and transportation. After leaving Congress, continued to engage in public speaking and political commentary.
Continue ReadingSergiu Celibidache
Conductor celebrated for conducting Mahler
Born
July 11th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1996 29 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Romania, a renowned conductor and composer, excelled in the interpretation of orchestral works, particularly those of Mahler, Strauss, and Bruckner. Held prominent positions with various orchestras including the Munich Philharmonic and the Berlin Philharmonic. Known for a unique style that emphasized sound quality and the depth of interpretation. Worked extensively in both Europe and the United States, and was influential in shaping the performance practices of the 20th century. His commitment to the aesthetic values of music education and sound led to a distinct legacy within the conducting community.
Continue ReadingHelmut Rahn
German footballer and World Cup champion
Born
August 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2003 22 years ago — 73 years old
This footballer played as a forward and is primarily associated with FC Schalke 04. He achieved significant success with the West Germany national team, contributing to their victory in the 1954 FIFA World Cup. Renowned for his goal-scoring ability, he scored two goals in the final match against Hungary, securing a historic win often referred to as the 'Miracle of Bern'. His career spanned the late 1940s to the early 1960s, during which he became a prominent figure in German football.
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