Kristin Hersh
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Throwing Muses
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed to the alternative rock scene as a founding member of the band Throwing Muses. Released critically acclaimed solo albums alongside band projects. Known for unique vocal style and poetic lyricism, which draws from personal experiences and emotions. Collaborated with various artists and influenced a generation of musicians through innovative songwriting and performances.
Formed the band Throwing Muses in 1981
Released solo album 'Hips and Maker' in 1994
Published memoir 'Rat Girl' in 2010
Other People Born on August 7th
James Randi
Stage magician and author of 'Flim-Flam!'
Born
August 7th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2020 5 years ago — 92 years old
A stage magician, author, and skeptic engaged in debunking paranormal claims and pseudoscience. Founded the James Randi Educational Foundation, which promoted critical thinking and scientific skepticism. Gained recognition through stage performances under the name 'The Amazing Randi', showcasing illusions and magic. Authored the book 'Flim-Flam!: The Truth About Unicorns, Paranormal Claims, and Other Mysteries of the Mind', where critical thinking and examination of the paranormal were emphasized.
Continue ReadingDon Larsen
Baseball player, perfect game pitcher
Born
August 7th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2020 6 years ago — 90 years old
An American baseball player achieved prominence as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the New York Yankees, notable for throwing a perfect game in the 1956 World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. This achievement remains a significant highlight in World Series history, marking the only perfect game ever pitched in the Series. After his stellar performance in 1956, spent time with other teams such as the Chicago White Sox and the Kansas City Athletics before retiring from professional baseball.
Continue ReadingJimmy Wales
Entrepreneur, co-founder of Wikipedia
Born
August 7th, 1966 59 years ago
An entrepreneur played a pivotal role in the creation of Wikipedia, a widely used online encyclopedia that allows users to collaboratively edit content. The platform was launched in 2001 and quickly gained popularity for its open-source model. In addition to Wikipedia, the entrepreneur co-founded Wikia, a wiki hosting service. Engaged in various initiatives advocating for free knowledge and internet freedom, involvement in the fields of technology and education has been significant.
Continue ReadingAbebe Bikila
Marathon runner, Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 7th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1973 52 years ago — 41 years old
Achieved worldwide recognition as a long-distance runner. Competed in the marathon at the 1960 Rome Olympics, finishing in a time of 2:15:16. Displayed remarkable endurance and skill, becoming the first athlete to win an Olympic marathon while running barefoot. Defended the Olympic title at the 1964 Tokyo Games, setting a new world record with a time of 2:12:11. His accomplishments brought attention to Ethiopian athletics and inspired future generations of runners.
Continue ReadingNathanael Greene
American general during the Revolution
Born
August 7th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1786 239 years ago — 43 years old
Served as a major general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Appointed quartermaster general, significantly improved supply lines for troops. Led decisive engagements such as the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, which weakened British forces in the South. Played a crucial role in the Siege of Yorktown, contributing to the ultimate victory against British troops.
Continue ReadingRobert Mueller
FBI Director and American lawyer
Born
August 7th, 1944 81 years ago
Served as the 6th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 2001 to 2013. Oversaw the FBI during the September 11 attacks and the subsequent shift in priorities towards counterterrorism. Practiced law in various capacities and was appointed as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California before leading the FBI. After leaving the FBI, served as Special Counsel for the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
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