Laurent Fignon
French cyclist and sportscaster
A professional cyclist achieved prominence in the 1980s. Gained fame by winning the Tour de France twice, first in 1983 and again in 1984. Noted for a competitive rivalry with Greg LeMond that culminated in the dramatic 1989 Tour de France, where the title was decided by mere seconds. Transitioned to a career in sportscasting following retirement from cycling. Contributed insights and commentary on cycling events.
Won Tour de France in 1983 and 1984
Achieved second place in the 1989 Tour de France
Worked as a cycling commentator
Other People Born on August 12th
Buck Owens
Country music singer and songwriter
Born
August 12th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2006 19 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in country music, contributed to the genre's evolution in the 1960s. Founded the Bakersfield sound, which emphasized a more raw and electric style. Gained fame with hits such as 'Act Naturally' and 'Tiger by the Tail.' Played a significant role on the popular television show 'Hee Haw,' blending music with comedy.
Continue ReadingMichael Hagan
Rugby league player and coach
Born
August 12th, 1964 61 years ago
Played as a professional rugby league player, primarily in the position of halfback. Represented the Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby League (NRL) during the 1980s and 1990s. Transitioned to coaching after retiring as a player, serving as head coach for teams including the Newcastle Knights and the Queensland State of Origin team. Achieved success as a coach, leading teams to compete in major tournaments and finals.
Continue ReadingChristian III of Denmark
Danish monarch and Protestant reformer
Born
August 12th, 1503 522 years ago
Died
1559 467 years ago — 56 years old
Reigned as King of Denmark from 1534 until his death in 1559. His reign marked the establishment of Lutheranism as the state religion in Denmark. Implemented significant administrative reforms that strengthened royal authority and centralized power. Oversaw the introduction of the Reformation in Denmark, leading to the establishment of a Protestant church. The introduction of new laws and regulations sought to improve the economic conditions of the kingdom.
Continue ReadingWalter Dean Myers
Author and poet of young adult literature
Born
August 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
An influential author and poet, recognized for contributions to young adult literature. Wrote over 100 works, including novels, picture books, and poetry. His literature often addressed themes of identity, race, and family. Authored the award-winning novel 'Monster,' which explores the life of a teenage boy on trial for murder. Served as a National Ambassador for Young People's Literature from 2012 to 2013, advocating for literacy and the importance of reading in youth.
Continue ReadingCharlie O'Donnell
American radio and television announcer
Born
August 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 78 years old
An American announcer worked extensively in radio and television. Gained prominence as the voice of the TV game show 'Hollywood Squares'. Served as the announcer for various other game shows and television programs throughout a career spanning decades. Developed a distinctive style and became a familiar voice to audiences across America.
Continue ReadingJohn Nathan-Turner
Television producer for Doctor Who
Born
August 12th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 55 years old
An English author and television producer, significant contributions were made to the long-running series Doctor Who. Serving as producer from 1980 to 1989, introduced new elements to the series, refreshing its narrative style and character development. Oversaw the transition of the show to a more modern format and expanded its reach to new audiences. Worked on various other television projects and has written books on media and television production.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 31st
Arthur Phillip
English admiral, 1st Governor of NSW
Born
October 11th, 1738 287 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1814 211 years ago — 75 years old
An English admiral and politician served as the first Governor of New South Wales from 1788 to 1792. Phillip commanded the First Fleet, which established the first European colony in Australia. His leadership facilitated the initial settlement and helped lay the foundations for the future development of Sydney.
Continue ReadingJohann Gottlieb Heineccius
German jurist and academic scholar
Born
September 11th, 1681 344 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1741 284 years ago — 59 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of legal education and scholarship in Germany. Focused on the teaching of law at the University of Halle, where rigorous academic principles were introduced. Authored numerous works on the foundations of law, emphasizing the integration of moral philosophy into legal studies. Helped shape modern legal thought through systematic analysis and synthesis of laws.
Continue ReadingDavid Frost
Journalist and game show host
Born
April 7th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
An English journalist and television host, primarily recognized for interviewing prominent political figures and hosting influential programs. Frost gained significant attention for a series of interviews with former President Richard Nixon, providing insight into Watergate's controversies. Additionally, hosted the British television quiz show 'Auction Party' and 'Frost on Sunday' which combined news and entertainment. Throughout a career spanning several decades, influenced television journalism and political interviews in the UK.
Continue ReadingLouis Antoine de Bougainville
French Admiral and Explorer
Born
November 12th, 1729 296 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1811 214 years ago — 81 years old
An admiral and explorer, contributed to the exploration of the Pacific Ocean. Participated in the Seven Years' War and later commanded France's first South Pacific expedition. His voyage, which lasted from 1766 to 1769, provided insights into the peoples and geography of the region. Authored works that detailed these explorations, influencing maritime navigation and knowledge of the Pacific islands.
Continue ReadingEmīls Dārziņš
Latvian composer and conductor
Born
November 3rd, 1875 150 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1910 115 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1875, a notable Latvian composer and conductor contributed significantly to the music of Latvia. Received education in music at the St. Petersburg Conservatory. Worked as a conductor for various orchestras and was actively involved in promoting choral music and folk songs. Composed symphonic works, operas, and numerous songs that reflect national themes and the spirit of Latvian culture. Dārziņš also played a vital role in the early development of Latvian classical music and music education.
Continue ReadingLionel Hampton
Vibraphone player and bandleader
Born
April 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2002 23 years ago — 94 years old
An American vibraphone player, pianist, bandleader, and actor, achieved prominence in the jazz genre from the 1930s onward. Gained recognition as a member of the Benny Goodman Quartet, contributing to the popularization of the vibraphone in jazz music. Led his own band and became a pivotal figure in the big band era. Achieved significant acclaim for performances that bridged jazz and popular music, also participated in television and film as an entertainer.
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