Louis of Toulouse
French bishop and canonized saint
Served as the Bishop of Taranto in Italy. Renowned for a life dedicated to the church and service to the poor. Founded several religious institutions and promoted the Franciscan Order. Canonized as a saint in 1970 by Pope Paul VI for his piety and dedication to his duties as a bishop.
Bishop of Taranto
Canonization by Pope Paul VI
Other People Born on February 9th
Ronald Colman
Actor in 'A Tale of Two Cities'
Born
February 9th, 1891 135 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1958 68 years ago — 67 years old
Born in England, pursued a career in acting, moving to the United States in the 1910s. Achieved prominence in Hollywood during the 1920s and 1930s, starring in silent films and later transitioning to talkies. Gained acclaim for performances in classic films including 'A Tale of Two Cities', 'The Prisoner of Zenda', and 'Random Harvest'. Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for 'A Double Life' in 1948, solidifying a legacy in film history.
Continue ReadingTariq Sims
Rugby league player, NRL representative
Born
February 9th, 1990 36 years ago
A rugby league player with Australian-Fijian heritage, played as a second-row forward. Made his first-grade debut for the Newcastle Knights in 2011. Later joined the St George Illawarra Dragons, where he contributed to the team's efforts in the National Rugby League (NRL). Represented Fiji internationally, participating in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. Known for his strong defensive skills and dynamic play style.
Continue ReadingAnthony Hope
English author and playwright, The Prisoner of Zenda
Born
February 9th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1933 92 years ago — 70 years old
An English author and playwright contributed significantly to literature in the late 19th century. Best remembered for the adventure novel 'The Prisoner of Zenda' published in 1894, which became a classic of the genre and inspired numerous adaptations. Other works include 'Rupert of Hentzau' and various plays. Hope's writing combined elements of romance and adventure, establishing a template followed by later writers of romantic fiction. In addition to fiction, engaged in theatrical works, producing several plays during his career. Hope's narrative style and innovative storylines left a lasting legacy in English literature.
Continue ReadingJohn Walker Lindh
American Taliban member
Born
February 9th, 1981 45 years ago
Born in 1981, this individual gained international attention when captured during the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. Previously, engaged with the Taliban and fought alongside them against U.S. forces. His case raised significant legal and ethical discussions regarding the treatment of combatants and citizens involved in terrorism. In 2002, sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to supporting the Taliban.
Continue ReadingVasily Zhukovsky
Russian poet and translator of lyric poetry
Born
February 9th, 1783 243 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1852 174 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in Russian literature, contributed significantly to the development of romantic poetry. Translated works of notable poets such as Lord Byron and brought changes to Russian versification. Established himself as a leading poet in the early 19th century, influencing future generations of writers. Served as a mentor to many younger poets, including Alexander Pushkin, and helped establish the poetic form that became characteristic of Russian Romanticism.
Continue ReadingSilas Adams
American colonel and politician
Born
February 9th, 1839 187 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1896 130 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1839, a colonel during the American Civil War, contributed significantly to military operations. After the war, transitioned into law and politics, serving as a member of the Michigan State Senate. Played a vital role in shaping local governance and policies while advocating for civic issues. Engaged in various community initiatives and maintained an active presence in post-war reconstruction efforts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 19th
Raúl Ruiz
Chilean filmmaker and director of 'Time Regained'
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent Chilean director and producer, recognized for a unique filmmaking style and exploration of complex narratives. Ruiz's career began in the 1960s, and he became influential in the Latin American cinema landscape. He directed over a hundred films, with notable works including 'Time Regained', 'Three Crowns of the Sailor', and 'The Golden Boat'. His films often incorporated themes of memory, identity, and the surreal. Ruiz moved to France during the Pinochet regime in Chile, where he continued to work and gain international acclaim. He remained active in cinema until his death in 2011.
Continue ReadingSérgio Vieira de Mello
Brazilian diplomat and UN official
Born
March 15th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2003 22 years ago — 55 years old
Born in Brazil in 1948, this diplomat dedicated over 30 years to international service with the United Nations. Positions included High Commissioner for Human Rights and Special Representative for Iraq following the 2003 invasion. Engaged extensively in peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in various conflict zones. Emphasized the importance of human rights and diplomatic solutions in crisis situations. Played a pivotal role in rebuilding countries emerging from conflict, bringing a focus on local issues and cultural understanding.
Continue ReadingUtpal Dutt
Indian actor and playwright
Born
March 29th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1993 32 years ago — 64 years old
An influential figure in Indian theater and film, this actor gained acclaim for work in Hindi cinema. Dutt served as a prominent figure in Bengali theater, contributing significantly as both director and playwright. Notable films included 'Gol Maal' and 'Chhoti Si Baat'. Dutt's theatrical contributions extended to founding the Little Theatre Group in Kolkata, which focused on interpretable and meaningful performances. Recognized for a distinct acting style, Dutt remained active in regional and national theater until his later years.
Continue ReadingVáclav Patejdl
Slovak musician and singer-songwriter
Born
October 10th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2023 2 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1954, this Slovak musician gained recognition as a member of the band Elán, which became one of the most popular rock bands in Slovakia. The band achieved immense success in the 1980s and 1990s with numerous hit songs and albums. The musician contributed significantly to the band’s songwriting and composition, helping to define its sound. Apart from work with Elán, the musician has pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles that reflect a blend of pop and rock influences. The career highlighted a deep connection with Slovak culture and music, resonating with fans across generations.
Continue ReadingSonny Chiba
Japanese martial artist and actor
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Fukuoka, Japan, an actor and martial artist specialized in action films. Became prominent in the 1970s with major roles in the 'Street Fighter' film series. Developed a reputation for portraying tough, gritty characters, and showcased martial arts skills that set a standard for action cinema. Established a production company and contributed to the martial arts film genre, influencing many subsequent filmmakers and actors. Later transitioned to television and continued to act in films until the end of life.
Continue ReadingJames Foley
Journalist and war correspondent
Born
October 18th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 40 years old
A photographer and journalist specialized in reporting from conflict zones, particularly in the Middle East. Worked for several international news organizations and covered the Syrian civil war extensively. Captured powerful images that highlighted the realities of war. Abducted in Syria in 2012 and held captive until 2014, when he was tragically killed. His work raised awareness about the dangers faced by journalists in hostile environments.
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