Luis Tiant
Cuban-American baseball player, 1968 All-Star
Born in Cuba in 1940, a baseball player and coach, achieved prominence in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1964 with the Cleveland Indians. Played for the Minnesota Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and others, securing 229 career wins. Recorded a notable performance in the 1975 World Series, contributing to the Red Sox's efforts. After retiring, transitioned into coaching, influencing future generations of players.
Named an All-Star in 1968
Achieved 229 career wins
Led the league in earned run average in 1968
Other People Born on November 23rd
Edward Rutledge
Governor and Signer of the Declaration
Born
November 23rd, 1749 276 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1800 226 years ago — 50 years old
Served as the 39th Governor of South Carolina. Contributed to the formation of the United States by signing the Declaration of Independence. Played a role in the American Revolutionary War, particularly in organizing naval strategies against British forces. Participated in various political efforts to strengthen governance in South Carolina post-independence.
Continue ReadingKarl Gebhardt
German physician and war criminal
Born
November 23rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1948 77 years ago — 50 years old
Served as an SS physician during World War II, involved in medical experiments on concentration camp inmates. Participated in the infamous 'Doctors' Trial' after the war, facing prosecution for war crimes due to unethical treatment of prisoners. Held positions within the Nazi regime's medical institutions, contributing to the inhumane practices that defined the period.
Continue ReadingKlement Gottwald
Czechoslovak Communist politician
Born
November 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1953 72 years ago — 56 years old
Held the position of the 14th President of Czechoslovakia from 1948 until death in 1953. A prominent leader within the Communist Party, also served as Prime Minister prior to the presidency. Under leadership, significant nationalization of industry and agrarian reform occurred, aligning Czechoslovakia more closely with Soviet policies. Contributed to the consolidation of communist power in the nation during post-World War II.
Continue ReadingGwynne Shotwell
Businesswoman, SpaceX President
Born
November 23rd, 1963 62 years ago
A leading businesswoman, served as President and Chief Operating Officer of a private aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company. Oversaw the company's growth and operations, contributing to its status as a key player in the space industry. Played a significant role in the development of the Falcon 1, Falcon 9, and Falcon Heavy launch vehicles. Directed numerous successful supply missions to the International Space Station under NASA's Commercial Resupply Services program.
Continue ReadingRun Run Shaw
Businessman and philanthropist, founded TVB
Born
November 23rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 107 years old
A businessman and philanthropist born in 1907, established Shaw Brothers Studio, which became a leading production company in the Hong Kong film industry. Expanded into television by founding TVB in 1967, revolutionizing the media landscape in Hong Kong. Played a crucial role in promoting Chinese cinema and television, contributing to cultural exports. His philanthropic efforts focused on education and healthcare, establishing various charitable foundations, including the Shaw Foundation.
Continue ReadingNicklas Bäckström
Swedish ice hockey center and Stanley Cup champion
Born
November 23rd, 1987 38 years ago
Born in 1987, this ice hockey player played as a center in the NHL, primarily for the Washington Capitals. Debuting in the league in 2006, he quickly established himself as a key player for the team. In 2018, he contributed to the Capitals winning their first Stanley Cup. Throughout his career, he displayed exceptional playmaking abilities and became known for his strong offensive performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 8th
Al Davis
American football coach and executive
Born
July 4th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
October 8th, 2011 14 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in American football, played significant roles as a coach and executive. Served as the head coach of the Oakland Raiders and later became the team's owner and general manager. Instrumental in the Raiders' success during the 1970s and 1980s, leading the team to three Super Bowl titles. Advocated for player rights and was involved in multiple legal battles that shaped the league's structure. Encouraged innovation in the sport and was known for his commitment to the Raiders' brand and legacy.
Continue ReadingJames Elphinston
Scottish philologist and linguist
Born
December 6th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1809 216 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Scotland, this individual contributed significantly to the study of language and phonetics. Focused on the correct pronunciation of English, engaged in efforts to reform English spelling. Developed a system of phonetic notation, aiding in the teaching of pronunciation. Published works such as 'The Universal Grammar' and 'A New and Accurate Method of Teaching Pronunciation' that influenced language education. Held the position of a schoolmaster and was involved in various educational reforms during his career.
Continue ReadingLarry Semon
American actor and director of silent films
Born
February 9th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1928 97 years ago — 39 years old
Born in 1889, this individual was an influential figure in early American cinema, particularly in the silent film era. Starting as a comedy actor, the career expanded into producing, directing, and screenwriting. Semon became known for his slapstick style, which resonated well with audiences of the time. His most notable work includes the film 'The Wizard of Oz' (1925), where he took the lead role and contributed to its direction. Throughout the 1920s, he was one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood and directed several of his films, which showcased a unique combination of humor and elaborate visual gags.
Continue ReadingClement Attlee
British Prime Minister post-WWII
Born
January 3rd, 1883 143 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1967 58 years ago — 84 years old
Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951. Oversaw the establishment of the National Health Service and nationalization of key industries. Led the Labour Party during a transformative period in British politics following World War II.
Continue ReadingJean Giono
French author and poet
Born
March 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1970 55 years ago — 75 years old
An influential figure in 20th-century literature, this author produced a body of work that celebrated the natural world and rural life. Giono's narratives often blended realism with elements of fantasy. His notable works include 'The Man Who Planted Trees,' which emphasizes the relationship between humanity and nature. This author contributed significantly to the literary movement of regionalism, focusing on the landscapes and culture of Provence. Giono's writing style merged lyrical prose with deep philosophical insights, offering commentary on existence and the human condition.
Continue ReadingEileen Herlie
Scottish-American actress in daytime drama
Born
March 8th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 8th, 2008 17 years ago — 90 years old
An accomplished actress, celebrated for a prominent role as Myrtle Fargate on the soap opera 'All My Children'. Career spanned stage and film, with early work including a performance in the 1949 film 'Hamlet'. Gained recognition for both dramatic and comedic roles, contributing significantly to the theater scene and earning acclaim in various productions.
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