Manuel Contreras
Chilean general and military leader
Born
May 4th, 1929
96 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2015
10 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
Chile
Links & References
A Chilean general active in the military during the 20th century. Contreras served as the head of the National Intelligence Directorate (DINA), the secret police under the Augusto Pinochet regime. Oversaw various counterinsurgency operations and was involved in political repression. Played a key role in the violent crackdown on dissent in Chile during this period.
Led the National Intelligence Directorate (DINA)
Implemented political repression during the Pinochet regime
Other People Born on May 4th
Jay Aston
Achieved fame as a member of the pop group Bucks Fizz, which won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1981 with the song "Making Your Mind Up." The group sold millions of records worldwide during the early 1980s. Aston also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles. In addition to music, she engaged in various stage performances, showcasing her dancing abilities.
Continue ReadingCharles Boucher de Boucherville
A Canadian physician and politician, served as the 3rd Premier of Quebec. Held the premiership during key phases of provincial governance, contributing to legislative advancements. Oversaw the administration of public health policies and worked on improving education and infrastructure in Quebec. Played a significant role in the Conservative Party of Quebec and influenced political discourse during the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingJulia Gardiner Tyler
Served as the 11th First Lady of the United States from June 26, 1844, to March 4, 1845. Married John Tyler, the 10th President of the United States, while he was in office. Oversaw social functions and events during her tenure, contributing to the cultural landscape of Washington, D.C. Played a role in the political and social life of the era, advocating for her husband's policies and approaches.
Continue ReadingJohn Watson
A race car driver achieved prominence in Formula One racing during the 1970s and 1980s. Participated in 151 Grands Prix, securing three race victories. Established a notable career with teams including McLaren and Brabham. Besides racing, contributed to the sport as a commentator and analyst after retiring from competitive driving.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Arnold Brockhaus
Founded the Brockhaus encyclopedia, which became a standard reference work in the German-speaking world. Established the publishing house that produced numerous encyclopedias and other educational literature. Played a significant role in the dissemination of knowledge during the 19th century through high-quality publications.
Continue ReadingKen Oberkfell
Born in 1956, a baseball player and coach with a career spanning over a decade. Played primarily as a third baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1982 to 1994 for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals, Atlanta Braves, and the New York Mets. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving in various roles within professional baseball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 7th
Mike Seeger
An American folk musician and folklorist contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of traditional American folk music. Performed extensively across the United States, showcasing styles from various regions and cultures. Recorded numerous albums that featured authentic folk music and conducted field recordings to document traditional musicians. Established connections with many prominent folk artists and helped revitalize interest in traditional Appalachian music.
Continue ReadingLê Khả Phiêu
A prominent figure in Vietnam's political landscape, dedicated service in the Communist Party shaped governance in the country. Held the position of General Secretary of the Communist Party from 1991 to 1997, overseeing significant political developments. Played a crucial role in economic reforms and party consolidation during the 1990s, which contributed to Vietnam's transition towards a socialist-oriented market economy. Engaged in military strategy and leadership, having risen through the ranks of the Vietnam People's Army, demonstrating commitment to national defense and party ideology.
Continue ReadingVincenzo Scamozzi
An Italian architect and theorist, Scamozzi worked during the late Renaissance period. He contributed significantly to architectural design and planning, particularly through the integration of classical ideas into contemporary practice. Scamozzi produced several influential works, including the Villa Almerico Capra, also known as La Rotonda, which exemplifies the harmony of architecture with its surrounding landscape. His treatise, 'L'Idea della Architettura Universale,' outlined his architectural philosophy and established principles that guided future generations of architects. Scamozzi's designs were characterized by clarity, order, and an emphasis on the spatial arrangement of buildings, reflecting the Renaissance ideals of balance and proportion.
Continue ReadingAlexander Stewart
Held the title of Duke of Albany during the late 15th century. Involved in the Scottish nobility, he was a significant figure within the court. Appointed as the regent for the Kingdom of Scotland while the king was a minor. His influence extended over various territories, and he played a crucial role in the politics of the time. His tenure saw involvement in conflicts and alliances that shaped the structure of power in Scotland. After death, the title passed on, leaving a legacy connected to the lineage of Scottish royalty.
Continue ReadingJoseph Kosma
A pianist and composer, Kosma contributed significantly to the world of music, particularly in film scoring. Collaborated extensively with director Marcel Carné, crafting memorable scores for films like 'Les Enfants du Paradis.' Also composed orchestral works and songs, displaying a strong affinity for integrating jazz influences into classic compositions. His ability to capture emotions through music marked a distinctive style in the French cinematic landscape.
Continue ReadingJon McBride
Joined NASA in 1980 and flew on two Space Shuttle missions, STS-41-G in 1984 and STS-49 in 1992. Contributed to the deployment of satellites and the retrieval of a satellite, showcasing skills in complex space operations. Served as a test pilot and instructor, impacting training programs for future astronauts. Retired from NASA and continued work in aerospace technology and education.
Continue Reading