Margareta Winberg
Swedish politician, Deputy Prime Minister
A prominent politician, served as Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden. Held the position of Minister for Agriculture from 1994 to 1998. Represented the Social Democratic Party in the Swedish Parliament and was active in various committees and initiatives focused on women's rights and environmental issues. Participated in international discussions on gender equality and sustainable development, contributing to Sweden's reputation in these areas.
Served as Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden
Held the position of Minister for Agriculture
Other People Born on August 13th
William Bernbach
American advertising executive, DDB co-founder
Born
August 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 71 years old
An influential advertising executive, co-founded DDB Worldwide in 1949, which revolutionized the advertising industry with its innovative, creativity-driven campaigns. Played a crucial role in elevating the role of art direction and copywriting in advertising. The campaign for Volkswagen's Beetle was a significant milestone, showcasing the power of simplicity and wit in marketing. Advocated for the integration of creativity and strategy in advertising, influencing future generations of advertisers.
Continue ReadingBert Lahr
American actor in The Wizard of Oz
Born
August 13th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1967 58 years ago — 72 years old
An American actor renowned for his work in theatre and film, particularly noted for portraying the Cowardly Lion in the classic 1939 movie 'The Wizard of Oz.' Lahr's career began on stage, where he gained prominence as a vaudeville performer and comedian. His ability to blend humor with authentic emotion earned him a loyal following. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, he appeared in several Broadway productions, showcasing his talent in musical theatre. Lahr also featured in various films and made television appearances, contributing to his recognition in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Petit
Tightrope walker; World Trade Center feat
Born
August 13th, 1949 76 years ago
A tightrope walker gained attention for walking between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center on August 7, 1974. This remarkable act involved a highwire strung between the two skyscrapers without any safety measures. The performance captured international media attention and has been documented in various forms, including the 2015 film 'The Walk'. Petit has also authored books detailing his experiences and philosophies about balancing and performing. Following this feat, he continued to perform across the globe, pursuing various artistic projects.
Continue ReadingBob Wiesler
Baseball player; New York Yankees
Born
August 13th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Played professional baseball as an outfielder, primarily with the New York Yankees. Wiesler's career spanned from the mid-1950s to the early 1960s. He participated in major league baseball during a competitive era, contributing to the team's successes. After leaving the Yankees, Wiesler played for several minor league teams before retiring from professional baseball. His legacy includes significant performances in key games.
Continue ReadingValerie Plame
CIA agent and author of 'Fair Game'
Born
August 13th, 1963 62 years ago
A former operations officer for the CIA, this individual specialized in weapons of mass destruction. In 2003, exposure as a covert agent occurred after a newspaper column by Robert Novak revealed their identity. This controversy led to the outing of a CIA operative and prompted investigations into the subsequent leak. Authored the memoir 'Fair Game: My Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by the White House' detailing experiences in the agency and the fallout from the leak. This work discusses the implications of secrecy and national security in the context of personal and professional life.
Continue ReadingKarl Liebknecht
German socialist politician and revolutionary
Born
August 13th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1919 106 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent socialist politician and revolutionary in Germany, played a significant role in the German Workers' Party and later co-founded the Spartacus League. Active in opposition to World War I, advocated for ending the conflict and promoted socialist ideals. Participated in the German Revolution of 1918-1919, which sought to establish a socialist state. Authored several works on socialism and workers' rights, influencing the labor movement in Germany and beyond. Captured and assassinated in January 1919 during the political turmoil of the revolutionary period.
Continue Reading