Mathieu Kérékou
Beninese soldier and politician, President
Born in 1933, a prominent military figure and political leader in Benin. Initially rose to power through a coup in 1972, leading the country until 1991. Returned to power after winning the presidential election in 1996 and was re-elected for a second term in 2001. His administration focused on democratic reforms and economic policies aimed at stabilizing the nation. Kérékou played a significant role in transitioning Benin to a multi-party democracy.
Led a coup in 1972 to assume the presidency
Implemented democratic reforms in the 1990s
Served two non-consecutive presidential terms
Other People Born on September 2nd
Aleksander Barkov
Ice Hockey Center and NHL Player
Born
September 2nd, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, a professional ice hockey center made a significant mark in the NHL. Drafted second overall by the Florida Panthers in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, played for the Panthers throughout his career. Contributed to the team's postseason appearances while serving as team captain. His skills and leadership on the ice garnered multiple awards, including the Frank J. Selke Trophy for best defensive forward in 2021.
Continue ReadingAhmad Shah Massoud
Afghan commander and defense minister
Born
September 2nd, 1953 72 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2001 24 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a prominent military commander and politician in Afghanistan. Played a crucial role during the Soviet-Afghan War, leading the Mujahideen against Soviet forces. Appointed as the Minister of Defense in the Afghan government in the early 1990s. Advocated for a unified and democratic Afghanistan while resisting the Taliban's rise to power. Assassinated in 2001 by Al-Qaeda operatives just days before the September 11 attacks on the United States.
Continue ReadingRobert Rooba
Estonian ice hockey player
Born
September 2nd, 1993 32 years ago
Played professional ice hockey in Estonia and abroad. Competed in the IIHF World Championship multiple times. Represented clubs such as HK Kurbads and the Estonian national team. Contributed to the development of ice hockey in Estonia through participation in various leagues.
Continue ReadingBrandon Ingram
Professional basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
September 2nd, 1997 28 years ago
Professional basketball player active in the NBA since 2016. Played for the Los Angeles Lakers and the New Orleans Pelicans. Achieved NBA All-Star status in 2023. Excelled as a forward known for scoring and playmaking abilities. During college, played for the Duke Blue Devils, earning ACC Rookie of the Year honors in 2016.
Continue ReadingZedd
Electronic music producer and DJ
Born
September 2nd, 1989 36 years ago
A Russian-German record producer and DJ, recognized for contributions to electronic dance music. Initiated music training at a young age, mastering multiple instruments. Gained prominence with the release of hit singles and albums. Collaborated with major artists and achieved mainstream success. Recognized for a distinctive sound that blends various electronic genres.
Continue ReadingChristian Bethancourt
Panamanian baseball player and catcher
Born
September 2nd, 1991 34 years ago
A professional baseball player primarily recognized for contributions as a catcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted with the Atlanta Braves in 2013, showcasing skills in both catching and outfield positions. Played for various teams, including the San Diego Padres and the Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioned to a successful career in international play and set records in the Panamanian league.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 14th
Nikolay Zabolotsky
Russian-Soviet poet and translator
Born
May 7th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1958 67 years ago — 55 years old
Birth occurred in 1903. Zabolotsky emerged as a significant figure in Russian literature during the 20th century. His poetic work often explored themes of nature, human experience, and philosophical reflection. Zabolotsky was also a prominent translator, bringing works of foreign literature into Russian. In 1931, he was arrested during the Stalinist purges and spent several years in labor camps. After his release, he continued to write, and in the post-war years, he published a number of important works. Zabolotsky contributed to the Soviet literary scene through his participation in literary discussions and journals, maintaining a presence in the poetic community until his death in 1958.
Continue ReadingWillard Price
Journalist and author of adventure novels
Born
July 28th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1983 42 years ago — 96 years old
Canadian-American worked as a journalist and authored a series of adventure novels primarily aimed at young readers. The most notable works include the 'Adventure' series, which featured two boys, Hal and Roger, who explored exotic locales. These novels blended educational elements with thrilling adventures, captivating the imaginations of generations. Price's storytelling often reflected real-world geography and wildlife, contributing to a broader understanding of the natural world. His writing career spanned several decades, and his stories remain appreciated for their adventurous spirit and informative content.
Continue ReadingArt Coulter
Ice hockey player for the New York Rangers
Born
May 31st, 1909 116 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2000 25 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Canada, this athlete became a prominent ice hockey player in North America. He played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the New York Rangers. Throughout a successful career, multiple seasons included significant contributions to the team's performance during the mid-20th century. Coulter's skills on the ice earned him a reputation as a talented defenseman. After the NHL career, he transitioned to coaching and other roles within the sport, influencing future generations of players.
Continue ReadingThomas J. Donohue
Business executive and Chamber leader
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
Served as president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce from 1997 to 2019. Played a significant role in advocating for business interests at the national level, influencing economic policies. Led the chamber's efforts in promoting free enterprise and workforce development. Contributed to various initiatives enhancing the business environment across the United States.
Continue ReadingNurlan Balgimbayev
Prime Minister of Kazakhstan
Born
November 20th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the Prime Minister from 1997 to 1999, overseeing significant economic reforms in Kazakhstan during a transitional period after the Soviet Union's collapse. Balgimbayev also held the position of Chairman of the National Bank, contributing to the development of the banking system and monetary policy. His administration focused on fostering foreign investments and integrating the country into global markets.
Continue ReadingMax Fatchen
Australian journalist and author
Born
August 3rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Contribution to journalism included working as a newspaper journalist and editor across various publications in Australia. Authored a number of notable books, including both fiction and non-fiction, with a significant focus on Australian life and history. Fatchen's literary work spanned several decades, covering themes of childhood, adventure, and the Australian landscape. Recognition received for contributions to journalism and literature reflected in numerous awards and honors throughout his career.
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