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
Xenia Knoll
Swiss Tennis Player, Grand Slam Competitor
Born
September 2nd, 1992 33 years ago
A professional tennis player specializing in doubles, achieved success on the WTA tour. Competed in Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the third round at the Australian Open. Accumulated multiple titles in her career and participated in the Olympic Games, representing Switzerland. Known for strong performances in women's doubles.
Continue ReadingMarcus Morris
American basketball player, NBA forward
Born
September 2nd, 1989 36 years ago
A professional basketball player who played as a forward in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played for teams including the Phoenix Suns, Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, and New York Knicks. Achieved success at the collegiate level, being named the 2011 Big 12 Player of the Year while playing for the University of Kansas. Played in the NBA Finals with the Boston Celtics in 2018, contributing significantly to the team's playoff run.
Continue ReadingHiroki Yoshimoto
Race car driver, Super GT series champion
Born
September 2nd, 1980 45 years ago
Born in Japan, a professional race car driver with a focus on the Super GT series. Competing in Japan's top tier of motorsport, participated in various endurance races and sprint formats. Achieved success with multiple podium finishes and a championship title in the GT300 class.
Continue ReadingDanny Shittu
Nigerian footballer, played for QPR
Born
September 2nd, 1980 45 years ago
A professional footballer from Nigeria, played as a defender. Spent a significant portion of his career in the English Football League, representing clubs such as Queens Park Rangers and Millwall. Participated in international competitions with the Nigerian national team, including the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Contributed to the defense with notable physicality and leadership on the pitch.
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 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on October 14th
Harold Robbins
Author of 'The Carpetbaggers'
Born
May 21st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1997 28 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1916, an American author and screenwriter became a prominent figure in the literary world, best known for writing provocative novels that often explored themes of sex, power, and greed. 'The Carpetbaggers', released in 1961, achieved commercial success and was later adapted into a film. Other notable works include 'A Stone for Danny Fisher' and 'The Betsy'. Robbins wrote numerous bestsellers, solidifying a reputation as a master of popular fiction. He also contributed to the screenplay of various films, showcasing versatility beyond his novels. His work garnered a worldwide readership, and he remained an influential figure in American literature throughout his life.
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 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 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 ReadingElizabeth Peña
Actress known for 'Jacob's Ladder'
Born
September 23rd, 1959 66 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1959, this actress gained recognition for a significant career in film and television. Early work included appearances in television series and films, but breakthrough roles occurred in the early 1990s. A prominent performance took place in 'Jacob's Ladder'. Other notable productions included 'La Bamba' and 'The Incredibles'. The versatility in roles earned critical acclaim and visibility, contributing to a lasting legacy in the industry. The actress continued to work actively until her passing in 2014.
Continue ReadingTony Roper
Race car driver, USA National Champion
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2000 25 years ago — 36 years old
Professional race car driver participated in various racing series, mainly known for competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Raced for several teams throughout a career that spanned over a decade. Achieved impressive finishes and built a reputation for skill on the track. Lost life tragically in a racing accident during a competition in 2000.
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