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
John Zorn
Saxophonist & Composer of Film Music
Born
September 2nd, 1953 72 years ago
An American saxophonist, composer, and producer, prominent in the avant-garde and experimental music scene since the late 20th century. His work often blends genres including jazz, classical, and rock, leading to the creation of numerous recordings and collaborations. Established the record label Tzadik, which features many avant-garde musicians and composers. Composed soundtracks for films such as 'The Last Seduction' and 'The Brothers Bloom.' Known for improvisational performances and complex compositional techniques.
Continue ReadingRosalind Ashford
American singer with The Marvelettes
Born
September 2nd, 1943 82 years ago
A prominent American singer, recognized for being a member of the legendary Motown girl group The Marvelettes. The group gained fame in the 1960s with hits that defined the Motown sound. Their song 'Please Mr. Postman' achieved immense success, becoming the first song by a Motown act to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The Marvelettes' harmonious blend of pop and soul music contributed significantly to the Motown legacy, influencing future generations of artists. Over the years, the group saw various line-up changes but remained a significant part of the musical landscape.
Continue ReadingDonald Watson
Vegan activist and founder of Vegan Society
Born
September 2nd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 95 years old
An English activist founded the Vegan Society in 1944, promoting a lifestyle and diet free from animal products. The establishment of the society marked a significant shift in dietary choices and animal rights advocacy. Watson emphasized ethical treatment of animals and environmental considerations linked to animal farming. Throughout the years, he contributed to various publications and discussions pertaining to veganism, raising awareness about its benefits for health and the planet. His work laid the groundwork for the modern vegan movement and influenced many to adopt a plant-based lifestyle.
Continue ReadingWerner von Blomberg
German field marshal and military leader
Born
September 2nd, 1878 147 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1946 80 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a field marshal in the German Army. Held the position of Minister of War in the early years of Nazi Germany. Contributed to the rearmament of Germany and the expansion of the Wehrmacht. Played a significant role in the establishment of military policies in the lead up to World War II. Resigned from his position in 1938 amid political tensions and controversies regarding military leadership and Nazi ideology.
Continue ReadingLiliʻuokalani
Last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom
Born
September 2nd, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1917 109 years ago — 79 years old
The last sovereign monarch of Hawaiʻi reigned from 1891 until the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. Born into the Hawaiian royal family, significant contributions include promoting the Hawaiian language and culture. After the overthrow, was imprisoned in the ʻIolani Palace and later expressed her views through writing, with works like the song 'Aloha ʻOe'. Advocated for the rights of the Hawaiian people and opposed annexation by the United States. In her later years, worked to restore the Hawaiian monarchy unsuccessfully.
Continue ReadingArchduchess Elisabeth Marie of Austria
Austrian archduchess and philanthropist
Born
September 2nd, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1963 63 years ago — 80 years old
Born into the Habsburg dynasty, an archduchess dedicated to charitable work and education. Established and supported various initiatives for children and the needy throughout Austria. Played a significant role in maintaining cultural traditions within the family. Had a keen interest in art and music, influencing cultural developments in her region during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 14th
Nurlan 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 ReadingGeorge Carstairs
Rugby league player, Australian representative
Born
March 25th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1966 59 years ago — 66 years old
Played rugby league primarily as a forward. Competed in the New South Wales Rugby League competition during the 1920s. Represented Australia in international matches, earning a reputation as a strong performer on the field. His contributions helped solidify the game's popularity in Australia during that era.
Continue ReadingArt Coulter
Ice hockey player for the New York Rangers
Born
May 31st, 1909 117 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 ReadingFreddy Fender
American singer and guitarist
Born
June 4th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 69 years old
Started career in the 1950s, became a prominent figure in the Tejano music scene. Gained wide recognition with the hit song "Before the Next Teardrop Falls" in 1975, which topped charts in both English and Spanish. Fender's music blended country, rock, and Latin influences, earning a place in the hearts of many fans. Released multiple albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, contributing significantly to the popularity of Tex-Mex music. Continued to perform and record until health issues arose in his later years.
Continue ReadingHarold Robbins
Author of 'The Carpetbaggers'
Born
May 21st, 1916 110 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 ReadingPhilip Zimbardo
Psychologist, Stanford prison experiment
Born
March 23rd, 1933 93 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
A psychologist and academic contributed significantly to the field of social psychology. Conducted the Stanford prison experiment in 1971, which studied the psychological effects of perceived power and authority within a simulated prison environment. Published numerous works and textbooks, notably on topics of time perspective and shyness. Served as a professor at Stanford University and authored works that aimed to illuminate human behavior under social and situational influences.
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