Maurice Wilks

Engineer and businessman, co-founder of Land Rover

Maurice Wilks - Engineer and businessman, co-founder of Land Rover
Born

August 19th, 1904
120 years ago

Died

September 8th, 1963
61 years ago — 59 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English engineer and businessman significantly contributed to the automotive industry by designing the original Land Rover model. Education included studies at the University of Cambridge. Worked for the Rover Company, where innovation led to the development of four-wheel-drive vehicles. Established the Land Rover brand, which became synonymous with rugged utility and off-road capability. Through foresight, helped shape the modern automotive landscape, emphasizing durability and all-terrain performance.

Co-founded the Land Rover brand

Designed the original Land Rover model

Other People Born on August 19th

Cesare Prandelli

Football manager with Euro 2012 success
Born
August 19th, 1957 67 years ago

A former football player and manager, celebrated for coaching various clubs and the Italian national team. Managed Fiorentina where significant success was achieved. Led Italy to the final of UEFA Euro 2012. Additionally served as an advisor for youth development in Italian football post-management career. Known for a tactical approach that emphasizes possession and team cohesion.

Continue Reading

Willard Boyle

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
August 19th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2011 13 years ago — 86 years old

A Canadian physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of physics. In 1969, invented the charge-coupled device (CCD) alongside George E. Smith, which revolutionized electronic imaging. This technology is widely used in video cameras, digital cameras, and astronomical imaging. The scientific contributions were recognized by the Nobel Prize in Physics awarded in 2009. Boyle worked at Bell Laboratories for many years, and his research focused on the development of light-sensitive devices, solid-state physics, and optical technologies.

Continue Reading

William Marshall

Actor and director in film and opera
Born
August 19th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 79 years old

An accomplished actor, director, and opera singer, this individual made significant contributions to both film and stage. Best remembered for roles in classic films and theater productions, he garnered recognition for his powerful performances. His work encompassed a variety of genres, demonstrating a strong command of both dramatic and musical roles. Additionally, he directed several productions, further showcasing a multifaceted talent in the performing arts.

Continue Reading

Martin Donovan

Actor and director of 'In the Company of Men'
Born
August 19th, 1957 67 years ago

Born in 1957, this American actor and director gained recognition for his work in film and theater. Early career roles included appearances in television series such as 'Moonlighting' and 'The Mind of the Married Man'. Significant contributions included starring in films written and directed by Neil LaBute, especially 'In the Company of Men', which received critical acclaim. Directing credits included projects for both television and independent film, showcasing a commitment to artistic storytelling. Versatile performances encompassed a range of genres, contributing to a respected presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Billy J. Kramer

English pop singer with The Dakotas
Born
August 19th, 1943 81 years ago

An English pop singer rose to popularity in the 1960s, particularly recognized for collaborations with the band The Dakotas. Gained fame with hits such as 'Do You Want to Know a Secret,' which was written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney and reached number one on the UK Singles Chart. Achieved significant success with a series of chart-topping songs that contributed to the British Invasion of the American music scene. Continued career performing and recording music over the decades, showcasing a blend of pop and rock styles.

Continue Reading

Erika Christensen

Television and film actress
Born
August 19th, 1982 42 years ago

An American actress gained recognition for roles in both television and film. Starred in the series "Parenthood" as Julia Braverman-Graham, portraying a lawyer and mother. Featured in films such as "Traffic" and "The Perfect Score," displaying a range of acting skills. Appeared in various other television projects, showcasing versatility across genres.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 8th

John Coke

English civil servant and politician
Born
March 5th, 1563 462 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1644 380 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1563, a significant figure in English politics and administration during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Contributed to the development of legal and parliamentary procedures. Held multiple important positions, including serving as a Member of Parliament and in various administrative roles. Played a crucial role in the governance of England, especially regarding issues of land and taxation. Participated in the shaping of laws that influenced the functioning of the English state.

Continue Reading

Francisco de Quevedo

Spanish poet and politician, Satirical Works
Born
September 14th, 1580 444 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1645 379 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure of the Spanish Golden Age, this individual was a poet and politician renowned for sharp wit and satirical works. Active during the 17th century, he contributed extensively to literature with a distinctive style that often reflected moral and social criticism. His poetry encompassed a range of themes from love to politics, showcasing his mastery of language and form. Held various political positions, including serving as a member of the Spanish Senate. Fiercely opposed to the rival poet Luis de Góngora, his literary feud became a significant aspect of his life and work. His legacy rests on influential writings that have been studied and celebrated in literary circles for centuries.

Continue Reading

Joseph Liouville

Mathematician; developed Liouville's Theorem
Born
March 24th, 1809 215 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1882 142 years ago — 73 years old

A mathematician and academic contributed significantly to various fields, particularly number theory and differential equations. Established the concept of Liouville's Theorem, which addresses the conditions under which certain dynamic systems exhibit integrable behaviors. Published numerous papers and founded the journal 'Journal de Mathématiques Pures et Appliquées'. Instrumental in promoting mathematical research and education in France during the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Dragiša Pešić

Montenegrin politician, 5th Prime Minister
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2016 8 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the fifth Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia from 2001 to 2003. Engaged in political activities during a critical transitional period in Yugoslavia's history. Held various positions in Montenegrin political spheres, contributing to the governance and policy-making processes. Advocated for reforms in the political landscape and participated in the efforts toward European integration. Involved in dialogues addressing the issues facing the region during the post-conflict era, influencing its political dynamics.

Continue Reading

Alexandra David-Néel

Explorer and author of 'My Journey to Lhasa'
Born
October 24th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1969 55 years ago — 100 years old

Born in Belgium and later becoming a French citizen, an explorer and author conducted extensive travels in Asia, particularly in Tibet. In 1924, the exploration of Lhasa, Tibet's capital, was completed, which was significant as it was largely closed to foreigners during this time. The journey led to the publication of several works that detailed Tibetan culture, Buddhism, and her experiences. David-Néel's commitment to understanding Eastern philosophies and practices influenced Western thought on these subjects.

Continue Reading

Derek Taylor

Journalist and author of Beatles works
Born
May 7th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1997 27 years ago — 65 years old

Worked as a journalist and publicist. Contributed significantly to the music scene during the 1960s, particularly through involvement with The Beatles. Authored several books, including the biography 'As Time Goes By', reflecting on the band's influence. Served as the press officer for The Beatles, handling their communications and media relations.

Continue Reading