Maximilian Kolbe
Polish martyr for faith and charity
Born
1894
132 years ago
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Poland
Links & References
A Polish Franciscan friar, played a significant role in religious activities and community service. Founded the Militia Immaculatae, dedicated to spreading devotion to the Virgin Mary. Imprisoned by the Nazis during World War II for his efforts to help Jews. Volunteered to take the place of a condemned man in Auschwitz, leading to martyrdom. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1982.
Founded the Militia Immaculatae
Volunteered for martyrdom at Auschwitz
Canonized by the Catholic Church in 1982
Other People Who Died on August 14th
Spud Davis
Baseball player and manager, All-Star
Born
December 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1984 41 years ago — 79 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a catcher. Competed in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1924 to 1935, representing teams including the Philadelphia Phillies and the St. Louis Cardinals. Selected for the MLB All-Star Game in 1934, showcasing exceptional skills behind the plate. Transitioned to coaching and managerial roles after playing, contributing to the sport's development at various levels.
Continue ReadingHugh Trumble
Australian Cricketer and Accountant
Born
May 12th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1938 87 years ago — 71 years old
Played cricket for Australia from 1890 to 1902, specializing as a bowler. Achieved significant success in Test cricket, contributing to the team's victories especially against England. Also notable for playing domestic cricket for Victoria during the same period and was active in the cricket community after retirement as an administrator.
Continue ReadingJohn I of Portugal
King of Portugal and Algarve
Born
April 11th, 1357 668 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1433 592 years ago — 76 years old
Ruled as King of Portugal from 1385 until death in 1433. Achieved significant stability and growth in Portugal during the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Strengthened ties with England through the Treaty of Windsor in 1386. Promoted exploration along the African coast, laying groundwork for future expeditions. His reign marked the beginning of a period of expansion for Portugal as a maritime power.
Continue ReadingDavid Farragut
American admiral during Civil War
Born
July 5th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1870 155 years ago — 69 years old
An American naval officer served in the U.S. Navy during the American Civil War. Participated in key naval engagements, emphasizing the importance of naval power in achieving strategic objectives. Played a significant role in the capture of New Orleans in 1862 and commanded the Union fleet during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864. Recognized for the famous phrase "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!" during this critical battle, which contributed to a decisive Union victory.
Continue ReadingPope Pius II
Pope and author of 'Commentaries'
Born
October 18th, 1405 620 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1464 561 years ago — 58 years old
Elected as pope in 1458, served until 1464. Authored 'Commentaries', providing insight into his thoughts and experiences during the Renaissance. Became involved in various diplomatic missions and sought to unite Christendom against the Ottoman Turks. Founded the town of Pienza, known for its Renaissance architecture and urban planning, reflecting humanist ideals.
Continue ReadingSimeon Solomon
English painter of Aesthetic Movement
Born
October 9th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1905 120 years ago — 64 years old
A significant figure in the Aesthetic Movement, contributed to the development of Pre-Raphaelite art. Work often contained themes of beauty and sensuality. Became involved in the London art scene during the 1860s and gained recognition for oil paintings, particularly those featuring allegorical and mythological subjects. Later struggled with personal challenges but continued to paint until death.
Continue Reading