Michael S. Hart

American author, founder of Project Gutenberg

Michael S. Hart - American author, founder of Project Gutenberg
Born

March 8th, 1947
78 years ago

Died

September 6th, 2011
13 years ago — 64 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An author and pioneer in digital publishing, founded Project Gutenberg in 1971. This initiative aimed to make literary works freely available in digital format, allowing countless texts to be accessible online. The project has contributed significantly to the availability of literature and has served as a model for other digital libraries. Under leadership, Project Gutenberg grew to include over 60,000 free eBooks, covering a wide range of genres and languages. The impact on the promotion of literature and education through electronic media remains pivotal.

Founded Project Gutenberg in 1971

Authored the first eBook

Other People Born on March 8th

Richard Fariña

American singer-songwriter and author
Born
March 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 29 years old

Fariña contributed to the folk music revival of the 1960s through his songs and literary works. Collaborated with his wife, Mimi Baez, and gained recognition for the album 'Celebration for a Grey Day' released in 1965. Authored the novel 'Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up to Me', published in 1966, which gained a cult following. His artistic career was cut short by his untimely death in a motorcycle accident in 1966.

Continue Reading

Lester Holt

Journalist; NBC Nightly News anchor
Born
March 8th, 1959 66 years ago

Born in 1959, this journalist began a career in broadcasting at a local television station, later working for major networks. The individual joined NBC in 2000 as a Dateline correspondent, moving up to become the anchor of NBC Nightly News in 2015. The role involved significant coverage of national and international events, including elections and crisis situations. The person has also moderated presidential debates.

Continue Reading

Marko Gudurić

Serbian basketball player with Fenerbahçe
Born
March 8th, 1995 30 years ago

A professional basketball player, played as a shooting guard and small forward. Began career in Serbia before transferring to the EuroLeague, where played for Fenerbahçe. Gained attention for performance in international competitions with the Serbian national team, contributing to team success in various tournaments.

Continue Reading

Otto Hahn

German chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 8th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1968 57 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed to the field of radiochemistry. Discovered nuclear fission of uranium in 1938, which led to the development of nuclear energy. Conducted significant research on radioactivity and isotopes. Played a pivotal role in the advancement of chemistry through numerous publications and academic contributions.

Continue Reading

Preston Smith

Governor of Texas
Born
March 8th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2003 21 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 38th Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Oversaw significant educational reforms, including the establishment of programs aimed at improving higher education access. Previously held the position of Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969. His administration focused on infrastructure development and public service improvements.

Continue Reading

Warren Bennis

Scholar and leadership expert
Born
March 8th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old

This individual contributed significantly to the field of leadership studies. He taught at various institutions, including the University of Southern California, and authored numerous influential books on management and leadership. His notable works include "On Becoming a Leader" and "Leaders: Strategies for Taking Charge," both which explored the qualities and characteristics of effective leadership. Throughout an academic career spanning several decades, insights into organizational dynamics and leadership development shaped contemporary thinking in the discipline.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 6th

Akira Kurosawa

Film director, screenwriter, producer
Born
March 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1998 26 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent Japanese director and screenwriter who reshaped cinema with a unique storytelling style, utilizing vibrant visuals and deep character exploration. Directed films like 'Rashomon', 'Seven Samurai', and 'Ikiru', which received international acclaim and significantly influenced filmmakers worldwide. Contributed to film as a producer, collaborating with various writers and directors throughout the years. His works have received numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Continue Reading

Franco Ferrara

Italian conductor and composer
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1985 39 years ago — 74 years old

Renowned for contributions to conducting and composition, significant influence observed in the 20th century classical music scene. Held the position of principal conductor for the Santa Cecilia Orchestra in Rome. Collaborated with prominent orchestras and opera companies across Europe and the Americas. Composed works that contributed to the classical repertoire.

Continue Reading

Calvin J. Spann

American general and pilot
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2015 9 years ago — 91 years old

A significant figure in the U.S. military, served as a general and pilot. Participated in numerous combat missions and contributed to military strategy and leadership throughout decades of service. Known for involvement in the Korean War and later in the Vietnam War, demonstrating skills in aviation and command. Held various leadership roles in the Air Force, influencing training and operational procedures.

Continue Reading

Robert Mugabe

Politician and 2nd President of Zimbabwe
Born
February 21st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2019 5 years ago — 95 years old

Served as Prime Minister from 1980 to 1987 and then as President of Zimbabwe from 1987 to 2017. Played a significant role in the country's liberation struggle and post-colonial governance. Introduced policies that aimed at redistributing land from white farmers to black Zimbabweans, which sparked controversy and led to economic decline. His administration was marked by allegations of human rights violations and electoral fraud.

Continue Reading

Cathy Merrick

First Nations leader and activist
Died
September 6th, 2024 0 years ago — None years old

A prominent First Nations leader, engaged in advocating for Indigenous rights and self-governance. Played a crucial role in various initiatives aimed at increasing political representation for Indigenous peoples. Served in leadership positions within community organizations and contributed to the development of policies benefiting First Nations communities. Championed education and social justice issues, helping to raise awareness and promote discussions around Indigenous sovereignty and governance.

Continue Reading

Abdul Haris Nasution

Indonesian general and defense minister
Born
December 3rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2000 24 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a general in the Indonesian Army and played a pivotal role during the Indonesian National Revolution. Held the position of the 12th Minister of Defence from 1950 to 1951. Involved in various military strategies and political negotiations throughout his career, contributing to Indonesia's military framework. After retirement from military service, engaged in political activities and leadership roles within the Indonesian government.

Continue Reading