Mikao Usui
Japanese spiritual leader, founded Reiki
Born
Died
1926
99 years ago — 61 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
Japan
Links & References
Born in 1865, a Japanese spiritual leader developed the healing practice known as Reiki. After a profound personal experience during a retreat, founded the Usui Reiki Ryoho system, emphasizing the channeling of energy for healing purposes. This practice grew in popularity, eventually spreading to various parts of the world. Usui wrote several texts regarding Reiki principles, which laid the foundation for its practice and teaching methodologies.
Founded Usui Reiki Ryoho system
Authored key Reiki texts
Other People Born on August 15th
Melinda Gates
Philanthropist, co-founder of Gates Foundation
Born
August 15th, 1964 61 years ago
A businesswoman and philanthropist engaged in global health and education initiatives. Co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which focuses on improving healthcare, reducing poverty, and expanding educational opportunities. Served as a Microsoft manager before dedicating efforts to philanthropy. Advocated for women's rights and equality, emphasizing the importance of women's empowerment in development programs. Authored a book detailing personal experiences and insights into philanthropy and social justice.
Continue ReadingGudrun Ensslin
German militant leader, Red Army Faction founder
Born
August 15th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 37 years old
A prominent figure in leftist militancy during the 1970s. Played a critical role in the founding of the Red Army Faction, a West German terrorist organization. Engaged in numerous acts of political violence aiming to oppose capitalism and U.S. influence in Europe. Captured and imprisoned in connection with various terrorist activities. Died in custody under controversial circumstances.
Continue ReadingGisela Richter
Archaeologist and art historian
Born
August 15th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1972 53 years ago — 90 years old
An English archaeologist and art historian specialized in Greek and Roman art. Conducted extensive research and excavations, contributing to the understanding of classical antiquity. Served as a curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, overseeing significant exhibitions. Published numerous works detailing the history and analysis of ancient artifacts, which became references for scholars and enthusiasts alike.
Continue ReadingKonstantinos Stephanopoulos
Greek politician, 6th President of Greece
Born
August 15th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
A significant figure in Greek politics, served as the 6th President of Greece from 1995 to 2005. In his younger years, practiced law and actively participated in the political scene. Elected to the Hellenic Parliament multiple times and held ministerial positions before presidency. Focused on a pro-European agenda and worked towards modernizing Greece's political landscape. Promoted diplomacy and national unity during tenure. Continued to influence Greek politics even after leaving office.
Continue ReadingPaul Outerbridge
American photographer and educator
Born
August 15th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 62 years old
Significant contributions were made to photography, especially through the use of color photography in the early to mid-20th century. Outerbridge combined modernist aesthetics with commercial approaches, producing work that spanned advertising, fashion, and still life. A notable advocate for the artistic potential of color photography, educational roles were fulfilled through teaching at institutions such as the California School of Fine Arts. Outerbridge's innovative techniques influenced future generations of photographers.
Continue ReadingThomas De Quincey
English journalist and author of Confessions
Born
August 15th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1859 166 years ago — 74 years old
An influential journalist and author, contributed extensively to literature with a focus on opium, addiction, and philosophical musings. Authored 'Confessions of an English Opium-Eater', which detailed personal experiences with opium and sparked discussions regarding drug use. Engaged in literary criticism and commentary, providing insights into the works of contemporaries such as Wordsworth and Coleridge. Played a significant role in the romantic literary movement in England, merging autobiography with philosophical meditations.
Continue Reading