Mohammad Hatta
Indonesian politician, 3rd Prime Minister
Served as the third Prime Minister of Indonesia during a critical time in the formation of the new nation. Played a significant role in the development of Indonesian independence and governance following colonization. Contributed to economic policies and educational reforms aimed at improving national infrastructure. Engaged actively in international diplomacy to garner support for Indonesia's sovereignty.
Served as the first Vice President of Indonesia
Participated in the negotiations for Dutch-Indonesian sovereignty
Other People Born on August 12th
George Soros
Investor, philanthropist, and founder of Soros Fund
Born
August 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Born in Hungary, an investor and philanthropist established Soros Fund Management in 1970, achieving notable success in hedge fund management. In the late 20th century, built a reputation as a major financier of various political and social causes through Open Society Foundations. Played a significant role in the 1992 Black Wednesday event, where speculation against the British pound resulted in substantial profits. Contributed extensively to educational and humanitarian efforts globally, influencing policies in Eastern Europe and beyond. Resided in the United States for many years, continuing philanthropic endeavors focused on democracy and human rights.
Continue ReadingKōji Kitao
Sumo wrestler, 60th Yokozuna
Born
August 12th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 56 years old
Debuted in professional sumo in 1980, achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo, in 1993. Competed primarily in the top division and held a prominent position in the sport during the 1990s. Represented the Takanohana stable, making significant contributions to the sumo landscape and competing against top wrestlers of the era.
Continue ReadingIoan Dicezare
Romanian general and pilot
Born
August 12th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
Born in Romania, one individual served as a notable general and pilot during significant military conflicts. This individual rose to prominence in the Romanian Air Force and played a vital role in aerial operations. Through strategic command and piloting skills, various missions were undertaken successfully, contributing to the military efforts of the time. The military career spanned several decades, marked by participation in critical events that shaped the region's aviation history. After retirement from active service, contributions to aviation continued through training and mentorship of new generations of pilots.
Continue ReadingIdel Jakobson
Latvian-Estonian NKVD officer
Born
August 12th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1904, served in the NKVD, which was responsible for state security and law enforcement in the Soviet Union. Played a significant role in various operations during the 1930s and 1940s, particularly in Latvia and Estonia. Active during the Soviet regime, participating in efforts to consolidate power and suppress dissent, contributing to the enforcement of Soviet policies in the Baltic region.
Continue ReadingRoss McWhirter
Author and co-founder of Guinness World Records
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1975 50 years ago — 50 years old
An English author and activist co-founded the Guinness Book of Records, which became a popular reference book worldwide. This work originated from a discussion regarding the fastest game bird in Britain, leading to the establishment of a record-keeping entity. The first edition was published in 1955, and it quickly gained immense popularity, becoming an annual publication. In addition to record-keeping, involvement in various civic activities and political affairs occurred throughout life, including efforts related to freedom of speech and public policy. The co-founding of the world-famous record book marked a significant contribution to entertainment and cultural reference.
Continue ReadingLouise de Marillac
co-founder of the Daughters of Charity
Born
August 12th, 1591 434 years ago
Died
1660 366 years ago — 69 years old
Co-founded the Daughters of Charity in 1633, an organization dedicated to serving the poor and sick. Established the community to provide education and healthcare to underserved populations. Contributed to the development of charitable work in France and influenced the Catholic Church's approach to social service. Played a significant role in promoting the Vincentian spirit of service and charity throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 14th
Stephen Hawking
Theoretical physicist and author
Born
January 8th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2018 7 years ago — 76 years old
A theoretical physicist and cosmologist, contributed significantly to the fields of general relativity and quantum gravity, particularly in the context of black holes. Achieved widespread recognition through the publication of 'A Brief History of Time', which made complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public. Held the Lucasian Professorship of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge for over 30 years, influencing the next generation of physicists. Despite living with a debilitating motor neuron disease, continued to advance research in theoretical physics and engaged in public science communication.
Continue ReadingAramais Sahakyan
Armenian poet and author
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
An Armenian poet and author contributed significantly to contemporary Armenian literature. Sahakyan published several poetry collections and essays throughout his career, reflecting on national identity and cultural heritage. His works often explored the themes of love, nature, and memory, resonating with readers and scholars alike. Additionally, he was involved in cultural activities and organizations that promoted Armenian literature and arts. Through his literary contributions and engagement with the literary community, he left a lasting legacy in Armenian poetry.
Continue ReadingKlement Gottwald
Czechoslovak Communist politician
Born
November 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1953 72 years ago — 56 years old
Held the position of the 14th President of Czechoslovakia from 1948 until death in 1953. A prominent leader within the Communist Party, also served as Prime Minister prior to the presidency. Under leadership, significant nationalization of industry and agrarian reform occurred, aligning Czechoslovakia more closely with Soviet policies. Contributed to the consolidation of communist power in the nation during post-World War II.
Continue ReadingCharlie Whiting
Motorsport director for Formula One
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2019 6 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the FIA Formula One Race Director and Safety Delegate. Managed race operations and regulations, contributing to the safety and fairness of Formula One racing events. Oversaw technical and regulatory aspects of the sport for several decades. Played a crucial role during races ensuring compliance with rules and safety protocols. Worked closely with teams and officials, maintaining close communication to resolve any issues.
Continue ReadingJake Phelps
Skateboarder and Thrasher editor-in-chief
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2019 6 years ago — 57 years old
Phelps contributed significantly to skateboarding culture as an editor for Thrasher Magazine. His tenure at Thrasher began in the 1990s, and he played a crucial role in shaping its content and direction. He was also a professional skateboarder, known for his unique style and competitive spirit. Phelps participated in various competitions and was a prominent figure in the skateboarding community, influencing a generation of skateboarders through his work and passion for the sport.
Continue ReadingJack Goldstein
Canadian-American painter and artist
Born
September 27th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2003 22 years ago — 57 years old
An influential figure in the development of conceptual art during the 1970s. Worked primarily in the medium of painting but also explored film and installation. Played a significant role in the California artist scene and became a prominent member of the Fluxus movement. Goldstein's works often engaged with the themes of representation and illusion within art. Contributed to the shift towards postmodernist aesthetics with a focus on self-reflexivity and the nature of the medium.
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