Moshood Abiola
Nigerian businessman and politician
A prominent businessman and politician in Nigeria, played a significant role in the country's democratic movement. Abiola was the founder of the Abiola Group, which was instrumental in various sectors including media and manufacturing. In 1993, he won the presidential election, which was later annulled by the military government. His activism for democracy led to his imprisonment, which garnered international attention. Abiola's efforts contributed to the eventual return to civilian rule in Nigeria during the late 1990s.
Won the 1993 Nigerian presidential election
Founded the Abiola Group
Advocated for democracy in Nigeria
Other People Born on August 24th
Maya Yoshida
Japanese footballer and national team captain
Born
August 24th, 1988 37 years ago
A professional footballer who played as a central defender. Yoshida started his career at Nagoya Grampus and later joined the English Premier League team Southampton. His tenure at Southampton included several seasons competing in the top tier of English football, contributing to the team's defense and participating in various domestic tournaments. In addition to club success, served as captain of the Japanese national team, competing in significant international tournaments including the FIFA World Cup and the AFC Asian Cup.
Continue ReadingAnže Kopitar
Professional ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
August 24th, 1987 38 years ago
This ice hockey player was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the first round of the 2005 NHL Draft. He served as captain of the Kings and led the team to two Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014. Renowned for exceptional playmaking skills and leadership on the ice, he has consistently been among the top scorers in the NHL. Internationally, represented Slovenia in multiple IIHF World Championships and the Olympic Games.
Continue ReadingMaryna Zanevska
Belgian tennis player
Born
August 24th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, this tennis player has competed on the WTA Tour and gained recognition for her performances in both singles and doubles events. Achievements include a notable title at the 2022 Poland Open. This player has participated in Grand Slam tournaments and represented Belgium in international competitions, contributing to the nation's presence in women's tennis.
Continue ReadingWang Zhen
Chinese race walker and Olympic athlete
Born
August 24th, 1991 34 years ago
Competed in race walking, achieving success at international levels. Secured a gold medal in the 20 km race walk at the 2014 Asian Games held in Incheon. Participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, representing the nation in race walking events. Excelled in national championships, consistently demonstrating high-caliber performance.
Continue ReadingKelsey Plum
Basketball player and WNBA champion
Born
August 24th, 1994 31 years ago
Professional basketball player excelled in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). Played for the Las Vegas Aces and contributed to winning the WNBA Championship in 2022. Established a notable college career at the University of Washington, finishing as the NCAA all-time leading scorer in women's basketball. Achievements included being selected first overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft and receiving numerous accolades throughout her career.
Continue ReadingRocío Igarzábal
Argentinian actress and singer
Born
August 24th, 1989 36 years ago
Born in 1989, an actress and singer gained recognition for performances in popular television series and music endeavors. Starred in the Argentine telenovela 'Casi Ángeles', which showcased her acting and singing talents. Pursued a music career, releasing singles that contributed to her popularity in Latin American entertainment. Active in various theatre productions, further developing skills in performance arts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 7th
Benedict XI
Pope with papal bull addressing issues
Born
1240 786 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1304 721 years ago — 64 years old
Served as pope from 1303 until death in 1304. Undertook efforts to resolve conflicts within the church and restore unity after a period of strife and political maneuvering. Issued several significant papal bulls that addressed matters of church governance and jurisdiction. His brief papacy also focused on maintaining peace with various factions within Christendom and addressing the challenges posed by secular rulers. Worked towards a conciliatory relationship with the Franciscan Order concerning the controversy surrounding poverty.
Continue ReadingBen Pucci
American football player and sportscaster
Born
January 26th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
Played professional American football primarily as a guard and linebacker in the National Football League. Spent a significant part of the playing career with the New York Giants. Transitioned to broadcasting after retirement from professional football, covering NFL games and contributing to sports commentary. Developed a reputation in media for insightful analyses and engaging narratives about the game.
Continue ReadingJerry Norman
Sinologist and linguist specializing in Chinese
Born
July 16th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent sinologist and linguist contributed significantly to the study of Chinese languages. Focused on documenting and analyzing various Chinese dialects, highlighted the diversity and complexity of the language. Authored several notable works on Chinese phonetics and grammar, which are widely used in academic settings. Held positions at prestigious universities and participated in numerous linguistic conferences, influencing the field of sinology through research and mentorship. His scholarly work continues to be referenced by students and experts alike.
Continue ReadingEduard Shevardnadze
Georgian politician and diplomat
Born
January 25th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1928, he served as a general in the Soviet military before transitioning to a career in politics. He held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1990, where he played a significant role in Soviet foreign policy and was instrumental in the end of the Cold War. After Georgia gained independence in 1991, he became the second President of Georgia, serving from 1995 until 2003. His leadership during tumultuous times included efforts toward democratic reforms and navigating conflicts within the region.
Continue ReadingRobert Hamerton-Kelly
Pastor, scholar, author of theological works
Born
December 26th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A South African-American pastor and scholar focused on theology and biblical studies. Served as the pastor of the United Methodist Church and held a prominent academic role at several institutions. Authored various works on theology, including insights into biblical interpretation and pastoral care. Engaged in ecumenical dialogues and contributed to discussions around contemporary religious issues. Recognized for efforts in promoting understanding within diverse theological perspectives.
Continue ReadingPeter Underwood
English parapsychologist and author
Born
May 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1923, a parapsychologist and author focused on investigating paranormal phenomena and the afterlife. Contributed to the field through numerous writings and research initiatives, including comprehensive studies on ghosts and hauntings. Served as the president of the Ghost Club, an organization dedicated to paranormal research. Authored several books that explore these subjects, combining personal experiences with investigative methods. Engaged in public discussions and lectures about parapsychology, aiming to raise awareness and promote understanding of the field.
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