Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq
Pakistani general and politician
Served as the sixth President of Pakistan from 1978 until his death in 1988. Initially took power through a military coup in 1977, establishing martial law and assuming the position of Chief Martial Law Administrator. Implemented policies that facilitated the Islamization of Pakistan's legal and societal structures. Oversaw significant political and economic changes, and his tenure was marked by efforts to increase the role of Islamic law in governance. Died in an airplane crash in 1988, which was highly controversial and led to various conspiracy theories.
Assumed presidency through a military coup
Islamization of Pakistan's governance
Served as Chief Martial Law Administrator
Other People Born on August 12th
Dixie D'Amelio
Social Media Personality and Singer
Born
August 12th, 2001 24 years ago
An American social media personality and singer, gained prominence through TikTok, showcasing lip-syncing and dance videos. Transitioned to music with the release of singles, including 'Be Happy,' which achieved commercial success. Built a substantial following on various platforms and collaborated with brands.
Continue ReadingSamuel Moutoussamy
Congolese footballer, played for Nantes
Born
August 12th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, this footballer began his professional career in France. He primarily played as a midfielder. He signed with FC Nantes in 2018 after beginning his youth career at AS Monaco. The player also represented the national team, contributing to major competitions. His playing style has been characterized by technical skill and tactical awareness.
Continue ReadingMatt Gillett
Rugby league player, Australian Kangaroos
Born
August 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Played as a second-row forward in rugby league. Competed for the Brisbane Broncos in the National Rugby League (NRL) and represented Australia at the international level. Achieved notable success in both club and international competitions, contributing to team victories and earning personal accolades throughout the career.
Continue ReadingAndrei Agius
Maltese footballer and national team player
Born
August 12th, 1986 39 years ago
A professional footballer from Malta, played primarily as a central defender. Debuted in the Maltese Premier League in 2003 and later played for clubs in Italy, including Floriana and Hibernians. Had a significant role in the Malta national team, earning numerous caps since 2005. Agius contributed to the team's efforts in international competitions, including UEFA European Championship qualifiers, showcasing defensive skills and leadership on the pitch.
Continue ReadingAustra Skujytė
Pentathlete and Olympic medalist
Born
August 12th, 1979 46 years ago
Competed in modern pentathlon, representing Lithuania in several international events. Achieved a bronze medal at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games. Secured multiple medals at the World Championships, contributing to the prominence of Lithuanian modern pentathlon on the global stage. Established a strong presence in European competitions, consistently ranking among top athletes.
Continue ReadingJulio Urías
Baseball player and World Series champion
Born
August 12th, 1996 29 years ago
A baseball player, this individual debuted in Major League Baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2016. Played as a pitcher, showcasing significant talent in both the regular season and postseason. Contributed to the Dodgers' success during the 2020 MLB season, culminating in a victory at the World Series. Over the years, exhibited strong performance, including impressive strikeout rates and game-winning appearances in crucial situations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Husein Gradaščević
Ottoman general and military leader
Born
August 31st, 1802 223 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1834 191 years ago — 31 years old
A military leader held in significant regard during the early 19th century, played a prominent role in the Ottoman Empire's campaigns in the Balkans. Achieved the rank of general, leading Bosnian forces in various battles during the Herzegovina uprising against Ottoman authority. Worked toward the modernization and reform of the military, advocating for the autonomy of Bosnia within the Empire. Led efforts to rally support among local populations against external threats and internal challenges, ultimately rising to prominence amid the struggle for Bosnian independence.
Continue ReadingJohn Hollander
Poet and literary critic with notable works
Born
October 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
An American poet, critic, and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry and literary criticism. Published numerous collections of poetry including 'Fable' and 'The Picture Window'. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. Contributed articles and essays to major literary journals and was influential in shaping modern poetry's landscape through both creative work and critical analysis.
Continue ReadingGregorio Perfecto
Filipino journalist and politician
Born
November 28th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1949 76 years ago — 57 years old
Significant contributions as a journalist and politician characterized this figure's career. Held the position of a senator in the Philippines during the tumultuous period of the Japanese occupation in World War II. Advocated for democracy and civil rights through various writings and speeches. Played a crucial role in the post-war rebuilding of the Philippine political landscape. Actively engaged in legal reforms and worked towards improving the judicial system in the country.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Cossiga
President of Italy, 8th officeholder
Born
July 26th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 8th President of Italy from 1985 to 1992. Cossiga held various political roles, including the role of Prime Minister from 1974 to 1976. His career in politics began in the Christian Democracy party, which he joined in the post-World War II era. Cossiga was instrumental in handling significant political crises during his tenure, particularly the 1980 Irpinia earthquake response. After his presidency, he contributed to public discourse through a career in academia, sharing insights on politics and governance.
Continue ReadingFranklin Delano Roosevelt Jr.
American lawyer and politician
Born
August 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a lawyer and politician in the United States. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from New York in 1955, serving until 1959. During tenure, focused on issues related to civil rights, education, and labor. Worked in various legal capacities, including as an attorney for the New York City Transit Authority. Engaged in numerous philanthropic efforts and was active in several civic organizations throughout his life.
Continue ReadingTom Kendall
Australian cricketer and journalist
Born
August 24th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1924 101 years ago — 72 years old
Played first-class cricket from 1869 to 1887. Achieved significant success as a leading bowler for Victoria and represented Australia in early Test matches. Also contributed to cricket journalism, writing for various publications. His career remained influential in the development of cricket in Australia.
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