Nancy Wake
New Zealand-English World War II operative
Born in New Zealand, served as a key operative during World War II. Joined the Special Operations Executive and worked with the French Resistance. Played a significant role in disrupting German operations in occupied France. After the war, received multiple commendations for bravery and leadership.
Led a network of resistance fighters in France
Facilitated the escape of Allied soldiers
Received the George Medal and the Croix de Guerre
Other People Born on August 30th
Daryl Gates
American police officer, D.A.R.E. Program
Born
August 30th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2010 15 years ago — 83 years old
A police officer with a long tenure in law enforcement developed a widely adopted drug prevention program aimed at school-aged children. This program focused on educating youth about the dangers of drug use and was designed to foster resistance to peer pressure regarding drugs. Served as the Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department from 1978 to 1992, leading the department during significant events and policy changes. After retirement, continued to engage in discussions about policing and drug-related issues.
Continue ReadingRaúl Castillo
American actor known for 'Looking'
Born
August 30th, 1977 48 years ago
This actor achieved recognition for performances in television and film. Gained prominence through the HBO series 'Looking', which depicted the lives of gay men in San Francisco. Starred in the film 'Atypical' and had a role in 'The Last Black Man in San Francisco'. Participated in various theater productions, showcasing versatility in acting.
Continue ReadingEmmanuel Culio
Argentine footballer, Copa Libertadores winner
Born
August 30th, 1983 42 years ago
Born in 1983, this Argentine footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Professional career commenced at Ferro Carril Oeste before moving to Europe, where club stints included Deportivo La Coruña in Spain. Achieved significant success while playing for Boca Juniors, contributing to the team's Copa Libertadores triumph in 2007. Later, played in various countries, showcasing skills in leagues such as the Romanian Liga I and Argentina's Primera División. Transitioned to play in the United States for organizations such as Orlando City SC.
Continue ReadingCameron Diaz
Actress in 'There’s Something About Mary'
Born
August 30th, 1972 53 years ago
An American model and actress, engaged in the film industry since the early 1990s. Achieved widespread recognition with the film 'There's Something About Mary,' released in 1998. Also starred in prominent films such as 'Charlie's Angels' and 'Shrek,' lending voice to the character of Princess Fiona. Transitioned into producing, contributing to various projects in the entertainment sector. Positioned as a significant figure in Hollywood during her active years and received accolades for performances, including Golden Globe nominations.
Continue ReadingSeriki Audu
Nigerian footballer with notable club career
Born
August 30th, 1991 34 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 23 years old
Born on August 30, 1991, a Nigerian footballer played as a defender. Initiated a professional career in the Nigeria Professional Football League before moving to international clubs. Particularly associated with teams in the lower divisions of European football. Contributed significantly to team defense, showcasing skills in positioning and tackling. Played essential matches that led teams to promotion and improved rankings.
Continue ReadingErnests Gulbis
Latvian Tennis Player and French Open Quarterfinalist
Born
August 30th, 1988 37 years ago
A professional tennis player from Latvia, achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 10 in 2014. Competed at a variety of Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the quarterfinals of the French Open in 2014. Played for the Latvian national team in the Davis Cup and represented Latvia in international competitions. Known for a powerful serve and aggressive play style, contributed to the visibility of Latvian tennis on the world stage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 7th
John Nelder
Mathematician and statistician, created Nelder-Mead algorithm
Born
October 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
A mathematician and statistician contributed significantly to the field of statistics and optimization. Developed the Nelder-Mead method, a widely used algorithm for nonlinear optimization. Worked extensively on statistical models and played a crucial role in the advancement of analysis of variance and experimental design. Engaged in academic positions, fostering mathematics education and research.
Continue ReadingFrances Oldham Kelsey
Pharmacologist against thalidomide
Born
July 24th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 101 years old
A pharmacologist and physician, contributed significantly to drug safety regulations. Conducted extensive reviews of thalidomide in the early 1960s while working at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Refused to approve the drug for use in the United States due to concerns about its safety for pregnant women. Her decision prevented thousands of potential birth defects, leading to increased scrutiny and reform in drug approval processes.
Continue ReadingMark Hatfield
American politician and governor
Born
July 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 29th Governor of Oregon from 1959 to 1967, implementing various state programs and initiatives. Elected to the U.S. Senate, served for 30 years, representing Oregon from 1967 to 1997. During tenure, focused on budgetary restraint, education, and environmental conservation. Played a significant role in promoting the preservation of public lands. Contributed to legislation related to health care and social issues.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Catalani
Italian composer, known for La Wally
Born
June 19th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1893 132 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Italy, a composer gained recognition for creating operas that incorporated rich melodies and emotional depth. Studied at the Milan Conservatory and influenced later Italian opera. La Wally, premiering in 1892, became one of the most celebrated works, showcasing his unique style. The opera is distinct for its powerful arias and dramatic narrative. Catalani also composed other significant works, including Editta and Loreley, although none matched the success of La Wally. His contributions to late Romantic opera positioned him among notable Italian composers.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Liebknecht
German politician and journalist
Born
March 29th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1900 125 years ago — 74 years old
Became a leading figure in German socialism and played a crucial role in the formation of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). A prominent journalist, contributed to socialist publications and advocated for workers' rights. Engaged in politics during the 19th century, emphasizing the importance of social reform and socialism. His political career included serving in the Reichstag, where he represented socialist ideals and interests. Writings influenced socialist movements and ideas in Germany and beyond.
Continue ReadingVincenzo Scamozzi
Architect and theorist of architecture
Born
September 2nd, 1548 477 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1616 409 years ago — 67 years old
An Italian architect and theorist, Scamozzi worked during the late Renaissance period. He contributed significantly to architectural design and planning, particularly through the integration of classical ideas into contemporary practice. Scamozzi produced several influential works, including the Villa Almerico Capra, also known as La Rotonda, which exemplifies the harmony of architecture with its surrounding landscape. His treatise, 'L'Idea della Architettura Universale,' outlined his architectural philosophy and established principles that guided future generations of architects. Scamozzi's designs were characterized by clarity, order, and an emphasis on the spatial arrangement of buildings, reflecting the Renaissance ideals of balance and proportion.
Continue Reading