Nap Lajoie
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Played professional baseball from 1896 to 1916, primarily as a second baseman. Managed the Philadelphia Phillies and served as a player-manager for the Cleveland Naps, a team later named after him. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937. Excelled in batting, garnering numerous league titles and accolades throughout his career, contributing to the development of the game.
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937
Won batting titles in the American League
Managed the Cleveland Naps
Other People Born on September 5th
Elisabeth Volkenrath
Concentration camp supervisor
Born
September 5th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 80 years ago — 26 years old
Supervised prisoners at the women's concentration camp in Ravensbrück during World War II. Held the position of overseer and was involved in the administration of the camp. Volkenrath's role included the enforcement of brutal conditions for inmates. After the war, she faced trial for war crimes.
Continue ReadingGiacomo Meyerbeer
Composer of grand operas
Born
September 5th, 1791 234 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1864 161 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Germany, a prominent composer and pianist emerged in the 19th century. Made significant contributions to the development of grand opera, which fused elaborate music with dramatic storytelling. Education included studying in Berlin and Paris, where the influence of Italian opera and French theatrical styles were embraced. Composed several successful operas, with 'Les Huguenots' and 'The Prophet' among the most recognized. Worked closely with notable singers of the era and was involved in the musical life of Paris. Held influential positions within the opera and became a significant figure in the world of European music.
Continue ReadingLouis VIII
King of France during the medieval period
Born
September 5th, 1187 838 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1226 799 years ago — 39 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1223 until death in 1226. Participated in the Albigensian Crusade, aiming to eliminate Catharism in southern France. Strengthened the French monarchy and centralized power. Engaged in conflicts with England, including a military campaign against King John. Extended royal influence in territories like Languedoc and Poitou. His reign marked efforts to enhance the authority of the crown over the nobility.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Ritter von Leeb
German field marshal in World War II
Born
September 5th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1956 69 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a German field marshal during World War II. Commanded Army Group North on the Eastern Front, focusing on the Siege of Leningrad. Led successful operations in the early years of the war before his eventual withdrawal due to mounting losses. Received the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross for military leadership and achievement.
Continue ReadingAleksey Konstantinovich Tolstoy
Russian poet and playwright
Born
September 5th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1875 150 years ago — 58 years old
Aleksey Konstantinovich Tolstoy contributed significantly to Russian literature as a poet, author, and playwright. His works encompassed a range of genres, including poetry, novels, and plays. Tolstoy's notable works include the narrative poem 'The Devil' and the historical novel 'Prince Serebryany' which reflected themes of Russian folklore and history. His literary style combined romanticism with realism, allowing for deep explorations of character and emotion. Tolstoy was also a member of the Imperial Academy of Arts and participated actively in the literary community of his time.
Continue ReadingJosé María of Manila
Spanish-Filipino priest and martyr
Born
September 5th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1936 89 years ago — 55 years old
A priest and martyr active in the early 20th century, dedicated ministry to the spiritual needs of the Catholic community in the Philippines. Established a reputation for commitment to faith while facing adversity during a time of political and social turmoil. Captured during conflicts related to anti-Catholic sentiments and executed for remaining steadfast in beliefs, culminating in martyrdom. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in recognition of unwavering faith and sacrifice.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 7th
Ivan Bilibin
Illustrator and stage designer of Russia
Born
August 16th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1942 84 years ago — 65 years old
An illustrator and stage designer, this individual specialized in Russian folklore and fairy tales. Worked extensively in book illustration, combining traditional Slavic motifs with modernist styles. Contributed to the design of theatrical productions, incorporating detailed and vibrant visuals. His distinctive style influenced both literature and theatre in early 20th century Russia.
Continue ReadingDean Smith
American basketball coach and player
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
February 7th, 2015 11 years ago — 84 years old
This individual served as a college basketball coach with a significant tenure at the University of North Carolina. Achievements include leading the team to two NCAA championships in 1982 and 1993. As a player, contributed to the team at the University of Kansas, later becoming a celebrated coach known for developing players and his innovative strategies. His coaching record reflects numerous accomplishments in collegiate basketball.
Continue ReadingWalter Lang
Film Director and Screenwriter of musicals
Born
1896 130 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1972 54 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American film director and screenwriter, active primarily during the mid-20th century. Directed numerous popular musical films that garnered both critical and commercial success. The work included adaptations of stage musicals and original compositions, contributing significantly to the genre's development in cinema. Employed a style that integrated elaborate choreography and vibrant visuals, appealing to wide audiences. Collaborated with notable stars and creative talent, leaving a lasting legacy in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingAugust Wilhelm Hupel
Linguist and author of Estonian works
Born
1737 289 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1819 207 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of the Estonian language and culture. Authored several works, including grammar and dictionaries that established foundational linguistic principles. Played a role in promoting Estonian literature and education during the late 18th century. Was involved in the development of the written form of the Estonian language and worked on translating various texts into Estonian.
Continue ReadingAlfredo M. Santos
Filipino General and Military Leader
Born
July 13th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1990 36 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a general in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Held significant positions during critical eras in Philippine military history. Contributed to various operations and strategic developments within the military framework, demonstrating leadership in challenging situations. Influenced military policies and training programs aimed at national defense.
Continue ReadingLearco Guerra
Italian Cyclist and Manager, 1931 World Champion
Born
October 14th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1963 63 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent figure in Italian cycling, competed internationally during the 1930s. Achieved the title of World Champion in 1931. Transitioned to cycling management after retirement and contributed to the development of the sport in Italy. Influenced young cyclists through coaching and mentorship throughout his career.
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