Norah Lofts
English author of historical novels
An English author, specialized in historical fiction and non-fiction. Published over 30 books, combining meticulous research with vivid storytelling. Gained recognition through works that highlighted English history and societal changes. Notable for a series of multi-generational sagas set in the past, exploring family dynamics and societal issues across different eras. Lofts also contributed to other literary forms, including short stories and essays.
Authored 'The Concubine' in 1966
Wrote 'The Town House' in 1962
Published 'The Ghost of the Mary Celeste' in 1935
Other People Born on August 27th
John Hay Whitney
American diplomat and financier
Born
August 27th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1982 44 years ago — 77 years old
Served as United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 1957 to 1959. Involved in various financial activities, including investment in real estate and other business ventures. Played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange between the United States and the United Kingdom during the post-war period and contributed to numerous philanthropic efforts throughout his life.
Continue ReadingCharles Rolls
Engineer and co-founder of Rolls-Royce
Born
August 27th, 1877 149 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1910 116 years ago — 32 years old
An English engineer and businessman, co-founded Rolls-Royce Limited in 1904. The company became a prominent manufacturer of luxury automobiles and aircraft engines. Rolls was instrumental in establishing the high standards of engineering and quality that defined the Rolls-Royce brand. He was also an aviation pioneer, known for his enthusiasm for flying and his contributions to early aviation. Rolls tragically died in a flying accident in 1910.
Continue ReadingMangosuthu Buthelezi
South African politician, KwaZulu leader
Born
August 27th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in South African politics, served as the Chief Minister of KwaZulu. Founded the Inkatha Freedom Party in 1975, emphasizing the rights of Zulu people. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the anti-apartheid movement, engaging in negotiations for political reform. Had a lengthy political career that spanned several decades and included participation in the formation of a new South African constitution.
Continue ReadingKoxinga
Ming loyalist and military leader
Born
August 27th, 1624 402 years ago
Died
1662 364 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1624, Koxinga was a military leader known for his efforts to restore the Ming dynasty. He launched military campaigns against the Qing dynasty and established a base on Taiwan, which served as a center for Ming loyalism. Koxinga aimed to defeat the Qing and reinstate the Ming emperor, becoming a significant figure in Chinese history. His legacy includes the establishment of a short-lived kingdom in Taiwan, which marked a pivotal moment in Taiwanese history.
Continue ReadingJames Molyneaux
Northern Irish soldier and politician
Born
August 27th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2015 11 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a soldier with the British Army during his early career. Elected as a Member of Parliament, representing the Ulster Unionist Party for many years. Held the position of leader of the Ulster Unionist Party from 1979 to 1995. Actively participated in the political landscape of Northern Ireland, particularly during the Troubles, and engaged in significant discussions around unionism and governance in the region. Navigated various political challenges during a tumultuous period in Northern Ireland's history, and contributed to shaping unionist policies.
Continue ReadingKay Walsh
English actress, singer, dancer
Born
August 27th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2005 21 years ago — 93 years old
An English actress, singer, and dancer, this performer gained recognition for her work in film and theater during the mid-20th century. She starred in various productions, both on stage and in film, showcasing a range of talents. Notable appearances include roles in films such as 'The Man in the White Suit' and 'The Belles of St. Trinian's'. The involvement in theatrical productions displayed her versatility in performance arts. Alongside acting, her singing and dancing contributed to her popularity within the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 10th
Richard Grenville
English captain and explorer
Born
June 15th, 1542 484 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1591 435 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent English captain and explorer, contributed to the early attempts at colonization in North America. Commanded the supply ship Tiger to the Roanoke Colony in 1585, which was one of the first English attempts to establish a permanent settlement. Notable for participation in naval battles and for his role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. His explorations contributed to the mapping and understanding of the Americas during the Elizabethan era.
Continue ReadingErna Mohr
Zoologist and entomologist in Germany
Born
July 11th, 1894 132 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1968 58 years ago — 74 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of zoology, specializing in entomology. Conducted extensive research on insect physiology and taxonomy. Published numerous papers and studies that enriched scientific understanding of insects. Worked at various prestigious institutions and contributed to educational initiatives in zoology.
Continue ReadingCharles Drake
American actor in 'Mildred Pierce'
Born
October 2nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1994 32 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor, active primarily in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for appearances in several classic films and television series. Played significant roles in the film 'Mildred Pierce' and the television series 'The Twilight Zone'. Appeared in various other productions, contributing to the entertainment industry over several decades.
Continue ReadingAntoine Lahad
Lebanese General, Commander of SLA
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2015 11 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the commander of the South Lebanese Army (SLA) during the Lebanese Civil War and Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon. Start of military career occurred in the late 1970s. Led the SLA in various operations and collaborated closely with Israeli forces. In 2000, following Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon, Lahad sought asylum and relocated to France, where he remained until death in 2015.
Continue ReadingRobert Gammage
American politician and captain
Born
March 13th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2012 14 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1938, this individual served as a captain in the U.S. Army and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Texas. The individual was a member of the Democratic Party and served in Congress during the 1970s. In addition to military service, held various leadership roles in local governance and contributed to the legislative process.
Continue ReadingJoanne Dru
Actress in westerns and dramas
Born
January 31st, 1922 104 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1996 30 years ago — 74 years old
Gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s as a film actress. Starred in critically acclaimed films including 'Red River' and 'She Wore a Yellow Ribbon'. Appeared in the television series 'The Westerner'. Known for roles that highlighted strength and resilience.
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