Norris McWhirter
Author and co-founder of Guinness World Records
An English author and activist co-founded Guinness World Records in 1955, a compilation of world records that became a widely recognized reference book. The initial idea stemmed from a discussion about the fastest game bird, which led to the belief that such data could be collected into a single volume. Served as the first editor of the record books, contributing to the establishment and popularization of the brand. Actively participated in various broadcasting efforts to promote the records and further engage the public with extraordinary achievements. Advocated for issues including animal welfare and was an influential figure behind the establishment of records related to charitable causes.
Co-founded Guinness World Records
Served as the first editor of Guinness World Records
Actively promoted records through broadcasting
Other People Born on August 12th
Txiki Begiristain
Spanish footballer and sports director
Born
August 12th, 1964 61 years ago
Played as a winger for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Enjoyed a successful career in professional football during the late 1980s and 1990s. Later transitioned into sports management and held key positions, including director of football at Manchester City. Contributed to the club's strategic development and player recruitment efforts, influencing the team's success.
Continue ReadingTerry Nutkins
Television host and wildlife expert
Born
August 12th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 66 years old
Worked extensively in wildlife television, particularly noted for contributions to educational programs. Led the popular children's show 'The Really Wild Show' for several years, providing insights into nature and animals. Authored several books aimed at young audiences, emphasizing wildlife education. Also worked on other series such as 'Wildlife with Terry Nutkins' and participated in numerous documentaries, engaging viewers with his enthusiasm for nature.
Continue ReadingToby Perkins
English businessman and politician
Born
August 12th, 1970 55 years ago
A businessman and politician with a background in public service. Served as the Member of Parliament for Chesterfield from 2010 to 2019. Played a role in shaping local policies and participated in various parliamentary committees. Engaged in discussions related to business and education during tenure in Parliament. Has a history of advocating for regional developments and business interests.
Continue ReadingMaggie Lawson
American actress known for Psych
Born
August 12th, 1980 45 years ago
Acted in the television series Psych, portraying the character Juliet O'Hara. Appeared in various projects including the film Pleasantville and the series Instrument of War. Played significant roles in other shows such as Two and a Half Men and the Lifetime movie The List. Developed a following for comedic and dramatic performances across multiple platforms.
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 ReadingTyson Fury
Boxer, WBC Heavyweight Champion
Born
August 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Acquired the WBC Heavyweight Championship title in 2020. In 2015, won the unified heavyweight title by defeating Wladimir Klitschko. Engaged in notable rivalries, including a trilogy against Deontay Wilder, with the final fight taking place in 2021, resulting in a decisive victory. Recognized for his unconventional fighting style, size, and agility in the ring.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 19th
Väinö Tanner
Finnish Prime Minister and politician
Born
March 12th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1966 59 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent politician associated with the Social Democratic Party of Finland, served as Prime Minister of Finland in the late 1940s. Played a significant role in Finnish politics during a time of post-war reconstruction and stabilization. Developed policies focused on social welfare and economic recovery. Held various governmental positions prior to premiership, influencing key legislative changes and party strategies. Contributed to the rebuilding of Finland's economy and civil society after World War II.
Continue ReadingThomas Playford II
Politician, 17th Premier of South Australia
Born
November 26th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1915 110 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 17th Premier of South Australia from 1938 to 1941. Held various political positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Industry. Contributed to the development of South Australian labor policies and infrastructure projects. His tenure included significant challenges posed by World War II and economic issues of the time.
Continue ReadingHermine Braunsteiner
SS officer with war crimes conviction
Born
July 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1999 26 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a guard in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. Braunsteiner worked at several camps, including Majdanek and Auschwitz, where her role involved overseeing the treatment of prisoners. After the war, fled to the United States, where she lived until her past became known. In 1981, she was extradited to Germany to face charges for her actions during the Holocaust and was convicted in 1983 for assisting in the murders and mistreatment of prisoners.
Continue ReadingThomas Sackville
Earl of Dorset, poet, playwright, politician
Born
1536 489 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1608 417 years ago — 72 years old
First Earl of Dorset served as Lord High Treasurer of England. Contributed significantly to English literature as a poet and playwright. Worked closely with Queen Elizabeth I and maintained high political office throughout his career. Sackville is remembered for his involvement in the development of early English drama and poetry, particularly through works like 'Gorboduc,' which is considered one of the first English tragedies.
Continue ReadingOliver Mowat
Canadian politician, Ontario Premier
Born
July 22nd, 1820 205 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1903 122 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the third Premier of Ontario from 1872 to 1896 and later became the eighth Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. During the tenure as Premier, worked on various reforms related to education and public works. Advocate for provincial rights and responsible government. Played a significant role in Canadian politics during the late 19th century, contributing to the development of Ontario's political landscape.
Continue ReadingCharles Darwin
Naturalist and author of 'On the Origin of Species'
Born
February 12th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1882 143 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed to the field of evolutionary biology through groundbreaking theories and research. Developed the theory of natural selection, which explains the process of evolution in species. Conducted comprehensive studies during the voyage of the HMS Beagle from 1831 to 1836, observing diverse ecosystems and species, which informed his later writings. Published 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859, which revolutionized the understanding of natural history and biology. His work established a scientific basis for the understanding of life on Earth.
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