Olaf II of Norway
Norwegian King and Saint
Born
None
None years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Norway
Links & References
Ascended to the Norwegian throne in 1015, implemented Christianity across Norway, and fought against paganism. Established a system of law and order while promoting trade and the development of towns. Died in the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030, regarded as a martyr for the Christian faith and later canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.
Unified Norway under Christianity
Died in the Battle of Stiklestad
Canonized by the Catholic Church
Other People Who Died on July 29th
Bruno Kreisky
Austrian Chancellor and politician
Born
January 22nd, 1911 115 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1990 35 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 22nd Chancellor of Austria from 1970 to 1983. Played a key role in shaping Austrian politics during the post-war period. Focused on social reforms and expanding the welfare state. Promoted policies that addressed economic challenges and improved living standards. Advocated for neutrality and established a prominent international profile for Austria.
Continue ReadingVean Gregg
American baseball player with Cleveland Indians
Born
April 13th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1964 61 years ago — 79 years old
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Competed for the Cleveland Indians from 1911 to 1916. Recorded a total of 55 wins and 53 losses during his career. In 1913, achieved a personal best season with 20 wins. Played alongside renowned players of the era, contributing to the team's performance.
Continue ReadingMickey Cohen
American mob boss with organized crime influence
Born
September 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1976 49 years ago — 62 years old
Mickey Cohen became a prominent figure in organized crime in Los Angeles during the mid-20th century. Involved in various illegal activities, he played a significant role in the nightclub and gambling scene. His operations included bootlegging, loan sharking, and racketeering. Cohen's association with the Chicago Outfit and other crime families helped him expand his influence in the region. Throughout his criminal career, he faced numerous legal challenges and was incarcerated multiple times. His life was characterized by notable conflicts with law enforcement and rival gangs, solidifying his reputation as a key player in the mafia landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingErich Kästner
German author; Emil and the Detectives
Born
February 23rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1974 51 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1899, this German author and poet gained fame for writing children's literature as well as satirical poetry. The work 'Emil and the Detectives' published in 1928, became one of the most beloved children's books in Germany. The narrative follows a young boy's adventures as he teams up with other children to capture a thief in Berlin. Kästner's writing often reflected his observations of society and politics, particularly during the tumultuous times of the Weimar Republic and the rise of Nazism. His works were notable for their blend of humor and social commentary. Despite the ban of many of his books by the Nazi regime, they continued to be published and celebrated post-World War II. Kästner also contributed to various literary forms, including screenplays and essays, and received multiple awards for his literary achievements throughout his career.
Continue ReadingDidier Pitre
Ice Hockey Player for Montreal Canadiens
Born
September 1st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1934 91 years ago — 50 years old
Born in Canada, played professional ice hockey in the early 20th century. Pitre played as a left winger for the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey Association (NHA) and later in the National Hockey League (NHL). His playing career spanned from 1909 to 1926. Pitre was noted for his scoring ability and physical playing style, contributing significantly to the teams he played for during the formative years of professional ice hockey. At various times, he was among the top scorers in the league.
Continue ReadingCoen de Koning
Dutch speed skater and Olympic medalist
Born
March 30th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1954 71 years ago — 75 years old
Excelled in speed skating during the early 20th century. Competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics where speed skating was included as a demonstration sport. Secured a gold medal in the 5000 meters event during those games. Participated in various international competitions, contributing to the popularity of speed skating in the Netherlands.
Continue Reading