Óscar Romero
Salvadoran archbishop and martyr
An archbishop in El Salvador, he became a vocal advocate for human rights and social justice during a period of political unrest. Romero utilized his platform to speak out against violence and oppression, particularly in relation to the Salvadoran civil conflict. His sermons often highlighted the plight of the poor and marginalized. On March 24, 1980, while celebrating Mass, he was assassinated, which drew international attention to the human rights abuses occurring in El Salvador. The legacy of his work continued to influence social justice movements even after his death.
Advocating for human rights in El Salvador
Assassinated for his opposition to violence
Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church
Other People Born on August 15th
Chief Keef
American rapper with 'I Don't Like'
Born
August 15th, 1995 30 years ago
Rose to prominence in the early 2010s with a distinctive style that combined elements of drill music. Gained widespread recognition with the release of the single 'I Don't Like' in 2012, which became an anthem for the genre and significantly influenced the Chicago rap scene. Founded the record label Glory Boyz Entertainment, which helped launch the careers of several artists. Released the debut album 'Finally Rich' in the same year, which featured collaborations with various notable artists. Continued to release music and maintain a presence in the industry while becoming a key figure in the drill movement.
Continue ReadingOussama Assaidi
Moroccan footballer with FC Groningen
Born
August 15th, 1988 37 years ago
An attacking winger, Assaidi began his senior career at AS FAR before moving to SC Heerenveen and later to FC Groningen. At Groningen, contributed significantly to the team's success, earning a transfer to Liverpool in 2012. His time at Liverpool included loan spells to other clubs, enhancing his playing experience. After leaving Liverpool, played for clubs in the Netherlands, England, and the Middle East, showcasing his skills and speed on the field.
Continue ReadingNipsey Hussle
American rapper and entrepreneur
Born
August 15th, 1985 40 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2019 6 years ago — 33 years old
A prominent figure in the hip-hop scene, contributed to the genre with a unique blend of West Coast sound and entrepreneurial spirit. Released several mixtapes, including the critically acclaimed 'South Central State of Mind' and 'Mailbox Money'. Founded the record label All Money In No Money Out and launched various business ventures, including a clothing store in Los Angeles. Engaged in community activism focused on economic empowerment and violence prevention. Tragic death occurred in 2019, garnering widespread memorials and tributes across the music industry.
Continue ReadingAlex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Professional footballer and winger
Born
August 15th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional footballer from England, played as a winger. Started career at Southampton, making first-team appearances. Transferred to Arsenal in 2011, contributing to multiple FA Cup victories. Later joined Liverpool in 2017, playing a key role in the team's success, including winning the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. Represents the England national team, participating in major tournaments.
Continue ReadingBaskaran Adhiban
Indian chess player and grandmaster
Born
August 15th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, this chess player achieved the title of Grandmaster in 2012. Participated in several international competitions, showcasing skills in classical and rapid formats. Represented India in the Chess Olympiad and contributed to team successes. Recognized for victories in multiple FIDE rated tournaments and consistent performance in national championships.
Continue ReadingJarrod Dyson
Baseball Outfielder with World Series title
Born
August 15th, 1984 41 years ago
Drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 2006, this baseball player played primarily as an outfielder. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2010 and contributed to the Royals' 2015 World Series championship victory. Played for several teams during career, including the Seattle Mariners and Arizona Diamondbacks. Known for speed on the bases and defensive skills in the outfield, showcased talent throughout professional career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 24th
Enrique Granados
Spanish pianist and composer of Goyescas
Born
July 27th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1916 109 years ago — 48 years old
A Spanish pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the early 20th-century classical music scene. Granados studied under notable composers and gained attention for his piano compositions, which reflected Spanish folk themes. His most prominent work, Goyescas, premiered in 1911 and includes a suite for piano that later inspired an opera adaptation. Granados's life was cut short during World War I when his ship was torpedoed while crossing the English Channel. Despite his brief career, his influence in the realm of Romantic music remains.
Continue ReadingGeorge Kell
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
August 23rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American baseball player, best recognized for a distinguished career as a third baseman. Played primarily for the Detroit Tigers and achieved notable success during the 1940s and 1950s. Excelled at batting, which earned selection to the All-Star game multiple times. Transitioned into broadcasting after retirement, providing play-by-play and analysis in various media formats. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1983, solidifying a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingSigrid Hjertén
Swedish painter known for modernist works
Born
October 27th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1948 77 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent Swedish painter and illustrator, recognized for contributions to modernist art. Hjertén studied at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts and later ventured to Paris, where she became influenced by the Fauvist movement. The artist played a vital role in the development of early 20th-century Swedish modernism. Hjertén's works often depicted vibrant colors, expressive forms, and personal themes. She was married to painter Anna Cassel, with whom she shared both artistic and personal experiences. Hjertén's art gained posthumous recognition, showcasing the emotional depth and technical skill characteristic of her style.
Continue ReadingÉdouard Branly
Physicist recognized for invention of coherer
Born
1844 182 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1940 85 years ago — 96 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in telecommunications. Developed the coherer, an early device used in radio receivers, which enhanced the ability to detect electromagnetic waves. Held a position as a professor, sharing knowledge and conducting research in the sciences. Engaged in studies related to the transmission of radio waves, paving the way for advancements in wireless communication technology.
Continue ReadingRichard Widmark
American actor in films and television
Born
December 26th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2008 17 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor, achieved recognition for performances in a range of film genres. Gained prominence with a debut role in the film 'Kiss of Death' (1947), where a chilling portrayal of a murderer earned an Academy Award nomination. Subsequently starred in other notable films including 'Judgment at Nuremberg' (1961) and 'The Alamo' (1960). Played leading roles in westerns, dramas, and thrillers throughout a long career. Also contributed to television, appearing in series like 'The West Wing' and 'The Fourth Angel'. His career spanned over six decades until retirement in the early 2000s.
Continue ReadingShripad Narayan Pendse
Marathi novelist and playwright
Died
March 24th, 2007 18 years ago — None years old
An influential Marathi novelist and playwright, this individual contributed significantly to Marathi literature. Born in 1913, he began writing at a young age and published his first novel, 'Manthan,' which highlighted social issues and human relationships. Over the years, he produced various works including novels and plays that reflected contemporary society and cultural themes. In addition to writing, he served in various editorial roles, fostering literary discussions within the Marathi-speaking community. His literary contributions earned him a place in the pantheon of notable Marathi writers until his death in 2007.
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