Otto Ernst Remer
German general during World War II
Served as a general in the German army during World War II. Became widely recognized for his role in quelling the July 20, 1944, assassination attempt against Adolf Hitler. Commanded the 56th Panzer Corps and participated in various military campaigns on the Eastern Front. After the war, engaged in far-right political activities and founded the National Democratic Party of Germany in the 1960s.
Suppressed the July 20, 1944 assassination attempt against Hitler
Commanded the 56th Panzer Corps
Founded the National Democratic Party of Germany
Other People Born on August 18th
Patrick Swayze
Actor and dancer in film and television
Born
August 18th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2009 16 years ago — 57 years old
An actor and dancer, this individual gained widespread recognition for performances in several popular films. Starred in the iconic movie 'Dirty Dancing' alongside Jennifer Grey, where the dance scenes and soundtrack became legendary. Also featured in 'Ghost', showcasing a blend of romance and supernatural elements, earning accolades and a dedicated following. Early in his career, earned acclaim on stage in various dance productions before transitioning to film. Had a notable television presence in the series 'The Beast'.
Continue ReadingRobert Horton
American television actor and star of 'Wagon Train'
Born
August 18th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2016 10 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor gained prominence through the role of Flint McCullough on the television series 'Wagon Train,' which aired from 1957 to 1965. Horton also made appearances in various other television shows and films throughout his career. He was noted for work in productions such as 'The Green Hornet' and 'The Twilight Zone.' In addition to acting, he pursued a career in music and authored a book detailing his life experiences.
Continue ReadingCaspar Weinberger
Secretary of Defense under Reagan
Born
August 18th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2006 20 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 15th United States Secretary of Defense from 1981 to 1987. Oversaw a significant military buildup during the Cold War. Played a crucial role in shaping defense policies, including the Strategic Defense Initiative. Prior to this role, practiced law and held various positions in government and business, including Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. His tenure in defense was marked by a focus on modernizing U.S. military capabilities.
Continue ReadingGeoff Courtnall
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
August 18th, 1962 63 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player and coach. Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Vancouver Canucks and the Boston Bruins. Achieved success as a player and transitioned to coaching after retirement. Coached at various levels, contributing to the development of young players and teams.
Continue ReadingGrand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna of Russia
Russian Grand Duchess and patron of arts
Born
August 18th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 57 years old
Born into the Russian imperial family, served as Grand Duchess. Engaged in numerous charitable activities and patronage of the arts. Played a significant role in cultural life of Russia during the 19th century. Contributed to the development of educational institutions and social welfare programs.
Continue ReadingHenry Hammond
English cleric and theologian
Born
August 18th, 1605 420 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1660 366 years ago — 54 years old
Served as a prominent English cleric and theologian during the 17th century. Gained recognition for contributions to religious thought and ecclesiastical governance. Advocated for a middle path in religious matters, seeking to reconcile differing views within Protestantism. Wrote extensively on theology, pastoral care, and biblical commentary, influencing both contemporary and subsequent debates in the Church of England. His works contributed to the establishment of a higher ecclesiastical authority and a focus on the importance of reason in faith.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 4th
Norman Wisdom
Comedian and actor in 'The Square Peg'
Born
February 4th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 95 years old
An English comedian, actor, and singer-songwriter, this figure gained prominence in the mid-20th century through film and stage performances. Starting his career in music halls, rose to fame for a unique style of physical comedy and an engaging personality. Starred in a series of films during the 1950s and 1960s, including 'The Nutty Professor' and 'The Square Peg'. Also known for a long-running television program and theatrical performances, entertained audiences for decades. Besides acting, ventured into music, releasing singles and albums throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJohn Cloudsley-Thompson
Commander and military strategist
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a commander in the British Army with a focus on military strategies in various operations. Contributed to military education and leadership through training and guiding troops. Authored several works on military tactics and history, including insights on the operation and effectiveness of infantry units. Engaged in advocating for improved strategies and training methods within the army.
Continue ReadingS. Arasaratnam
Sri Lankan historian and author
Born
March 20th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of Sri Lankan history and society through academic scholarship. Served as a professor at the University of Jaffna and engaged extensively in research on the Tamil history of Sri Lanka. Authored several important works that explored ethnic relations and colonial history, providing insights into the socio-political dynamics of the region. Involved in various academic institutions and was a respected figure in the field of historical studies.
Continue ReadingVõ Nguyên Giáp
Vietnamese general and politician
Born
August 25th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 102 years old
Served as a general in the Vietnam People's Army and as Minister of Defence during the Vietnam War. Played a key role in leading North Vietnamese forces against the French colonial and later the American military during the Vietnam War. Contributed to significant victories such as the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, which resulted in French withdrawal from Indochina, and the Tet Offensive, which significantly influenced public opinion about the Vietnam War. After the war, served in various political positions and remained influential in military strategy and politics until the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingSamuel von Cocceji
Prussian jurist and statesman
Born
October 20th, 1679 346 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1755 270 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1679, this individual served as an influential jurist and statesman in Prussia. Contributions to legal reform and the development of civil law were significant aspects of the career. Held the position of the Chief Justice of the Prussian Supreme Court. Advocated for the separation of powers and the establishment of a rational legal framework.
Continue ReadingUlric Cross
Trinidadian diplomat and judge
Born
May 1st, 1917 109 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
A navigator, judge, and diplomat from Trinidad, contributed significantly to the fields of law and international relations. Served as a judge on the Caribbean Court of Justice and contributed to the establishment of various legal frameworks in the Caribbean. Actively participated in the independence movement in various Caribbean nations, advocating for self-governance. Held several key diplomatic roles, representing his country and region in various international forums.
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