Paul Reynaud
French politician, Prime Minister of France
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 118th Prime Minister of France during World War II. Took office shortly before the German invasion in 1940 and faced significant challenges in response to the crisis. Advocated for strong military resistance against Nazi forces. Resigned following the fall of France and fled to London, where he continued to support the Free French efforts.
Served as Prime Minister from March to June 1940
Advocated for resistance during World War II
Other People Born on October 15th
Charley O'Leary
Baseball player and coach
Born
October 15th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1941 84 years ago — 58 years old
Played professional baseball as a shortstop in Major League Baseball from 1908 to 1919. Was a member of the St. Louis Cardinals, Detroit Tigers, and Philadelphia Athletics. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and managed various teams in the minor leagues. His career in baseball lasted over a decade, contributing to several teams in significant roles.
Continue ReadingPatricio Urrutia
Ecuadorian footballer, Copa Libertadores winner
Born
October 15th, 1977 48 years ago
A professional footballer from Ecuador, had a successful career primarily as a midfielder. Played for several clubs, most notably LDU Quito, where he won the Copa Libertadores in 2008. Represented the Ecuadorian national team in multiple international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup in 2006. Contributed significantly to team success with leadership and tactical awareness on the field.
Continue ReadingMickey Baker
Guitarist and co-founder of The Shirelles
Born
October 15th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
A guitarist, contributed significantly to the development of rock and roll and rhythm and blues music. Co-founded the duo Mickey & Sylvia, which achieved success with the hit song 'Love Is Strange'. Played with various artists, enhancing their sound and leaving a lasting influence on the music industry. Immigrated to France later in life, where continued to perform and record, bridging American styles with European music scenes.
Continue ReadingTony Hart
Painter and television host
Born
October 15th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2009 16 years ago — 83 years old
A television presenter and painter, contributed to children's art education through shows like 'Take Hart' and 'Hart Beat'. These programs featured art tutorials and showcased children's artwork, fostering creativity. Developed a signature style combining traditional painting techniques with playful themes. Published several books on art aimed at inspiring young artists and conducted workshops in schools, promoting hands-on art experiences.
Continue ReadingVyacheslav Butusov
Russian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
October 15th, 1961 64 years ago
Born in 1961, a prominent figure in Russian rock music, achieved fame in the late 1980s and 1990s as the lead vocalist and songwriter of the band Nautilus Pompilius. The band's music combined rock with poetic lyrics, resonating with the sociopolitical climate of Russia during perestroika. The artist also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and collaborating with various musicians. Renowned for emotive performances and innovative compositions, his influence extended beyond music as he engaged with contemporary issues through his art.
Continue ReadingPeter Koch
Wood scientist and industrial engineer
Born
October 15th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1998 27 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of wood science and technology. Focused on the properties of wood and its applications in industrial contexts. Authored several influential publications that served as essential references in wood engineering and industrial utilization. Conducted extensive research on the preservation and treatment of wood, which significantly impacted forestry practices. Served as a professor and guided numerous students in wood science disciplines.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 21st
Ivan Bagramyan
Russian general and military strategist
Born
December 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1982 43 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a Soviet general during World War II, playing a crucial role in several significant battles. Commanded the 1st Baltic Front during the Baltic Offensive, contributing to the liberation of various territories from Nazi occupation. Led the operation that resulted in the encirclement of the German Army Group Courland. Post-war, held prominent positions in the Soviet military and was involved in the planning of military strategy during the early Cold War years.
Continue ReadingMikimoto Kōkichi
Japanese pearl farmer and entrepreneur
Born
January 25th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1954 71 years ago — 96 years old
Established the first successful pearl cultivation technique in Japan, including the development of cultured pearls. Founded Mikimoto & Co. in 1893, which became a leading luxury brand known for high-quality pearls. Expanded operations internationally and contributed to the growth of the pearl industry. Advocated for sustainable farming practices in pearl cultivation.
Continue ReadingMichael Harari
Israeli intelligence officer
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old
An Israeli intelligence officer, this individual had a notable career in the intelligence community, primarily serving in the Mossad. Contributions during key operations including the pursuit of Nazi war criminals and counter-terrorism efforts in various regions are significant aspects of the career. Involvement in high-profile missions to track down individuals involved in attacks against Israeli interests marked a crucial part of the professional life. The strategic planning and operational execution in various foreign countries were integral to the objectives achieved during service.
Continue ReadingArthur Ashkin
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2020 5 years ago — 98 years old
This individual was an American physicist whose research significantly advanced the field of optical tweezers. Contributions to the understanding of laser physics led to the development of techniques that manipulate small particles with light. Work at Bell Labs facilitated breakthroughs in optical manipulation, impacting areas ranging from biology to materials science. The Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded in 2018 for achievements in this innovative domain.
Continue ReadingBenny Golson
Saxophonist and composer of jazz classics
Born
January 25th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2024 1 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent jazz saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre with a career spanning several decades. Played with influential figures such as Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, and formed the group The Jazztet. Composed many well-known jazz standards, including "Killer Joe" and "Whisper Not." Involved in various collaborations and projects, continuing to perform and teach jazz internationally.
Continue ReadingKofi Awoonor
Ghanaian author and poet, celebrated for 'This Earth, My Brother'
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 78 years old
An author, poet, and diplomat from Ghana, contributions include poetry and prose that reflect the culture and struggles of Ghana. Best recognized for the collection 'This Earth, My Brother,' which showcases themes of identity, belonging, and the essence of African life. Served as a diplomat and held various roles including being a member of Ghana's National Commission on Culture. Wrote extensively about the African experience and the impact of colonialism and independence on the continent. The literary career spanned several decades, significantly contributing to African literature and poetry.
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