Plaxico Burress
American football wide receiver
Played in the National Football League (NFL) primarily as a wide receiver. Achieved significant success with the New York Giants, notably during the 2007 season when the team won Super Bowl XLII against the New England Patriots. Contributed to the Giants' victory with a crucial touchdown catch in the final moments of the game. Played for other teams including the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Jets. Burress' career included both highs and lows, including a period of incarceration that impacted his football journey.
Winning Super Bowl XLII with the New York Giants
Catching the game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl XLII
Other People Born on August 12th
Sitaram Yechury
Indian politician and CPI(M) leader
Born
August 12th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent Indian politician actively engaged in leftist politics. Served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) from 2015 until 2024. Played a significant role in shaping the political landscape in India, advocating for workers' rights and social justice. Contributed to several debates and discussions on national policies and socio-economic issues. Participated in various elections, emphasizing the importance of leftist ideology and unity among opposition parties.
Continue ReadingLouise de Marillac
co-founder of the Daughters of Charity
Born
August 12th, 1591 434 years ago
Died
1660 366 years ago — 69 years old
Co-founded the Daughters of Charity in 1633, an organization dedicated to serving the poor and sick. Established the community to provide education and healthcare to underserved populations. Contributed to the development of charitable work in France and influenced the Catholic Church's approach to social service. Played a significant role in promoting the Vincentian spirit of service and charity throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingLeung Chun-ying
Hong Kong Chief Executive and businessman
Born
August 12th, 1954 71 years ago
Served as the 3rd Chief Executive of Hong Kong from 2012 to 2017. Held the position of Deputy Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands in the 2000s. Engaged in the real estate sector and business consulting prior to entering politics. Played a role in various governmental reforms and faced significant public protests during tenure.
Continue ReadingGeorge Soros
Investor, philanthropist, and founder of Soros Fund
Born
August 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Born in Hungary, an investor and philanthropist established Soros Fund Management in 1970, achieving notable success in hedge fund management. In the late 20th century, built a reputation as a major financier of various political and social causes through Open Society Foundations. Played a significant role in the 1992 Black Wednesday event, where speculation against the British pound resulted in substantial profits. Contributed extensively to educational and humanitarian efforts globally, influencing policies in Eastern Europe and beyond. Resided in the United States for many years, continuing philanthropic endeavors focused on democracy and human rights.
Continue ReadingKōji Kitao
Sumo wrestler, 60th Yokozuna
Born
August 12th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 56 years old
Debuted in professional sumo in 1980, achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo, in 1993. Competed primarily in the top division and held a prominent position in the sport during the 1990s. Represented the Takanohana stable, making significant contributions to the sumo landscape and competing against top wrestlers of the era.
Continue ReadingNorris McWhirter
Author and co-founder of Guinness World Records
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2004 21 years ago — 78 years old
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.
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