Pope Pius VII
Religious leader and prominent pope
Served as the pope from 1800 until death in 1823. Led the Catholic Church during the tumultuous period of the Napoleonic Wars. Restored the papacy's authority after being imprisoned by Napoleon. Extended church influence in Europe and re-established the Jesuits after their suppression in 1773.
Restored the Society of Jesus in 1814
Negotiated the Concordat of 1801 with Napoleon
Reinstated the papal states after exile
Other People Born on August 14th
Maya Jama
British TV presenter and host
Born
August 14th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, a British television presenter gained recognition through hosting various programs. She achieved prominence as a co-presenter on the BBC Radio 1 show and later became known for her role on the hit show 'Love Island.' Jama also hosted the 'Glow Up' series on BBC Three, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry. Besides television, she has worked in music, collaborating with artists and serving as a DJ at events. Her engaging style and charisma contributed to her growth as a public figure.
Continue ReadingGiorgio Chiellini
Italian football defender and captain
Born
August 14th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional football defender, gained prominence with Juventus and the Italian national team. Played a key role in Juventus' multiple Serie A titles and was pivotal in Italy's victory at the UEFA Euro 2020. Recognized for leadership and defensive skills, contributed significantly to the team's success over many seasons. Also known for his longevity in the sport, sustaining a high level of performance throughout a career spanning more than a decade.
Continue ReadingTheodor Luts
Estonian director and cinematographer
Born
August 14th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1980 45 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to Estonian cinema during the 20th century. Directed the film "Viimne reliikvia" in 1969, which became a pivotal work in the national film industry. Produced films that often depicted the struggles and joys of Estonian life, reflecting historical and cultural themes. Collaborated with other artists to promote Estonian cinema on the international stage. Served as a mentor to a generation of filmmakers, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of cinematography.
Continue ReadingKyle Turris
Ice Hockey Player, NHL Forward
Born
August 14th, 1989 36 years ago
Played in the National Hockey League for several teams including the Phoenix Coyotes, Ottawa Senators, and Nashville Predators. Achieved a career-high of 27 goals in a single season. Competed in international play, representing Canada at the World Junior Championships and earning a gold medal.
Continue ReadingJohnny Gargano
Professional wrestler with NXT acclaim
Born
August 14th, 1987 38 years ago
A professional wrestler, recognized for contributions to WWE's NXT brand. Achieved notable success in singles and tag team competitions. Won the NXT Championship and NXT North American Championship multiple times. Formed a prominent tag team with Tommaso Ciampa, known as DIY, which garnered critical acclaim for their matches and storylines. Known for high-energy performances and technical wrestling skills, captivating audiences with compelling narratives.
Continue ReadingGuangxu Emperor of China
Emperor and reform advocate
Born
August 14th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1908 117 years ago — 37 years old
Ascended to the throne at the age of four. Ruled during a time of significant political and social change in China. Advocated for the Hundred Days' Reform in 1898, aiming to modernize China's political and educational systems. The reform efforts met strong opposition from conservative factions within the Qing court. Following a coup led by Empress Dowager Cixi, the reforms were largely reversed, and the emperor was placed under house arrest for the remainder of his life. His reign saw the increasing influence of foreign powers in China.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Larry Knechtel
Session musician and The Wrecking Crew member
Born
August 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent American bass player and pianist, became a leading session musician in the 1960s and 1970s. Contributed to numerous iconic recordings across various genres. Notably played on tracks for The Beach Boys, including the seminal album 'Pet Sounds'. Collaborated with artists such as Elvis Presley and Simon & Garfunkel, contributing to the classic hit 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. Won a Grammy Award for his work with the band Bread. Knechtel's expertise in both bass and keyboard instruments solidified his reputation in the music industry as a highly sought-after session musician.
Continue ReadingThomas Herrion
American football player and offensive lineman
Born
December 15th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 23 years old
Played professional American football as an offensive lineman. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2004. Featured in the 2004 season with San Francisco, contributing to the team's offensive line. Played for multiple teams in the NFL including the 49ers and the Oakland Raiders. His career was marked by his dedication to the sport until untimely death in 2005.
Continue ReadingUlla Jacobsson
Swedish-Austrian actress in 'The Seventh Seal'
Born
May 23rd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1982 43 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1929, a Swedish-Austrian actress gained prominence in the film industry through notable performances. Featured in the iconic film 'The Seventh Seal' directed by Ingmar Bergman, showcased remarkable talent. Throughout the career, appeared in various European films and television productions, achieving recognition for versatile roles and strong screen presence. Continued to act until the late 1990s, leaving a lasting legacy in European cinema.
Continue ReadingGeorg von Frundsberg
German Knight, military commander
Born
September 24th, 1473 552 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1528 497 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1473, this figure served as a prominent knight and landowner in the Holy Roman Empire. He gained recognition for his significant role in the Landsknecht mercenary army and became one of the foremost military commanders of his time. Active during the early 16th century, he contributed to various military campaigns and played a key role in the defense of the Empire against external threats. His leadership in battles led to a notable influence on military tactics and the structure of mercenary forces throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingFred Hoyle
Astronomer, author, and creator of the term 'Big Bang'
Born
June 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old
An English astronomer and author contributed significantly to the field of cosmology and astrophysics. Developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how elements are formed within stars. Authored several influential books, including 'The Black Cloud' and 'Astronomy'. Coined the phrase 'Big Bang' in 1949 to describe a competing cosmological model, although he favored a different steady-state theory. His work spanned topics such as quasars, nucleosynthesis, and the origins of life in the universe.
Continue ReadingĐặng Phong
Vietnamese economist and historian
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2010 15 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of Vietnam's economic history and socialist transformation. Served as a professor at the National University of Vietnam, specializing in economic history. Conducted extensive research on the historical development of Vietnam's economy from the colonial period to post-war reconstruction. Authored several influential works that examined the impact of governmental policies on economic growth and social change.
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