Rick James
Singer-songwriter and producer, 'Super Freak'
Born in 1948, a prominent figure in funk music, gained popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Achieved success with hit singles like 'Super Freak' and 'Give It to Me Baby'. Founded the Stone City Band, contributing to the funk movement. Developed a style that fused rock and funk, influencing many artists. Also produced for other musicians and appeared in various media.
Released the hit single 'Super Freak'
Founded the Stone City Band
Other People Born on February 1st
Ekaterina Maximova
Ballerina and choreographer from Russia
Born
February 1st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2009 16 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent ballerina and choreographer, she achieved acclaim for performances with the Bolshoi Ballet. She trained at the Moscow Choreographic School and joined the Bolshoi in 1956. Her repertoire included various classical and contemporary pieces. Participation in international ballet competitions garnered recognition. Contributions to ballet as a choreographer expanded the art form, bringing innovative interpretations to classic works. Her work with famed choreographers enriched ballet's evolution.
Continue ReadingEiji Sawamura
Japanese baseball player and soldier
Born
February 1st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1944 81 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1917, a professional baseball pitcher played for the Tokyo Kyojin in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league. Achieved significant recognition for exceptional talent on the mound, showcasing impressive fastball velocity and control. Sawamura's career, however, was interrupted by military service during World War II, leading to his early retirement from baseball. He is remembered for his contributions to Japan's sport despite his life being cut short.
Continue ReadingÉmile Littré
French lexicographer and philosopher
Born
February 1st, 1801 224 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1881 144 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed to the field of lexicography through the creation of the first comprehensive dictionary of the French language, the Dictionnaire de la langue française. Engaged in philosophical discourse, particularly influenced by the ideas of Auguste Comte. Also actively participated in politics and journalism, promoting rationalist thought during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingBoris Yeltsin
Russian politician, 1st President of Russia
Born
February 1st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 76 years old
Became the first President of Russia after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. Served from 1991 to 1999, implementing major economic reforms that transitioned the country from a planned economy to a market economy. Played a key role in the political landscape during the turbulent 1990s, overseeing significant events such as the constitutional crisis in 1993. Resignation on December 31, 1999, paved the way for the presidency of Vladimir Putin.
Continue ReadingDenise Robins
English journalist and author known for novels
Born
February 1st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1985 40 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1897, this English journalist and author became notable for writing a series of popular romantic novels. Contributing to the genre, she authored over 30 novels that captured the attention of a wide readership. Her works often explored themes of love and relationships, gaining her a significant following throughout her career. In addition to her fiction writing, this individual worked as a journalist, contributing to various publications. She served as a founding member of the Romantic Novelists' Association, which supports and promotes the genre. Throughout her life, she remained active in literary circles, fostering relationships with other writers and participating in literary events until her death in 1980.
Continue ReadingWalter de Stapledon
Bishop and Lord High Treasurer of England
Born
February 1st, 1261 764 years ago
Died
1326 699 years ago — 65 years old
Walter de Stapledon served as an English bishop and political figure during the 14th century. Ascending to the position of Bishop of Exeter, he played a significant role in ecclesiastical and political affairs. As Lord High Treasurer, management of the royal finances was a primary responsibility, influencing the economic policies of the period. Stapledon also contributed to various educational institutions, including support for Oxford University. His tenure was marked by efforts to maintain stability amidst the turbulence of the time, characterized by conflicts and shifts in power.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 6th
Jerry Wolman
Businessman and Philadelphia Eagles owner
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
This individual was a businessman primarily recognized for ownership of the Philadelphia Eagles from 1963 to 1969. Under this ownership, the team reached the NFL Championship game in 1963. Wolman also made significant contributions to the real estate industry, particularly in urban redevelopment projects. In the late 1960s, financial troubles led to the sale of the Eagles. Despite the challenges faced in business, Wolman remained active in real estate until his passing in 2013.
Continue ReadingStan Lynde
Author and illustrator of comic strips
Born
September 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
An American artist created the comic strip 'Rick O'Shay', which debuted in 1958 and gained significant popularity, running in numerous newspapers across the United States. Additionally, developed other comic strips, including 'Latigo', showcasing storytelling through western themes. Authored and illustrated several children's books, combining visual art with engaging narratives to reach younger audiences. Later in life, ventured into writing novels and continued to express creativity through illustrations.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Mohnke
German general during WWII
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2001 24 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a general in the German Army during World War II. Mohnke commanded troops during significant battles, including the defense of Berlin in 1945. He was involved in various military strategies and operations throughout the war. After the war, he was taken prisoner by Allied forces and spent several years in captivity before being released.
Continue ReadingRuggiero Ricci
American violinist and educator
Born
July 24th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent violinist and educator, made significant contributions to classical music. Gained recognition for the performances of both mainstream and lesser-known violin repertoire. Played a vital role in promoting the works of contemporary composers. Served as a professor at various institutions, imparting knowledge and passion for the violin to future generations. His skillful interpretations earned him acclaim worldwide.
Continue ReadingEdsger W. Dijkstra
Computer Scientist; developed Dijkstra's algorithm
Born
May 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in computer science, contributed significantly to algorithms and programming methodologies. Developed Dijkstra's algorithm for shortest paths in graphs, which is essential in networking and routing. Advocated for structured programming through various writings. Worked at several academic institutions, including the University of Texas at Austin and Eindhoven University of Technology. Received the Turing Award in 1972 for contributions to programming languages and algorithms.
Continue ReadingAnanda W.P. Guruge
Sri Lankan diplomat and scholar
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to Buddhist studies and diplomacy. Served as a prominent diplomat representing Sri Lanka in various international forums. Held the position of Sri Lanka's Ambassador to the United States. Played an important role in fostering cultural and educational exchanges between Sri Lanka and other nations. Authored several works on Buddhism and theology, and served as the Secretary-General of the World Fellowship of Buddhists.
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