Robert G. Ingersoll
American soldier and politician
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Born on August 11, 1833, one served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. Later transitioned into a legal career, establishing a reputation as a prominent lawyer. Engaged in politics, one was elected to the Illinois legislature as a Republican. Advocated for secularism and free thought, earning recognition for speeches supporting civil liberties and religious freedom. Involved in the development of the modern agnostic movement, one emphasized reason and skepticism in public discourse.
Served as a colonel in the Union Army
Elected to the Illinois legislature
Other People Born on August 11th
Erik Brann
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 11th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in the music world, primarily known for contributions to rock music. Gained recognition as a guitarist for the band Iron Butterfly, particularly for the iconic track 'In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida'. Developed a solo career as a singer-songwriter, showcasing a unique blend of rock and folk influences. Collaborated with various artists and participated in multiple music festivals, solidifying a reputation in the music scene over several decades. Although early success came as part of a notable band, later efforts focused on personal artistic expression and exploration of different musical styles.
Continue ReadingReid Blackburn
American photographer with significant works
Born
August 11th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1952, a prominent American photographer, specialized in nature and landscape photography. Gained recognition for capturing the dramatic beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Worked as a freelance photographer and contributed extensively to various magazines, showcasing the region's natural splendor. During a 1985 expedition to Mount St. Helens, documented the aftermath of the volcanic eruption, providing valuable insights into environmental changes. Belonged to the community of photographers that emphasized the importance of wilderness preservation through powerful imagery.
Continue ReadingIan Charleson
Scottish-English actor best known for 'Chariots of Fire'
Born
August 11th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1990 36 years ago — 40 years old
Notable contributions to theater and film include a prominent role in the film 'Chariots of Fire' as Eric Liddell, which earned critical acclaim. In the theater, performed in various productions, including 'Angels in America' and classical works at the National Theatre. Charleson also portrayed significant characters in television series, showcasing versatility and talent. His work in both film and stage left a lasting legacy, particularly in portraying complex characters.
Continue ReadingTarmo Rüütli
Football coach and player
Born
August 11th, 1954 71 years ago
A prominent figure in Estonian football, contributions spanned both playing and coaching. Played as a defender for various clubs in Estonia and later transitioned into coaching roles. Served as the head coach for the Estonian national team, leading it through international competitions. Emphasized the development of domestic talent and promoted youth football programs. Held managerial positions at several clubs, contributing to the growth of the sport in Estonia.
Continue ReadingLászló Szlávics
Hungarian sculptor and artist
Born
August 11th, 1959 66 years ago
Born in Hungary, a notable sculptor developed a unique style that fused traditional techniques with modern themes. Worked extensively with various materials, including stone, metal, and wood, creating both public artworks and private commissions. Participated in numerous exhibitions in Hungary and abroad, showcasing significant contributions to contemporary sculpture. Engaged in educational initiatives, mentoring young artists and promoting the arts.
Continue ReadingMasayoshi Son
Japanese technology entrepreneur and investor
Born
August 11th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in Japan, an entrepreneur established a technology and investment conglomerate. Founded SoftBank in 1981, which became one of the largest telecommunications and internet companies in the world. Under leadership, the company expanded through various acquisitions and investments in major global tech firms. Recognized for pioneering ventures in artificial intelligence and telecommunications.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Lettice Curtis
Engineer and pilot, Air Transport Auxiliary
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old
An English engineer and pilot, contributions included work as a test pilot and a member of the Air Transport Auxiliary during World War II. In this role, delivered aircraft from factories to Royal Air Force stations. Became one of the first female pilots in the United Kingdom to qualify for a commercial pilot's license. After the war, continued to promote aviation and women's participation in the field through various initiatives and organizations.
Continue ReadingBasil Rathbone
Actor famed for Sherlock Holmes role
Born
June 13th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1967 58 years ago — 75 years old
Born in South Africa, an actor predominantly worked in British and American film and theatre. Achieved prominence in the 1930s and 1940s, portraying Sherlock Holmes in a series of films, starting with 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' in 1939. Rathbone also starred in significant roles in films such as 'Captain Blood' and 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'. His theatrical background included performances on the London stage and Broadway. Rathbone's distinctive voice and commanding presence contributed to his enduring legacy in cinematic history.
Continue ReadingAnnie Ross
Jazz singer and actress in 'The Thelonious Monk Story'
Born
July 25th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2020 5 years ago — 89 years old
A Scottish-American jazz singer and actress, this individual gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. A key figure in the world of vocal jazz, she gained recognition for her unique vocal style and innovative use of lyrics tailored for jazz standards. Her performance in 'The Thelonious Monk Story' showcased her talents as an actress while also emphasizing her musical prowess. Collaborations with other notable musicians further solidified her position in the jazz community. This individual also made significant contributions to musical theater, bringing a distinct voice to performances.
Continue ReadingAngharad Rees
Actress in 'Poldark' and 'The Love Game'
Born
July 16th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old
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Continue ReadingClaus von Stauffenberg
German Colonel and Resistance Leader
Born
November 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1944 81 years ago — 36 years old
A German army officer, famous for leading the July 20 plot in 1944 to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Stauffenberg joined the German Army and rose through the ranks during World War II. Dissatisfaction with the Nazi regime led to conspiracy efforts among military officers. Stauffenberg's role involved placing a bomb in Hitler's briefing room, although the attempt ultimately failed. Captured shortly after the attempt, he was executed by firing squad. His actions are often cited as a pivotal moment of resistance against the regime.
Continue ReadingFrançois Sébastien Charles Joseph de Croix
Austrian Field Marshal, Count of Clerfayt
Born
October 14th, 1733 292 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1798 227 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1733, a prominent Austrian field marshal served in the Habsburg military during the Seven Years' War and the War of the Austrian Succession. Recognized for effective leadership and tactical skill in numerous battles, particularly in the campaigns against Prussia and France. Participated in several key confrontations, displaying strategic acumen that earned respect among contemporaries. Elevated to the rank of field marshal and awarded the title of Count of Clerfayt, positioned as a significant military figure in 18th-century European conflicts, ultimately contributing to the Habsburg Monarchy's military legacy.
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