Robert Johnson
American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
A major figure in the development of the Delta blues genre, this artist's music influenced generations of musicians. Recording only a few songs in his lifetime, many became iconic, including pieces like 'Cross Road Blues' and 'Sweet Home Chicago.' His mysterious life and untimely death at age 27 have contributed to his legend. The guitarist's unique style incorporated various techniques, showcasing a blend of melody and rhythm that was ahead of its time. Posthumously, his work gained recognition and is considered foundational to modern blues and rock music.
Recorded 'Cross Road Blues' and 'Sweet Home Chicago'
Influenced musicians from various genres
Other People Born on May 8th
William Cavendish
English politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 8th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1764 261 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1720, held the title of 4th Duke of Devonshire. Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1756 to 1757 during the Seven Years' War. His administration struggled with military challenges and faced a turbulent political atmosphere. The duke served as a member of the Whig party, holding various political positions prior to premiership, including Lord Chamberlain and a role in the Board of Trade. His tenure as Prime Minister was short-lived, marked by the challenges of the war and political dissatisfaction. Cavendish was influential in the politics of his time, engaging in discussions regarding military strategy and international relations.
Continue ReadingVictor Amadeus I
Duke of Savoy and ruler of Montferrat
Born
May 8th, 1587 438 years ago
Died
1637 388 years ago — 50 years old
Duke of Savoy held the title in the early 17th century. Ascended to the ducal title in 1630 following the death of his father. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the duchy’s position within Italy and against external threats. Played a role in the War of the Mantuan Succession, which aimed to secure territories in Northern Italy. His marriage to Christine of France helped to secure valuable alliances. Died in 1637, succeeded by his son.
Continue ReadingEdmund Wilson
Literary critic and essayist
Born
May 8th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1972 53 years ago — 77 years old
An influential American critic and essayist who contributed significantly to literary criticism and cultural commentary. Edited several prominent publications including The New Republic and The Nation. Authored numerous works that explored literature and society, including 'Axel's Castle' and 'To the Finland Station'. His writings examined the relationship between literature and politics across different eras, establishing a critical framework that remains referenced today.
Continue ReadingAndrea Alciato
Italian jurist and writer of Emblemata
Born
May 8th, 1492 533 years ago
Died
1550 475 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent Italian jurist and writer, widely recognized for contributions to legal literature and the development of the emblem book genre. Authored 'Emblemata' in 1531, which comprised a collection of emblems combining illustrations and mottos, highlighting moral lessons and allegorical meanings. Alciato's work played a significant role in Renaissance humanism, allowing for the merging of visual art and literature. His teachings in law affected subsequent generations of legal scholars and practitioners across Europe.
Continue ReadingAndré Michel Lwoff
Microbiologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 8th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1994 31 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of viruses and the mechanisms of cellular development. Worked extensively on bacterial viruses, focusing on the life cycle of bacteriophages and their genetic properties. Conducted research that provided insights into the processes of cellular differentiation and metabolism. Served as a professor at the University of Paris and held positions at several prestigious institutions.
Continue ReadingHenry Baker
English naturalist and entomologist
Born
May 8th, 1698 327 years ago
Died
1774 251 years ago — 76 years old
Significant contributions to natural history occurred through extensive studies of insects and their habitats. Published works included 'The Microscope Made Easy' which popularized the use of microscopes for scientific exploration. Engaged in the study of natural curiosities, Baker cataloged various species, significantly advancing the understanding of entomology in the 18th century. He played a crucial role in the development of early microscopy and naturalist practices, influencing subsequent generations of scientists and naturalists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 16th
Sean Lock
Comedian and actor, notable for panel shows
Born
April 22nd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 58 years old
A British comedian and actor gained recognition for his work on television, particularly in panel shows. Lock contributed to '8 Out of 10 Cats' as a team captain and appeared in 'The Lock In' and 'Sean Lock: Keep It Light'. His stand-up comedy earned acclaim, with multiple televised performances and specials throughout his career. He also acted in sitcoms and was involved in numerous charity events related to his craft.
Continue ReadingAretha Franklin
Singer-songwriter, 'Respect'
Born
March 25th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and pianist, this artist became a leading figure in soul music. Born in Memphis and raised in Detroit, began singing in church at a young age. The career spanned several decades, with numerous hit records and albums. Achievements include a historic signing with Atlantic Records and the release of the groundbreaking album 'I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You'. Instrumental in popularizing soul music, received multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Additionally, contributed to the civil rights movement through music and public efforts.
Continue ReadingJean-Martin Charcot
French neurologist, father of neurology
Born
November 29th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1893 132 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent neurologist and psychologist, contributions included pioneering work in neurology and the study of hysteria. Established clinical methods for examining and diagnosing neurological disorders. Played a significant role in teaching and mentoring, influencing the development of psychiatry and neurology as distinct fields. Contributions to the understanding of multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions laid groundwork for future research.
Continue ReadingJacob Bekenstein
Theoretical physicist and cosmologist
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old
Significant contributions were made to the understanding of black holes and thermodynamics. Developed a theory that relates black hole entropy to the area of its event horizon, leading to the formulation of the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy. Held a position as a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and made advancements in quantum mechanics and cosmology. Published numerous papers in theoretical physics, including work on the implications of black hole radiation.
Continue ReadingWilliam Windom
American actor with a star role in "My World and Welcome To It"
Born
September 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor, gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with a career spanning television, film, and stage. Celebrated for versatility in character roles, portrayed a range of personalities in various productions. Achieved significant recognition for work on the television series "My World and Welcome To It," which won an Emmy Award. Also made guest appearances in well-known shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and had roles in films like "To Hell and Back."
Continue ReadingMihri Belli
Turkish activist and politician
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 95 years old
Engaged in Turkish politics and activism, played a prominent role in various movements throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Associated with leftist ideologies, involved in significant political initiatives aiming to address social issues in Turkey. Contributed to numerous publications and was active in several organizations promoting political change. Participated in anti-colonial and anti-imperialist movements, advocating for social justice and equality.
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