Romain Maes
Belgian cyclist, Tour de France winner

Born
August 18th, 1913
111 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1983
42 years ago — 69 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Belgium
Links & References
A Belgian cyclist achieved notable success in the 1930s. Won the prestigious Tour de France in 1935, marking a significant moment in his cycling career. Participated in various other races and earned recognition for competitive performances. Developed a reputation as a formidable rider in the cycling community, particularly during the era of classic races in Europe. Continued to influence the sport until death in 1983.
Won the Tour de France in 1935
Competed in the 1936 Summer Olympics
Other People Born on August 18th
Agneta Horn
Born in Sweden, a prominent writer in the 17th century, contributed significantly to Swedish literature. Horn's writings include poetry and prose that reflected the cultural and social complexities of the time. Her work often explored themes of personal experience and moral reflection, establishing a voice that resonated within her contemporary society. Active in a time when women writers faced substantial challenges, her contributions provided a foundation for future literary pursuits among women.
Continue ReadingMahboob Ali Khan
Ruled as the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad from 1869 until 1911. Oversaw a period marked by modernization and infrastructure development within the state. Established educational institutions and promoted the arts and culture of Hyderabad. Implemented railway and communication improvements.
Continue ReadingBruce Benedict
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1981 to 1989, primarily with the Atlanta Braves. Achieved selection to the All-Star team in 1982. Contributed as a catcher with a reputation for defensive skills. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, working with various teams including the Braves.
Continue ReadingSeiya Suzuki
A professional baseball player from Japan, Suzuki made a significant impact in Major League Baseball (MLB) after a successful career in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Suzuki played for the Hiroshima Carp in NPB before signing with the Chicago Cubs in 2021. In his rookie MLB season, he showcased exceptional skills, earning recognition as an MLB All-Star. His batting prowess combined with defensive excellence established him as a key player for the Cubs, contributing to their offensive lineup.
Continue ReadingHifikepunye Pohamba
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the second President of Namibia from 2005 to 2015. Played a key role in Namibia's independence movement, contributing to the establishment of a democratic government post-colonization. Prior to presidency, held various positions within the South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), including Minister of Home Affairs. His tenure as president was marked by policies aimed at economic development and social welfare.
Continue ReadingAlain Robbe-Grillet
A significant figure in the literary movement known as nouveau roman, this individual directed, wrote screenplays, and authored novels. The exploration of perception and reality marked much of the work. The most recognized novels include 'Jealousy' and 'In the Labyrinth', both of which challenge traditional narrative forms. This person also made contributions to the film industry, directing movies such as 'Last Year at Marienbad'. The poetic and experimental style influenced various writers and filmmakers, leaving a distinctive mark on post-war literature and cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 22nd
Anna Kingsford
A pioneering English physician and activist focused on animal rights and women's issues. Graduated from the London School of Medicine for Women, becoming one of the first female doctors in England. Advocated for vegetarianism and the ethical treatment of animals, co-founding the National Anti-Vivisection Society. Authored several influential books, including 'The Vegetarian Society' and 'The Light of the World', which addressed spiritual and philosophical themes. Contributed significantly to discussions on the interplay between science and spirituality.
Continue ReadingFrancis Atterbury
Served as the Bishop of Rochester and later as the Bishop of Canterbury. Contributed to religious debates during early 18th century England. Engaged in political and theological controversies, particularly in opposition to the Church of England's establishment. Exiled for political reasons after supporting the Jacobite cause. Wrote extensively on religious and political topics, with works including sermons and letters.
Continue ReadingSimone Simon
This actress gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s, primarily noted for roles in classic films. Starred in 'Cat People' (1942), a psychological horror film directed by Jacques Tourneur. Also appeared in 'The Devil and Daniel Webster' (1941) and 'I Walked with a Zombie' (1943), contributing to her recognition in the genre. Her performances exemplified a blend of beauty and depth, captivating audiences during her active years.
Continue ReadingChristoph Probst
A key member of the White Rose resistance group, played a role in challenging the Nazi regime through anti-war pamphlets. Probst was a medical student and contributed to the group's efforts to expose the atrocities committed by the Nazis. Arrested in 1943, faced trial, and executed shortly thereafter. The White Rose is remembered for its courage in speaking out against totalitarianism.
Continue ReadingCharles Blondin
A renowned tightrope walker and acrobat, this individual gained prominence for performances over Niagara Falls. His most famous feat involved crossing the falls on a tightrope, captivating audiences with remarkable stunts including walking blindfolded and on stilts. Showcasing exceptional skill, he also carried various props across the rope, like a chair and a man on his back. His daring demonstrations contributed significantly to the popularity of tightrope walking as a form of entertainment during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingMarie Colvin
Acclaimed for reporting from conflict zones, covered wars in countries such as Iraq, Kosovo, and Syria. Worked for The Sunday Times and was recognized for her fearless approach to journalism. Colvin's experiences included being wounded in Sri Lanka while covering the civil war. Delivered powerful accounts of the human cost of war through her writings, including a significant piece about the suffering in the besieged city of Homs during the Syrian Civil War. Her reporting exemplified the challenges faced by journalists operating in dangerous environments.
Continue Reading