Rudolf Hess

Nazi Deputy Führer and politician

Rudolf Hess - Nazi Deputy Führer and politician
Born

April 26th, 1894
130 years ago

Died

August 17th, 1987
37 years ago — 93 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

Born in 1894, served as Deputy Führer in Nazi Germany until 1941. Played a prominent role in the early years of the Nazi regime under Adolf Hitler. In 1941, made a solo flight to Scotland in an attempt to negotiate peace with the United Kingdom, which resulted in his capture and imprisonment. Subsequently, played a significant role in the Nuremberg Trials as a key defendant, where he was sentenced to life imprisonment for crimes against peace. Remained imprisoned until his death in 1987.

Served as Deputy Führer until 1941

Attempted peace negotiations in 1941

Other People Born on April 26th

Eric Campbell

British actor from 'The Gold Rush'
Born
April 26th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1879 in England, this individual achieved prominence in the early 20th century as an actor. His collaboration with Charlie Chaplin in several films solidified his reputation in the film industry. One of the most notable works was the role in 'The Gold Rush', where the character's humorous yet memorable presence entertained audiences. The actor's performances typically showcased a strong physicality and comedic timing, contributing to the silent film era's charm and creativity. Tragically, his life was cut short in a car accident in 1917, but his work has endured through classic cinema.

Continue Reading

Marie de' Medici

French queen consort and regent
Born
April 26th, 1575 449 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1642 382 years ago — 67 years old

Born into the powerful Medici family, a significant political player in France, served as queen consort of Henry IV and later as regent during the minority of her son, Louis XIII. Oversaw a period of political maneuvering and cultural patronage. Played a crucial role in shaping the arts and politics of France during her regency, fostering relationships with prominent artists and architects.

Continue Reading

Richard Bradshaw

Conductor with The Canadian Opera Company
Born
April 26th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2007 17 years ago — 63 years old

Born in England, a conductor developed a prominent career in opera, particularly with The Canadian Opera Company. Served as the artistic director for 25 years, shaping the company's programming and elevating its profile in the arts community. Conducted numerous productions, including iconic operas like 'Carmen' and 'The Magic Flute.' Played a crucial role in the education and mentorship of young artists and musicians throughout tenure. Contributed to the growth of operatic performance in Canada and was recognized for excellence in the field.

Continue Reading

Ludwig Wittgenstein

Philosopher and author of 'Tractatus'.
Born
April 26th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1951 73 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1889, a philosopher and academic contributed significantly to the philosophy of language and the philosophy of mind. Authored 'Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus', a major work that outlines a theory of meaning based on logical structure. Later, worked on 'Philosophical Investigations', which challenged conventional views on meaning and language. Engaged with topics such as the nature of certainty, rule-following, and linguistic practices, influencing various fields including philosophy, linguistics, and cognitive science.

Continue Reading

John Grierson

Scottish film director and producer
Born
April 26th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1972 53 years ago — 73 years old

A pioneering figure in documentary filmmaking, established the British documentary movement. Founded the National Film Board of Canada, promoting film as a means of cultural expression. Worked on influential documentaries such as 'Drifters' and 'Night Mail', which showcased the power of film to tell stories of ordinary life and social issues. His work profoundly shaped the documentary genre.

Continue Reading

Paul Verner

German soldier and politician
Born
April 26th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 75 years old

Served as a soldier during World War II and later entered politics in East Germany. Played a key role in the Socialist Unity Party and held significant positions within the government structure. Contributed to the establishment of socialist policies in post-war Germany. Actively participated in shaping the political landscape until the late 20th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 17th

Bill Deedes

Journalist and politician
Born
June 1st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2007 17 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent English journalist and politician, engaged in journalism from a young age. Served as the editor of 'The Daily Telegraph' from 1975 to 1986. Transitioned into politics, representing the Conservative Party as a Member of Parliament from 1955 to 1964 and later from 1970 to 1974. Held several important roles, including Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Contributed significantly to public discourse through his writing and editorial work, focusing on national and international issues.

Continue Reading

John Hollander

Poet and literary critic with notable works
Born
October 28th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 83 years old

An American poet, critic, and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry and literary criticism. Published numerous collections of poetry including 'Fable' and 'The Picture Window'. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. Contributed articles and essays to major literary journals and was influential in shaping modern poetry's landscape through both creative work and critical analysis.

Continue Reading

Ioan Slavici

Romanian journalist and author
Born
January 18th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1925 99 years ago — 77 years old

Born in Romania, a prominent journalist and author contributed significantly to Romanian literature. Played a crucial role in the development of realism in literature through notable works. His writings often focused on social issues and were deeply intertwined with Romanian cultural identity. Worked as an editor for important Romanian publications and advocated for education and the rights of the Romanian people. Several of his works remain influential in Romanian literature today.

Continue Reading

Madan Lal Dhingra

Indian activist; assassination attempt
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1909 115 years ago — 26 years old

An Indian activist engaged in the struggle for India's independence from British rule. Dhingra studied in London, where he became involved with revolutionary groups advocating for Indian self-rule. He assassinated a British government official in 1909, an act aimed at attracting attention to the independence movement. Following the assassination, Dhingra was arrested and put on trial, where he defended his actions as a means of fighting imperialism. He was executed by hanging, and his actions are remembered as part of the early 20th-century revolutionary movement in India.

Continue Reading

José María of Manila

Spanish-Filipino priest and martyr
Born
September 5th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1936 88 years ago — 55 years old

A priest and martyr active in the early 20th century, dedicated ministry to the spiritual needs of the Catholic community in the Philippines. Established a reputation for commitment to faith while facing adversity during a time of political and social turmoil. Captured during conflicts related to anti-Catholic sentiments and executed for remaining steadfast in beliefs, culminating in martyrdom. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in recognition of unwavering faith and sacrifice.

Continue Reading

Perucho Figueredo

Cuban poet and national hero
Born
1818 207 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1870 154 years ago — 52 years old

A significant figure in Cuba's fight for independence, produced a body of poetry that expressed patriotic sentiments and revolutionary ideals. Advocated for liberty and justice through literary works and political activism. Participated in the Ten Years' War against Spanish rule, significantly contributing to the Cuban independence movement. His poetry often reflected the struggles faced by Cubans during this turbulent time in history. Figueredo's legacy endures as his works continue to inspire new generations of Cubans striving for freedom.

Continue Reading