Sara Teasdale
American poet acclaimed for lyrical works
Born in St. Louis, a prominent figure in early 20th-century American poetry. Published several collections, including 'Rivers to the Sea' and 'Dark of the Moon'. Received a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1918 for 'Love Songs'. Her works often explored themes of love, nature, and the human experience.
Published 'Love Songs' in 1917
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1918
Authored 'Rivers to the Sea' and 'Dark of the Moon'
Other People Born on August 8th
Emperor Horikawa
Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
August 8th, 1079 946 years ago
Died
1107 919 years ago — 28 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1087 at the age of eight, serving until his death in 1107. His reign occurred during the Heian period, a time of cultural development in Japan. The government was dominated by the Fujiwara clan, which wielded significant power through regency roles. Horikawa's era saw the continuation of courtly traditions and the patronage of the arts. He presided over a court that valued poetry and literature, encouraging the creation of works that reflected the aesthetic ideals of the time. The reign faced challenges, including political intrigue and struggles for power within the noble class.
Continue ReadingJerry Tarkanian
College basketball coach and innovator
Born
August 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
An influential figure in college basketball, led the UNLV Runnin' Rebels to a national championship in 1990. Served as head coach at several universities, including Long Beach State, UNLV, and Fresno State. Tarkanian was known for his innovative coaching strategies and for bringing a fast-paced style of play to the game, which had a lasting effect on college basketball. His teams frequently made deep runs in the NCAA tournament, demonstrating consistent success. Off the court, faced various controversies regarding NCAA rules and regulations, but maintained a loyal following of players and fans.
Continue ReadingRosetta LeNoire
American actress and producer of TV shows
Born
August 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 90 years old
An American actress and producer, celebrated for contributions to television and theater. Co-founded the New Heritage Theatre Company to showcase African American talent in the arts. Had a prominent role as Matriarch on the television series 'Amen', which aired from 1986 to 1991. Received acclaim for performances in various productions, including Broadway shows. Worked extensively in fostering opportunities for Black actors in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingWebb Pierce
Country music singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 8th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in the country music scene, this singer-songwriter gained popularity during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for a honky-tonk style, produced numerous chart-topping hits. Some of the most popular songs include "In the Jailhouse Now" and "Love, Love, Love." Also created a distinctive image with flashy suits and a flashy personality. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame for significant contributions to the genre.
Continue ReadingRichard Anderson
Actor in 'The Six Million Dollar Man'
Born
August 8th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor and producer. Born in 1926, Anderson began his career in the 1940s. Gained widespread recognition for portraying Oscar Goldman in the television series 'The Six Million Dollar Man' and its spinoff 'The Bionic Woman'. Appeared in various film and television roles over decades, including performances in 'Forbidden Planet' and 'Perry Mason'. Transitioned into producing and continued to be active in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSheila Varian
Horse trainer and breeder, Varian Arabians
Born
August 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 6th, 2016 9 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent horse trainer and breeder, significant contributions were made to the Arabian horse community. Established Varian Arabians in California, specializing in breeding top-quality Arabian horses. Played a crucial role in promoting Arabian horse shows and training programs. Produced multiple national champions and trained horses that excelled in various equestrian disciplines.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 29th
Colleen McCullough
Neuroscientist and author of 'The Thorn Birds'
Born
June 1st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
An Australian neuroscientist and author contributed significantly to literature and science. Achieved a medical degree from the University of Sydney and worked as a neurologist at the Sydney Hospital. Gained widespread acclaim for writing 'The Thorn Birds', a novel published in 1977, which became a bestseller and was adapted into a successful television miniseries. Also authored numerous other novels, including 'Tim', 'A Creed for the Third Millennium', and 'The Touch'.
Continue ReadingLeopold II
Grand Duke of Tuscany
Born
October 3rd, 1797 228 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1870 155 years ago — 72 years old
Held the title of Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1824 until 1859. Oversaw significant economic and agricultural developments in the region. Engaged in various cultural and infrastructural initiatives. His reign included efforts towards modernization and addressing social issues of the time.
Continue ReadingWillie Dixon
American blues musician and songwriter
Born
July 1st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1992 33 years ago — 76 years old
A significant figure in the Chicago blues scene, this musician played a crucial role in shaping the genre through songwriting and producing. His work with renowned artists helped popularize blues music during the mid-20th century. Major contributions include classic songs such as 'Hoochie Coochie Man' and 'Little Red Rooster.' Additionally, contribution to the recording industry as a producer supported many rising talents in blues. The individual was also a successful performer, often appearing in various clubs and music festivals. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further solidifying his legacy in music history.
Continue ReadingAlfred Sisley
Impressionist painter of landscapes
Born
October 30th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1899 126 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1839, a prominent figure of the Impressionist movement, this painter focused primarily on landscapes and natural scenes. After moving to France, developed a distinct style characterized by the effects of light and color on outdoor landscapes. Participated in the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874, showcasing works that captured the beauty of nature. The artist spent much time painting the countryside around Paris, particularly the Seine river and the surrounding regions. Continued to explore themes of light and atmosphere until death in 1899.
Continue ReadingIoannis Metaxas
Greek Prime Minister and military leader
Born
April 12th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1941 84 years ago — 69 years old
A military officer and political leader, served as the 130th Prime Minister of Greece. Played a significant role in the period leading up to and during World War II. Established a dictatorial regime and focused on national unity and military preparedness. Implemented various economic and social reforms during his tenure. Successfully led Greece during the initial stages of the Greco-Italian War, which began in October 1940, despite the ultimate occupation by Axis forces.
Continue ReadingRichard Williamson
British Catholic traditionalist bishop
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2025 0 years ago — 85 years old
A Catholic bishop was ordained in 1976. In 1976, was a founding member of the Society of St. Pius X. The bishop gained notoriety for promoting traditionalist Catholic teachings and was involved in controversies regarding his views on various church doctrines and historical events. The bishop was excommunicated in 1988 by the Vatican but later attempted to rehabilitate relations with the Catholic Church. Participated in liturgical ceremonies emphasizing traditional Latin rites and opposed modernist interpretations of Catholicism.
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