Sarat Pujari
Indian actor, director, and screenwriter
An actor, director, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Pujari worked in numerous films primarily in the Odia and Bengali languages. He directed multiple acclaimed films and also developed a reputation for his work in theater. Much of his career was spent focusing on regional cinema, where his storytelling and character portrayals achieved recognition among audiences. Notable for both performances and directorial efforts, he played a crucial role in promoting regional narratives and cultural themes through film.
Directed the film 'Mohana Sundari'
Acted in 'Bande Utkala Janani'
Worked extensively in Odia cinema
Other People Born on August 8th
Sara Teasdale
American poet acclaimed for lyrical works
Born
August 8th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1933 92 years ago — 48 years old
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.
Continue ReadingRudi Gernreich
Fashion designer, created the monokini
Born
August 8th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 62 years old
An Austrian-American fashion designer, Gernreich gained recognition for innovative swimwear designs that challenged conventional notions of fashion. His work included the bold introduction of the monokini, a daring one-piece swimsuit that featured an open design. Gernreich's approach to fashion also encompassed unisex clothing, reflecting a progressive view on gender and self-expression. He worked with his own brand and had notable collaborations with several prominent fashion companies. His designs were frequently featured in leading fashion magazines, and his influence extended into the realms of art and culture during the 1960s and 1970s.
Continue ReadingErnest Lawrence
American physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 8th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1958 67 years ago — 57 years old
Contributed to the field of nuclear physics and invented the cyclotron, a particle accelerator, which allowed for groundbreaking experiments in nuclear science. Played a significant role in the Manhattan Project during World War II. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his work on the artificial production of radioactive isotopes. Served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, and helped establish the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Continue ReadingAlexander Watson
American diplomat, Ambassador to Peru
Born
August 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Served as the United States Ambassador to Peru from 1989 to 1991, a period marked by significant political and economic challenges in the region. Managed diplomatic relations and worked to strengthen ties between the United States and Peru during a time of increased violence from terrorist groups. Contributed to the promotion of democratic governance and economic stability in Peru.
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 ReadingRandy Shilts
Journalist and AIDS activist
Born
August 8th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 42 years old
Worked as a journalist, focusing on the AIDS crisis during the 1980s. Authored the groundbreaking book 'And the Band Played On', which chronicled the early years of the epidemic and its impact on society. The work highlighted the political and social struggles surrounding the disease. Contributed to the San Francisco Chronicle, covering various aspects of the gay rights movement and public health issues. Served as an important voice in understanding the complexities of AIDS.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Heinie Manush
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
July 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1971 54 years ago — 69 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball from the 1920s to the 1940s. Played primarily as an outfielder for teams such as the Washington Senators, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Braves. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1964. Managed minor league teams following a successful playing career.
Continue ReadingGerd Langguth
Political Scientist and Author
Born
May 18th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1946, a political scientist focused on German politics and public affairs. Served as a professor at the University of Bonn. Contributed to discussions on political parties, democracy, and electoral behavior in Germany. Authored several works on political structures and processes, establishing a significant academic presence in the field.
Continue ReadingEugène Ysaÿe
Violinist and composer, Six Sonatas
Born
July 16th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1931 94 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Belgium, established a career as a violinist, composer, and conductor. Achieved recognition for innovative contributions to violin technique and repertoire. Composed 'Six Sonatas for Solo Violin', which are regarded as significant works in the violin canon. Held conducting positions with various orchestras and nurtured many notable violinists. His performances and teachings influenced generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingPerry Como
Singer and television host with hit songs
Born
May 18th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in American music and television, this individual rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Known for smooth vocal delivery and relaxed style, contributed to the popularity of popular music and variety shows. Hosted 'The Perry Como Show' from 1955 to 1966, which showcased a range of performances and welcomed numerous guest stars. Recorded numerous hits, achieving substantial success on the Billboard charts, and earned multiple Grammy Awards throughout a long-lasting career.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Sheares
Singaporean physician and 2nd President
Born
August 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 73 years old
A physician and politician, served as the 2nd President of Singapore from 1971 until 1981. Contributed to the development of the Singapore Medical Association and various healthcare initiatives. Advocated for the importance of improving medical education and public health services. Played a significant role in shaping healthcare policies during a key period of national development.
Continue ReadingPeter Gay
Historian and author of significant works
Born
June 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
A German-American historian and author, contributed extensively to the field of history with a focus on modern European history. Received a Ph.D. from Columbia University and taught at various prestigious institutions. Published influential works, exploring themes of Enlightenment and the interplay between politics and culture. The work 'The Bourgeois Experience: Victoria to Freud' was pivotal in discussing the evolution of bourgeois society. Also authored biographical works on notable figures such as Sigmund Freud and Karl Marx.
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