Sérgio Vieira de Mello
Brazilian diplomat and UN official
Born in Brazil in 1948, this diplomat dedicated over 30 years to international service with the United Nations. Positions included High Commissioner for Human Rights and Special Representative for Iraq following the 2003 invasion. Engaged extensively in peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in various conflict zones. Emphasized the importance of human rights and diplomatic solutions in crisis situations. Played a pivotal role in rebuilding countries emerging from conflict, bringing a focus on local issues and cultural understanding.
Served as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
Led UN missions in Iraq post-invasion
Worked in Cambodia during the 1990s
Facilitated peace processes in various nations
Other People Born on March 15th
Valentin Rasputin
Russian environmentalist and author
Born
March 15th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
An environmentalist and author focused on the preservation of Russian nature and culture. Wrote extensively on the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Gained recognition through works that emphasized ecological themes and rural life in Siberia. Also served as a public figure concerned with environmental issues in Russia, promoting awareness and advocacy for ecological preservation.
Continue ReadingKyle Mills
New Zealand cricketer and fast bowler
Born
March 15th, 1979 46 years ago
Debuted in international cricket in 2001 and became a prominent fast bowler for the national team. Played in 72 One Day Internationals and 18 Test matches. Achieved significant success in limited-overs cricket, particularly in the ICC Cricket World Cup tournaments. Retired from international cricket in 2015. Post-retirement, transitioned to coaching and commentary roles.
Continue ReadingSabrina Salerno
Singer-songwriter with hit single 'Boys'
Born
March 15th, 1968 57 years ago
An Italian singer-songwriter rose to prominence in the late 1980s with the release of the single 'Boys (Summertime Love)', which became a major hit across Europe. The success of this song solidified a place in the pop music scene. In addition to a music career, also ventured into acting and television, appearing in several Italian films and shows. By capitalizing on her music success, established a recognizable brand in entertainment.
Continue ReadingKostas Kaimakoglou
Greek professional basketball player
Born
March 15th, 1983 42 years ago
Kaimakoglou played professional basketball primarily in Greece and has had an extensive career both at club and international levels. A power forward, he started his career in 2000 with NAPSA, and thereafter played for several teams including AEK Athens, where he won the Greek Cup. He also contributed to the Greek national team, participating in major international competitions.
Continue ReadingJoseph Jenkins Roberts
1st President of Liberia
Born
March 15th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1876 149 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the first President of Liberia from 1848 to 1856 and again from 1872 to 1876. Played a significant role in the establishment of Liberia as a nation for freed African American slaves. Oversaw the expansion of territory during his presidency and worked on improving the infrastructure of the country. Advocated for the rights of settlers and engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure Liberia's recognition as an independent state.
Continue ReadingXavier Henry
Basketball player, NBA and NCAA standout
Born
March 15th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional basketball player, played college basketball at the University of Kansas where the team reached the NCAA Championship game in 2012. Entered the NBA draft and was selected by the Washington Wizards in 2010, then traded to the New Orleans Hornets. Played for the Los Angeles Lakers after stints with other teams in the league. Known for scoring ability and versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 19th
George Gamow
Physicist and cosmologist, Big Bang theory
Born
March 4th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 64 years old
Contributed significantly to theoretical physics and cosmology. Developed the Big Bang theory and the concept of primordial nucleosynthesis. Authored popular science books aimed at explaining complex scientific concepts to the general public. Held academic positions at various institutions, including George Washington University, and collaborated with leading scientists in the field.
Continue ReadingVáclav Patejdl
Slovak musician and singer-songwriter
Born
October 10th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2023 2 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1954, this Slovak musician gained recognition as a member of the band Elán, which became one of the most popular rock bands in Slovakia. The band achieved immense success in the 1980s and 1990s with numerous hit songs and albums. The musician contributed significantly to the band’s songwriting and composition, helping to define its sound. Apart from work with Elán, the musician has pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles that reflect a blend of pop and rock influences. The career highlighted a deep connection with Slovak culture and music, resonating with fans across generations.
Continue ReadingCandida Lycett Green
Journalist and author of travel literature
Born
September 22nd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 71 years old
A journalist and author, contributed extensively to literature and media. Published numerous articles and essays, often focusing on travel. Authored several books, including 'The Last of England,' which explored themes of identity and place. Worked as a columnist for various publications, providing insights into cultural and social issues. Active in literary circles and participated in numerous book festivals.
Continue ReadingMaria Branyas
Supercentenarian and longevity record holder
Born
March 4th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2024 1 years ago — 117 years old
Born in the United States, later moved to Spain, reached the age of 116, becoming one of the oldest verified living persons in the world. This individual witnessed significant historical events throughout a long life, including both World Wars and the Spanish Civil War. Residing in Catalonia, health and longevity practices were emphasized, contributing to remarkable age milestones. Lived through numerous societal changes and cultural shifts, adapting to evolving lifestyles while maintaining a legacy of resilience.
Continue ReadingPierre Schaeffer
Composer and producer of musique concrète
Born
August 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1995 30 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France, this individual developed musique concrète, a form of experimental music that uses recorded natural sounds as raw material. He worked as a radio producer and composer, and began the interdisciplinary use of sound in art and music. The creation of the GRM (Groupe de Recherches Musicales) in 1958 marked a significant moment in the exploration of electronic music and sound manipulation. The contributions to sound and music aesthetics influenced generations of composers and musicians.
Continue ReadingMark Donohue
Race car driver, Indianapolis 500 winner
Born
March 18th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1975 50 years ago — 38 years old
A prominent race car driver achieved notable success in American motorsports. Competed in the Indianapolis 500, winning the event in 1970. Helped develop the Penske Racing team into a leading force in racing. Also excelled in Trans-Am and Can-Am series, securing multiple championships and setting speed records on various tracks. His engineering insights contributed to advancements in race car performance.
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