Thomas Corneille

French playwright and philologist

Thomas Corneille - French playwright and philologist
Born

August 20th, 1625
399 years ago

Died

December 8th, 1709
315 years ago — 84 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent playwright and philologist, contributed significantly to French theatre. Established a successful career in the 17th century, writing numerous plays that were well-received in Paris. His works often blended drama with poetic language, showcasing his literary talents. Served as a member of the French Academy, where he influenced the literary scene of his time. Engaged in scholarly pursuits related to language and literature, marking a notable contribution to philology.

Authored the comedy 'Le Liar'

Wrote the tragedy 'La Mort de César'

Contributed to the genre of French drama

Served as a member of the French Academy

Other People Born on August 20th

Stefan Aigner

Footballer with Eintracht Frankfurt
Born
August 20th, 1987 37 years ago

Played as a winger, starting professional career in 2006. Competed in Germany's Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga. Achieved promotion to the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt during the 2011-2012 season. Contributed to the team's success in the DFB-Pokal, leading to victory in the tournament in 2018.

Continue Reading

Slobodan Milošević

Serbian politician and former president
Born
August 20th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the 3rd President of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia from 1997 to 2000. Prior to the presidency, held the position of President of Serbia from 1989. His leadership was marked by significant political turmoil, including the Yugoslav Wars throughout the 1990s, which were characterized by ethnic conflicts and international disputes. After losing power, faced trial for war crimes and crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Died in custody in 2006 while awaiting trial proceedings.

Continue Reading

Yuri Zhirkov

Professional footballer, played for Russia
Born
August 20th, 1983 41 years ago

A footballer who played primarily as a winger or full-back. Had a significant club career in Russia, starting with FC Lokomotiv Moscow and later moving to FC Chelsea in the English Premier League. Contributed to Chelsea's success in winning the Premier League title and the FA Cup. Represented the Russian national team in multiple international competitions, including the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading

Bai Yansong

Chinese television host and journalist
Born
August 20th, 1968 56 years ago

Born in 1968, a prominent television host and journalist in China. Joined China Central Television (CCTV) in the 1990s and gained recognition for hosting various news programs. Focused on delivering news and current affairs with engaging narratives. Built a reputation for integrity and professionalism in journalism. In 2009, received the prestigious China News Award for excellence in journalism. Contributed to the development of news broadcasting in China, leading various major events coverage.

Continue Reading

Robert Plant

English rock singer-songwriter with Led Zeppelin
Born
August 20th, 1948 76 years ago

An influential musician and vocalist, contributions to rock music include leading the band Led Zeppelin. The group achieved critical and commercial success in the 1970s and is often regarded as one of the greatest rock bands in history. Plant's distinctive voice and performance style established a foundational role in the genre, and his work with the band produced iconic albums such as 'Led Zeppelin IV' and hit songs like 'Stairway to Heaven' and 'Whole Lotta Love'. After the band's dissolution in 1980, Plant pursued a successful solo career, reflecting a diverse musical palette that encompasses elements of folk, blues, and world music. Collaboration with various artists, including Alison Krauss, resulted in Grammy Awards and further artistic recognition.

Continue Reading

Nenad Bjelica

Football manager and player
Born
August 20th, 1971 53 years ago

Played as a midfielder and later managed various football clubs. Notably managed Lech Poznań, winning the Polish Cup in 2015. Also served as manager for the Croatian national U21 team, leading the squad to the semi-finals of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in 2019. As a player, represented clubs such as Dinamo Zagreb and several teams across Europe, before transitioning into management.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 8th

Mirza Delibašić

Bosnian basketball player and coach
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2001 23 years ago — 47 years old

Played professional basketball in Yugoslavia, becoming a prominent player for KK Bosna, where multiple championships were achieved. Contributed to the national team, helping secure a European Championship title in 1971. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement, influencing basketball in the region through mentorship and leadership.

Continue Reading

Mendele Mocher Sforim

Russian author of Yiddish literature
Born
January 2nd, 1836 189 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1917 107 years ago — 81 years old

A significant figure in Yiddish literature, this author contributed to the revival and modernization of the language through literary works. Born in Russia, the writer began to publish in the 1860s, with notable contributions that reflect Jewish life and culture. The works often combined humor with social commentary, addressing the challenges faced by Jewish communities in Eastern Europe. His storytelling blended traditional themes with contemporary issues, making them relevant for the time. The author also played a role in the development of the Jewish national movement in the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Gertrude Jekyll

Horticulturist and garden designer
Born
November 29th, 1843 181 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1932 92 years ago — 89 years old

An influential horticulturist and writer, contributed to garden design and landscape architecture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Developed the concept of the garden room, integrating plants and structures harmoniously. Authored over 15 books and numerous articles on gardening, sharing knowledge and practical advice. Collaborated with various architects and designed over 400 gardens, leaving a lasting legacy in horticulture.

Continue Reading

Elsie Tu

Educator and politician from Hong Kong
Born
June 2nd, 1913 111 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2015 9 years ago — 102 years old

An educator and politician, dedicated much of her life to promoting social and educational reforms in Hong Kong. Obtained a degree in education from the University of Hong Kong and taught in various schools. Elected to the Legislative Council of Hong Kong, representing the urban constituency. Played a key role in advocating for women's rights and social welfare reforms, contributing significantly to public discourse on education and social justice in the region during the later 20th century.

Continue Reading

John Pym

English politician and parliamentarian
Born
1583 442 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1643 381 years ago — 60 years old

A notable English politician during the early 17th century, played a key role in the English Civil War. Actively involved in the Long Parliament, advocated for the rights of Parliament against King Charles I. Instrumental in promoting the cause of Parliamentarians and opposing royal authority. Advocated for legal reforms and supported the establishment of a commonwealth government after the king's defeat. Pym's efforts helped shape the political landscape of England during a turbulent period in history.

Continue Reading

John Gowans

Scottish-English General of The Salvation Army
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the 16th General of The Salvation Army, leading the organization from 1992 to 2002. During tenure, emphasized a mission focused on social justice and community service. Played a significant role in expanding the global outreach of The Salvation Army, implementing various programs to address poverty, addiction, and disaster relief. Worked on creating a more inclusive church environment while promoting the values of compassion and service through faith-based initiatives.

Continue Reading