Thomas J. Higgins

Canadian-American Medal of Honor recipient

Thomas J. Higgins - Canadian-American Medal of Honor recipient
Born

June 8th, 1831
194 years ago

Died

August 15th, 1917
107 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Canada

Links & References

Born in 1831, a Canadian-American sergeant distinguished for valor during the American Civil War. Served in the 2nd Massachusetts Infantry. Earned the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism at the Battle of Gettysburg. Later received recognition in various commemorations for bravery.

Received the Medal of Honor for actions at Gettysburg

Served in the 2nd Massachusetts Infantry

Other People Born on June 8th

Jacques-Arsène d'Arsonval

Physicist and physician, developed thermography
Born
June 8th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 89 years old

Contributions to the fields of physics and medicine included the development of thermography, a technique for measuring temperature variations in living tissues. Focused on the study of electrical phenomena, particularly the effects of electromagnetic fields on biological systems. Served as a physician and worked extensively on the medical applications of electricity. His research advanced the understanding of the physiological effects of electrical therapies and laid groundwork for future innovations in medical diagnostics.

Continue Reading

Primož Trubar

Protestant Reformer and Translator
Born
June 8th, 1508 517 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1586 438 years ago — 78 years old

A Slovenian Protestant reformer, played a crucial role in the development of the Slovene written language. As a priest and theologian, translated important religious texts into Slovene, including the first complete translation of the Bible into a Slavic language. Founded the Protestant movement in Slovenia and established the first Slovene-language school in 1550. His efforts contributed to the spread of Lutheranism in the region and the promotion of literacy among Slovene speakers.

Continue Reading

Gordon McLendon

Broadcaster and businessman for radio
Born
June 8th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1986 38 years ago — 65 years old

Pioneered the concept of Top 40 radio format in the 1950s. Founded the McLendon Broadcasting Company and operated several radio stations, including the influential KLIF in Dallas. Developed the successful Dallas/Fort Worth radio network that greatly influenced broadcasting standards. Enhanced the radio landscape with innovative programming strategies and became a prominent figure in radio business.

Continue Reading

Mimi Mariani

Indonesian actress, model, singer
Born
June 8th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1928, this Indonesian figure gained prominence in the entertainment industry. As an actress, she participated in several films during the golden age of Indonesian cinema. Her career also encompassed modeling and singing, contributing to her recognition across multiple media. With a passion for the performing arts, she became a beloved icon in Indonesia, showcasing her talents on screen and in live performances.

Continue Reading

William Calley

U.S. Army officer in My Lai Massacre
Born
June 8th, 1943 82 years ago

An American military officer served in the Vietnam War. Played a key role during the My Lai Massacre in 1968, where American troops killed hundreds of unarmed South Vietnamese civilians. The incident drew global attention and widespread condemnation. In 1971, Calley was convicted of murder for his actions during the event and sentenced to life imprisonment, although he served only a short period before being released under presidential orders.

Continue Reading

Erwin Schulhoff

Czech composer and pianist with notable works
Born
June 8th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1942 82 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1894 in Prague, a prominent composer and pianist contributed significantly to early 20th-century music. Schulhoff studied under influential teachers including Claude Debussy and later became aligned with avant-garde movements. His works often incorporated elements of jazz and folk music, reflecting the cultural currents of his time. Notable compositions include symphonies, concertos, and chamber music, as well as the piano sonatina and the opera 'Flammen'. His career faced interruption due to the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to his persecution. Schulhoff died in a concentration camp in 1949, leaving behind a legacy of innovative music that merged various styles.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 15th

Honorius

Roman Emperor during the Western Empire
Born
September 9th, 384 1640 years ago
Died
August 15th, 423 1601 years ago — 38 years old

Ruled as Roman emperor from 393 to 423 AD, presiding over a period marked by political instability and the decline of the Western Roman Empire. Ascended to the throne at a young age, faced challenges from barbarian invasions, including the capture of Rome by the Visigoths in 410 AD. Relocated the imperial court from Rome to Ravenna, which provided a more defensible location. His reign witnessed significant territorial losses and the weakening of central authority within the empire.

Continue Reading

Sam Pollock

Canadian businessman and hockey executive
Born
December 25th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2007 17 years ago — 81 years old

A Canadian businessman served as the general manager of the Montreal Canadiens from 1964 to 1978. Under leadership, the team won five consecutive Stanley Cups from 1969 to 1973. Pollock's strategic decisions in player acquisitions and development contributed to the team's dominance during this period. Recognized for his keen understanding of the game, he was instrumental in building one of the most successful franchises in NHL history. Pollock's achievements solidified a legacy in professional hockey and business management.

Continue Reading

Clay Shaw

American politician and judge
Born
April 19th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1974 50 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1939, a prominent figure in American politics and the judiciary. Served as a United States Representative for Louisiana's 1st congressional district from 1973 to 1977. Played a role in various legislative efforts during tenure in Congress. Appointed as a judge for the 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, where oversaw numerous significant cases. Engaged in local governance and legal affairs throughout a lengthy career, impacting many within the community.

Continue Reading

Rosalía Mera

Businesswoman, co-founder of Zara
Born
January 28th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2013 11 years ago — 69 years old

Co-founded Inditex in 1985, a multinational clothing company that includes the brand Zara. Played a significant role in expanding the brand globally, establishing Zara as a leader in fast fashion. Focused on philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare. Contributed to various cultural projects and supported the arts.

Continue Reading

Joseph Joachim

Violinist, composer, conductor
Born
June 28th, 1831 193 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1907 117 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1831, this musician contributed significantly to the world of classical music as a violinist, composer, and conductor. He was a close associate of Johannes Brahms and played a crucial role in the premiere of many compositions, including Brahms' Violin Concerto. His performances not only showcased his technical skill but also influenced the performance practices of violinists in the late 19th century. Apart from performing, he founded the Budapest String Quartet and was instrumental in the development of several music schools. This figure's legacy also includes contributions to pedagogy in violin playing and conducting.

Continue Reading

Ida Gerhardt

Dutch poet and educator known for poetry
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1997 27 years ago — 92 years old

A significant figure in Dutch literature, contributed to poetry and education throughout a prolific career. Became a central part of the literary scene in the Netherlands in the 20th century. Wrote extensively, with major themes encompassing nature, spirituality, and human experience. Received multiple literary awards, including the prestigious Annie Romein Prize, highlighting contributions to Dutch poetry.

Continue Reading