Toby Keith
Country singer and songwriter
A prominent country singer and songwriter, achieved commercial success in the 1990s and 2000s. Gained popularity with a unique blend of traditional country sound and honky-tonk influences. Released numerous albums and singles, with several reaching the top of the charts. Notable works include the hit songs 'Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)' and 'Should've Been a Cowboy'. Established a reputation for patriotic themes in music and has also engaged in philanthropy through various charitable efforts.
Released the album 'Pull My Chain'
Achieved multiple CMA and ACM awards
Had a successful single 'Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue'
Other People Born on July 8th
Harrison Dillard
American sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
July 8th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 96 years old
An accomplished sprinter and hurdler, achieved notable success in Olympic competition. Competed in the 1948 and 1952 Summer Olympics, securing gold medals in the 100 meters and the 4x100 meters relay. Excelled in track events throughout collegiate career at Baldwin-Wallace University, later represented the United States in various international meets. Transitioned to a coaching career after retiring from competitive athletics, contributing to the development of future athletes.
Continue ReadingWalter Scheel
German politician, 4th President of West Germany
Born
July 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1919, a soldier served during World War II before transitioning into politics. Played a significant role in the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and served as the party's chairman. Held various governmental positions, including Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs. Elected as the 4th President of West Germany in 1974, serving until 1979. Advocated for European integration and contributed to the development of West Germany's role within the European Community.
Continue ReadingEli Lilly
Chemist and businessman, founded Eli Lilly
Born
July 8th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1898 128 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1838, a soldier and chemist founded a pharmaceutical company, Eli Lilly and Company. The company initially focused on medicinal products, advancing throughout the decades to become a major player in the pharmaceutical industry. Contributions included the development of insulin and the first mass-produced penicillin. The company became synonymous with prescription medications and established an enduring legacy in medical innovation.
Continue ReadingDario Gradi
Football manager and player for Crewe Alexandra
Born
July 8th, 1941 84 years ago
Played as a forward and later transitioned into management. Managed Crewe Alexandra for over 24 years, leading the team to multiple promotions. Developed a reputation for nurturing young talent within the club's academy system, producing players who moved on to higher levels of the game. Had a brief managerial stint at Wimbledon, contributing to the team's strategies.
Continue ReadingPercy Grainger
Pianist and composer of 'Country Gardens'
Born
July 8th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1961 64 years ago — 78 years old
An Australian-American pianist and composer contributed significantly to music in the early 20th century. Grainger's innovative approach blended folk elements with classical techniques. He is recognized for his arrangements of folk tunes and original compositions. Grainger's performances showcased virtuosic piano skills, earning acclaim in concert halls worldwide. His work with the American music scene and promotion of various composers led to a lasting influence on contemporary music. He co-founded the Grainger Museum, which houses his extensive collection of music artifacts.
Continue ReadingPhilip Johnson
Architect, designed PPG Place
Born
July 8th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2005 21 years ago — 98 years old
An architect who significantly contributed to modern architecture, designed notable structures such as PPG Place in Pittsburgh and the Crystal Cathedral in California. Studied at Harvard and collaborated with various architects, including Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. His work often reflected shifting trends in architecture over several decades. Johnson's architectural philosophy embraced both the modernist movement and the postmodern reactions that followed. He received multiple awards for his designs, establishing a legacy in the field of architecture.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 5th
Jo Zwaan
Dutch sprinter; Olympic athlete
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2012 14 years ago — 90 years old
Competed in sprinting events representing the Netherlands in international competitions. Participated in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, competing in the 100 meters and 4x100 meters relay. Achieved various national titles during the athletic career. Contributed to the recognition of Dutch athletics in the post-war period.
Continue ReadingChristopher Plummer
Canadian actor of 'The Sound of Music'
Born
December 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2021 5 years ago — 91 years old
Career spanned seven decades featuring a wide range of roles in film, television, and theater. Achievements included multiple prestigious awards. Gained prominence in the 1965 musical 'The Sound of Music' as Captain Georg von Trapp. Received Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the 2010 film 'Beginners'. Played in various productions including Shakespearean plays and acclaimed films.
Continue ReadingOtto Strandman
Estonian lawyer, 1st Prime Minister
Born
November 30th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1941 85 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the first Prime Minister of Estonia from 1918 to 1919 during the critical period following the establishment of independence. Played a significant role in shaping the early government and legal framework of the newly independent state. Contributed to national politics and legal matters as a prominent lawyer, influencing the legal landscape of Estonia.
Continue ReadingGeorge Arliss
English actor and playwright
Born
April 10th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1946 80 years ago — 77 years old
An English actor and playwright contributed significantly to the theatrical scene of the early 20th century. Worked extensively in both the UK and the US, gaining fame for several prolific stage performances. Transitioned to film in the 1920s and 30s, where performances in motion pictures further solidified reputation. Won the Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'Disraeli' in 1929. His portrayals often showcased a strong character presence, particularly in his depiction of historical figures.
Continue ReadingMichalina Wisłocka
Polish gynecologist and sexologist
Born
July 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2005 21 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent gynecologist and sexologist, contributed significantly to the fields of women's health and sexual education. Authored the influential book 'The Art of Love,' which addressed the issues of female sexuality and relationships in a conservative society. Engaged in public discussions and lectures to advocate for sexual education and health, thereby challenging societal norms. Established a private practice where many patients benefitted from her expertise in gynecology and sexual health.
Continue ReadingJoe Raposo
American composer of children's music
Born
February 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1989 37 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, contributed significantly to children's music, particularly through work on the television series 'Sesame Street.' Composed over 300 songs for the show, helping to educate and entertain children. Also worked on other projects, including 'The Electric Company.' Received multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for contributions to television music, establishing a legacy within children's programming.
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