Todor Zhivkov
Bulgarian politician and Head of State
Served as the leader of Bulgaria for over 35 years, from 1954 to 1989. Oversaw the establishment of a one-party socialist state and maintained close ties with the Soviet Union. Implemented numerous economic and social policies aimed at modernization, influencing various aspects of Bulgarian life. Oversaw the country's participation in the Warsaw Pact and other Eastern Bloc initiatives. Resigned in the context of the political changes in Eastern Europe that led to the fall of communism.
Led Bulgaria as a communist state
Served as General Secretary of the Bulgarian Communist Party
Oversaw Bulgaria's integration into the Eastern Bloc
Other People Born on September 7th
Forrest Blue
American football player, Pro Bowl center
Born
September 7th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 66 years old
A professional American football player played the center position in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the San Francisco 49ers. Played in the team's Super Bowl IX appearance. Selected to the Pro Bowl in 1970, recognized for exceptional skills on the field. Contributed significantly to the offensive line during his career, playing from 1966 to 1975.
Continue ReadingGrandma Moses
American painter of folk art
Born
September 7th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1961 64 years ago — 101 years old
An American painter began painting in her seventies, focusing on folk art that depicted rural life and landscapes. Paintings featured vibrant colors and a naive style, capturing scenes of everyday activities and seasonal changes. Gained national attention after a 1940 exhibition in New York City. Art remains celebrated for its charm and simplicity, appealing to a broad audience. Continued creating art into her nineties and received recognition for contributions to American art.
Continue ReadingReginald West
English politician, 6th Baron De La Warr
Born
September 7th, 1395 630 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1450 575 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1395, held the title of 6th Baron De La Warr. Played a significant role in the political landscape of England during the early 15th century. Involved in the governance of the realm amidst the backdrop of the Hundred Years' War. Served in various capacities throughout his life, contributing to both local and national matters.
Continue ReadingMaria Anna of Austria
Archduchess and Queen of Hungary
Born
September 7th, 1683 342 years ago
Died
1754 272 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1683, one of the daughters of Emperor Leopold I and his second wife, Eleonor Magdalene of Neuburg. Married Joseph I, Holy Roman Emperor, in 1708, becoming Empress after his ascension. Engaged in court affairs and supported the arts. After the death of Joseph I in 1711, served as regent for their son, Charles VI. Her tenure as Empress Consort included efforts to strengthen the Habsburg monarchy and navigate challenges from rival powers.
Continue ReadingDaniel Inouye
U.S. Senator and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
September 7th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Hawaii for nearly 50 years, representing the state in numerous important legislative matters. Participated in World War II as a member of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the most decorated unit in American military history. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during combat on April 21, 1945. Throughout Senate career, focused on issues such as civil rights, health care, and veteran affairs, significantly shaping policies affecting these areas.
Continue ReadingBaudouin of Belgium
King of Belgium and constitutional monarch
Born
September 7th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1993 33 years ago — 63 years old
Ascended to the throne of Belgium in 1951 and reigned until 1993. Played a key role in the nation's political stability during a period of significant change in Europe. Oversaw a constitutional monarchy and engaged in various social issues, including the promotion of cultural identity within Belgium's multilingual context. Held a strong personal commitment to the welfare of the Belgian people.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 5th
Art Ross
Ice hockey player and coach, created NHL trophy
Born
January 13th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1964 61 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Canada, became a prominent ice hockey player and coach in North America. Played for teams including the Montreal Wanderers and Ottawa Senators in the early 20th century. Transitioned to coaching and administration, significantly influencing the hockey community. Instrumental in the development of the National Hockey League (NHL) and is honored with the creation of the Art Ross Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL's leading scorer. Contributed to the sport's growth and was pivotal in its early structure and promotion.
Continue ReadingIssey Miyake
Fashion designer and innovator
Born
April 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2022 3 years ago — 84 years old
A leading figure in the Japanese fashion industry, an innovative fashion designer revolutionized clothing design with technology and sculptural forms. Established the Miyake Design Studio in 1970, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. Developed the iconic Pleats Please collection, showcasing patented pleating techniques. Contributed designs for the 1993 Osaka Expo and served as a costume designer for various performances, including works in theater and dance.
Continue ReadingFrederick North
Prime Minister of Great Britain
Born
April 13th, 1732 293 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1792 233 years ago — 60 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1770 to 1782 during a tumultuous period marked by the American Revolutionary War. Managed government policy as the conflict escalated, which led to significant challenges and opposition. Initiated various legislative measures aimed at addressing grievances from the colonies but ultimately faced criticism and loss of support within Parliament. Resigned following the British defeat at Yorktown in 1781, which solidified the decline of British authority in America. Returned to the House of Lords and remained active in politics until retirement.
Continue ReadingEuthymius I of Constantinople
Patriarch of Constantinople, theologian
Died
August 5th, 917 1108 years ago — None years old
Served as Patriarch of Constantinople from 907 until death in 917. Euthymius focused on religious and theological issues of the time. Contributed significantly to church unity and played a role in enhancing the ecclesiastical authority of the Patriarchate. His tenure was marked by efforts to resolve disputes within the church and reinforce doctrinal teachings. Guided the faithful during a period of political and spiritual challenges in the Byzantine Empire.
Continue ReadingOtto Kretschmer
German admiral and U-boat commander
Born
May 1st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1998 27 years ago — 86 years old
An admiral in the German Navy, notable for command of U-99 during World War II. Achieved significant success in the Battle of the Atlantic, sinking numerous Allied ships. Became one of the most successful U-boat commanders, earning a reputation for tactical innovation in submarine warfare. After being captured in 1941, spent the remainder of the war as a prisoner. Post-war, contributed to naval strategy and operations in the Bundesmarine.
Continue ReadingMoa Martinson
Swedish author of notable novels
Born
November 2nd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1964 61 years ago — 73 years old
An influential author in Swedish literature, this individual primarily wrote novels and autobiographical works depicting rural life, women's experiences, and social issues in early 20th century Sweden. Major works include 'Women and Apple Trees' and 'The Angel in the House'. Often highlighted themes of feminism and the struggles of women in society. Contributed to discussions on gender equality through literature, providing insight into the lives of women in a changing society.
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