Tom Drake

Actor and singer, appeared in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'

Tom Drake - Actor and singer, appeared in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
Born

August 5th, 1918
106 years ago

Died

August 11th, 1982
42 years ago — 64 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1918, an American actor and singer gained prominence in the 1940s. Gained recognition for the role of John Truitt in the beloved musical film 'Meet Me in St. Louis.' Appeared in several MGM productions during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Transitioned to television in the 1950s, earning roles in series such as 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.' Continued to perform in various stage productions and worked extensively in regional theater throughout the latter part of the 20th century. Known for a warm stage presence and a smooth singing voice, maintained an active career in the entertainment industry well into later life.

Starred as John Truitt in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'

Appeared in 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet'

Performed in various stage productions

Other People Born on August 5th

Wesley Clair Mitchell

Economist and scholar of business cycles
Born
August 5th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 74 years old

An American economist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of economics through research on business cycles. Helped establish empirical economic analysis as a relevant discipline. Played a key role in the founding of the National Bureau of Economic Research in 1920, which has become a leading organization for economic research. Authored several influential publications, with the most notable work being 'Business Cycles' published in 1927, which analyzes economic fluctuations and their impacts.

Continue Reading

Christian Olde Wolbers

Guitarist and producer for Fear Factory
Born
August 5th, 1972 52 years ago

Born in Belgium and later relocating to the United States, contributed significantly to the heavy metal scene as a guitarist, songwriter, and producer. Became a member of the influential band Fear Factory, helping to shape the sound of industrial metal in the 1990s. Played on several acclaimed albums, establishing a reputation for innovative guitar work and production skills.

Continue Reading

Michal Kováč

Lawyer and 1st President of Slovakia
Born
August 5th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 86 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the first President of Slovakia from 1993 to 1998 after Slovakia gained independence from Czechoslovakia. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Slovak Republic and its governance during its formative years. Oversaw various reforms aimed at building a democratic state and contributed to international recognition for Slovakia. His presidency was marked by efforts to stabilize the new government and integrate Slovakia into European structures.

Continue Reading

Anne Acheson

Irish sculptor recognized for public works
Born
August 5th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1962 63 years ago — 79 years old

An Irish sculptor created significant public sculptures throughout her career. Acheson studied at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin and later received instruction from notable artists. Her works typically showcased a blend of traditional techniques and modern themes, emphasizing the human form and expression. Several pieces were commissioned for public spaces, enhancing urban landscapes. Acheson's craftsmanship gained attention and admiration during her lifetime, leading to exhibitions and accolades.

Continue Reading

Abbé Pierre

French priest and activist for the homeless
Born
August 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old

A Catholic priest dedicated to social activism, worked extensively to aid the homeless and the marginalized. Founded the Emmaus movement in 1949, which established communities to provide housing and support for those in need. Gained prominence in France during the post-World War II period, advocating for social justice and housing rights. Active in public life, participated in campaigns and initiatives for the welfare of the less fortunate. Continued humanitarian efforts until death in 2007.

Continue Reading

Kenneth V. Thimann

Botanist and microbiologist; Auxin research
Born
August 5th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 93 years old

A botanist and microbiologist, contributions centered on plant hormones and growth regulation. Conducted extensive research on auxins, a class of plant growth substances, leading to significant advancements in understanding plant biology. Co-authored the discovery of the role auxins play in cell elongation and phototropism. Played a pivotal role in the development of horticultural techniques that utilize auxins for better crop yields. Held academic positions at various institutions, including the University of California, Berkeley, influencing generations of students and researchers in the field.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 11th

Alfred A. Knopf Sr.

American publisher and book founder
Born
September 12th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1984 40 years ago — 91 years old

Established Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., a publishing house that became influential in the American literature landscape. Focused on quality literature, the publisher developed a reputation for producing works by eminent authors. The imprint published acclaimed books across various genres, emphasizing both fiction and nonfiction. Under this leadership, the company gained a significant market presence and contributed to the literary culture of the time.

Continue Reading

Max Theiler

Virologist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
January 30th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1972 52 years ago — 73 years old

Born in South Africa and later becoming a naturalized American, a significant contribution involved the development of the vaccine for yellow fever. The work in virology extended to detailed research on the morphology and pathogenesis of viruses. Theiler received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1951 for the achievement in yellow fever vaccination, demonstrating the use of the virus to elicit immunity. His research set a foundation for further advancements in vaccine development and was instrumental in the fight against viral diseases.

Continue Reading

James Mourilyan Tanner

British paediatric endocrinologist
Born
August 1st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2010 14 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of paediatric endocrinology through research on growth and puberty. Developed Tanner stages, a widely used classification system for human development during childhood and adolescence. Published extensively on growth patterns, hormone effects, and nutrition in children. Served as a major figure at the Institute of Child Health in London.

Continue Reading

Kika Szaszkiewiczowa

Polish author and blogger
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2014 10 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent author and blogger, focused on literature and writing. Contributed significantly to literary discourse through engaging online platforms and published works. Developed a unique voice that resonated with a wide audience, combining personal experiences with broader cultural commentary. Fostered a community of readers and writers, promoting discourse around contemporary themes in Poland. Achieved recognition for insightful observations on society and culture.

Continue Reading

Phil Harris

Fishing captain from Deadliest Catch
Born
December 19th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1995 29 years ago — 38 years old

A fishing captain and fisherman from the United States. Gained national recognition through participation in the reality television series 'Deadliest Catch'. Captained the fishing vessel Cornelia Marie. Displayed expertise in Alaskan crab fishing and led crews through challenging conditions. Passed away in 2010, leaving a legacy within the fishing community and in popular culture.

Continue Reading

Magnentius

Roman usurper and military commander
Died
August 11th, 353 1671 years ago — None years old

A Roman military officer declared Emperor in 350 AD following a rebellion against Constans I. Gained control of the western provinces of the Roman Empire. Established a court and appointed key officials, but faced opposition from Constans I and internal dissent. Ultimately defeated in battle and committed suicide in 353 AD.

Continue Reading