Tomoyuki Yamashita
Japanese general during World War II
Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Commanded Japanese forces in the Malayan Campaign and the Battle of Singapore, leading to the capture of the British stronghold in 1942. Led troops in various campaigns throughout the Pacific, demonstrating tactical skills in land warfare. Post-war, faced trial for war crimes and was executed in 1946.
Captured Singapore in 1942
Led campaigns in Malaya
Executed for war crimes in 1946
Other People Born on November 8th
Edmond Halley
English astronomer, Halley's Comet.
Born
November 8th, 1656 369 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1742 283 years ago — 85 years old
An English astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and is most recognized for calculating the orbit of Halley's Comet, establishing its periodic appearance. Also served as the second Astronomer Royal and made notable contributions to meteorology and the study of the Earth's magnetic field. Conducted comprehensive research on stellar positions and published a landmark work titled 'Catalogus Stellarum.' Participated in the Royal Society as a prominent member.
Continue ReadingAlain Delon
Actor, producer, screenwriter of French cinema
Born
November 8th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in European cinema, an actor, producer, and screenwriter emerged in the late 1950s. Gained prominence through roles in iconic films such as 'Purple Noon', 'The Leopard', and 'The Samurai'. Known for portraying complex characters with a firm yet charismatic demeanor. Produced several films and opened a production company. Contributed to fashion and style in cinema, becoming a cultural icon in France and beyond.
Continue ReadingMartha Gellhorn
Journalist and author, WWII correspondent
Born
November 8th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 89 years old
Worked as a journalist and author with a focus on war reporting. Covered World War II as a correspondent for Collier's Weekly, establishing a reputation for insightful and unflinching reporting. Authored several novels and works of nonfiction throughout a prolific career. Contributed to notable publications such as The New Republic and The Atlantic Monthly. Known for her strong humanitarian views and her advocacy for social justice issues.
Continue ReadingMeg Wynn Owen
British actress in 'The Onedin Line'
Born
November 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished actress, notable for performances in theatre and television. Gained recognition for the role of Caroline in the long-running drama series 'The Onedin Line', which aired from 1971 to 1980. Also appeared in various other television productions. Pursued a career that spanned several decades, contributing to both stage and screen.
Continue ReadingGeorge Bouzianis
Greek painter of modern art
Born
November 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1959 66 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1885, contributed significantly to modern Greek art. Studied at the Munich Academy and later settled in Athens, where his work featured bold colors and dynamic forms. Explored themes of urban life, nature, and Greek identity throughout his career. Established his reputation in the 1920s with a series of exhibitions. His paintings often depicted landscapes and figures, reflecting both tradition and contemporary influences. Participated in various national and international art exhibitions, gaining recognition in the Mediterranean art scene.
Continue ReadingDmitry Yazov
Last Marshal of the Soviet Union
Born
November 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2020 5 years ago — 95 years old
Served in the Soviet military, rising through the ranks to become Marshal. Held the position of Minister of Defence from 1987 to 1991 during a turbulent period for the Soviet Union. Participated in the events surrounding the August Coup in 1991, which aimed to reverse the reforms of Mikhail Gorbachev. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, transitioned to a political career, serving in various roles including as a member of the Federation Council.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 23rd
John Robert Gregg
Irish-American publisher and educator
Born
June 17th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1948 77 years ago — 80 years old
An Irish-American publisher and educator contributed significantly to the field of shorthand. Developed the Gregg Shorthand system, which became widely adopted in the United States and other countries. Focused on simplifying writing for users, enhancing speed and efficiency. Operated a publishing company that specialized in instructional materials for shorthand, reaching a broad audience. Actively engaged in educational initiatives, promoting the use of shorthand in business and education.
Continue ReadingJulien Ries
Belgian cardinal and theologian
Born
April 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a prominent cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, contributing significantly to theological discussions and the development of a deeper understanding of spirituality. Appointed as a cardinal in 2001, facilitated ecclesiastical dialogue through writings and participation in major church events. Worked actively in the field of theology, with a focus on the relationship between faith and culture. Engaged in various interfaith initiatives, promoting dialogue and understanding among different religious communities throughout the world.
Continue ReadingErnest Dowson
English poet and novelist
Born
August 2nd, 1867 158 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1900 125 years ago — 32 years old
An English poet, novelist, and short story writer, contributed significantly to late Victorian literature. Notable for the poem "Non Sum Qualis Eram Bonae sub Regno Cynarae," which reflects themes of love and loss. His literary style combined influences from Romanticism and Decadence, often featuring melancholic and introspective themes. Dowson also wrote novels and prose works, including 'Mrs. Gming on,' although poetry remains the primary focus of his legacy. He was a member of the Rhymers' Club, which promoted new poetry during the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingWoldemar Bargiel
German composer and educator
Born
October 3rd, 1828 197 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1897 128 years ago — 68 years old
A German composer and educator contributed significantly to the Romantic music repertoire. Studied under prominent composers, integrating classical traditions with innovative approaches. Held a teaching position at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik, influencing a generation of musicians. Focused on symphonic compositions, chamber music, and choral works, showcasing lyrical melodies and orchestral richness. Engaged in music life in Berlin, collaborating with notable contemporaries and performing compositions across Europe.
Continue ReadingJosé Napoleón Duarte
Salvadoran engineer and politician
Born
November 23rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1990 35 years ago — 64 years old
An engineer and politician served as President of El Salvador from 1984 to 1989. Focused on modernizing the economy while battling a civil war that lasted over a decade. Implemented various economic reforms and policies aimed at reconstruction and alleviating poverty. Advocated for human rights and worked towards fostering peace in a divided nation.
Continue ReadingW. A. C. Bennett
Canadian politician, Premier of BC
Born
September 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1979 46 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 25th Premier of British Columbia from 1952 to 1972. Focused on the expansion of the province's economy and infrastructure. Championed the establishment of hospitals, schools, and improved health care facilities. His tenure saw substantial development in hydroelectric power, particularly with the formation of the British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority. Held office during a period of significant social change.
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