Trajan
Roman Emperor, expanded the empire
Reigned as Roman Emperor from 98 to 117 AD. Oversaw the greatest expansion of the Roman Empire, extending its borders to their maximum territorial extent. Implemented extensive public works, including the construction of roads, bridges, and aqueducts. Established the concept of alimenta, a welfare program to support orphans and poor children. His military campaigns against Dacia resulted in substantial victories and the annexation of new territories, enhancing the empire’s wealth and resources.
Conquered Dacia
Expanded the Roman Empire
Initiated extensive public works
Other People Born on September 18th
Grey Owl
Environmentalist and author
Born
September 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1938 87 years ago — 49 years old
An English-Canadian environmentalist and author played a significant role in promoting conservation and wildlife protection. Residing in Canada, wrote extensively about the importance of natural landscapes and the impact of industrialization. Authored notable works such as 'The Men of the Last Frontier' and 'Pilgrims of the Wild', which raised awareness about ecological issues. Became a key figure in advocating for the preservation of Canada's wilderness and Indigenous cultures.
Continue ReadingAdrien-Marie Legendre
French mathematician and theorist
Born
September 18th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1833 192 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in number theory and statistics. Developed Legendre polynomials and introduced the method of least squares. His work in number theory included the formulation of Legendre's conjecture concerning prime numbers. Authored influential texts on analysis and number theory, which became standard references in mathematics.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory XVI
Pope with papal bull on slavery
Born
September 18th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1846 179 years ago — 80 years old
Served as Pope from 1831 until death in 1846. Issued the encyclical 'In supremo apostolatus' which condemned the slave trade and slavery itself. Advocated for the preservation of the Papal States and opposed liberal reforms. Strengthened the Congregation of the Index to curtail modernist thought and censorship of publications. Worked on restoring the Catholic Church's authority in regions where church influence had diminished.
Continue ReadingZhang Xianzhong
Chinese rebel leader during the Ming dynasty
Born
September 18th, 1606 419 years ago
Died
1647 378 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent rebel leader during the late Ming dynasty, native to China. Led significant uprisings against the ruling dynasty in the 17th century. Established a short-lived kingdom in Sichuan, proclaiming himself as the emperor. His rebellion was part of a larger series of conflicts that characterized the tumultuous period leading to the fall of the Ming dynasty and the rise of the Qing dynasty.
Continue ReadingScotty Bowman
Ice Hockey Coach with multiple championships
Born
September 18th, 1933 92 years ago
A prominent figure in ice hockey, this individual became one of the most successful coaches in National Hockey League (NHL) history. Coaching stints included famous teams such as the Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Detroit Red Wings. Under coaching, achieved an impressive nine Stanley Cup championships, setting a record that remains unmatched. Additionally, served as a front office executive after retiring from coaching, contributing to team strategies and performance evaluations.
Continue ReadingJoseph Story
American jurist and Supreme Court justice
Born
September 18th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
1845 180 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent lawyer and jurist, contributed significantly to American law through various legal opinions and teachings. Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1811 to 1845, participating in key decisions that shaped constitutional law. Authored several important legal texts, which became fundamental references in American legal education. Also held a position as a professor at Harvard Law School, influencing the development of legal scholarship and practices.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 8th
Albert Namatjira
Australian painter of watercolor landscapes
Born
July 28th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1959 66 years ago — 57 years old
An Aboriginal Australian artist, recognized for pioneering the use of watercolor painting in capturing the landscapes of Central Australia. His works often depicted the rich colors and textures of the land, reflecting both traditional and contemporary themes. Namatjira's style blended European techniques with Indigenous perspectives, leading to widespread acclaim. His paintings contributed to a greater appreciation of Indigenous art forms. In 1957, he became the first Aboriginal Australian to be granted Australian citizenship, which marked a significant milestone in the recognition of Aboriginal rights.
Continue ReadingLeonardo Legaspi
Filipino archbishop and religious leader
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Caceres in the Philippines. Contributed to the Catholic Church's growth and community engagement within the region. Participated actively in various religious and social initiatives, advocating for justice and peace in the country. Held leadership positions within the Philippine Episcopal Conference, influencing ecclesiastical matters across the nation.
Continue ReadingIgor Kurnosov
Russian chess player and grandmaster
Born
May 30th, 1985 40 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2013 12 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1985, a chess player achieved the title of grandmaster in 2005. Participated in numerous international tournaments, demonstrating significant expertise in various chess openings and strategies. Had a successful career with numerous acclaimed performances in team competitions, notably representing Russia in prestigious team events. Contributed to chess literature and theory through analysis and publications.
Continue ReadingMitzi McCall
American actress and comedian
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2024 1 years ago — 94 years old
An actress and comedian, primarily recognized for work in television during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained prominence for performances on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Love Boat'. Collaborated extensively with her husband, also a comedian, for various acts and performances. The duo built a reputation for successful live shows across the country.
Continue ReadingFernando Castro Pacheco
Mexican painter and engraver, Muralist
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old
An influential Mexican painter, engraver, and illustrator who contributed significantly to the artistic landscape of Mexico. Renowned for muralism, several of his works embody the themes of Mexican culture and history. Educated at the Academy of San Carlos, developed a distinctive style blending realism and expressionism. Served as a professor, inspiring future generations of artists. Participated in various exhibitions both domestically and internationally, showcasing a commitment to promoting Mexican heritage through visual arts.
Continue ReadingRegina Resnik
American soprano and actress acclaimed for opera
Born
August 30th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
Acclaimed American soprano and actress. Vocal career began in the 1940s, establishing a reputation in both opera and musical theatre. Achieved recognition for performances in the operas 'Carmen' and 'Aida,' showcasing exceptional talent in varied roles. Transitioned to acting, appearing in television series, including 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' Resnik had an extensive career performing in renowned opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera House. Her contributions to the arts continued throughout her life, with an enduring influence on upcoming artists.
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