Viola Davis
American actress, producer, and director
An acclaimed actress and producer, contributions span film, television, and theatre. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Fences'. Achieved a historic Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for 'How to Get Away with Murder'. Notable stage performances include 'Intimate Apparel' and 'King Hedley II', both earning Tony Awards. Recognized for powerful performances that often address issues of race and gender.
Won Academy Award for 'Fences'
Won Emmy Award for 'How to Get Away with Murder'
Won Tony Award for 'Intimate Apparel'
Other People Born on August 11th
Marie François Sadi Carnot
French politician and engineer, 4th President
Born
August 11th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1894 131 years ago — 56 years old
Served as the 4th President of the French Republic from 1887 until his assassination in 1894. Prior to his presidency, held various engineering positions in French government, contributing to infrastructure development. Focused on improving the French economy and advocating for military reforms. His presidency was marked by internal political tensions and challenges arising from colonial issues in Africa.
Continue ReadingSteve Wozniak
Computer scientist; co-founder of Apple Inc.
Born
August 11th, 1950 75 years ago
A computer scientist and engineer, played a key role in the development of personal computing. Co-founded Apple Inc. with Steve Jobs in 1976, creating the Apple I and Apple II computers, which significantly contributed to the personal computer revolution. Developed the hardware, circuit board designs, and operating systems for Apple’s first products. After leaving Apple in the 1980s, focused on various ventures in technology and education, promoting computer science education. Also engaged in philanthropic efforts related to technology and education.
Continue ReadingErnst Jaakson
Estonian diplomat and UN representative
Born
August 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1905, a diplomat represented Estonia during pivotal moments in international relations. Played a significant role in the post-World War II period, advocating for Estonian independence. Served as Estonia's ambassador to the United Nations and coordinated efforts to gain international recognition for Estonia's sovereignty. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and was active in discussions regarding Baltic states during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingFrederick W. Smith
Businessman, founder of FedEx Corporation
Born
August 11th, 1944 81 years ago
A businessman founded FedEx Corporation in 1971, revolutionizing the logistics and parcel delivery industry. Under leadership, the company introduced overnight shipping and advanced tracking systems, enhancing efficiency in delivery services. Smith's vision and innovations significantly influenced global commerce and logistics. He served as the Chairman and CEO, steering the company through its growth into an international powerhouse in shipping and logistics.
Continue ReadingChristiaan Eijkman
Nobel Prize Laureate in Physiology
Born
August 11th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1930 95 years ago — 72 years old
Eijkman was a Dutch physician and academic who contributed significantly to the field of medicine and nutrition. He conducted groundbreaking research on beri-beri, a disease caused by thiamine deficiency. His experiments with chickens demonstrated that the disease could be prevented by including rice bran in their diet. This research ultimately led to the discovery of vitamins and highlighted the importance of nutrition in health. Eijkman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1929 for his work on the role of vitamins in nutrition, sharing the accolade with another scientist.
Continue ReadingPrincess Louise Charlotte of Saxe-Altenburg
Princess of Saxe-Altenburg and Austria
Born
August 11th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1953 73 years ago — 79 years old
Born into the House of Saxe-Altenburg, this princess was a member of the Saxe-Altenburg dynasty. Marriage to Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Altenburg established a significant alliance. Contributed to royal activities and cultural initiatives in the region. Significant involvement in charitable pursuits, particularly related to education and healthcare. The lineage remains linked to European nobility through various descendants.
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