Võ Nguyên Giáp
Vietnamese general and politician
Born
August 25th, 1911
113 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013
11 years ago — 102 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
Vietnam
Links & References
Served as a general in the Vietnam People's Army and as Minister of Defence during the Vietnam War. Played a key role in leading North Vietnamese forces against the French colonial and later the American military during the Vietnam War. Contributed to significant victories such as the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, which resulted in French withdrawal from Indochina, and the Tet Offensive, which significantly influenced public opinion about the Vietnam War. After the war, served in various political positions and remained influential in military strategy and politics until the late 20th century.
Led North Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War
Achieved victory at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu
Planned the Tet Offensive in 1968
Other People Born on August 25th
Hilmar Hoffmann
Born in 1925, a significant figure in the field of film and cultural studies. Served as the director of the Frankfurt Film Museum, pioneering film education in Germany. Contributed to the development of media studies as an academic discipline. Emphasized the importance of film as a cultural medium. Authored several influential texts on film theory and history, shaping academic discourse in the field.
Continue ReadingCrispin Tickell
An English academic and diplomat served as the British Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 1987 to 1990. Engaged in climate change advocacy and emphasized sustainable development during tenure. Contributed to various international discussions regarding environmental policy. Held a significant position at the University of Sussex as a director of the Centre for the Study of Global Issues and helped shape academic discourse on global affairs.
Continue ReadingLudwig II of Bavaria
Ascended to the throne in 1864, this monarch oversaw significant cultural developments in Bavaria, particularly through patronage of the arts. A notable supporter of Richard Wagner, the king financed several of Wagner's operas and established the Bayreuth Festival to celebrate Wagner's work. The king is remembered for his extravagant building projects, including the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle and the unfinished Herrenchiemsee Palace. His reign reflected a blend of personal eccentricity and a deep commitment to artistic endeavors, contributing to Bavaria's cultural heritage until his mysterious death in 1886.
Continue ReadingGeoff Downes
A keyboard player, songwriter, and producer, this individual gained prominence in the progressive rock genre. Key contributions include work with the band Yes, particularly on the album '90125,' which featured the hit 'Owner of a Lonely Heart.' As a member of Asia, the band achieved commercial success in the early 1980s with the album 'Asia' and the hit single 'Heat of the Moment.' Contributions to the music industry extend to production roles and collaborations with various artists.
Continue ReadingBill Handel
A Brazilian-American lawyer and radio host, active in broadcasting since the late 1980s. Hosted 'Handel on the Law', a legal advice show that aired on KFI AM 640 in Los Angeles. Also co-hosted 'Wake Up Call' and presented various legal segments on the station. Contributed to discussions on legal issues across multiple media platforms, emphasizing practical advice and legal education for the public. Regularly invited as a legal expert to comment on high-profile cases and legal topics.
Continue ReadingBernardo Rezende
A prominent figure in volleyball, achievements include coaching the Brazil national team to multiple titles. As a player, participation in national tournaments laid the groundwork for a successful coaching career. Developed strategies that revolutionized team dynamics and contributed to the sport's evolution in Brazil. Head coached the Brazil men's team from 2001, leading the team to various championships around the globe, showcasing expertise in developing young talent and adapting strategies to improve performance in high-stakes environments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 4th
Fyodor Cherenkov
A retired Russian footballer and manager, Cherenkov played primarily as a midfielder. His professional career commenced in 1977, spending most of it with Spartak Moscow, where he achieved significant success. Cherenkov was a key player for Spartak, contributing to multiple Soviet Top League titles during the 1980s. After retiring, he transitioned into management and held various coaching positions.
Continue ReadingOtto Weininger
Born in 1880 in Vienna, contributed to philosophy with a focus on gender and sexuality. Published a significant work titled 'Sex and Character' in 1903, which explored the relationship between sex and personality. His ideas stirred considerable controversy and discussion in both philosophical and psychological circles. Weininger's writings often reflected deep engagement with the socio-cultural issues of his time. He ended his life in 1903, leaving a profound impact on various fields of thought.
Continue ReadingStefanos Stefanopoulos
Served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1945 to 1946. Played a significant role during the aftermath of World War II and the subsequent Greek Civil War, focusing on national reconciliation and recovery. Contributed to the rebuilding of political structures in Greece post-occupation. Participated in legislative reforms aimed at stabilizing the Greek government during a turbulent period.
Continue ReadingSarel Cilliers
Born in 1801, this figure was a prominent preacher and activist in South Africa during the 19th century. An influential leader in the Boer community, he played a significant role in the establishment of the Voortrekker movement. Cilliers was a key figure in the Great Trek, where he advocated for the migration of Afrikaans-speaking settlers into the interior of South Africa, seeking to escape British rule. His sermons and writings often inspired the pioneers and provided a sense of purpose and direction during a tumultuous period in South African history. His legacy includes contributions to the cultural and religious identity of Afrikaners.
Continue ReadingAl Smith
Served as the 42nd Governor of New York from 1923 to 1928. Played a crucial role in advancing social welfare programs and expanding infrastructure during the early 20th century. Became the first Catholic presidential candidate for a major party in 1928, running for the presidency against Herbert Hoover. His campaign focused on urban issues and the needs of working-class citizens. Overcame significant opposition and criticism, particularly regarding his religious affiliations.
Continue ReadingNicholas Oresko
Born in 1917, this American serviceman served in World War II as a sergeant in the U.S. Army. He fought in the Pacific Theater and displayed exceptional bravery during the Battle of Guam. Oresko's actions on July 25, 1944, led to his receiving the Medal of Honor for his heroism. After the war, he continued to serve in the Army Reserves and maintained a long and distinguished post-military career.
Continue Reading