Wilfried Martens

Belgian Prime Minister and politician

Wilfried Martens - Belgian Prime Minister and politician
Born

April 19th, 1936
89 years ago

Died

October 9th, 2013
11 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Belgium

Links & References

Served as the 60th Prime Minister of Belgium from 1979 to 1992. Held leadership roles in the Christian Democratic and Flemish party. Played a significant role in Belgian and European politics during his tenure, particularly in the context of the European Union and regional autonomy discussions. Advocated for federalism and political reform within Belgium, contributing to the shaping of modern Belgian governance. Continued to be influential in political circles after leaving office, serving in various capacities within European institutions.

Served as Prime Minister of Belgium for 13 years

Led the Christian Democratic and Flemish party

Influenced European Union governance discussions

Other People Born on April 19th

Véronique Gens

Soprano recognized for Baroque music performances
Born
April 19th, 1966 59 years ago

A prominent French soprano and actress, contributions to opera and classical music have been significant, particularly in Baroque repertoire. She has performed in prestigious venues across Europe and in renowned festivals, showcasing a strong affinity for composers such as Handel and Vivaldi. In addition to operatic roles, appearances in recitals and concerts highlight versatility and skill. Dedication to music education and involvement in various cultural initiatives reflect a commitment to the arts.

Continue Reading

Ali Wong

Comedian and actress from 'Always Be My Maybe'
Born
April 19th, 1982 43 years ago

A comedian and actress celebrated for stand-up specials and film roles. Gained recognition through Netflix specials including 'Baby Cobra' and 'Hard Knock Wife', both praised for their candid humor about motherhood and personal experiences. Starred in the film 'Always Be My Maybe' alongside Randall Park, contributing to the romantic comedy genre while exploring Asian American narratives. Also featured in the sitcom 'Fresh Off the Boat', bringing humor and charisma to the role of a recurring character.

Continue Reading

Rivaldo Vitor Borba Ferreira

Brazilian footballer and Ballon d'Or winner
Born
April 19th, 1972 53 years ago

Born in 1972, a prominent Brazilian footballer excelled as an attacking midfielder. Played for several clubs, including Barcelona, where significant achievements occurred. Won the Ballon d'Or in 1999, showcasing elite talent on an international stage. Contributed to Brazil's victory in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, forming part of a legendary attacking trio. Retired from professional football in 2015.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand I of Austria

Austrian Emperor and monarch, 1848 abdication
Born
April 19th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1875 149 years ago — 82 years old

Reigned as Emperor of Austria from 1835 until abdication in 1848. Faced significant challenges during his reign, including national uprisings and the revolutionary movements of 1848. Abdicated the throne due to pressure from revolutionaries and family, leading to the ascension of his nephew Franz Joseph I. His reign saw significant political unrest and the struggle for national identity within the Austrian Empire. Post-abdication, lived in exile until death in 1875.

Continue Reading

Elinor Donahue

American actress in classic television
Born
April 19th, 1937 88 years ago

Gained recognition as an actress during the 1950s and 1960s, prominently featured in the television series 'Father Knows Best' as Betty Anderson. Continued to work in both television and film, appearing in various projects throughout her career. Notable roles included appearances in 'The Andy Griffith Show' and the film 'The Courtship of Eddie's Father'.

Continue Reading

James Franco

Actor in 127 Hours and Spider-Man trilogy
Born
April 19th, 1978 47 years ago

A multifaceted American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Gained prominence in television with the role of Daniel Desario in the series Freaks and Geeks. Achieved significant recognition for the lead role in the film 127 Hours, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Directed and acted in several projects, including The Disaster Artist, which also received an Academy Award nomination. Engaged in various art forms, including writing and exhibiting visual art.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 9th

Carol Bruce

American singer and actress, Broadway star
Born
November 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2007 17 years ago — 87 years old

Achieved prominence as a singer and actress, with significant contributions to both stage and screen. Gained recognition for performances in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Call Me Mister' and 'Ziegfeld Follies'. Appeared in television series such as 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and films including 'The Girl From Jones Beach'.

Continue Reading

Carolyn Kizer

American poet and academic, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
December 10th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2014 10 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent American poet and academic, achieved significant recognition in the literary world. Authored several celebrated poetry collections, including 'Yin' and 'The Martyr'. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing a generation of writers. Kizer was a driving force in the establishment of the literary community in the West Coast and was an early advocate for feminist themes in poetry.

Continue Reading

Lily Ebert

Holocaust survivor and advocate
Born
December 29th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2024 0 years ago — 100 years old

Born in Hungary, an individual survived the Holocaust and later moved to the United Kingdom. This individual shared personal experiences and testimonies about the Holocaust, contributing to education and awareness about the atrocities faced during World War II. Engaged in public speaking and outreach efforts, emphasized the importance of remembering history to prevent future atrocities. Active in various initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance and understanding.

Continue Reading

Oskar Schindler

Businessman and Holocaust rescuer
Born
April 28th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1974 50 years ago — 66 years old

A businessman of Czech-German descent, played a significant role during World War II by employing Jewish workers in his factories, thereby saving them from deportation to concentration camps. Schindler initially aimed for profit but later shifted focus to humanitarian efforts. His actions led to the preservation of over a thousand Jewish lives. After the war, he faced challenges in his business dealings and lived in various countries before his death.

Continue Reading

Richard F. Heck

American chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 15th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2015 9 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent chemist, contributions focused on palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions. Developed the Heck reaction, which facilitated the formation of carbon-carbon bonds in organic synthesis. Held academic positions at the University of Delaware and other institutions, mentoring many students in the field of chemistry. Received significant recognition for work that transformed organic chemistry techniques.

Continue Reading

Carl Fontana

Jazz Trombonist with Stellar Recordings
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2003 21 years ago — 75 years old

An American jazz trombonist, he gained prominence in the 1950s and became one of the leading figures in jazz trombone. Worked with several notable big bands, including those led by Woody Herman and the Stan Kenton Orchestra. His distinctive style showcased advanced technique and lyrical improvisation. In addition to performing, contributed to numerous recordings, significantly influencing the jazz genre.

Continue Reading