Wilhelm Pieck
Politician & 1st President of East Germany
A carpenter by trade, played a significant role in the establishment of the German Democratic Republic after World War II. Served as a member of the Communist Party of Germany, contributing to the development of socialist policies. Elected as the first President of the German Democratic Republic in 1949, overseeing its formation and early governance. Contributed to the establishment of a one-party state and the implementation of state control over key sectors of the economy. Held the presidency until his death in 1960.
First President of the German Democratic Republic
Founding member of the Socialist Unity Party
Other People Born on January 3rd
Michalis Kritikopoulos
Footballer with AEK Athens legacy
Born
January 3rd, 1946 80 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2002 23 years ago — 56 years old
A Greek footballer played as a forward, primarily associated with AEK Athens. His career spanned from the 1960s to the 1970s, where he contributed to the team with skilled performances. He participated in multiple domestic competitions, helping AEK Athens achieve notable success during his tenure. His contributions were significant in the club's campaigns in the Greek Super League.
Continue ReadingJohn Marsden
Australian lawyer and activist
Born
January 3rd, 1942 84 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 82 years old
A lawyer and activist, dedicated to human rights and social justice. Contributed significantly to the movement for Indigenous rights in Australia. Played a significant role in advocating for legal reforms and raising awareness about social issues. Actively participated in various campaigns and organizations that promoted equality and justice for marginalized communities. Remains a prominent figure in Australian legal and activist circles.
Continue ReadingWilliam Renshaw
English tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
January 3rd, 1861 165 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1904 121 years ago — 43 years old
Participated in the early years of modern tennis and achieved notable success in the sport. Secured seven Wimbledon Championships between 1881 and 1889, establishing a dominant presence in men's singles tennis during that era. Played a key role in popularizing the sport in England, contributing to the sport's growth and prominence. Known for strong serve and volley techniques, which were innovative at the time.
Continue ReadingRoger Williams Straus Jr.
American journalist and publisher
Born
January 3rd, 1917 109 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old
Co-founded Farrar, Straus and Giroux, a prominent publishing house known for its literary works. Played a significant role in promoting various authors and contributed to the publishing industry's evolution. Edited and published numerous influential titles that shaped American literature from the mid-20th century onwards.
Continue ReadingAnna May Wong
American actress in silent films
Born
January 3rd, 1905 121 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1961 64 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1905, this actress became the first Chinese American film star in Hollywood. She appeared in notable films such as 'The Toll of the Sea' and 'Shanghai Express'. Wong's career spanned silent films and talkies, and she was recognized for her roles in various genres, from drama to comedy. Apart from her film work, she also performed on stage and made television appearances, including a role in the series 'The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong', where she played the lead character. Wong broke stereotypes of Asian women in film and paved the way for future generations of Asian American actors.
Continue ReadingCharles Pelham Villiers
English lawyer and politician
Born
January 3rd, 1802 224 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1898 128 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician in England, served as a member of Parliament for over 60 years. Played a significant role in various reforms and legislative initiatives throughout the 19th century. Advocated for social issues and was actively involved in numerous parliamentary debates. His commitment to public service and dedication to legal matters left a lasting mark on the political landscape.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 7th
Bud Fisher
American cartoonist famous for Mutt and Jeff
Born
April 3rd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1954 71 years ago — 69 years old
Started cartooning career with 'Mutt and Jeff', which became one of the first successful daily comic strips. Created characters that represented everyday American life and humor. Influenced the development of comic strips and established the model for many future cartoonists. Worked as a cartoonist until death in 1954.
Continue ReadingKwon Ri-se
South Korean singer, member of Wa$$up
Born
1991 35 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 23 years old
Kwon Ri-se was a South Korean singer and member of the girl group Wa$$up, which debuted in 2013. The group gained attention for their energetic performances and unique style, contributing to the K-pop scene. The group released several songs, including the popular track 'Ma Boy.' Kwon Ri-se also participated in various television programs, showcasing her talents beyond music. Despite the group's disbandment, her contributions to the genre remain recognized.
Continue ReadingHarold Shipp
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
A businessman and philanthropist, contributions included founding a successful transportation company. Established significant charitable initiatives that benefited education and health sectors in Canada. Played a pivotal role in the development of community programs.
Continue ReadingFerdinand IV of Castile
King of Castile, Reigned 1295-1312
Born
December 6th, 1285 740 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1312 713 years ago — 26 years old
Ascended to the Castilian throne at a young age. Focused on maintaining stability in a region marked by political strife and territorial disputes. Played a significant role during the early years of the Reconquista, engaging in military campaigns against Muslim territories. Formulated alliances through marriages to secure the kingdom's interests. Died at a young age, leaving a legacy tied closely to his family and successors.
Continue ReadingSedad Hakkı Eldem
Turkish architect of modern buildings
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1988 37 years ago — 80 years old
Designed prominent modernist structures in Turkey throughout the 20th century. Contributed significantly to the development of architecture in Turkey by integrating traditional styles with contemporary designs. Served as a professor at Istanbul Technical University, influencing future generations of architects. Eldem's works include residential and civic buildings that reflect the cultural heritage of Turkey while employing modernist principles.
Continue ReadingAlbert Allen Bartlett
Physicist and educator
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions to physics education and population awareness marked a significant part of an academic career. The individual served as a professor of physics at the University of Colorado Boulder for several decades. Lectures on the exponential growth of population and its implications became widely recognized. Efforts included numerous public lectures and presentations aimed at promoting understanding of scientific principles.
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