Willy Ronis
French photographer of urban life
Contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in capturing everyday life in post-war France. Early works in the 1930s focused on the Parisian working class, presenting a humanistic perspective through photography. Achieved great recognition with the publication of the book 'Paris de ma fenêtre' in 1954, which showcased intimate and poignant images of the city and its inhabitants. His style blended documentary and artistic photography, influencing generations of photographers. Worked extensively throughout his career and is considered one of the key figures in French humanist photography.
Published 'Paris de ma fenêtre'
Photographed the daily life of Parisians
Other People Born on August 14th
Slim Dunlap
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 14th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1951, this musician emerged in the Minneapolis music scene during the 1980s. He gained recognition as the lead guitarist for the legendary rock band The Replacements. Dunlap contributed to the band's sound on albums such as 'Don't Tell a Soul' and 'All Shook Down'. Following his departure from The Replacements, he pursued a solo career, releasing albums like 'Flying Time'. His work has been characterized by a blend of rock and Americana influences, showcasing his songwriting skills and distinctive guitar playing.
Continue ReadingCatherine of York
English princess and political figure
Born
August 14th, 1479 546 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1527 498 years ago — 48 years old
Daughter of Edward IV, played a significant role in the political landscape of 15th century England. Married Henry VII, contributing to the union of the Houses of York and Lancaster. Produced several offspring, including future monarchs. Engaged in political alliances and navigated the complexities of court life during a tumultuous period in English history.
Continue ReadingDoc Holliday
Dentist and gambler in the Wild West
Born
August 14th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1887 138 years ago — 36 years old
Trained as a dentist and practiced in Georgia. Relocated to the American West during the mid-19th century, gaining notoriety as a gambler in saloons. Became a prominent figure in gunfights, most notably participating in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona. Developed a reputation for quick wit and skill in poker, alongside a tumultuous friendship with lawman Wyatt Earp. Struggled with tuberculosis throughout his life, which influenced his decision to move westward for health reasons. Largely regarded as a legendary figure in Wild West history, embodying the lawlessness and intrigue of that era.
Continue ReadingDebbie Meyer
American swimmer; Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
August 14th, 1952 73 years ago
An accomplished swimmer, this athlete rose to prominence in the 1960s. Dominated the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, winning three gold medals in the 200-meter, 400-meter, and 800-meter freestyle events. Set multiple world records during her career, showcasing exceptional endurance and speed in long-distance swimming. After retiring from competitive swimming, engaged in coaching and motivational speaking, inspiring younger generations of swimmers.
Continue ReadingChristopher Monck
English politician and colonial governor
Born
August 14th, 1653 372 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1688 337 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1653, served as the Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica and was a colonel in the English Army. Played a significant role in the administration and governance of Jamaica during the late 17th century. Contributed to military campaigns in the Caribbean. His tenure as governor is noted for efforts in colonial management and military oversight.
Continue ReadingGeorges Prêtre
Orchestral and opera conductor
Born
August 14th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2017 9 years ago — 92 years old
An orchestral and opera conductor, conducted prestigious orchestras and opera houses around the world. Served as music director for the Paris Opera and led notable performances at La Scala, the Vienna State Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera. Recognized for conducting works by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Strauss. Received accolades for skillful interpretations and vibrant conducting style.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 12th
Lewis Stone
American actor known for 'Ben-Hur'
Born
November 15th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1953 72 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1879, this American actor gained prominence in the film industry during the silent era and transitioned successfully to sound films. Achieved recognition for the role of Judd in the 1925 adaptation of 'Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ'. Made significant contributions to numerous films throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Later, played the role of Judge Hardy in the popular 'Andy Hardy' film series, which starred Mickey Rooney. The professional career spanned several decades until the actor's death in 1969.
Continue ReadingBoris Yegorov
Russian physician and astronaut
Born
November 26th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 56 years old
Earned a medical degree from the First Moscow Medical Institute and served as a physician in the Soviet military. Participated in the Voskhod 2 mission as a flight engineer in 1965, which included the first spacewalk in history. After spaceflight, worked in various medical and scientific roles, contributing to space medicine and research related to human health in space environments.
Continue ReadingSerge Lang
Mathematician and author of Algebra
Born
May 19th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 78 years old
A mathematician and author with significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in algebra and number theory. Authored several influential textbooks, including a widely used text titled 'Algebra.' Served as a professor at prestigious institutions and participated in various mathematical conferences. Engaged in activism within the mathematical community to improve the accessibility of mathematics education. Contributed to the mathematical literature through numerous published papers and served on editorial boards for mathematical journals.
Continue ReadingTommy Armour
Golfer and sportscaster, U.S. Open winner
Born
September 24th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1968 57 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent golfer and sportscaster, this individual became one of the first celebrities in professional golf. Competed in the early 20th century, achieving significant success on the PGA Tour. Won the U.S. Open in 1927, along with victories at the 1930 PGA Championship and the 1931 Western Open. Transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis for golf tournaments, influencing the way golf was presented to audiences. Authored several instructional books on golfing techniques that contributed to the sport’s educational resources.
Continue ReadingHugo Schmeisser
German weapons designer and engineer
Born
September 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1953 72 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1884 in Germany, significant contributions were made to the development of automatic firearms. Designed the MP 18, the first-ever submachine gun, which influenced modern firearm design. His experience included working with various military contracts during World War I and World War II, focusing on small arms development for military use. Schmeisser's designs helped shape infantry tactics and the evolution of weaponry in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingJacques Henri Lartigue
Photographer known for candid photography
Born
June 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1986 39 years ago — 92 years old
Born in France, distinguished as a photographer and painter. Developed a passion for photography at an early age, capturing moments of daily life and leisure activities. His unique perspective on life was evident in his work, portraying the joy of movement and the elegance of the early 20th century. In 1975, the Museum of Modern Art in New York hosted a retrospective of his work, showcasing his early photographs. He also published a number of books that included his photography and writings. His archives provide valuable insight into the evolution of photography and the art of capturing fleeting moments.
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