Yang Shangkun
Chinese politician and 4th President
Served as the 4th President of China from 1988 to 1993. He held several key positions within the Chinese government and the Chinese Communist Party. Prior to the presidency, served as Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. Played a significant role during the reform period in China, focusing on modernization and economic reforms. His leadership accompanied the continued enforcement of party control during times of political unrest.
Served as the 4th President of China
Held key positions in the Chinese Communist Party
Was Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission
Other People Born on August 3rd
Todd Gurley
American football player, NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
Born
August 3rd, 1994 31 years ago
A professional American football player, played running back in the National Football League (NFL). Started career with the St. Louis Rams, later moved to the Los Angeles Rams. Achieved the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2015. Became a key player in the Rams' 2018 season, contributing to the team's run to Super Bowl LIII. Joined the Atlanta Falcons in 2020, continuing to play at a high level in the league.
Continue ReadingEddie Jefferson
Jazz Singer-Songwriter with 'Vocalese'
Born
August 3rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1979 46 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, this singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the genre of vocalese, where lyrics are written to jazz instrumental solos. Rising to fame in the 1940s and 1950s, he worked alongside notable musicians and bands, including the likes of the Count Basie Orchestra. Jefferson's innovative style and unique interpretations of classics helped to popularize vocal arrangements in jazz. His work influenced many artists that followed. His performance at the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival showcased his talent and solidified his place in jazz history.
Continue ReadingLuis Robert Jr.
Cuban baseball player, Chicago White Sox
Born
August 3rd, 1997 28 years ago
Debuted in Major League Baseball with the Chicago White Sox in 2020. Played as an outfielder, showcasing exceptional speed and power. Contributed significantly to the team's performance in various seasons, earning accolades for on-field prowess. Gained recognition for impressive batting statistics and defensive skills, establishing a reputation as a promising talent in professional baseball.
Continue ReadingBokondji Imama
Ice hockey player with Tampa Bay Lightning
Born
August 3rd, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, a Canadian ice hockey player played as a forward. He was drafted in the 6th round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Throughout his career in the AHL, he played for the Syracuse Crunch and showcased his skills as an enforcer and offensive player. His contributions helped the team in various playoff runs.
Continue ReadingHabib Bourguiba
Tunisian politician, 1st President of Tunisia
Born
August 3rd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2000 25 years ago — 96 years old
Served as the first President of Tunisia from 1957 to 1987. Played a crucial role in Tunisia's independence from French colonial rule. Implemented a series of social reforms, including advancements in women's rights and education. Established a secular government and promoted economic development within the country. His presidency marked significant modernization efforts in Tunisian society.
Continue ReadingYounghoe Koo
American football placekicker, Pro Bowl
Born
August 3rd, 1994 31 years ago
Born in South Korea and later moving to the United States, this placekicker played college football at Georgia Southern University. After going undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft, signed with the Los Angeles Chargers. Had a notable stint with the Atlanta Falcons, earning recognition for performance in critical games. Achieved a Pro Bowl selection in 2021.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 14th
Juliet Prowse
Actress known for 'Funny Face'
Born
September 25th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1996 29 years ago — 59 years old
Born in South Africa, a prominent actress, singer, and dancer gained recognition for performances in film, television, and theater. Prowse gained significant acclaim for starring in the film 'Funny Face' alongside Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn. Additionally, notable television appearances included roles on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Hollywood Palace'. Prowse also showcased her dance skills on Broadway, contributing to productions such as 'Can-Can'. Her career spanned several decades, with performances reflecting a blend of talent in singing and dancing, further solidifying her presence during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingCharles Crichton
English film director and screenwriter
Born
August 6th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1999 26 years ago — 89 years old
Crichton directed several acclaimed films, particularly in the comedy genre. One of the standout films directed was 'The Lavender Hill Mob,' released in 1951, which showcased a heist plot with a humorous twist. His career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions as a director and producer in British cinema. He collaborated with various screenwriters and actors throughout his career, establishing a reputation for his distinct directorial style. Additionally, Crichton worked on numerous television productions and became known for his expertise in crafting engaging narratives.
Continue ReadingJanet Gaynor
Actress and Academy Award winner
Born
October 6th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1984 41 years ago — 77 years old
An American actress began her career in silent films, achieving fame for performances in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Won the first Academy Award for Best Actress in 1929 for her roles in 'Seventh Heaven', 'Street Angel', and 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans'. Continued to work in film throughout the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in several notable productions. Transitioned to television in the later stages of her career, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until her retirement.
Continue ReadingJohn McPhee
American author and educator, 'Coming into the Country'
Born
March 8th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1952 73 years ago — 21 years old
An author and educator, this individual has made significant contributions to literature, particularly in the genre of nonfiction. A graduate of Princeton University, taught writing at universities including Princeton and the University of California, Berkeley. Wrote extensively about environmental issues, sports, and American culture. Authored numerous books, with 'Coming into the Country' highlighting the Alaskan wilderness and its inhabitants. Recipient of multiple awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1999 for 'Annals of the Former World'.
Continue ReadingJ. W. Hearne
English cricketer and first-class player
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1965 60 years ago — 74 years old
Played first-class cricket from 1921 to 1946, primarily as a batsman. Represented Essex in domestic competitions and contributed significantly to the team during his tenure. Accumulated over 20,000 runs in first-class matches, showcasing consistency and skill at the crease. Notable for exceptional performances during the inter-war period of English cricket, earning recognition within the sport. His playing style and contributions to the team garnered respect among peers and cricket enthusiasts alike.
Continue ReadingEthel Johnson
Professional wrestler and pioneer
Born
May 14th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2018 7 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1935, the individual made significant contributions to women's professional wrestling. The career began in the 1950s, during a time when women's wrestling faced substantial challenges and limited recognition. This wrestler competed in numerous promotions, establishing a prominent presence in the ring. Known for strength and skill, performances captivated audiences across the United States. The individual helped pave the way for future generations of female wrestlers, breaking gender barriers and elevating the visibility of women's sports. The influence extended beyond the ring, contributing to changing perceptions of women in athletics.
Continue Reading