August 25 birthdays and deaths:

Aaliyah

Aaliyah (1979-2001) was a renowned American singer, actress, and model. She was a teenage star, releasing three successful albums and starring in films like "Romeo Must Die". Her unique voice, captivating stage presence, and talent earned her widespread recognition and a devoted fan base.

Deathyear: 2001

Neil Armstrong

Neil Armstrong, pioneering American astronaut, engineer, and pilot, born in 1930, made history as the first person to set foot on the Moon in 1969's Apollo 11 mission, marking a monumental achievement in space exploration.

Deathyear: 2012

Friedrich Nietzsche

Friedrich Nietzsche was a groundbreaking German philosopher and philologist known for his critique of traditional morality and his concept of the "Übermensch" (Superman). His influential ideas on the will to power, eternal recurrence, and the death of God continue to shape Western philosophy.

Deathyear: 1900

Truman Capote

Truman Capote was a captivating American author, known for his Southern Gothic and psychological suspense fiction. His works, such as "In Cold Blood" and "Breakfast at Tiffany's," have become classics.

Deathyear: 1984

John McCain

John McCain (1936-2018) was a U.S. Navy pilot, P.O.W., and politician. He represented Arizona in the U.S. House (1983-1987) and Senate (1987-2018), known for his independent streak, bipartisanship, and iconic presidential runs in 2000 and 2008.

Deathyear: 2018

Prince George, Duke of Kent

Prince George, Duke of Kent KG, GBE, GCVO, DSO (1902-1942) was the fourth son of King George V and Queen Mary. He served as a naval officer and was killed in a plane crash at 39, unmarried and without children.

Deathyear: 1942

Ted Kennedy

Ted Kennedy, a prominent American politician, was born in 1932. He served as a US Senator from Massachusetts for nearly 47 years, known for his progressive policies and leadership on issues like healthcare, education, and civil rights.

Deathyear: 2009

Rich Piana

Rich Piana was an American IFBB professional bodybuilder, born in 1971. Standing at 5'11" with a massive frame, he won numerous competitions during his career. Outside the stage, he was known for his charismatic personality and controversial opinions, making him a polarizing figure in the bodybuilding community.

Deathyear: 2017

Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday, a brilliant physicist and chemist, was born in 1791 and made groundbreaking discoveries in electromagnetism and electrochemistry. He discovered the principles of electromagnetic induction and developed the first electrical generators and motors, revolutionizing the field of electricity.

Deathyear: 1867

David Hume

David Hume, a Scottish Enlightenment thinker, was a prominent philosopher, historian, and economist. Born in 1711, he is known for his empiricist philosophical theories and historical writings, such as "The History of England".

Deathyear: 1776

Louis IX of France

Louis IX, King of France from 1226 to 1270, was a devout Catholic and military leader. He led the Seventh Crusade in 1248, capturing Damietta and Tunis. He was later canonized as Saint Louis, revered for his piety, justice, and bravery.

Deathyear: 1270

George Lincoln Rockwell

George Lincoln Rockwell, born in 1918, was a controversial figure who founded the American Nazi Party. As the American Nazi Party's leader, he promoted neo-Nazism and white supremacy. He was also a commander of the United States Nation-Aryan Movement.

Deathyear: 1967

Alfred Kinsey

Alfred Kinsey was a pioneering American biologist and academic who conducted groundbreaking research on human sexuality. His work in the 1940s and 1950s helped to challenge societal norms and taboos surrounding sex.

Deathyear: 1956

James Watt

James Watt, a Scottish engineer and instrument maker, revolutionized industry with his steam engine innovations. Born in 1736, Watt's improvements to the steam engine increased efficiency, power, and productivity, transforming the Industrial Revolution.

Deathyear: 1819

Margaret of Anjou

Margaret of Anjou, wife of Henry VI and Queen of England, was born in 1429. She played a significant role in the Wars of the Roses, using her intellect and determination to protect her husband's interests and reclaim the throne.

Deathyear: 1482

Henry Morgan

Henry Morgan, a Welsh admiral and politician, was born in 1635. He became famous for raiding Spanish colonies and ships, earning a reputation as a pirate. Later, he served as Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica, a role in which he worked to establish trade and promote the colony's growth.

Deathyear: 1688

Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk

Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk, was an English soldier and politician who served as Lord High Treasurer. Born in 1473, he played a key role in the wars against France and Scotland, and was a trusted advisor to King Henry VIII.

Deathyear: 1554

Hosokawa Gracia

Hosokawa Gracia was a Japanese daimyō (feudal lord) and convert to Catholicism, born in 1563. She played a crucial role in the Christianity's establishment in Japan, using her influence to protect priests and promote the faith.

Deathyear: 1600

William Herschel

William Herschel was a German-English astronomer and composer who discovered Uranus in 1781. He also discovered two moons of the gas giant and cataloged many double stars.

Deathyear: 1822

Paul Muni

Paul Muni was a Ukrainian-born American actor, born Meshilem Meier Weisenfreund in 1895. He's best known for his powerful performances in films like "The Story of Louis Pasteur" and "Juarez", earning him two Academy Award nominations and a wide acclaim for his emotional portrayals.

Deathyear: 1967

Jack Nitzsche

Jack Nitzsche was a pioneering American pianist, composer, and producer (1937-2000). He collaborated with artists like Neil Young, David Bowie, and Ry Cooder, and composed scores for films like "Performance" and "The Exorcist".

Deathyear: 2000

James Douglas, Lord of Douglas

Sir James Douglas, a Scottish knight and guerrilla leader, led the Black Douglas's Raid against England in 1322. Born in 1286, he was known for his bravery and cunning, earning the respect of King Robert the Bruce and becoming one of the most legendary figures in Scottish history.

Deathyear: 1330

Art Rooney

Art Rooney, a legendary businessman and founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers, was born in 1901. He purchased the franchise in 1933 and led the team to numerous championships, earning the nickname "Mr. Rooney."

Deathyear: 1988

Lewis F. Powell Jr.

Lewis F. Powell, Jr. was a prominent American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice, serving from 1971-1987. Born in 1907, Powell was a renowned attorney before his appointment to the court, known for his moderate judicial philosophy and contributions to landmark cases.

Deathyear: 1998

Henri Becquerel

Henri Becquerel was a French physicist and chemist who discovered radioactivity in 1896, leading to his Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903. His discovery revolutionized the field of nuclear physics, paving the way for further research and applications in medicine, energy, and beyond.

Deathyear: 1908

Moonlight Graham

Moonlight Graham was a unique figure in American sports history, playing minor league baseball from 1901-1914 before becoming a physician. Born in 1879, Graham's dual careers were featured in the novel and film "Field of Dreams," where he played for the Chicago White Sox.

Deathyear: 1965

Carl Barks

Carl Barks is a renowned American cartoonist, known for his work on Donald Duck comics. Born in 1901, Barks created iconic characters like Scrooge McDuck and launched the Disney publishing program. His meticulous artwork and storytelling skills earned him the nickname "the Good Duck Artist."

Deathyear: 2000

Ferdinand Piëch

Ferdinand Piëch is a renowned Austrian business magnate and engineer, born in 1937. He served as CEO of Volkswagen Group from 1993 to 2002, overseeing a significant expansion and transformation of the company.

Deathyear: 2019

John Birch (missionary)

John Birch, a U.S. Army captain and Baptist missionary, was born in 1918. He fought in World War II and entered China in 1945, converting locals to Christianity. Brutally murdered in 1945 by Chinese communists, his death fueled anti-communist sentiment and the John Birch Society's anti-communist crusade.

Deathyear: 1945

Christian V of Denmark

Christian V of Denmark and Norway (1646-1699) was a King of Denmark and Norway from 1670 to 1699. He strengthened the military, expanded trade, and initiated architectural projects, including Copenhagen's Rosenberg Castle and Frederiksberg Palace.

Deathyear: 1699

Stan Kenton

Stan Kenton (1911-1979) was a renowned American pianist, composer, and bandleader. As the leader of the Stan Kenton Orchestra, he popularized jazz's "West Coast sound" and won critical acclaim with his innovative arrangements and iconic songs like "Peanut Vendor" and "Interlude in B-Flat."

Deathyear: 1979

Gower Champion

Gower Champion, a pioneering American dancer and choreographer, revolutionized modern dance with his innovative style. He founded the influential dance company, Pearl Lang Dance Theater, and choreographed iconic productions, notably Broadway's "Bye Bye Birdie" and "Sugar".

Deathyear: 1980

Ahmad Faraz

Ahmad Faraz, a prominent Pakistani poet, known for his romantic and melancholic verses, was born in 1931. His poetry, infused with love, longing, and social commentary, has earned him widespread acclaim and numerous literary awards, solidifying his position as one of Pakistan's most beloved poets.

Deathyear: 2008

Prince Jean, Duke of Guise

Prince Jean, Duke of Guise (1874-1940), was a French aristocrat and military officer. He served in World War I, held high-ranking positions, and was a prominent figure in French nobility. His life reflected the complexities of French aristocracy during the early 20th century.

Deathyear: 1940

Franz Conrad von Hötzendorf

Franz Conrad von Hötzendorf was an Austrian field marshal who served as Chief of the General Staff from 1906 to 1917. Known for his aggressive military strategy and strong anti-Serbian stance, he played a significant role in the buildup to World War I.

Deathyear: 1925

Allen Woody

Allen Woody (b. 1955) is an American bass player and songwriter, best known for his work with Widespread Panic. He has also collaborated with other notable musicians and released solo projects. Woody's unique bass lines and melodic sensibility have earned him recognition within the jam band scene.

Deathyear: 2000

Marvin Kaplan

Marvin Kaplan was an American actor, born in 1927, best known for his sitcom roles in "All in the Family" and "M-a-S-H." With a unique voice and comedic timing, Kaplan's impressive career spanned over 50 years, earning him a permanent place in American television comedy.

Deathyear: 2016

Ahmad al-Mansur

Ahmed al-Mansur (1549-1603) was the Sultan of the Saadi dynasty, ruling Morocco from 1578 to 1603. He united the kingdom, promoted trade, and expanded his empire. Known for his intelligent leadership and diplomatic skills, he is considered one of the most successful rulers in Moroccan history.

Deathyear: 1603

Kevin Duckworth

Kevin Duckworth was an American professional basketball player born on April 1, 1964. He played in the NBA for 11 seasons, playing for the Seattle SuperSonics and Golden State Warriors.

Deathyear: 2008

Anna German

Anna German was a renowned Polish singer, born in 1936. With her powerful, soulful voice, she became a beloved icon of Polish music. Her interpretation of classical and folk songs earned her numerous awards and international acclaim, solidifying her place as a musical legend.

Deathyear: 1982

Noor Hassanali

Noor Hassanali was a Trinidadian-Tobagonian lawyer and politician who served as the 2nd President of Trinidad and Tobago from 1976 to 1987. Born in 1918, Hassanali was a renowned lawyer before entering politics, holding various cabinet positions before becoming President.

Deathyear: 2006

Stanley Bruce

Stanley Melbourne Bruce, 8th Australian Prime Minister (1933-1935), was a leading lawyer and diplomat. Born in 1883, he served as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (1935-1940) and championed international cooperation during his tenure.

Deathyear: 1967

Rob Fisher (British musician)

Rob Fisher, a British keyboardist and songwriter, was born in 1956. He gained fame as the co-founder of the pop duo Wet Wet Wet, known for hits like "Love Is All Around."

Deathyear: 1999

Henri Fantin-Latour

French painter and lithographer Henri Fantin-Latour (1836-1904) was known for his elegant, refined works that blended Realism and Impressionism. His still-life paintings, landscapes, and intimate portraits showcased his dedication to capturing light and shadow.

Deathyear: 1904

Lao She

Lao She was a renowned Chinese novelist and dramatist, born Shu Qingchun in 1899. He wrote numerous novels and plays, including the acclaimed "Rickshaw Boy" and "Cat Country". His works often tackled social and political issues, providing insight into Chinese society during the early 20th century.

Deathyear: 1966

Doug Stegmeyer

Doug Stegmeyer was an American bassist and producer, born in 1951. He played with numerous artists, including Billy Joel, and worked as a session musician and producer. Stegmeyer's skills on the bass earned him recognition in the music industry, leaving a lasting impact on the music world.

Deathyear: 1995