October 25 birthdays and deaths:

Richard Harris

Richard Harris, a legendary Irish actor and singer, charmed audiences with his rich voice and captivating stage presence. Born in 1930, he starred in iconic films like "This Sporting Life" and "Camelot," earning an Academy Award nomination and cementing his status as a beloved thespian.

Deathyear: 2002

George II of Great Britain

George II, King of Great Britain, reigned from 1727 to 1760. Born in Hanover, Germany, he succeeded his half-brother George I. Known for his military career, George II led British forces to victories in the Battle of Dettingen and the War of the Austrian Succession.

Deathyear: 1760

Vincent Price

Vincent Price was a renowned American actor known for his distinctive voice and iconic roles in horror films, such as "House on Haunted Hill" and "The Abominable Dr. Phibes." He was also a wine connoisseur and collector.

Deathyear: 1993

Geoffrey Chaucer

I'm happy to help! However, I must correct you that Geoffrey Chaucer was not a philosopher, but rather a renowned English poet and author, often called the "Father of English literature". Here's a 40-word summary: Geoffrey Chaucer (c.1343-1400) was an English poet and author, best known for his masterpiece, "The Canterbury Tales". He is considered the "Father of English literature" for his innovative use of English language and his impact on the development of Middle English literature.

Deathyear: 1400

Stephen, King of England

Stephen, King of England from 1135 to 1154, was the grandson of William the Conqueror. He seized the throne from his nephew, Henry Plantagenet, sparking a bitter civil war known as The Anarchy, lasting 19 years, and ultimately leading to the rise of the Plantagenet dynasty.

Deathyear: 1154

Albert Anastasia

Albert Anastasia was an Italian-American mob boss who rose to infamy in the 1940s as a notorious crime boss in New York City. He was convicted of murder but escaped from prison and fled to Italy, where he was subsequently killed in a gangland execution in 1957.

Deathyear: 1957

Payne Stewart

Payne Stewart was a renowned American golfer, born in 1957. He won 11 PGA Tour events, including the 1991 U.S. Open. Known for his distinctive red hair and solemn demeanor, Stewart was a vocal Christian and advocate for abstinence education.

Deathyear: 1999

Jack Bruce

Jack Bruce, a Scottish singer-songwriter and bassist, was born in 1943. He co-founded the legendary rock band Cream and was known for his unique bass playing and powerful vocals.

Deathyear: 2014

Bat Masterson

Bat Masterson was a legendary American lawman, buffalo hunter, and sportswriter, born in 1853. He served as a marshal in several western towns, including Dodge City, Kansas, and was known for his bravery and quick draw.

Deathyear: 1921

John Peel

John Peel, a renowned English radio host and producer, revolutionized the UK music scene through his influential show on BBC Radio 1, showcasing underground and emerging artists, and launching the careers of countless bands.

Deathyear: 2004

Roger Miller

Roger Miller was a pioneering country music songwriter and performer, known for his unique blend of humor and storytelling. He wrote hits like "King of the Road" and "Dang Me," and won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys and the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Days of Wine and Roses."

Deathyear: 1992

Marcia Wallace

Marcia Wallace was an American actress and comedian, best known for her iconic role as Edna Crabapple on The Bob Newhart Show and her Emmy-winning portrayal of Carol Kester on the sitcom The Mary Tyler Moore Show.

Deathyear: 2013

Bobby Riggs

Bobby Riggs was an American tennis player born in 1918. He won 20 championships in the 1930s and 1940s, and was known for his aggressive playing style. He was also a pioneer for women's tennis, featuring in a high-profile exhibition match against Billie Jean King in 1973.

Deathyear: 1995

Sahir Ludhianvi

Sahir Ludhianvi was a renowned Indian poet and songwriter, known for his lyrics that reflected the struggles of the common man. His work often addressed social issues, and his songs continue to inspire generations.

Deathyear: 1980

Forrest Tucker

Forrest Tucker, a charismatic American actor, was born on February 12, 1919. He is best known for his roles in television and film, particularly as Sergeant O'Rourke in the sitcom "F Troop" (1955-1967).

Deathyear: 1986

Magnus the Good

Magnus the Good, Norwegian king from 1035 to 1047, was a warrior and diplomat who unified Norway, restored the kingdom, and promoted Christianity. He is considered one of Norway's greatest kings, known for his wisdom, bravery, and commitment to justice.

Deathyear: 1047

Lisa Blount

Lisa Blount was an American actress born in 1957. She gained recognition for her performances in films like "Evident Power" and "Triple Bogey on the L.A. Open".

Deathyear: 2010

Carlos Alberto Torres

Carlos Alberto Torres was a Brazilian football player and manager, born in 1944. As a defensive midfielder, he played for several clubs, including Santos FC and the Brazilian national team, winning three World Cup titles.

Deathyear: 2016

Bill Sharman

Bill Sharman is a legendary American basketball figure, playing for the NBA's Boston Celtics from 1951-1961 and coaching the team to eight championships from 1966-1969 and 1982-1988. He's also known for developing the shooting philosophy "motion offense."

Deathyear: 2013

Alexander of Greece

Alexander of Greece (1893-1920) was a prince of the Greek and Danish royal families. He was the third son of King George I of Greece and Queen Olga of Greece. Alexander succeeded his grandmother, Queen Olga, as King of Greece in 1920, but died just a few months later.

Deathyear: 1920

Sadako Sasaki

Sadako Sasaki was a Japanese girl who lived in Hiroshima after the atomic bombing in 1945. She developed leukemia from radiation exposure and served as a symbol of the devastating effects of the bombing and the horrors of war.

Deathyear: 1955

Bill Graham (promoter)

Bill Graham was a renowned German-American concert promoter born in 1931. He founded Bill Graham Presents and promoted iconic venues like the Fillmore in San Francisco and Madison Square Garden in New York. He was instrumental in shaping the 1960s music scene and left a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Deathyear: 1991

Henry Knox

Henry Knox was a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War, serving as the Secretary of War from 1789 to 1794. He was responsible for managing the Continental Army's logistics and was instrumental in securing French support for the American cause.

Deathyear: 1806

Viveca Lindfors

Viveca Lindfors was a Swedish actress who made a significant mark in Hollywood, starring in films like "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" and "Forever Amber". With her striking features and poignant performances, she captivated audiences worldwide, earning her a unique place in cinematic history.

Deathyear: 1995

Abebe Bikila

Abebe Bikila, a Ethiopian long-distance runner, won two Olympic gold medals in the marathon at the 1960 and 1964 Summer Olympics. He won Greece and Rome Olympics respectively with a time of 2:15:16.2 and 2:12:12.2.

Deathyear: 1973

Paul Wellstone

Paul Wellstone was a prominent American academic and politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Minnesota from 1991 until his death in 2002. A grassroots advocate, he fought for labor rights, environmental protection, and social justice, earning the respect and admiration of many across the political spectrum.

Deathyear: 2002

Robert Ley

Robert Ley was a German politician who served as the head of the German Labour Front (DAF) from 1933 to 1945. A close associate of Adolf Hitler, Ley was a strong supporter of the Nazi Party and implemented policies to promote German industry and labor.

Deathyear: 1945

Jaspal Bhatti

Jaspal Bhatti was a renowned Indian personality, known for his iconic comedy troupe "Laughter Vizion", which produced satirical sitcoms like "Flop Show" and "Mayer Vispute". He was also an actor, director, and writer, entertaining Indian audiences with his witty humor and satire.

Deathyear: 2012

Gary Holton

Gary Holton was a British singer-songwriter known for his blues-influenced rock music. Born in 1952, he rose to fame in the 1970s with his band, Pub Rock pioneers Kilburn and the High Roads. His unique voice and energetic stage presence earned him a loyal fan base.

Deathyear: 1985

Hal Needham

Hal Needham was a legendary stuntman, director, and screenwriter, known for his work on iconic films like "Smokey and the Bandit" and "Fast & Furious" franchises. With a career spanning over five decades, Needham left an indelible mark on the film industry.

Deathyear: 2013

Mildred Natwick

Mildred Natwick was a renowned American actress known for her versatility on stage and screen. With a career spanning over 50 years, she appeared in numerous Broadway shows, films, and television productions, earning her three Tony Award nominations and a lifelong legacy in the entertainment industry.

Deathyear: 1994

Gregory Isaacs

Gregory Isaacs was a legendary Jamaican-English singer-songwriter known for his smooth, soulful voice and genre-bending blend of reggae, R&B, and lover's rock. Known as the "Cool Ruler," he released numerous hits, including "Night Nurse" and "Love Is On the Way."

Deathyear: 2010

Kara Hultgreen

Kara Hultgreen was a pioneering American pilot who became the first woman to fly an F/A-18 Hornet in 1992. After earning her wings in 1992, she flew the F/A-18 until her tragic death in 1994, inspiring others to pursue careers in aviation and breaking barriers for women in the military.

Deathyear: 1994

Lord Dunsany

Edward Plunkett, 18th Baron of Dunsany, was a celebrated English-Irish author, poet, and playwright. Born in 1878, he wrote over 60 books, including fantasy novels, plays, and poetry collections. His imaginative and whimsical works have been praised for their unique style and visionary storytelling.

Deathyear: 1957

John II of Portugal

John II of Portugal, ruler from 1481-1495, was a skilled diplomat and politician. He strengthened the Portuguese monarchy and the Catholic Church, while also pursuing a tumultuous and sometimes bloody conflict with the wealthy and influential nobility.

Deathyear: 1495

Danny Chan

Danny Chan, a renowned Hong Kong singer-songwriter, producer, and actor, born in 1958, is celebrated for his soulful voice and emotive ballads. With a career spanning over four decades, Chan has produced hit songs and performed in numerous films, earning him the title "The Golden Melody King".

Deathyear: 1993

Flip Saunders

Flip Saunders was a renowned American basketball player and coach, born in 1955. As a player, he enjoyed a successful NBA career with the Milwaukee Bucks and Sacramento Kings. He later transitioned to coaching, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards for over two decades.

Deathyear: 2015

Bob Hoover

Bob Hoover, a pioneering test pilot and airshow legend, was a USAF veteran and aerobatic master. Born in 1922, he flew in WWII and broke numerous speed and altitude records, thrilling crowds with his incredible skills and emphasizing the importance of safety and precision flying.

Deathyear: 2016

Mary McCarthy (author)

Mary McCarthy, a pioneering American novelist and critic, was born in 1912. Known for her biting wit and astute literary analysis, her work includes novels like "The Company She Keeps" and "The Group", as well as essays and nonfiction.

Deathyear: 1989

Risto Ryti

Risto Ryti was a renowned Finnish lawyer, politician, and Bank of Finland governor. Serving as Finland's 5th President from 1940 to 1944, he played a crucial role in Finland's wartime politics. His leadership during World War II had both positive and negative consequences for Finland.

Deathyear: 1956

Pandurang Shastri Athavale

Pandurang Shastri Athavale is a renowned Indian spiritual leader and philosopher, known for his philosophical and mythological interpretations. He is the founder of the Swadhyay Movement, a social and spiritual movement in India, emphasizing self-reflection and character building.

Deathyear: 2003

Evangelista Torricelli

Evangelista Torricelli, an Italian physicist and mathematician, born in 1608, made significant contributions to physics and mathematics. He invented the mercury barometer, discovered the principle of vacuum, and made important contributions to the study of fluids and pressure.

Deathyear: 1647

Emanuel Steward

Emanuel Steward was a legendary American boxer, trainer, and sportscaster. Born in 1944, Steward won the 1973 Chicago Golden Gloves tournament and trained numerous champions, including Lennox Lewis and Wladimir Klitschko, earning the nickname "The Man" for his success and influence in the boxing world.

Deathyear: 2012

Cleo Moore

Cleo Moore was an American actress known for her femme fatale roles in film noir and B-movies. Born on October 20, 1928, Moore appeared in over 50 films, including "The Unholy Wife" and "Flesh Alley," often playing characters with a seductive and mysterious quality.

Deathyear: 1973

Mochitsura Hashimoto

Mochitsura Hashimoto was a Japanese naval commander during World War II. Born in 1909, he served as the commanding officer of the I-52, a Japanese submarine that was sunk in 1945.

Deathyear: 2000

Nicholas Hunt

Nicholas Hunt was a Welsh-English admiral born in 1930. He served in the Royal Navy, rising to command the Eastern Fleet and being appointed Commander-in-Chief of NATO's STANAVFORLANT in 1979. Hunt retired as a four-star admiral in 1984.

Deathyear: 2013

Ziya Gökalp

Ziya Gökalp was a prominent Turkish sociologist, poet, and activist who played a key role in shaping modern Turkey. Born in 1876, he was influential in Turkish nationalism and modernization.

Deathyear: 1924

Franz von Werra

Franz von Werra was a Swiss-German captain and pilot who flew with the Luftwaffe during World War II. Born in 1914, he was a prisoner of war in England, but escaped four times before being recaptured. He was shot down and killed in action on May 25, 1941.

Deathyear: 1941

Edward, 2nd Duke of York

Edward of Norwich, 2nd Duke of York, was an English nobleman and politician born in 1373. He served as the Lord High Treasurer and was a member of the Royal Council. He died in 1415 at the Battle of Agincourt.

Deathyear: 1415

Terence MacSwiney

Terence MacSwiney, a prominent Irish playwright, politician, and Lord Mayor of Cork, died on October 24, 1920, after a 74-day hunger strike while imprisoned by British authorities for his involvement in Ireland's struggle for independence.

Deathyear: 1920

Gerald Templer

Gerald Templer, a renowned English field marshal and politician, served as the British High Commissioner in Malaya from 1951 to 1954. Born in 1898, he played a pivotal role in Malaya's fight against communism, implementing innovative counter-insurgency measures and contributing to eventual peace and stability in the region.

Deathyear: 1979

Philippe Pinel

Philippe Pinel, a French physician and psychiatrist, is renowned for his humane and enlightened approach to treating the mentally ill. Born in 1745, he pioneered the concept of moral therapy, abolishing physical restraints and promoting empathy in patient care.

Deathyear: 1826

Frank Norris

Frank Norris (1870-1902) was an American journalist and novelist known for his naturalistic and vivid portrayals of human struggles. His novels, such as "McTeague" and "The Octopus", probed social issues like capitalism and exploitation, earning him critical acclaim and a place among American literary giants.

Deathyear: 1902

Raymond Queneau

Raymond Queneau, a renowned French poet, novelist, and publisher, was born in 1903. He gained recognition for his innovative and playful writing style, blending poetry and prose.

Deathyear: 1976

Harry Ferguson

Harry Ferguson, a pioneering Irish-English engineer, founded the Ferguson Company in 1917. Born in 1884, he revolutionized farming with his three-point hitch system and developed the Ferguson tractor, a groundbreaking technology that transformed agriculture.

Deathyear: 1960

Arthur Danto

Arthur Danto, a renowned American philosopher and critic, was born in 1924. He made significant contributions to aesthetics, philosophy of art, and philosophy of mind. His influential works include "The Transfiguration of the Commonplace" and "The Abuse of Brutality."

Deathyear: 2013

Abbas Mirza

Abbas Mirza (1789-1833) was a Persian prince and military leader. He was the son of Fath-Ali Shah Qajar and played a key role in the Russo-Persian War. Abbas Mirza was known for his military prowess and strategic alliances, despite ultimately defeat at the hands of Russian forces.

Deathyear: 1833

Lisa Jardine

Lisa Jardine is a renowned English historian, author, and academic, born in 1944. She has written extensively on the history of science, literature, and culture, and holds the position of Emeritus Professor of Renaissance Studies at University College London.

Deathyear: 2015

William Merritt Chase

William Merritt Chase (1849-1916) was a renowned American Impressionist painter and educator. He led the Art Students League of New York and was a prominent figure in the early 20th-century American art scene, known for his bold, expressive brushwork and portraits of high society.

Deathyear: 1916

Thomas Keating

Thomas Keating was a Trappist monk, spiritual director, and bestselling author. He co-founded the Centering Prayer movement, emphasizing the importance of prayer and contemplation. Born in 1923, Keating's teachings emphasized the power of silence, love, and inner transformation.

Deathyear: 2018

Alfonsina Storni

Alfonsina Storni was a renowned Swiss-Argentinian poet and author, celebrated for her lyrical and introspective works. Born in 1892, she was one of the first Latin American women to gain international recognition for her writing.

Deathyear: 1938

John Connelly (footballer, born 1938)

John Connelly was an English professional footballer who played as an inside forward for Manchester United and the England national team. He was born in 1938 and is best remembered for his role in England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, scoring three goals in the tournament.

Deathyear: 2012