August birthdays and deaths:

Cleopatra

Cleopatra VII, daughter of Ptolemy XII, ruled Egypt from 51 BC until her death in 30 BC. She was the last active pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, known for her beauty, intelligence, and cunning, as well as her alliances with Mark Antony and Julius Caesar.

Death: -30, August-12

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley, known as the "King of Rock and Roll," was a legendary American singer, guitarist, and actor. Born in 1935, he revolutionized popular music with his distinctive voice, dance moves, and iconic style, selling millions of records and enduring as a cultural icon.

Death: 1977, August-16

Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe was a renowned American model and actress, born Norma Jeane Mortenson in 1926. She rose to fame with her iconic film roles and glamorous persona, captivating the world with her charm, wit, and mesmerizing beauty.

Death: 1962, August-4

Diana, Princess of Wales

Diana, Princess of Wales, was a beloved member of the British royal family. Born in 1961 to John Spencer and Frances Shand Kydd, she married Charles, Prince of Wales, in 1981. Known for her charity work and fashion sense, she became a global icon until her untimely death in 1997.

Death: 1997, August-31

Anne Heche

Anne Heche was a talented American actress, born in 1969. She appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including "Donnie Brasco," "Volcano," and "The Juror." She was also a long-time partner of Ellen DeGeneres.

Death: 2022, August-11

Jeffrey Epstein

Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy American financier, was born in 1953. He was known for his involvement in finance and philanthropy. Epstein was also accused of various controversial activities, including human trafficking and sexual abuse, which led to his arrest and subsequent death in 2019.

Death: 2019, August-10

Robin Williams

Robin Williams was a brilliant and beloved American actor and comedian, known for his rapid-fire wit, impressive improvisational skills, and iconic roles in films like "Good Morning, Vietnam," "Aladdin," and "Mrs. Doubtfire."

Death: 2014, August-11

Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John is a beloved English-Australian singer-songwriter and actress known for her powerful vocals and iconic roles in films like "Grease" and "Xanadu". Her chart-topping hits, such as "Physical" and "Hopelessly Devoted to You", have become timeless classics in the music industry.

Death: 2022, August-8

Dodi Fayed

Dodi Fayed is an Egyptian film producer, businessman, and member of the wealthy Fayed family. Born in 1955, he is best known for his association with Princess Diana, with whom he died in a car accident in Paris in 1997.

Death: 1997, August-31

Chadwick Boseman

Chadwick Boseman was an American actor and playwright born in 1976. He is best known for his roles in Marvel's Black Panther and Captain America, also appearing in 42, Get on Up, and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, among others.

Death: 2020, August-28

Emmett Till

Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African-American boy, was kidnapped and brutally murdered in 1955 for allegedly whistling at a white woman in Mississippi. His brutalized body was discovered in the Tallahatchie River, sparking outrage and galvanizing the Civil Rights Movement.

Death: 1955, August-28

Mikhail Gorbachev

Mikhail Gorbachev, the 8th and final leader of the Soviet Union, introduced reforms as General Secretary from 1985 to 1991. His policies of glasnost (transparency) and perestroika (restructuring) aimed to revitalize the economy and promote democracy, but ultimately led to the Soviet Union's dissolution in 1991.

Death: 2022, August-30

Yevgeny Prigozhin

Yevgeny Prigozhin is a Russian businessman and founder of the private military company Wagner Group. Born in 1961, he rose to prominence as a key figure in Russian military intervention abroad, allegedly leading mercenaries in Ukraine and Syria. His exact role has remained somewhat mysterious.

Death: 2023, August-23

Bray Wyatt

Windham Lawrence Rotunda, better known as Bray Wyatt, is a former American professional wrestler born in 1987. Known for his eerie persona and family-driven storyline in WWE, Wyatt has captivated audiences with his unsettling character and in-ring performances since his debut in 2009.

Death: 2023, August-24

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.

Death: 2001, August-25

Sharon Tate

Sharon Tate, a stunning model and actress, emerged as a Hollywood darling in the 1960s. Bitten by the acting bug, she appeared in numerous films, including "Valley of the Dolls" and "Batman." Her life was tragically cut short in August 1969, a victim of the Manson Family murders.

Death: 1969, August-9

Anne, Queen of Great Britain

Anne Stuart, Queen of Great Britain, born on February 6, 1665, was a Protestant Stuart monarch who ruled from 1702 until her death in 1714. She was the second cousin of King William III and is known for her perseverance in establishing the Acts of Union.

Death: 1714, August-1

Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin was a legendary American singer-songwriter known as the "Queen of Soul." Born in Memphis in 1942, she rose to fame in the 1960s with her powerful voice, emotive performances, and iconic hits like "Respect" and "Think."

Death: 2018, August-16

Bob Barker

Bob Barker, born December 12, 1923, is a renowned American television game show host, best known for hosting "The Price is Right" from 1972 to 2007. He is known for his iconic catchphrase "Come on down!"

Death: 2023, August-26

Jean-Michel Basquiat

Jean-Michel Basquiat was a visionary American painter known for his raw, emotive, and often explosive art. Born in 1960, he blended graffiti, abstract expressionism, and figurative elements, creating a distinctive style that expressed his experiences as an African American artist in the 1980s.

Death: 1988, August-12

Subhas Chandra Bose

Subhas Chandra Bose was an Indian nationalist who fought for independence from British colonial rule. He was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and led the Azad Hind Dal, an Indian nationalist organization.

Death: 1945, August-18

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.

Death: 2012, August-25

Charles Bronson

Charles Bronson was a legendary American actor and World War II veteran, best known for his tough-guy roles in film westerns. He began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood, starring in iconic films like "The Magnificent Seven" and "The Great Escape."

Death: 2003, August-30

Louis Mountbatten, 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma

Louis Mountbatten, born in 1900, was a distinguished English admiral and politician. He served as the 44th Governor-General of India from 1947 to 1952 and played a key role in the country's transition to independence. He was also known for his bravery and leadership during World War II.

Death: 1979, August-27

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.

Death: 1900, August-25

Ken Miles

Ken Miles was a pioneering British racing driver and engineer, born in 1918. He competed in the 1950s and 1960s, driving for Shelby American and Aston Martin. Miles won numerous races and helped develop the iconic Shelby Cobra. Despite his impressive career, Miles sadly died in a crash testing a Ford GT40.

Death: 1966, August-17

Rabindranath Tagore

Rabindranath Tagore was a renowned Indian author, poet, and playwright who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. Born on May 7, 1861, he was a pioneer of modern Bengali literature and philosophy, and his works continue to inspire and influence people around the world.

Death: 1941, August-7

Henry V of England

Henry V of England, the second son of King Henry IV, proved to be a capable and ambitious leader. He defeated the French at Agincourt, earning the nickname "the Lion of England." He died at the age of 35, leaving no male heir, in 1422.

Death: 1422, August-31

Babe Ruth

George Herman "Babe" Ruth Jr. was a legendary American baseball player and coach. A towering figure in the sport, Ruth paved the way for the modern game. He played for the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Boston Braves, holding records for home runs and World Series championships.

Death: 1948, August-16

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.

Death: 1984, August-25

Gene Wilder

Gene Wilder, a legendary comedian, charmed audiences with his understated wit and versatility in iconic films like "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" (1971) and "Young Frankenstein" (1974), showcasing his remarkable range as a comedian, actor, and director.

Death: 2016, August-29

Julia Child

Julia Child, a pioneer in American cuisine, revolutionized French cooking with her iconic cookbook "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" and her beloved TV show "The French Chef." Her charisma, enthusiasm, and signature voice continue to inspire home cooks and chefs worldwide.

Death: 2004, August-13

Idi Amin

Idi Amin, a Ugandan field marshal and politician, served as the 3rd President of Uganda from 1971 to 1979. He seized power in a military coup, brutally ruled, and perpetrated human rights atrocities, resulting in an estimated 100,000 to 500,000 deaths and widespread destruction.

Death: 2003, August-16

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.

Death: 2018, August-25

Richard Attenborough

Richard Attenborough was a renowned English actor, director, and producer, known for his iconic roles in films like "Chaplin" and "Gandhi." He has also directed and produced numerous films, earning acclaim for his work in the film industry.

Death: 2014, August-24

Lauren Bacall

Lauren Bacall, a sultry and iconic Hollywood legend, shone on screen with her husky voice and smoky eyes. Born Betty Joan Perske in 1924, she was a actress, model, and singer, known for her sultry style and unforgettable roles in films such as "To Have and Have Not" and "The Big Sleep".

Death: 2014, August-12

Richard III of England

Richard III of England, the last king of the House of York, reigned from 1483 to 1485. He was a master politician and military leader, but his reputation was marred by the murder of the Princes in the Tower and his infamous physical disabilities.

Death: 1485, August-22

Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India's 10th and 12th Prime Minister (1998-2004), was a prominent BJP leader known for his diplomatic skills, moderate views, and strong nationalist stance.

Death: 2018, August-16

Stevie Ray Vaughan

Stevie Ray Vaughan was a renowned American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, known for his incredible blues-rock sound and virtuosic guitar playing. With albums like "Texas Flood" and "Soul to Soul", he electrified audiences with hits like "Pride and Joy" and "Love Struck Baby".

Death: 1990, August-27

Lenny Bruce

Lenny Bruce was a pioneering comedian, actor, and writer known for his incisive, irreverent humor and biting social commentary. Despite facing controversy and legal battles, Bruce remains a beloved and influential figure in American comedy, his impact still felt in many comedians and comedy styles today.

Death: 1966, August-3

Ingrid Bergman

Ingrid Bergman was a Swedish actress renowned for her nuanced performances. Born in 1915, she won three Academy Awards and a Golden Globe, earning iconic roles in films like "Casablanca," "Notorious," and "Autumn Sonata."

Death: 1982, August-29

Leon Trotsky

Leon Trotsky was a Russian Marxist theorist and politician who played a pivotal role in the Russian Revolution. He founded the Red Army and served as People's Commissar for Foreign Affairs, but was eventually exiled and assassinated in Mexico in 1940.

Death: 1940, August-21

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.

Death: 1942, August-25

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.

Death: 2009, August-25

Haile Selassie

Haile Selassie I, the last Emperor of Ethiopia, ruled from 1930 to 1974. A member of the Solomonic dynasty, he modernized Ethiopia while maintaining traditional political and cultural practices. He also served as a strong advocate for African unity and decolonization.

Death: 1975, August-27

Henry Fonda

Henry Fonda was a renowned American actor, born in 1905, with a career spanning over 60 years. He appeared in iconic films like "The Grapes of Wrath" and "12 Angry Men," earning an Academy Award and winning hearts with his commanding presence and versatility on screen.

Death: 1982, August-12

Tony Scott

Tony Scott, a British-American film director and producer, born in 1944, made an impact on the film industry through his work in action-packed movies.

Death: 2012, August-19

Richard Burton

Here is a 40-word summary of Richard Burton: Welsh-Swiss actor and producer Richard Burton (1925-1984) was renowned for his powerful stage presence and distinctive voice. On screen, he starred in films like "Cleopatra" and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?", earning critical acclaim and industry recognition.

Death: 1984, August-5

Robbie Robertson

Robbie Robertson is a legendary musician and songwriter, best known as the guitarist, songwriter, and original member of The Band. With his distinctive guitar style and poetic lyrics, he crafted iconic songs like "The Weight" and "Up on Cripple Creek."

Death: 2023, August-9

Mark Antony

Mark Antony, a renowned Roman general and politician, born in 83 BC, was a key supporter of Julius Caesar and a member of the Second Triumvirate. He won several battles, including Philippi, and was instrumental in Caesar's assassination and subsequent retaliation.

Death: -30, August-1

William Wallace

William Wallace, a Scottish knight and freedom fighter, led a rebellion against English rule in 13th-century Scotland. He won a stunning victory at Stirling Bridge, but was ultimately betrayed and captured after the Battle of Falkirk.

Death: 1305, August-23

Florence Nightingale

Florence Nightingale, a pioneering nurse and statistician, was born in 1820 in Florence, Italy. She became a leading figure in the nursing profession, founding the first professional nursing school in the world, and revolutionizing nursing practices and sanitation standards.

Death: 1910, August-13

Enzo Ferrari

Enzo Ferrari, a pioneering Italian entrepreneur, revolutionized the automotive world by founding Ferrari in 1947. With a passion for racing, he won numerous competitions as a driver, then turned his focus to building iconic sports cars, creating a legacy that continues to thrill enthusiasts globally.

Death: 1988, August-14

Warren G. Harding

Warren G. Harding was the 29th President of the United States, serving from 1921 until his death in 1923. A Republican from Ohio, he was known for his progressive policies and charismatic leadership, leading the country through the end of World War I and into the Roaring Twenties.

Death: 1923, August-2

John Hughes (filmmaker)

Renowned for directing iconic coming-of-age films, John Hughes (1950-2009) revolutionized 80s and 90s cinema. His relatable stories, witty dialogue, and memorable characters in movies like "The Breakfast Club" and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.

Death: 2009, August-6

Alexander Graham Bell

Alexander Graham Bell, a Scottish-Canadian engineer, revolutionized communication by inventing the telephone in 1876. Born in 1847, Bell's groundbreaking innovation transformed global communication, connecting people across the globe and forever changing the world.

Death: 1922, August-2

Jerry Lewis

Jerry Lewis was a renowned American actor, comedian, and filmmaker, best known for his slapstick comedy routines and starring roles in movies such as "The Bellboy" and "The Nutty Professor." He was a beloved figure in Hollywood and continues to be celebrated for his enduring legacy in comedy.

Death: 2017, August-20

Ian Fleming

Ian Fleming, noted for his exceptional writing skills and fascination with espionage, served as a British intelligence officer before becoming a renowned author of spy novels, including the famous James Bond series.

Death: 1964, August-12

Augustine of Hippo

Augustine of Hippo, a renowned bishop, theologian, and saint, was born in 354 AD in Algeria. He was a prominent figure in the early Christian Church, known for his writings and debates on theology, his defense of Christianity, and his influence on Western philosophy.

Death: 430, August-28

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.

Death: 2017, August-25

Charles Lindbergh

Charles Lindbergh, a pioneering aviator, made history on May 20, 1927, by flying solo across the Atlantic, landing in Paris after 33.5 hours. His Spirit of St. Louis aircraft pioneered long-distance flight, cementing Lindbergh as a legendary figure in aviation.

Death: 1974, August-26

Tate–LaBianca murders

Wojciech Frykowski was a Polish-American actor and author, born in 1936. He appeared in several films and stage productions, and also wrote plays and novels. Frykowski was a member of the counterculture movement and was reportedly at Sharon Tate's house on the night of her murder in 1969.

Death: 1969, August-9

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac was a trailblazing American comedian, actor, and producer, known for his irreverent humor and charismatic on-screen presence. Born in Chicago in 1957, he rose to fame with his eponymous sitcom and went on to appear in numerous films, including "The Original Kings of Comedy" and "Guess Who".

Death: 2008, August-9

Jeanne Calment

Jeanne Calment was a remarkable French super-centenarian who defied the odds, living to the extraordinary age of 122 years and 164 days. Born in 1875, she holds the record for the world's substantiated longest-lived person, with a life marked by health, vitality, and an incredible zest for life.

Death: 1997, August-4

Ed Asner

Ed Asner is a renowned American actor, born on November 15, 1929. He is best known for his iconic roles in "Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "Up," earning numerous awards and nominations, including a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Golden Globe Lifetime Achievement Award.

Death: 2021, August-29

Peter Fonda

Peter Fonda was a renowned American actor, director, and screenwriter, best known for his roles in Easy Rider (1969) and Ulee's Gold (1997). He was the son of Henry Fonda and brother of Jane Fonda, and was known for his distinctive voice and rugged on-screen presence.

Death: 2019, August-16

Rudolf Hess

Rudolf Hess, a German army officer and Nazi politician, served as Hitler's deputy. In 1941, he flew solo to Scotland to negotiate peace with the British, leading to his capture and spending the rest of WWII in prison. He hanged himself in prison in 1987.

Death: 1987, August-17

Jerry Garcia

Jerry Garcia was a renowned singer-songwriter and guitarist best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the Grateful Dead. With his unique blend of folk, rock, and bluegrass sounds, he crafted iconic tunes like "Truckin'" and "Uncle John's Band" that still resonate with fans worldwide.

Death: 1995, August-9

Rocky Marciano

Rocky Marciano was a formidable American boxer born in 1923. He had a professional boxing career spanning from 1947 to 1956, winning 49 of 49 fights, including 43 knockouts, and becoming the World Heavyweight Champion from 1952 to 1956.

Death: 1969, August-31

Andrew Carnegie

Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist born in 1835. He founded the Carnegie Steel Company and Carnegie Hall. With a keen business mind, he built an empire and later shifted his focus to philanthropy, giving away over $350 million during his lifetime, mostly to education and world peace.

Death: 1919, August-11

Markie Post

Markie Post is an American actress, born on November 4, 1950. She has appeared in numerous TV shows and films, including "Night Court" and "Hearts Afire", showcasing her versatility and talent as an actress.

Death: 2021, August-7

Alec Guinness

Alec Guinness was a renowned English actor born in 1914. He is best known for his iconic roles in films such as "Bridge on the River Kwai" and "Lawrence of Arabia," earning him two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor.

Death: 2000, August-5

Mark Margolis

Mark Margolis is a renowned American actor, born in 1939. He has appeared in various films and TV shows, including "The Sopranos," "Gotham," and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine." He is known for his distinctive voice and has had a prolific career in TV and film.

Death: 2023, August-3

Rick James

Rick James was a legendary singer-songwriter and producer known for his smooth, velvety voice, and eclectic funk-rock style. With hits like "Super Freak" and "Give It to Me Baby", James brought a new wave of funk to the music scene in the 1980s.

Death: 2004, August-6

Elizabeth Báthory

Elizabeth Báthory, a Hungarian noblewoman and alleged serial killer, was accused of torturing and murdering up to 650 young girls and women in the 17th century. She was imprisoned and died under mysterious circumstances in 1614.

Death: 1614, August-21

Dmitry Utkin

Dmitry Utkin, a Russian army officer, founded Wagner Group in 2014. Little is known about his early life, but he rose through the ranks to become a prominent figure in Russian private military contracting, playing a key role in Ukraine and Syria conflicts. His current whereabouts are unknown.

Death: 2023, August-23

Hans Christian Andersen

Hans Christian Andersen was a renowned Danish author, born in 1805, renowned for his timeless fairy tales, such as "The Little Mermaid" and "The Ugly Duckling". His stories have captivated readers worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on literature.

Death: 1875, August-4

H. G. Wells

H.G. Wells was a renowned English novelist, historian, and critic, best known for his science fiction works like "The Time Machine" and "The War of the Worlds". His inventive and imaginative writing style captivated readers and influenced the science fiction genre.

Death: 1946, August-13

Laura Branigan

Laura Branigan was a talented American singer-songwriter and actress born in 1952. She rose to fame in the 1980s with her powerful vocals and iconic hits like "Gloria" and "Self Control". Her music career spanned over two decades, captivating audiences with her emotive voice and captivating performances.

Death: 2004, August-26

W. E. B. Du Bois

W.E.B. Du Bois was a pioneering American sociologist, historian, and activist who advocated for racial equality. A co-founder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), he fought against racial segregation and discrimination through his writings and research.

Death: 1963, August-27

Paul von Hindenburg

Paul von Hindenburg was a German field marshal and politician who served as the second President of Germany from 1925 until his death in 1934. He was a prominent figure in German politics and military history, known for his victories in World War I.

Death: 1934, August-2

Wes Craven

Wes Craven was a pioneering filmmaker known for his work in the horror genre. He directed influential films like "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "Scream," and was fondly remembered for his dark wit and clever plotting.

Death: 2015, August-30

Carolyn Jones

Carolyn Jones was an American actress of stage and screen, born on January 28, 1930. She is best known for her role as Morticia Addams in the 1964 film "The Addams Family" and its sequel, as well as her performances on Broadway.

Death: 1983, August-3

Robert Shaw (actor)

Robert Shaw was a renowned English actor, known for his authoritative voice and commanding presence. He is best remembered for his roles in films like "Jaws," "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three," and "From Russia with Love."

Death: 1978, August-28

William Blake

William Blake was an English poet, painter, and mystic born in 1757. His iconic works, such as "The Tyger" and "The Divine Comedy," blend mysticism and symbolism. His unique illuminated etchings showcased his artistic prowess, solidifying his status as a Romantic-era luminary.

Death: 1827, August-12

Sean Lock

Sean Lock (1963-2021) was a British comedian and actor, best known for hosting the BBC's Argumental and appearing on panel shows such as QI and Have I Got News for You. His witty humor and dry wit won him a large and devoted fan base in the UK.

Death: 2021, August-16

Abu Bakr

Abu Bakr (573-634 CE) was the first caliph of Islam after Prophet Muhammad's death. A close companion and father-in-law of the Prophet, he established the Rashidun Caliphate, expanding Islamic territories and solidifying Islamic law.

Death: 634, August-23

Lee Marvin

Lee Marvin was a prominent American actor, starring in iconic films like "The Big Heat" and "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof". Known for his tough-guy persona and distinctive voice, Marvin won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Cat Ballou".

Death: 1987, August-29

Wilford Brimley

Wilford Brimley was a beloved American actor, singer, and activist, born on September 27, 1934. He gained fame for roles in "The Waltons" and "Our House," as well as commercials for diabetes awareness and his iconic mustache.

Death: 2020, August-1

Dorothy Stratten

Dorothy Stratten was a stunning Canadian-American model and actress best known for her Playboy Playmate of the Month award in 1980. Her life was tragically cut short in a violent crime in 1980, just months before her 21st birthday.

Death: 1980, August-14

Glen Campbell

Glen Campbell was a talented American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor, best known for his smooth, velvety voice and iconic hits like "Gentle on My Mind" and "Rhinestone Cowboy." With a career spanning over 50 years, he left an enduring mark on the music industry.

Death: 2017, August-8

Isaac Hayes

Isaac Hayes was a legendary singer-songwriter, pianist, and actor. He won three Grammys for his soulful voice and penned hits like "B.A.B.Y." and "Shaft." He composed the iconic theme song for the movie "Shaft" and had a successful music and acting career spanning over five decades.

Death: 2008, August-10

Robert Johnson

Robert Johnson, a prolific American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist, was born in 1911. He is renowned for his unique slide guitar style and hauntingly beautiful songs, including "Cross Road Blues" and "Hellhound on My Trail".

Death: 1938, August-16

Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison was a renowned American author, Pulitzer Prize winner, and Nobel laureate, known for her powerful and poignant works that explored the experiences of African Americans, particularly women, and the legacy of slavery and racism in America.

Death: 2019, August-5

Jackson Pollock

Jackson Pollock, a pioneer of Abstract Expressionism, splattered and dripped paint onto a canvas laid flat on the floor. His dynamic, intricate patterns conveyed the turmoil of his emotions, creating a new language of art that continues to influence contemporary artists and art lovers worldwide.

Death: 1956, August-11

Mickey Mantle

Mickey Mantle, the legendary Yankee slugger, played 18 seasons with the New York Yankees, winning seven championships and earning three MVP awards. A baseball icon, he hit 536 home runs and cemented his place in the Baseball Hall of Fame upon his retirement in 1969.

Death: 1995, August-13

Groucho Marx

Groucho Marx, born Julius Henry Marx in 1890, was a renowned American comedian and actor. He was best known for his quick wit, sharp tongue, and clever wordplay, starring in the Marx Brothers' classic films and making iconic appearances on TV and in film.

Death: 1977, August-19

Roy Cohn

Roy Cohn was an American lawyer and politician who served as the chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Red Scare of the 1950s. He is known for his controversial political beliefs and his relationship with the mafia.

Death: 1986, August-2

Frederick the Great

Frederick the Great, King of Prussia (1712-1786), was a highly intelligent and ambitious leader who expanded Prussia's territory through military conquests and administrative reforms. Despite his flaws, he is considered one of the greatest military strategists in history.

Death: 1786, August-17

William Randolph Hearst

William Randolph Hearst, a prominent American publisher and politician, founded the Hearst Corporation in 1887. Born on April 29, 1863, he built a media empire through his newspapers, radio stations, and magazines, shaping public opinion and influencing politics throughout his long career.

Death: 1951, August-14