August 9, 1939

1939Hércules Brito Ruas, Brazilian footballer^[†]

Hércules de Brito Ruas,, known as Brito, is a former Brazilian footballer. He played as a central defender for several clubs, and for the Brazil national team.

1939Vincent Hanna, Northern Irish journalist (died 1997)^[†]

Vincent Leo Martin Hanna was a Northern Irish television journalist known for his coverage of United Kingdom by-elections.

1939The Mighty Hannibal, American singer-songwriter and producer (died 2014)^[†]

James Timothy Shaw, known as The Mighty Hannibal, was an American R&B, soul, and funk singer, songwriter, and record producer. Known for his showmanship, and outlandish costumes often incorporating a pink turban, several of his songs carried social or political themes. His biggest hit was "Hymn No. 5", a commentary on the effects of the Vietnam War on servicemen, which was banned from being played on the radio.

1939Billy Henderson, American singer (died 2007)^[†]

William Henderson was an American singer, best known for being an original member and founder of The Spinners, a soul vocal group.

1939Bulle Ogier, French actress and screenwriter^[†]

Bulle Ogier is a French actress and screenwriter.

1939Romano Prodi, Italian academic and politician, 52nd Prime Minister of Italy^[†]

Romano Prodi is an Italian politician who served as President of the European Commission from 1999 to 2004 and twice as Prime Minister of Italy, from 1996 to 1998, and again from 2006 to 2008. Prodi is considered the founder of the Italian centre-left and one of the most prominent figures of the Second Republic. He is often nicknamed Il Professore due to his academic career.