Alma Cogan
English singer with chart-topping hits
Achieved popularity as a British singer during the 1950s and early 1960s, often referred to as 'The Girl with the Giggle in Her Voice.' Gained fame for hit songs such as 'Wonderland by Night' and 'Bell Bottom Blues'. Captured audiences with a distinctive style that blended vocal talent with charismatic performances. Had significant chart success in the UK, earning multiple hits in the top 10.
Released several top 10 hits in the UK
Performed at the London Palladium
First female singer to have her own television special
Other People Born on May 19th
Lena Einhorn
Swedish director and writer
Born
May 19th, 1954 71 years ago
Director, writer, and physician. Developed a career in film and literature. Authored several works, including a widely recognized biography of Astrid Lindgren. Directed documentaries and features that gained attention in Sweden and beyond. Also contributed insight into historical and medical topics through written work.
Continue ReadingFelise Kaufusi
Rugby league player, Melbourne Storm
Born
May 19th, 1992 33 years ago
A rugby league player, originally from New Zealand and of Tongan descent, participated in the National Rugby League (NRL). Played for Melbourne Storm and represented the New Zealand national team. Contributed to the team's successful campaigns, including the NRL Grand Final victories. Played a key role in the 2017 and 2020 NRL Premierships, establishing a reputation as a talented forward.
Continue ReadingEugene Genovese
Historian and author of 'Roll, Jordan, Roll'
Born
May 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
An American historian focused on the study of American slavery and the antebellum South. Authored the influential work 'Roll, Jordan, Roll: The World the Slaves Made', which explored the lives and cultures of enslaved people. His scholarship contributed to discussions around social class, race, and power dynamics in American history. Held academic positions at several universities, including Rutgers University and Emory University, and engaged in political activism throughout his career.
Continue ReadingArthur Aikin
English chemist and mineralogist
Born
May 19th, 1773 252 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1854 171 years ago — 80 years old
Aikin contributed to the fields of chemistry and mineralogy through various publications and research. He was instrumental in the establishment of the British Association for the Advancement of Science. Aikin also served as a professor of chemistry at the Royal Institution in London, where he educated many prominent scientists and chemists of the time. His work included studies on the chemical properties of minerals and various analytical techniques that advanced the understanding of mineral composition and classification.
Continue ReadingMichele Camporese
Italian footballer and defender
Born
May 19th, 1992 33 years ago
Played as a defender in professional football, primarily for Fiorentina and other clubs. Camporese began his youth career at Fiorentina, advancing to the senior team where he made his Serie A debut. He later played for clubs such as Vicenza and Pisa in Serie B, contributing to defensive strategies and team performance.
Continue ReadingKlaas Vantornout
Belgian Cyclist with a World Championship title
Born
May 19th, 1982 43 years ago
Competed in professional road cycling, participating in various UCI World Championships. Achievements include multiple top finishes in prestigious races such as the National Championships and notable performances in the cyclo-cross discipline. Involved in international competitions representing Belgium, contributing to the country's standing in the cycling community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 26th
Alfred the Great
English king and defender of Wessex
Died
October 26th, 899 1126 years ago — None years old
Ruled as king of Wessex from 871 to 899. Implemented military reforms that fortified the kingdom against Viking invasions. Established a system of fortified towns known as burhs to enhance defense. Promoted education and literacy, commissioning translations of important texts from Latin to Old English. Credited with laying the foundation for a more unified England.
Continue ReadingTony Hillerman
Author of Navajo Tribal Police mysteries
Born
May 27th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
A journalist and author focused on the American Southwest, wrote a series of mystery novels featuring Navajo Tribal Police officers. These works highlighted Native American culture and customs through engaging narratives. The series garnered a dedicated readership and received critical acclaim, solidifying a legacy in the mystery genre.
Continue ReadingGeorge Naʻope
American singer and hula dancer
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 81 years old
Contribution to the preservation and promotion of Hawaiian culture included participation in cultural festivals and performances. Achieved prominence as a performer across several venues, showcasing traditional Hawaiian music and hula dancing. Engaged audiences with innovative interpretations of classic Hawaiian songs and choreography. Educated others about Hawaiian traditions through workshops and classes.
Continue ReadingPhilip Doddridge
English hymn-writer and educator
Born
June 26th, 1702 323 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1751 274 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent hymn-writer and educator in England, contributed significantly to 18th-century evangelicalism. Established a dissenting academy in Northampton, which became influential in training Nonconformist ministers. Authored several influential works, including 'The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul' and more than 400 hymns, many of which remain in use today. Advocacy for religious education had a lasting impact on Nonconformist thought.
Continue ReadingAleksey Krylov
Mathematician and engineer in Russia
Born
August 15th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of applied mathematics and mechanics. Developed theories related to the stability of floating bodies and maritime mechanics. Authored key works on hydrodynamics, especially in relation to ship design and stability. Served as a professor at several institutions, fostering the growth of mathematical studies in Russia.
Continue ReadingTroy Smith
Businessman, founder of Sonic Drive-In
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 87 years old
Founded Sonic Drive-In, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its drive-in service and varied menu options. Established the first location in 1953, which focused on providing a unique dining experience where customers could order from their cars. Expanded the chain significantly, leading to thousands of locations across the United States. The company became recognized for its distinctive use of carhops and drive-thru services, creating a popular dining trend. Continued to innovate within the fast-food industry until passing away in 2009.
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