Andrea Leadsom
British politician and government minister
Served as a Member of Parliament for South Northamptonshire since 2010. Held the position of Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs from 2016 to 2017. Played a significant role in the Brexit negotiations and was a prominent supporter of the Leave campaign. Resigned from the cabinet in 2020 over differences related to the handling of Brexit.
Served as Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Advocated for Brexit during the 2016 referendum
Other People Born on May 13th
Charles Watson-Wentworth
British Prime Minister, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham
Born
May 13th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1782 243 years ago — 52 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain during two non-consecutive terms in the 18th century. His first term lasted from 1765 to 1766 and was marked by efforts to repeal the Stamp Act, which aimed to tax American colonies. The second term occurred from 1782 until his death in 1782, focusing on peace negotiations following the American Revolutionary War. Active in the Whig party, implemented policies that shaped British governance during a turbulent time.
Continue ReadingInge Lehmann
Danish seismologist known for Moho
Born
May 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 104 years old
Contributions to the field of seismology included significant research on the Earth's interior. Developed the concept of the Lehmann discontinuity, which delineates the boundary between the Earth's crust and the underlying mantle. Conducted pioneering work in seismology, particularly in understanding seismic waves and their behavior. Published influential papers on earthquakes and the Earth's structure, enhancing the scientific understanding of geophysical phenomena.
Continue ReadingOtl Aicher
Graphic designer, typographer, and entrepreneur
Born
May 13th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent graphic designer and typographer, made significant contributions to visual communication and design. Co-founded the renowned design agency, Hochschule für Gestaltung, in Ulm, which became a key institution in post-war design education. Developed the iconic visual identity for the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, establishing a modern aesthetic in sports branding. Aicher emphasized clarity and functionality in design, influencing numerous projects in both corporate and public sectors. His work encompassed corporate identities, typefaces, and signage systems, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of graphic design.
Continue ReadingLouis Léopold Robert
French painter known for genre scenes
Born
May 13th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1835 190 years ago — 40 years old
A painter specialized in genre scenes and historical subjects. Originating from Switzerland, this artist established his career in France. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and significantly influenced the depiction of scenes from everyday life. His artistic style combined realism with romantic elements, often showcasing the lives of common people. Created notable works that include 'Les Pêcheurs de perles' and 'L’Intérieur d’une maison de la rue des Martyrs'.
Continue ReadingHarry Schwarz
Anti-apartheid diplomat and lawyer
Born
May 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent lawyer and anti-apartheid leader, played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Served as the 13th South African Ambassador to the United States, contributing to diplomatic efforts during a pivotal period in South African history. Engaged in legal practices and advocacy aimed at dismantling apartheid legislation and promoting human rights. Also involved in various civil society organizations that worked toward equality and justice.
Continue ReadingPope Pius IX
Pope with the longest reign in history
Born
May 13th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1878 147 years ago — 85 years old
Became pope in 1846 and served until death in 1878, leading the Catholic Church through significant events such as the First Vatican Council which defined papal infallibility. Oversaw the loss of the Papal States, leading to a decrease in temporal power. Advocated for the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, declared in 1854. His reign was marked by political turmoil in Italy and Europe, which shaped the Church's modern role.
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