Anna Chakvetadze
Russian tennis player and Grand Slam semi-finalist
Achieved prominence in women's tennis during the mid-2000s. Reached a career-high singles ranking of World No. 5 in 2007. Competed in all four Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the semi-finals at the US Open in 2007. Secured over three WTA singles titles throughout career. Retired from professional tennis in 2012.
Reached US Open semi-finals in 2007
Achieved World No. 5 singles ranking
Won three WTA singles titles
Other People Born on March 5th
Raymond P. Shafer
Governor of Pennsylvania
Born
March 5th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 89 years old
An attorney and politician served as the 39th Governor of Pennsylvania from 1967 to 1971. Prior to his gubernatorial role, held positions in Pennsylvania's House of Representatives and Senate. Advocated for various reforms during the governorship, including infrastructure development and environmental conservation. Focused on improving the state's economy and education system. After leaving office, continued public service and involvement in legal and business sectors.
Continue ReadingDean Stockwell
American actor in Quantum Leap
Born
March 5th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old
An actor with a career spanning over seven decades, this individual appeared in film, television, and theater. Made notable appearances in films such as 'Married to the Mob' and 'Dune' and gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. Al Calavicci in the television series 'Quantum Leap'. Began acting at a young age, achieving significant success in both dramatic and comedic roles. Received accolades for work on screen and stage, including a Primetime Emmy Award.
Continue ReadingJ. B. Lenoir
Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 5th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1967 58 years ago — 38 years old
A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this musician gained recognition for his powerful vocals and skilled guitar work. He recorded several influential tracks during the 1950s, blending traditional blues with personal and socially conscious themes. His song 'Mama Talk to Your Daughter' became a classic and is still celebrated in the blues genre. Throughout the 1960s, he continued to record and perform, despite facing health challenges. His contributions to blues music remained significant until his untimely death in 1967.
Continue ReadingJan van Beveren
Dutch footballer and coach, PSV Eindhoven
Born
March 5th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2011 14 years ago — 63 years old
A Dutch footballer and coach began a career as a goalkeeper. Played for several clubs, most notably PSV Eindhoven, contributing to the team's success during the 1970s. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into coaching, where experience as a player informed coaching strategies. Known for leadership in training sessions and player development.
Continue ReadingCanaan Banana
Zimbabwean politician, 1st President
Born
March 5th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the first President of Zimbabwe from 1980 to 1987. After independence from British colonial rule, held various leadership roles within the Zimbabwe African National Union. Contributed to the establishment of a new governmental framework in an emerging nation. Actively engaged in addressing national challenges and promoting unity post-independence. Continued to influence Zimbabwean politics through involvement in various capacities after presidency.
Continue ReadingGerardus Mercator
Flemish cartographer and mathematician
Born
March 5th, 1512 513 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1594 431 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Flanders, this mathematician and cartographer developed a new method for representing the spherical earth on a flat surface. His 1569 world map introduced the Mercator projection, which became widely used in navigation due to its ability to represent lines of constant course. Apart from cartography, engaged in philosophical inquiry and mathematical studies that contributed to the fields of geography and navigation. The impact of this work extended beyond his lifetime, cementing a significant place in the history of map-making.
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