Anthony Wilding
New Zealand tennis player and cricketer
Competed prominently in tennis and cricket early in the 20th century. Achieved significant success in tennis, capturing four Wimbledon singles titles between 1910 and 1913. Gained recognition for outstanding athletic abilities, becoming a leading figure in New Zealand sports. Also represented New Zealand in cricket, showcasing versatility in both individual and team sports. His contributions laid the groundwork for future generations in New Zealand athletics.
Won four Wimbledon singles titles
Represented New Zealand in cricket
Other People Born on October 31st
Ali Farka Touré
Malian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
October 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent Malian musician and guitarist, renowned for blending traditional African music with blues. Achievements include multiple Grammy Awards, reflecting the global influence of his work. His albums, such as "Talking Timbuktu" and "Niafunke," showcased the rich musical heritage of Mali and introduced African music to wider audiences. Collaborated with various international musicians, enhancing cultural exchange through music.
Continue ReadingAdelbert Ames
American general and Mississippi governor
Born
October 31st, 1835 190 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1933 92 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a general in the Union Army during the Civil War, achieving the rank of brevet major general. Became the 30th Governor of Mississippi from 1874 to 1876. His tenure focused on reconstruction efforts in the South after the Civil War. After serving as governor, held various political roles including a U.S. Senator. Advocated for civil rights and was involved in the Republican Party during his political career.
Continue ReadingCharles Lavigerie
French-Algerian cardinal and academic
Born
October 31st, 1825 200 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1892 133 years ago — 67 years old
A cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, this individual served as the Archbishop of Algiers. He was pivotal in establishing missionary activities in Africa, particularly in Algeria, where he sought to address social injustices and promote the Catholic faith among local populations. This person's academic contributions included various written works on theological and social issues. A notable commitment was demonstrated through the founding of the 'Society of Missionaries of Africa', which aimed to promote education and aid in Africa.
Continue ReadingAsbjørg Borgfelt
Norwegian sculptor, known for public works
Born
October 31st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1976 50 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Norwegian sculptor created works that reflect themes of nature and humanity. Received formal artistic training and developed a distinctive style characterized by stylized forms and a deep appreciation for the materials used. Contributed significantly to public art projects throughout Norway, enhancing urban spaces with innovative sculptures. Borgfelt's works continue to be displayed in various public locations and are celebrated for their craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.
Continue ReadingJohn Keats
English Romantic poet and writer
Born
October 31st, 1795 230 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1821 204 years ago — 25 years old
This poet contributed significantly to English literature during the Romantic period. His work featured themes of beauty, nature, and mortality. Prominent works include 'Ode to a Nightingale', 'Ode on a Grecian Urn', and 'Endymion'. Keats's poetry is characterized by vivid imagery and lyrical quality that have influenced many poets after him. The poet struggled with illness throughout his life and died at a young age, but left behind a lasting legacy in the world of poetry.
Continue ReadingDavid Ogden Stiers
Actor and voice actor in M*A*S*H
Born
October 31st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2018 7 years ago — 75 years old
An accomplished actor and voice actor, had a significant career spanning several decades. Best remembered for the role of Charles Emerson Winchester III on the television series M*A*S*H, which aired from 1977 to 1983. Also provided voice work for numerous animated series and films, lending a distinctive character to his roles. Additionally, engaged in music, showcasing talents as a conductor and musician. In later years, continued to appear in various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility as an actor.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 9th
Hugh V
Duke of Burgundy
Born
1282 744 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1315 710 years ago — 33 years old
Ascended to the title of Duke of Burgundy in 1306, Hugh V managed the duchy during a time of political significance in France. As Duke, he engaged in the ongoing power struggles between the French nobility and the monarchy. The governance style included efforts to solidify the duchy's autonomy and influence in regional affairs. His rule was marked by efforts to support the local economy and maintain peace within the duchy. Hugh V's reign came to an end with his death in 1315.
Continue ReadingJoseph Louis Gay-Lussac
French physicist and chemist, gas laws
Born
December 6th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1850 175 years ago — 71 years old
Significant contributions were made in the fields of physics and chemistry. Published findings on gas laws, notably Gay-Lussac's Law, detailing the relationship between pressure and temperature of gases. Conducted pioneering work in the study of gases, including the behavior of gases at varying temperatures. Also involved in the development of the technique of using a high-altitude balloon to study the atmosphere.
Continue ReadingAlbert Abraham Michelson
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 19th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1931 94 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent physicist and chemist, contributed significantly to the field of metrology and was the first American to receive the Nobel Prize in Physics. Developed the Michelson interferometer, a device used to measure very small distances and variations in optical path length. Conducted the famous Michelson-Morley experiment in 1887, which aimed to detect the presence of the hypothetical luminiferous aether, leading to significant advancements in understanding light and motion.
Continue ReadingJohn Sedgwick
American General and Educator
Born
September 13th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1864 161 years ago — 50 years old
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War. Achieved the rank of major general and led troops in several major battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House. Also contributed to military education and training, helping to shape future generations of officers. Died in battle at the Battle of Spotsylvania.
Continue ReadingDieterich Buxtehude
German-Danish organist and composer
Born
1637 389 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1707 318 years ago — 70 years old
An influential organist and composer, a key figure in the development of the North German organ school. Established a significant number of works in the genres of sacred music, particularly chorale settings and cantatas. Spent most of his career in Lübeck, Germany, where served as organist at the Marienkirche. His compositions, characterized by intricate counterpoint and rich harmonies, contributed to the development of Baroque music.
Continue ReadingNiccolò Albergati
Italian Cardinal and diplomat
Born
1373 653 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1443 582 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent Italian cardinal and diplomat during the 15th century. Led negotiations between various states and played a significant role in the church's political landscape. Actively participated in the papal conclave of 1431. Helped mediate disputes among factions in Italy, working towards peace and stability within the region. His efforts in diplomacy were crucial in a time of political fragmentation in Italy.
Continue Reading