Arthur Conan Doyle
British writer and creator of Sherlock Holmes
A British writer, contributed significantly to the genre of detective fiction. Developed the character Sherlock Holmes, who first appeared in 'A Study in Scarlet' in 1887. Authored four full-length novels and 56 short stories featuring Holmes and Dr. John Watson. Other literary works included historical novels and science fiction. Engaged in medical practice and served as a war correspondent during the Second Boer War.
Created the character Sherlock Holmes
Published 'A Study in Scarlet'
Wrote 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'
Other People Born on May 22nd
George H. Heilmeier
Engineer and LCD technology pioneer
Born
May 22nd, 1936 90 years ago
Died
April 21st, 2014 12 years ago — 77 years old
An engineer contributed significantly to liquid crystal display (LCD) technology. Served as director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) from 1975 to 1977, influencing defense research and technology development. Played a pivotal role in commercializing LCDs through work at RCA and later as a founder of several technology companies. His research helped lead to the development of various display technologies that are widely used in electronic devices today.
Continue ReadingDaniel François Malan
South African Prime Minister
Born
May 22nd, 1874 152 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1959 67 years ago — 84 years old
A South African minister and politician served as Prime Minister from 1948 to 1954. Played a significant role in the establishment of apartheid policies during his tenure. Held office during a period of intense political change and faced both domestic and international criticism regarding the system he supported. After leaving office, continued to be involved in South African politics until retirement.
Continue ReadingArturo Vidal
Chilean footballer and Copa América champion
Born
May 22nd, 1987 39 years ago
A professional footballer from Chile, played primarily as a midfielder. Began career at Colo-Colo, winning the Chilean Primera División. Later played in Europe for clubs including Bayer Leverkusen, Juventus, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona. Contributed to Juventus's dominance in Serie A, winning multiple league titles. Achieved success with Bayern Munich, securing Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League title. Played a crucial role in Chile's victory in the 2015 Copa América and the team’s runner-up finish in 2017. Renowned for his tenacity, tactical awareness, and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingHergé
Comic artist of The Adventures of Tintin
Born
May 22nd, 1907 119 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1983 43 years ago — 75 years old
Belgian author and illustrator created the comic series The Adventures of Tintin, which first appeared in 1929. The series follows the adventures of a young reporter named Tintin, his dog Snowy, and a variety of supporting characters. Hergé developed a unique drawing style characterized by clear lines and meticulous attention to detail. The comics gained international popularity and were translated into numerous languages. Hergé's work significantly influenced the comic book industry and introduced a distinctive narrative style.
Continue ReadingNovak Djokovic
Professional tennis player with 20 Grand Slam titles
Born
May 22nd, 1987 39 years ago
A Serbian tennis player achieved prominence in the professional tennis circuit. Successfully captured a total of 20 Grand Slam singles titles, including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Built a reputation for exceptional skills, mental toughness, and consistency on the court. Ascended to the world No. 1 ranking multiple times, setting a record for the most weeks at this position. Won numerous ATP Masters 1000 events throughout a highly decorated career.
Continue ReadingHeida Reed
Icelandic-British actress, Poldark star
Born
May 22nd, 1988 38 years ago
Born in 1988, this Icelandic-British actress began her career in the early 2010s. She gained recognition through her role as Elizabeth Poldark in the BBC series 'Poldark'. The series, which aired from 2015 to 2019, is an adaptation of the novels by Winston Graham. This actress has also appeared in other television series such as 'Landing of the Mayflower' and 'The Maniac'. Part of her career includes modeling and work in theatre.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 7th
Mia Zapata
Singer and songwriter for The Gits
Born
August 25th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1993 32 years ago — 27 years old
A singer and songwriter became the lead vocalist of the punk rock band The Gits in the late 1980s. The band gained prominence in the Seattle music scene and released several influential albums, including 'Frenching the Bully.' Zapata also played a key role in the burgeoning grunge movement, contributing to the sound and culture of the era. Tragically, her life ended prematurely when she was murdered in 1993, which led to significant conversations surrounding women's safety and violence against women in music communities.
Continue ReadingPeter Underwood
English parapsychologist and author
Born
May 16th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1923, a parapsychologist and author focused on investigating paranormal phenomena and the afterlife. Contributed to the field through numerous writings and research initiatives, including comprehensive studies on ghosts and hauntings. Served as the president of the Ghost Club, an organization dedicated to paranormal research. Authored several books that explore these subjects, combining personal experiences with investigative methods. Engaged in public discussions and lectures about parapsychology, aiming to raise awareness and promote understanding of the field.
Continue ReadingEduard Shevardnadze
Georgian politician and diplomat
Born
January 25th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1928, he served as a general in the Soviet military before transitioning to a career in politics. He held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1990, where he played a significant role in Soviet foreign policy and was instrumental in the end of the Cold War. After Georgia gained independence in 1991, he became the second President of Georgia, serving from 1995 until 2003. His leadership during tumultuous times included efforts toward democratic reforms and navigating conflicts within the region.
Continue ReadingBenedict XI
Pope with papal bull addressing issues
Born
1240 786 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1304 721 years ago — 64 years old
Served as pope from 1303 until death in 1304. Undertook efforts to resolve conflicts within the church and restore unity after a period of strife and political maneuvering. Issued several significant papal bulls that addressed matters of church governance and jurisdiction. His brief papacy also focused on maintaining peace with various factions within Christendom and addressing the challenges posed by secular rulers. Worked towards a conciliatory relationship with the Franciscan Order concerning the controversy surrounding poverty.
Continue ReadingRobert Downey Sr.
American actor and director of films
Born
June 24th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old
An American actor and director, contributed significantly to the field of independent cinema. Directed seminal films during the 1960s and 1970s, including 'Putney Swope' and 'Greaser's Palace.' Worked closely with son Robert Downey Jr. on various projects. Established a reputation for innovative and unconventional storytelling. His work often blended humor and social commentary, influencing a generation of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingWilliam Turner
British ornithologist and botanist
Born
1508 518 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1568 457 years ago — 60 years old
Contributions to ornithology and botany began with extensive observations and writings. Authored 'The Names of Birds' and 'Herball', presenting descriptions of numerous species and plants. Worked in the realm of natural history, significantly influencing the study of flora and fauna. Held the position of a physician, combining medical knowledge with naturalistic studies.
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