Ben Kuroki

American pilot and World War II sergeant

Ben Kuroki - American pilot and World War II sergeant
Born

May 16th, 1917
108 years ago

Died

September 1st, 2015
10 years ago — 98 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Kuroki flew combat missions in the Pacific Theater and became the first Japanese American to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. His military career included significant contributions to aerial bombing campaigns against enemy targets. After the war, Kuroki returned to civilian life and continued to advocate for Japanese American rights.

Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross

First Japanese American pilot in WWII

Flew over 30 combat missions

Other People Born on May 16th

John Conyers

U.S. Congressman and civil rights advocate
Born
May 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman from Michigan for over five decades. Played a significant role in the civil rights movement and was instrumental in the establishment of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. Advocated for various issues including health care reform and economic justice throughout his tenure. Participated in numerous legislative efforts addressing social inequalities.

Continue Reading

Emma Georgina Rothschild

Historian and academic author
Born
May 16th, 1948 77 years ago

This English historian specialized in the economic history of France during the 18th century and 19th century. An academic and a prominent member of the history and economics community, emphasis included studies on the French Revolution and the works of key economic theorists. Contributions involved editing and writing scholarly articles in various publications, influencing contemporary understanding of historical economic systems. Held the prestigious position of a professor at Harvard University and contributed significantly to the field of economic history.

Continue Reading

Lowell P. Weicker Jr.

American politician, 85th Governor of Connecticut
Born
May 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 92 years old

An American politician served as the 85th governor of Connecticut from 1991 to 1995. Entered politics after serving in the U.S. Army, holding positions in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. Championed various reforms during tenure as governor, including the implementation of a state income tax to address budget deficits.

Continue Reading

Celâl Bayar

Turkish politician, 3rd President of Turkey
Born
May 16th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1986 39 years ago — 103 years old

Served as the 3rd President of Turkey from 1950 to 1960. Played a significant role in Turkish politics, becoming the founding member of the Justice Party. Contributed to economic policies and modernization efforts during the post-World War II era. His presidency was marked by political challenges and he was later imprisoned following a military coup.

Continue Reading

Ashley Wagner

American figure skater and Olympian
Born
May 16th, 1991 34 years ago

Competed in figure skating, representing the United States at international competitions. Achieved significant success in both singles and team events. Won a bronze medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi as part of the team event. Secured multiple titles at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, including the national champion title in 2012 and 2013. Additionally, earned medals in various World Championships, showcasing remarkable proficiency and artistry on ice.

Continue Reading

Higashifushimi Kunihide

Japanese monk and educator
Born
May 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 103 years old

Contributed to the Japanese Buddhist community through significant educational efforts. Established a temple that emphasized the importance of teaching and preserving Buddhist teachings. Focused on the integration of traditional values and modern education, influencing many through lectures and writings. Served as a leader in the promotion of social welfare and community service within Buddhism, fostering intercultural understanding and dialogue.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 1st

Izidor Guzmics

Hungarian theologian and educator
Born
1786 239 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1839 186 years ago — 53 years old

A theologian and educator contributed to the advancement of theological education in Hungary. Helped to establish educational institutions that focused on higher learning and theological studies. Influenced the development of religious thought during the early 19th century, advocating for reform in education. Engaged in various theological debates, contributing scholarly work that shaped the understanding of religious texts.

Continue Reading

Ulrich V

Count of Württemberg, military leader
Born
1413 612 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1480 545 years ago — 67 years old

Ulrich V served as the Count of Württemberg from 1441 until his death in 1480. He participated in numerous military campaigns and conflicts during his reign, most notably in the wars against the Swiss. His conflict with the Swiss Confederation marked a significant period in Württemberg's history. Aiming to expand territory and influence, he sought alliances and engaged in both diplomatic and military strategies. His leadership contributed to the region's political dynamics in the late 15th century. The legacy of Ulrich V continued to influence the governance of Württemberg even after his death, as his heirs maintained the countship and navigated the challenges of the evolving political landscape.

Continue Reading

Nellie McClung

Suffragist and Canadian author
Born
October 20th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1951 74 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in the suffrage movement in Canada, contributions included advocacy for women's rights and social reform. McClung became a leading member of the Political Equality League and worked tirelessly for women's voting rights. An accomplished author, she published several works, including the notable novel 'The Black Creek Stopping House'. In addition to writing, she participated in various public speaking engagements, raising awareness about women's issues in early 20th-century Canada.

Continue Reading

Ferenc Gyulay

Hungarian-Austrian military leader
Born
September 1st, 1799 226 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1868 157 years ago — 69 years old

Served in the military during the Napoleonic Wars and later became a prominent political figure in Hungary and the Austrian Empire. Held the rank of field marshal and commanded troops in significant battles, contributing to military strategies during the conflicts of his time. Engaged in various political capacities, influencing military and governance policies.

Continue Reading

Foulques de Villaret

Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller
Died
September 1st, 1327 698 years ago — None years old

Served as the Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller from 1307 until death in 1327. Strengthened the order's presence in the Mediterranean and engaged in conflicts against various adversaries, particularly during the period of the Crusades. Played a significant role in the order's military and administrative operations, overseeing the defense of key territories.

Continue Reading

Henry More

English philosopher, Platonist thinker
Born
October 12th, 1614 410 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1687 338 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure of the Cambridge Platonists, contributed to the revival of Platonic philosophy in England during the 17th century. Published several works that integrated metaphysics and theology, emphasizing the existence of God and the immortality of the soul. Engaged in debates with contemporaries, including Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, on matters of philosophy and the nature of reality. Served as a fellow of Christ's College, Cambridge, where significant ideas were developed that shaped modern philosophical discourse.

Continue Reading