Benjamin Sheares
Singaporean physician and 2nd President
Born
August 12th, 1907
118 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1981
44 years ago — 73 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Singapore
Links & References
A physician and politician, served as the 2nd President of Singapore from 1971 until 1981. Contributed to the development of the Singapore Medical Association and various healthcare initiatives. Advocated for the importance of improving medical education and public health services. Played a significant role in shaping healthcare policies during a key period of national development.
Served as the 2nd President of Singapore
Promoted public health initiatives
Contributed to medical education improvements
Other People Born on August 12th
Archduchess Isabella Clara of Austria
Born into the House of Habsburg, held the title of Archduchess. Served as Governor of the Spanish Netherlands from 1621 until 1633. Played a significant role in the administration of the region during a time of political tension and conflict, overseeing various military and economic strategies. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and order in the territories allocated to her authority, including managing relations with local nobility.
Continue ReadingSam J. Jones
An actor gained recognition for the lead role in the iconic 1980 film Flash Gordon. Transitioned from a career in college football to acting, appearing in various television series throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Made guest appearances in shows such as The Highwayman and The A-Team. Participated in convention appearances, connecting with fans of the science fiction genre. His portrayal of the titular character in Flash Gordon remains a significant part of pop culture history, celebrated for its campy style and vibrant visuals.
Continue ReadingRon Mael
A keyboard player and songwriter, distinguished for co-founding the band Sparks. Alongside his brother, formed the band in 1970, which became known for its unique blend of pop and rock elements. The band achieved notable success with hit songs in the 1970s and 1980s, especially 'This Town Ain't Big Enough for Both of Us'. The duo's innovative style combined eclectic musical influences, contributing to their long-standing career. The band's significant presence in both the American and British music scenes has garnered a dedicated following over the decades.
Continue ReadingMarion Lorne
Born in 1883, this American actress gained recognition for a significant television role and various film appearances. A prominent career included work on Broadway before transitioning to film and television. Notably, portrayed the character Aunt Clara in the classic television series 'Bewitched.' Apart from television, also appeared in films from the early 20th century that contributed to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingD. J. Houlton
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Houlton debuted in 2004 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Also played for the Florida Marlins and the Boston Red Sox during his career. Featured prominently in the minor leagues before achieving a brief tenure in the majors. Accumulated an overall win-loss record of 6-5 in MLB. After retiring from professional baseball, transitioned to coaching at various levels.
Continue ReadingIdel Jakobson
Born in 1904, served in the NKVD, which was responsible for state security and law enforcement in the Soviet Union. Played a significant role in various operations during the 1930s and 1940s, particularly in Latvia and Estonia. Active during the Soviet regime, participating in efforts to consolidate power and suppress dissent, contributing to the enforcement of Soviet policies in the Baltic region.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
John Dryden
A prominent figure in English literature, this individual contributed significantly as a poet, literary critic, and playwright. Sovereign Poet Laureate from 1668, worked during the Restoration period. Notable works include the play 'All for Love' and the poem 'Absalom and Achitophel', which reflect the political and social themes of the time. Engaged in literary criticism and established principles of drama and poetry that shaped English literature. His career also included writing for the stage and participation in political satire, showing a strong influence on subsequent generations of writers.
Continue ReadingRobert Rauschenberg
An influential artist emerged in the mid-20th century, contributing significantly to the development of modern art. Emphasized the merger of painting and sculpture, creating a new genre known as 'Combines.' These works integrated everyday materials and objects, challenging traditional boundaries of art. Collaborated with artists such as Jasper Johns and served as a catalyst for the Neo-Dada movement. Associated with innovative uses of technology, explored printmaking and fabric arts throughout the career. Received numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts in 1993.
Continue ReadingSergey Aksakov
One of the prominent figures in 19th-century Russian literature and military service. Served as an officer in the Russian army. Gained recognition for literary works, particularly 'The Family Chronicle' and autobiographical writings that depicted the life of a Russian noble family. Contributed to the development of realistic prose in Russia, drawing on personal experiences and observations.
Continue ReadingMonica Zetterlund
Achieved prominence as an accomplished actress and a jazz singer. Gained recognition in Swedish film and music during the 1960s. Worked on various successful projects, including the film 'Die Fledermaus' and the album 'Monica Zetterlund sjunger Billie Holiday', showcasing talents in both acting and music. Collaborated with several notable jazz musicians, contributing to the Swedish jazz scene.
Continue ReadingAimee Stephens
Served as a funeral director and became a significant legal figure in LGBTQ+ rights. Litigated a landmark case regarding employment discrimination based on gender identity, which was heard by the U.S. Supreme Court. The case contributed to national discussions on the rights of transgender individuals in the workplace, highlighting issues of equality and justice.
Continue ReadingJames Connolly
Born in Scotland, became a key figure in the Irish labor movement and revolutionary politics. Founded the Irish Socialist Republican Party and was instrumental in the 1916 Easter Rising, which sought to end British rule in Ireland. Served as a leader in the rising and was a signatory of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. Advocated for workers' rights and promoted the idea of a socialist republic in Ireland. His writings and speeches contributed to the growth of socialist ideology in the country, influencing future generations of Irish socialists and republicans.
Continue Reading