Beryl Burton
English racing cyclist and world champion
A prominent figure in women's cycling, this racer dominated the sport during her career. Achievements include multiple national titles and world championships. Set numerous records, including a 12-hour time trial record that stood for decades. Competed effectively against male cyclists, showcasing remarkable endurance and skill. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations in cycling.
Won 3 world championships in cycling
Set a 12-hour time trial record
Secured 20 national titles
Other People Born on May 5th
Michael Murphy
American actor known for 'Annie Hall'
Born
May 5th, 1938 87 years ago
An American actor participated in film, television, and theater. Significant roles included contributions to 'Annie Hall' and 'The Right Stuff'. Appeared in various television series throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Rockford Files'. Competed in the acclaimed performance landscape of New York's off-Broadway scene. Recognized for both comedic and dramatic roles, showing versatility across genres.
Continue ReadingArchibald Wavell
Field Marshal and Governor-General of India
Born
May 5th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1950 75 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a field marshal in the British Army with significant roles during World War II. Commanded the 8th Army in the Western Desert Campaign in North Africa. Appointed as the 43rd Governor-General of India, overseeing the transition of India towards independence. Involved in several military operations and strategic decisions that shaped the outcome of the war.
Continue ReadingPat Carroll
American actress and voice artist
Born
May 5th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2022 3 years ago — 95 years old
An actress with a prolific career in television and voice acting. Gained significant recognition for voicing Ursula in Disney's animated film 'The Little Mermaid.' Appeared on television in series such as 'The Odd Couple' and 'ER.' Received a Daytime Emmy Award for her work on 'General Hospital.' Had a substantial presence in theatrical productions and was known for her roles in a variety of stage performances.
Continue ReadingEd Lee
American politician and attorney.
Born
May 5th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 43rd Mayor of San Francisco from 2011 until his death in 2017. Prior to becoming mayor, held the position of San Francisco's city administrator and director of the Department of Public Works. Focused on housing, economic growth, and education during the tenure as mayor. Advocated for the expansion of affordable housing and developed initiatives to support small businesses and the tech industry in the city.
Continue ReadingRoger Rees
Welsh-American actor and director
Born
May 5th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Wales, this individual pursued a career in acting and directing, gaining recognition for stage and television performances. A notable accomplishment includes originating the role of 'The Critic' in the acclaimed production of 'The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby' in London's West End, which won multiple Tony Awards. In addition, the portrayal of the character 'Robin Colcord' in the television series 'Cheers' further solidified his presence in American pop culture. Beyond acting, contributions to directing included acclaimed productions at major theaters.
Continue ReadingJuan Manuel
Nobleman and author of 'El Conde Lucanor'
Born
May 5th, 1282 743 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1348 677 years ago — 66 years old
Born into Spanish nobility in 1282, a significant figure in medieval literature and politics. Authored 'El Conde Lucanor', a collection of tales offering moral lessons, influencing both Spanish and European literary traditions. Served as the Prince of Villena and held various political roles within the Kingdom of Castile, engaging in diplomatic negotiations and power struggles of the time. Contributed to the cultural and literary landscape of medieval Spain through both governance and literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
Nikolai Reek
Estonian general and Minister of War
Born
February 1st, 1890 136 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1942 83 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1890, a significant figure in the Estonian military and political landscape. Served as the 11th Minister of War, overseeing military reforms and strategies during a pivotal time in Estonia's history. Faced challenges related to national security and the establishment of armed forces post-independence. Contributed to the development of defense policies aimed at maintaining Estonia's sovereignty. Advocated for military preparedness in response to regional tensions.
Continue ReadingWilliam Schallert
American actor and Screen Actors Guild president
Born
July 6th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and prominent figure in the entertainment industry, had a career spanning over six decades. Acted in film, television, and theater, and played notable roles in popular series. Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, advocating for the rights of actors during a transformative period in the industry. Participated in multiple television projects and films, establishing a recognizable presence on screen.
Continue ReadingJohn Robertson
Politician, 5th Premier of New South Wales
Born
October 15th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1891 134 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 5th Premier of New South Wales, holding office from 1860 to 1861 and again from 1868 to 1870. Known for leading the colony during a time of economic growth. Contributed to the establishment of democratic reforms in the region. Engaged in significant education and land reforms that affected the populace.
Continue ReadingRoger L. Easton
American scientist, co-inventor of GPS
Born
April 30th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
A scientist co-invented the Global Positioning System (GPS), significantly advancing navigational technology. This system allows users to determine their precise location anywhere on Earth using satellite signals. Easton worked with a team at the Naval Research Laboratory during the 1960s, leading to the initial deployment of GPS technology. The system has since evolved and is widely used in military, commercial, and personal navigation.
Continue ReadingTore Svennberg
Swedish actor and film director
Born
February 28th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1941 84 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Sweden, a prominent figure in early cinema and theater. Worked extensively in film and stage productions, contributing to the growth of the arts in the region. Directed several films and participated in numerous theatrical performances, highlighting the evolution of Swedish entertainment. Also took part in the burgeoning movement of cinema during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing the artistic landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingSebastião José de Carvalho e Melo
1st Marquis of Pombal, Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
May 13th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1782 243 years ago — 82 years old
Held the office of Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777. Implemented significant reforms in education, economics, and administration following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Advocated for the reduction of the power of the Church and centralized royal authority, thereby modernizing the state. Initiated infrastructure projects and promoted trade, contributing to Portugal's recovery and growth in the 18th century.
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