Bill Sharman
Basketball player and coach, championship winner
Accomplished basketball player and coach. Played for the Boston Celtics, winning four NBA championships from 1957 to 1969. Transitioned to coaching, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to an NBA championship in 1972. Recognized for contributions to the game through innovative training techniques and emphasis on free-throw shooting.
Won four NBA championships with the Boston Celtics
Coached the Los Angeles Lakers to the 1972 NBA championship
Other People Born on May 25th
Kitty Kallen
Singer with hits in the 1940s
Born
May 25th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 94 years old
An accomplished American singer rose to fame during the 1940s. Achievements included the chart-topping success of several singles and contributions to big band music. Collaborated with renowned bandleaders and performed with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. Significant hits included 'It's Being Done' and 'Little Things Mean a Lot'. Kallen's style and vocal delivery captured the essence of the era's popular music, leading to a successful solo career that continued into the 1950s.
Continue ReadingToghon Temür
Mongolian emperor during the Yuan dynasty
Born
May 25th, 1320 705 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1370 655 years ago — 49 years old
Ascended the throne as the last emperor of the Yuan dynasty in 1333. His reign marked a period of decline for the Mongol Empire. The challenges included internal discord and resistance from the Chinese populace leading to the eventual fragmentation of the empire. Temür's governance was characterized by reliance on advisors and struggles to maintain control over increasingly independent provinces. The era saw significant cultural exchanges and economic activity, but the political instability became pronounced during his rule. Notably, he was also involved in military campaigns aimed at regaining lost territories and consolidating power but faced resistance from the Ming dynasty.
Continue ReadingIgor Sikorsky
Aircraft designer and founder of Sikorsky
Born
May 25th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1972 53 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1889, a pioneering aircraft designer who emigrated to the United States from Russia. Established Sikorsky Aircraft in 1923, significantly contributing to aviation technology and helicopter design. Developed the first successful helicopter, the VS-300, which became the basis for many subsequent designs. Played a crucial role in the advancement of rotorcraft and aviation principles, helping to lay the foundation for modern helicopter development.
Continue ReadingUta Frith
Developmental psychologist and researcher
Born
May 25th, 1941 84 years ago
A prominent developmental psychologist, Frith has focused on the study of autism and cognitive development. Frith's research has contributed significantly to understanding the theory of mind and the cognitive processes in individuals with autism spectrum conditions. Frith served as the Director of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London, where extensive studies were conducted on the relationship between brain function and psychological processes. Frith's work provided insights into social cognition and the challenges faced by individuals with autism.
Continue ReadingIan McKellen
English actor, Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings'
Born
May 25th, 1939 86 years ago
An acclaimed actor with a career spanning over six decades. Gained prominence in theater and film, portraying a range of characters. Notably played Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy and Magneto in the 'X-Men' series. Recognized for contributions to the performing arts and for advocacy work related to LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue ReadingGert Kams
Estonian footballer and midfielder
Born
May 25th, 1985 40 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a midfielder predominantly in the Estonian leagues and represented the national team. Began the career at Flora Tallinn, contributing significantly to the club's successes. Later played in various international leagues, including stints in Finland and Azerbaijan, while also earning caps for the Estonian national team in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 25th
Ziya Gökalp
Turkish sociologist and poet
Born
March 23rd, 1876 149 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1924 101 years ago — 48 years old
A Turkish sociologist, poet, and activist contributed to the early Turkish national identity and cultural revival. His work focused on nationalism, modernity, and the relationship between culture and society. Active during the early 20th century, he wrote extensively on issues such as education, language reform, and women's rights. Gökalp's ideas significantly influenced the formation of Turkish thought and cultural policy in the period following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.
Continue ReadingWilliam Merritt Chase
Painter and educator with notable works
Born
November 1st, 1849 176 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1916 109 years ago — 66 years old
Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this artist was a prominent figure in the American art scene. He studied at the National Academy of Design and later in Europe, where influences from Impressionism shaped his style. Returning to the United States, he became a key member of the American Impressionist movement. Chase opened a summer school in East Hampton, fostering artistic talent and collaboration. His impressionistic landscapes and portraits contributed significantly to American art.
Continue ReadingRichard Pousette-Dart
American abstract painter and educator
Born
June 8th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1992 33 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1916, this artist became a prominent figure in the abstract expressionist movement. With a focus on color and form, created significant works that contributed to modern art. Worked as an educator, influencing future generations of artists. Exhibited at major galleries and museums, establishing a reputation in the art world. His artistic journey included explorations of various media and techniques, leading to a distinctive style characterized by vibrant colors and spontaneous brushwork.
Continue ReadingBobby Riggs
American tennis player and champion
Born
February 25th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1995 30 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent tennis player in the mid-20th century, active mainly during the 1930s and 1940s. Achieved significant success in both singles and doubles competitions. Gained fame for the historical match against Billie Jean King in 1973, dubbed the 'Battle of the Sexes'. Also won multiple Grand Slam titles, contributing to the popularity of tennis in the United States.
Continue ReadingGeorge II of Great Britain
British king during the War of Austrian Succession
Born
November 9th, 1683 342 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1760 265 years ago — 76 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1727, ruled until 1760. His reign included involvement in the War of Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. During his rule, he moved the royal court to London, enhancing the city's prominence. Noted for conflicts with political factions, including the Whigs and Tories. Under his reign, British colonial expansion continued in North America, which led to significant territorial gains.
Continue ReadingJohn II of Portugal
King of Portugal, known for exploration
Born
March 3rd, 1455 570 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1495 530 years ago — 40 years old
A monarch who ruled Portugal from 1481 to 1495, played a crucial role in the Age of Discovery. His reign marked significant expansion of Portuguese exploration and trade, especially along the African coast. Implemented policies that strengthened the central authority of the crown and improved fiscal practices, which aided in financing maritime expeditions. Initiated colonization efforts and supported explorers, contributing to the discovery of new lands and sea routes. Under his leadership, explorers like Bartolomeu Dias sailed around the Cape of Good Hope, paving the way for later expeditions to India and beyond. His governance is marked by the consolidation of royal power and the promotion of maritime ventures.
Continue Reading