Bob Fitzsimmons
Boxer and three-weight world champion
Born in England and later moved to New Zealand, this boxer became a prominent figure in the sport during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Achieving fame in the ring, this athlete was the first three-weight world champion, holding titles in middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight divisions. With a reputation for exceptional skill and power, the boxer faced and defeated many prominent contenders of the time, gaining recognition and accolades in the boxing community.
First three-weight world boxing champion
Defeated Jack 'Nonpareil' Dempsey for the middleweight title
Held the heavyweight championship title
Other People Born on May 26th
Diomedes Díaz
Colombian vallenato singer-songwriter
Born
May 26th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 56 years old
Born in La Guajira, one of the leading figures in vallenato music, contributed significantly to the genre's popularity in Colombia and beyond. Released numerous albums and singles throughout career, with themes often revolving around love and life experiences. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'Oye Bonita' and 'La muerte de un gallero'. His work garnered multiple awards, including the Latin Grammy Award. He had a significant influence on the development of modern vallenato music, integrating traditional rhythms and contemporary styles.
Continue ReadingMuriel McQueen Fergusson
Canadian Speaker of the Senate
Born
May 26th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1997 29 years ago — 97 years old
A Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the first female Speaker of the Senate from 1972 to 1974. Contributed to various legislative reforms and advocated for women's rights. Engaged in public service and participated in multiple committees, promoting equality and social progress. Resided in New Brunswick throughout much of life.
Continue ReadingSally Ride
Astronaut and physicist, first American woman in space
Born
May 26th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 61 years old
A physicist and astronaut made history as the first American woman in space. Flew on the Space Shuttle Challenger on missions STS-7 in 1983 and STS-41G in 1984. Contributed to various aspects of crew systems and robotic systems for future missions. After retiring from NASA, engaged in education and advocacy for science and technology for young girls and women.
Continue ReadingRoy Dotrice
English actor and audiobook narrator
Born
May 26th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 94 years old
An English actor with a career spanning several decades, best recognized for distinct performances in theatre, television, and film. Achieved acclaim for portraying the character of Leopold Bloom in the original cast of the stage adaptation of 'Ulysses in Nighttown.' Gained significant recognition for narrating the audiobook series of 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin, which won multiple awards for outstanding narration. Also appeared in numerous television productions, including the miniseries 'World War II: Behind Closed Doors.'
Continue ReadingMaurice Baquet
French actor and cellist
Born
May 26th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
July 8th, 2005 20 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent figure in France, contributions spanned both film and music. In cinema, acted in films such as 'Les Enfants du Paradis' and 'Porte des Lilas'. As a cellist, performed in various orchestras and chamber music settings, showcasing talent in classical music. Associated with educational initiatives for string instruments, promoted music appreciation.
Continue ReadingJack Kevorkian
Pathologist and assisted suicide advocate
Born
May 26th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 15 years ago — 83 years old
A pathologist and author, contributed to the euthanasia debate in the United States. Developed a machine known as the 'Mercitron' to assist terminally ill patients in self-administering lethal doses of medication. Conducted over 130 assisted suicides during the 1990s, bringing significant media attention to the topic. Wrote several books discussing the ethics of assisted suicide. Faced legal challenges, resulting in a 1999 murder conviction and a prison sentence that ended in 2007.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 22nd
Ernst Rüdin
Swiss psychiatrist and eugenics proponent
Born
April 19th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1952 73 years ago — 78 years old
A Swiss psychiatrist and geneticist, significant contributions were made in the field of psychiatry and eugenics. Played a central role in shaping eugenics policies in Switzerland and influenced similar movements in Germany. Served as a professor at the University of Zurich and published extensively on genetic disorders and heredity. Advocated for the sterilization of individuals deemed unfit, which reflected broader societal trends in early 20th-century Europe.
Continue ReadingPretty Boy Floyd
American gangster during the Great Depression
Born
February 3rd, 1904 122 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1934 91 years ago — 30 years old
A significant figure in American organized crime during the Great Depression. Engaged in bank robberies, targeting financial institutions amidst economic turmoil, and gained a reputation as a 'Robin Hood' figure for allegedly sharing stolen money with impoverished communities. Worked with associates in various criminal enterprises and eluded law enforcement for several years. Died in a shootout with federal agents in 1938.
Continue ReadingJames Robinson Risner
American general and Korean War pilot
Born
January 16th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
A general in the United States Air Force, served during World War II and the Korean War. Participated in the 1952 Korean War air campaign, where he achieved notable aerial victories. Commanded the 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing in Vietnam, contributing to combat operations during the Vietnam War. As a prisoner of war for over seven years, displayed remarkable resilience and leadership. After release, continued to serve with distinction in various leadership roles within the Air Force until retirement.
Continue ReadingSoupy Sales
American comedian and TV host
Born
January 8th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2009 16 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent comedian and television host, gained fame with the children's program 'The Soupy Sales Show'. The show featured slapstick humor and interactions with puppets, becoming a fixture in American television from the late 1950s into the 1960s. Early career included stand-up comedy clubs and appearances on various game shows. Transitioned to a successful career in television, where clever antics and playful skits reached a wide audience. Continued to perform and make guest appearances in later years, maintaining a presence in entertainment.
Continue ReadingThomas Mayne Reid
Author of adventure novels and poems
Born
April 4th, 1818 208 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1883 142 years ago — 65 years old
An Irish-American author and poet, this writer became recognized for contributions to the genre of adventure literature during the 19th century. Reid published numerous novels that appealed to readers seeking excitement and exploration. His works often featured themes of the American frontier and depicted various challenging landscapes and encounters. In addition to novels, poetry formed an integral part of his literary output. He developed a distinctive narrative style that combined thrilling plots with lively characterization, which resonated well with the audience of his time.
Continue ReadingInnes Ireland
Scottish racing driver and engineer
Born
June 12th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1993 32 years ago — 63 years old
A Scottish racing driver and engineer achieved prominence in the 1960s. Competed in Formula One, earning a reputation as a skilled driver. Worked with the Lotus team, contributing to the development of innovative racing technologies. Participated in the 1961 Formula One season, focusing on creating advancements in vehicle engineering alongside racing efforts. Worked in various motorsport disciplines and contributed to the evolution of racing cars during his career.
Continue Reading