Catherine Labouré
French nun and visionary of the Miraculous Medal
Born in France in 1806, became a member of the Daughters of Charity. Received a vision of the Virgin Mary in 1830, leading to the creation of the Miraculous Medal. Dedicated life to serving the poor and supporting the spiritual needs of her community. After death, her body was found incorrupt, which contributed to her canonization in 1947.
Received visions of the Virgin Mary
Established the Miraculous Medal
Canonized as a saint in 1947
Other People Born on May 2nd
Troy Murphy
Basketball player with NBA achievements
Born
May 2nd, 1980 46 years ago
A basketball player competed in the NBA from 2001 to 2012. Played primarily as a power forward. Played for teams like the Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, New Jersey Nets, and the Miami Heat. Attended the University of Notre Dame, where earned All-American honors.
Continue ReadingPatrick Hillery
Irish Physician and President of Ireland
Born
May 2nd, 1923 103 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2008 18 years ago — 84 years old
An influential physician and politician served as the 6th President of Ireland from 1976 to 1990. A graduate of University College Dublin, specialization in medicine led to a prominent career in public health. The political journey began in 1957 as a member of the Fianna Fáil party, contributing to various government roles, including Minister for Health and Minister for Foreign Affairs. During the presidency, focused on promoting peace and reconciliation in Ireland. A noted advocate for social justice and education, the tenure included significant participation in international diplomatic efforts.
Continue ReadingEdmund Bacon
Urban Planner and Educator
Born
May 2nd, 1910 116 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 95 years old
An American urban planner, architect, and educator, played a significant role in shaping modern urban environments. Served as the Executive Director of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission from 1949 to 1964. Developed plans for major areas in Philadelphia, including Society Hill, which transformed the neighborhood into a model of urban renewal. Authored several influential books on urban planning and architecture, emphasizing the importance of community-oriented design and integration of public spaces. Contributed to architectural education through teaching positions at various institutions.
Continue ReadingPaul George
Basketball player with the Indiana Pacers
Born
May 2nd, 1990 36 years ago
A professional basketball player, born in 1990, played primarily as a small forward. Achieved recognition for outstanding performances in the National Basketball Association (NBA) during tenures with the Indiana Pacers and Los Angeles Clippers. Secured multiple All-Star selections and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Team. Gained acclaim for contributions to the Pacers' playoff runs, including reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2013. Represented the United States in international competitions, winning gold medals in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Continue ReadingEddie Collins
Baseball player and manager with accolades
Born
May 2nd, 1887 139 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1951 75 years ago — 63 years old
A distinguished baseball player and manager, excelled as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Philadelphia Athletics and Chicago White Sox, achieving significant success during the early 20th century. Collected over 3,300 hits throughout a career spanning nearly three decades. Managed the Chicago White Sox after his playing career, contributing to the team's strategy and performance during a transformative period in baseball. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949, reflecting a legacy of excellence in the sport.
Continue ReadingVăn Tiến Dũng
Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Born
May 2nd, 1917 109 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 24 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the sixth Minister of Defence of Vietnam from 1974 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding the North Vietnamese Army during key offensives. Participated in various military strategies leading to the reunification of Vietnam. After the war, contributed to the military reform policies within the country until retirement. Influenced defense policies during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Arnold Rüütel
Estonian politician and President
Born
May 10th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2024 1 years ago — 96 years old
An agronomist and politician, served as the President of Estonia from 2001 to 2006. Elected to the Riigikogu, the Estonian parliament, in 1990, played a significant role in Estonia's transition to independence from the Soviet Union. During presidency, focused on strengthening national identity and international relations. Prior to presidency, held various positions in the agricultural sector, contributing to the country's development in post-Soviet times.
Continue ReadingBetty White
Actress and television personality
Born
January 17th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 99 years old
An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.
Continue ReadingDonald E. Westlake
Author and screenwriter of crime novels
Born
July 12th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2008 17 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and screenwriter contributed significantly to the literary world through over 100 published works. Primarily recognized for writing crime and mystery novels, influenced the genre with clever plots and sharp wit. His most notable work includes the Parker series, featuring the character Parker, a professional thief. Westlake also achieved acclaim in screenwriting, particularly for writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of Richard Stark's novel. He received the Edgar Award multiple times, solidifying his reputation in crime fiction. His writing style combined humor and suspense, appealing to a broad audience.
Continue ReadingGeorge Sisler
Baseball player and scout, Hall of Famer
Born
March 24th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2006 19 years ago — 113 years old
An American baseball player and scout, garnered fame in Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman. Played for the St. Louis Browns from 1915 to 1927 and had a remarkable career, achieving a batting average of .340 over 15 seasons. In 1922, led the league in batting average and hits, earning the American League MVP award. After retirement, served as a scout for various teams, contributing to the development of future talent in the sport.
Continue ReadingPer Oscarsson
Swedish actor, director, screenwriter
Born
January 28th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2010 15 years ago — 83 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to European cinema. Gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Appeared in notable films such as 'The Uninvited' and 'The Nothing Factory'. Beyond acting, directed several stage productions and spent time developing screenplays. Received acclaim for performance in 'The Man on the Roof', which showcased versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Awarded the Guldbagge Award for Best Actor.
Continue ReadingEileen Heckart
American actress in stage and film
Born
March 29th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2001 24 years ago — 82 years old
An actress with a career spanning over six decades in film, television, and theater. Gained prominence for roles in the Broadway production of 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs' and the film 'Butterflies Are Free'. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in 'Butterflies Are Free'. Appeared in multiple television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Love Boat'.
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