Daniel Gélin
French actor and director, 'The Bridge of the River Kwai'
Born in France, this actor, director, and screenwriter began a film career in the 1940s. Gained recognition in various films during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' directed by David Lean. Besides acting, also took on directing and screenwriting roles throughout the career. Worked in both French and international cinema, maintaining a significant presence in the film industry into the 21st century.
Acted in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'
Directed films such as 'La Femme aux deux sourires'
Other People Born on May 19th
Dick Slater
Professional wrestler and wrestling promoter
Born
May 19th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 67 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, achieved recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in major wrestling promotions including World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Also contributed as a trainer to upcoming wrestlers throughout a long career spanning multiple decades. Gained a reputation for his technical wrestling skills and charismatic persona, influencing a generation of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingJim Lehrer
Journalist and News Anchor
Born
May 19th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 86 years old
An American journalist and author centered around public broadcasting and political coverage. Served as the executive editor and anchor of PBS NewsHour for over three decades. Moderated presidential debates, contributing to the discourse surrounding American politics. Authored several books, including memoirs and fiction.
Continue ReadingGary Kildall
Computer scientist, founded Digital Research
Born
May 19th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1994 31 years ago — 52 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of operating systems, particularly through the creation of CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers). Founded Digital Research, which provided software for microcomputers and played a key role in the early personal computing revolution. Developed one of the first operating systems compatible with the IBM PC. Later, CP/M was overshadowed by MS-DOS but was pivotal in establishing software standards and practices in the industry.
Continue ReadingAlma Cogan
English singer with chart-topping hits
Born
May 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1966 59 years ago — 34 years old
Achieved popularity as a British singer during the 1950s and early 1960s, often referred to as 'The Girl with the Giggle in Her Voice.' Gained fame for hit songs such as 'Wonderland by Night' and 'Bell Bottom Blues'. Captured audiences with a distinctive style that blended vocal talent with charismatic performances. Had significant chart success in the UK, earning multiple hits in the top 10.
Continue ReadingNeelam Sanjiva Reddy
President of India and politician
Born
May 19th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 6th President of India from 1977 to 1979. Held various positions in Indian politics, including Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Played a significant role in the Indian National Congress party and was involved in the Indian independence movement. Worked in various capacities, including serving as the Minister of Home Affairs and the Minister for Undivided Andhra Pradesh. His presidency was marked by considerable political change in India.
Continue ReadingMustafa Kemal Atatürk
Turkish field marshal and statesman.
Born
May 19th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1938 88 years ago — 57 years old
A field marshal and revolutionary leader, served as the first President of Turkey from 1923 until 1938. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Republic of Turkey following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. Introduced a series of extensive reforms in education, law, and women's rights to modernize Turkish society. Established secularism as a fundamental principle of the new nation, separating state and religion.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Juan N. Méndez
Mexican General and Interim President
Born
July 2nd, 1820 205 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1894 131 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a general in the Mexican army and held the position of interim president from 1876 to 1877. Participated in the political and military conflicts during the late 19th century, particularly during the upheavals surrounding the presidency of Porfirio Díaz. Worked to stabilize the government and address various issues arising from the ongoing political instability. Engaged in military campaigns that defined the era and influenced the future direction of the country.
Continue ReadingRalph Beard
American basketball player and coach
Born
December 2nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 79 years old
Began basketball career at the University of Kentucky, contributing significantly to the team's success. Played professional basketball in the 1940s and 1950s, primarily with the Indianapolis Olympians. Achieved recognition for outstanding skills on the court, becoming a key player during the early days of the NBA. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, guiding various teams.
Continue ReadingGraham Hill
Racing driver; two-time F1 world champion
Born
February 15th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1975 50 years ago — 46 years old
A prominent racing driver from England, achieved significant success in Formula One during the 1960s and early 1970s. Secured a total of two World Championships, first in 1962 and again in 1968. Notable for driving with teams such as BRM and Lotus, where he demonstrated exceptional skill on various circuits. Additionally, ventured into business, establishing a successful career after retiring from racing. Contributed to motorsport as a commentator and team manager, remaining influential in the racing community.
Continue ReadingFerenc Münnich
Hungarian soldier and politician
Born
November 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1967 58 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 47th Prime Minister of Hungary from 1958 to 1961. Participated in World War I as a soldier and later in the Hungarian Soviet Republic. After the fall of the Soviet Republic, faced imprisonment but returned to political life following World War II. Held key positions in the Hungarian Socialist Workers' Party and played a significant role in the political restructuring of Hungary in the post-war period. Contributed to various reforms during the 1950s.
Continue ReadingFrank Waller
American middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
June 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1941 84 years ago — 57 years old
Won a silver medal in the 800 meters at the 1908 Olympic Games held in London. Competed in the 1906 Intercalated Games, securing a gold medal in the 800 meters. Represented the United States in multiple international competitions, achieving significant recognition in middle-distance running during the early 20th century. Contributed to the development of the sport through participation in prestigious events.
Continue ReadingSherab Palden Beru
Tibetan painter known for thangka art
Born
1911 115 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 101 years old
A renowned Tibetan painter specialized in thangka art, contributing significantly to the preservation and continuation of traditional Tibetan painting techniques. Trained under skilled masters, developed a unique style that reflected traditional themes while incorporating contemporary elements. Established art schools to teach thangka painting, fostering a new generation of artists. Engaged in exhibitions that showcased Tibetan culture and art, promoting understanding of Tibetan heritage worldwide.
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