Daniel Solander

Botanist and phycologist; Flora Lapponica

Daniel Solander - Scientists & Innovators born 1736
Born

1736
290 years ago

Died
Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Sweden

Links & References

A botanist and phycologist, contributed to the study of plant life and the identification of algae. Studied at Uppsala University, where engaged with Carl Linnaeus, developing a deep understanding of plant taxonomy. Participated in the Endeavour voyage alongside James Cook, leading to the collection and documentation of numerous plant species in Australia and the Pacific Islands. Flora Lapponica, a significant work, detailed the flora of Lapland, showcasing various plant species and their characteristics.

Published Flora Lapponica

Accompanied James Cook on the Endeavour

Other People Who Died on May 13th

Doris Day

Singer and actress in musicals and films
Born
April 3rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 97 years old

An American singer and actress, emerged in the late 1940s and became a leading figure in the entertainment industry. Achieved widespread fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in iconic films such as 'Pillow Talk', 'Calamity Jane', and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Transitioned seamlessly between music and acting, recording hit songs like 'Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)'. Established an animal welfare foundation later in life, advocating for animal rights and protection.

Continue Reading

Earl Averill

Baseball player, All-Star outfielder
Born
May 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 112 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1929 to 1941. Averill debuted with the Cleveland Indians and later played for the Detroit Tigers and the Chicago White Sox. Earned a reputation as a power hitter and was selected as an All-Star multiple times. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1975.

Continue Reading

Unita Blackwell

Civil rights activist and politician
Born
March 18th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1933, this individual was a prominent civil rights activist and the first African American woman elected mayor in Mississippi. Active during the civil rights movement, significant contributions included efforts to improve the social and economic conditions of African Americans in the Delta region. Served as the mayor of Mayersville from 2000 to 2004 and was a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives. Participated in numerous protests and marches advocating for voting rights and educational access, working alongside other civil rights leaders.

Continue Reading

Malik Bendjelloul

Film director of 'Searching for Sugar Man'
Born
September 14th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 36 years old

Bendjelloul was a Swedish director and producer. He gained recognition for the documentary 'Searching for Sugar Man', which explored the life of musician Rodriguez and his unexpected fame in South Africa. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2012 and received critical acclaim. It was awarded the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2013. Bendjelloul's approach combined storytelling with a deep exploration of music's impact on culture and society.

Continue Reading

Morning Glory Zell-Ravenheart

Occultist and author of grimoires
Born
May 27th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old

An American occultist and author contributed significantly to the field of modern witchcraft and neopaganism. Established a prominent community focused on the studies of ancient pagan practices and spirituality. Founded a well-known esoteric journal and published various works that explored themes of magic, mythology, and the sacred feminine. Advocated for the revival of earth-centered spirituality and provided resources for practitioners and seekers of mystical traditions.

Continue Reading

Gainan Saidkhuzhin

Russian cyclist with Olympic legacy
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old

Competed in cycling at the Olympic level representing the Soviet Union. Participated in multiple international competitions, earning recognition in road racing events. Achieved a significant personal milestone by competing in the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Later held a coaching position, influencing new generations of cyclists in Russia.

Continue Reading