David Edward Hughes
Physicist, co-inventor of the microphone
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
A Welsh-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of acoustics through the invention of the microphone. This invention was pivotal in the development of sound technology. His work in electrical engineering also included innovations in telegraphy and the study of electromagnetic waves. Hughes's contributions enabled advances in communication and sound reproduction.
Co-invented the carbon microphone
Conducted research in telegraphy
Explored properties of electromagnetic waves
Other People Born on May 16th
Olga Korbut
Soviet gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
May 16th, 1955 70 years ago
Achieved international fame as a competitive gymnast during the 1970s. Won three gold medals and a silver at the 1972 Munich Olympics, which marked a significant moment in gymnastics history. Notable for her innovative and daring routines, which contributed to the evolution of the sport. After retiring from competition, transitioned to coaching and performing internationally.
Continue ReadingMare Winningham
Actress & singer-songwriter; 'Georgia' (1988)
Born
May 16th, 1959 66 years ago
An actress and singer-songwriter, gained prominence through roles in film and television, particularly in the 1988 movie 'Georgia' and the television series 'Thirtysomething'. Won two Primetime Emmy Awards for performances in 'Amber Waves' and 'My Name is Bill W.'. Performed in various stage productions, showcasing musical talents alongside acting career. Released several albums featuring original songs, merging the influences of folk and pop music. Collaborated with notable artists throughout music career.
Continue ReadingAnthony St John
English lawyer and businessman
Born
May 16th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in 1957, a prominent English lawyer and businessman held the title of 22nd Baron St John of Bletso. Education was completed at Harrow School and later at the University of East Anglia. In addition to legal work, involvement in various business ventures occurred. Contributions to public life included a role in the House of Lords, representing his hereditary peerage, and participation in discussions on legal and business matters.
Continue ReadingJuan Rulfo
Mexican author of 'Pedro Páramo'
Born
May 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1986 40 years ago — 68 years old
An influential Mexican author and photographer, contributions included novels and short stories that explored the complexities of rural life in Mexico. 'Pedro Páramo' remains a significant work in Latin American literature, blending magical realism with the harsh realities of existence. Besides fiction, produced substantial photography that captured the essence of Mexican culture and landscapes. Involved in screenwriting for film, bringing literary themes to visual media, including the adaptation of his own work.
Continue ReadingJohn Salley
Basketball player, 4-time NBA champion
Born
May 16th, 1964 61 years ago
Professional basketball player and actor. Played in the NBA from 1986 to 2000. Achieved success with multiple teams, including the Detroit Pistons, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Lakers. Contributed to four NBA Championships during the career. Transitioned into acting, appearing in films such as 'Bad Boys' and 'Eve's Bayou.' Known for versatility on the court and in entertainment.
Continue ReadingBruce Norris
Playwright, won Pulitzer Prize
Born
May 16th, 1960 65 years ago
A playwright, recognized for contributions to contemporary theater. Works often address social issues and provoke critical thought. Achieved prominence with the play "Clybourne Park," which explores themes of race and gentrification. The play received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2011. Other works include "The Pain and the Itch" and "A Parallelogram," both of which showcase distinctive narrative styles and character complexity. Norris has also engaged in various collaborative artistic projects and contributed to dialogues about theater's role in society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Yordano Ventura
Dominican MLB pitcher with World Series ring
Born
June 3rd, 1991 34 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2017 9 years ago — 25 years old
A professional baseball pitcher played in Major League Baseball primarily for the Kansas City Royals. Ventura debuted in 2013 and quickly became recognized for a fastball that consistently reached over 100 mph. He contributed significantly to the Royals' 2015 World Series championship, marking the franchise's first title in 30 years. Known for his competitive spirit, Ventura's career was tragically cut short when he died in a car accident in 2017 at the age of 25. The athlete was regarded as a bright talent in the sport, leaving a lasting legacy in the baseball community.
Continue ReadingLewis Morris
American judge and politician
Born
April 8th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1798 228 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Held the position of Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court. Contributed to the establishment of several policies during the formative years of the United States.
Continue ReadingCraig Claiborne
Food critic and cookbook author
Born
September 4th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2000 26 years ago — 79 years old
An influential food critic and author, played a significant role in shaping American culinary journalism. Served as the food editor for The New York Times for over 30 years. Authored several cookbooks, with 'The New New York Times Cookbook' receiving particular acclaim for modernizing traditional recipes. Championed the importance of food culture and refined American palates through detailed restaurant reviews and culinary criticism.
Continue ReadingJoseph P. Bradley
American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
March 14th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1892 134 years ago — 78 years old
Served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1870 to 1892. Appointed by President Ulysses S. Grant, contributed to significant legal precedents and decisions during a transformative period in U.S. history. Participated in cases involving civil rights, commerce, and government powers. Also served as a U.S. Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit and was involved in various legal capacities throughout his career.
Continue ReadingBilly May
Trumpet player and composer
Born
November 10th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2004 22 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent American trumpet player and composer, contributed significantly to the big band era of music. Worked with various orchestras and artists, bringing innovation to arrangements and compositions. Also known for the unique style of integrating jazz and popular music.
Continue ReadingJean-Louis Barrault
French actor and director of 'Les Enfants du paradis'
Born
September 8th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1994 32 years ago — 83 years old
An influential French actor and director, played a prominent role in the French theatrical landscape in the 20th century. Led the acclaimed theater company, the Théâtre de la Comédie-Française, known for its distinguished productions. Directed and starred in 'Les Enfants du paradis', a classic French film that received critical acclaim upon its release. His contributions extended to various forms of theatrical performance including classical plays and modern works. Barrault's dedication to the arts helped in the revival of interest in French theatre during post-war France.
Continue Reading