David Rocastle
English footballer and Arsenal star
Played as a midfielder, contributing significantly to English football during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Spent his most notable years at Arsenal, where he was part of the team that won the First Division title during the 1988-1989 season. Known for skillful dribbling and tenacity on the field, Rocastle also represented the English national team. His playing career included stints at other clubs like Leeds United, Manchester City, and Chelsea.
Won the First Division title with Arsenal in 1989
Represented England in 17 international matches
Other People Born on May 2nd
Ludwig August Lebrun
Oboe player and composer of concertos
Born
May 2nd, 1752 273 years ago
Died
1790 236 years ago — 38 years old
An oboe player and composer who contributed significantly to the repertoire for the oboe during the late 18th century. Lebrun performed at various courts across Europe and became a prominent figure in orchestral music. His compositions included numerous concertos and chamber works, showcasing the capabilities of the oboe. His professional career included positions with notable orchestras and collaborations with other musicians of the time.
Continue ReadingMoshoeshoe II of Lesotho
King of Lesotho and national leader
Born
May 2nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1996 30 years ago — 57 years old
Ascended to the throne of Lesotho in 1966. Played a significant role in Lesotho's politics, especially during the 1990s. Worked towards modernizing the kingdom and maintaining its sovereignty. Encountered challenges during a military coup in 1994, which affected the monarchy's stability. Passed away in 1996 under uncertain circumstances, leading to a complex legacy in Lesotho's history.
Continue ReadingRoscoe Lee Browne
Actor in television and film
Born
May 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old
An American actor and director with a distinctive voice and commanding presence, contributed significantly to theater, television, and film. Played a variety of roles in significant productions. Appeared in the television series 'The Cosby Show' and 'Baa Baa Black Sheep.' Also featured in films such as 'The Trial of the Chicago 7' and 'The Last Goodbye.' Directed and acted in several stage plays, influencing the performing arts community.
Continue ReadingVăn Tiến Dũng
Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Born
May 2nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 23 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 ReadingYasir Shah
Pakistani cricketer with Test match success
Born
May 2nd, 1986 39 years ago
A professional cricketer excelled in the Test format for Pakistan. Debuted in 2014 and quickly became a key bowler for the national team. Achievements include several match-winning performances and the fastest bowler to reach 200 Test wickets. Played in numerous international series and contributed significantly to Pakistan's bowling attack.
Continue ReadingJoe Wilkinson
English comedian and actor
Born
May 2nd, 1975 50 years ago
Born in England in 1975, this comedian and actor gained recognition for performances on television and stage. Served as a writer and performer on various shows, showcasing a unique style of humor. Achieved prominence through appearances on BBC and Channel 4 programs, contributing to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 31st
Anne Gwynne
American actress of horror films
Born
December 10th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old
Prominent actress during the 1940s, she appeared in numerous horror films. She starred in features such as 'The House of Frankenstein' and 'Black Friday'. Gwynne also appeared in many comedies and war films, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In addition to her film career, she was active in radio and television.
Continue ReadingGeorge Charles Haité
English painter and illustrator
Born
June 8th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1924 101 years ago — 68 years old
Active during the 19th and early 20th centuries, this individual specialized in landscape painting and illustration. His work predominantly featured scenes of rural England, often showcasing the beauty of nature and countryside. In addition to landscapes, he illustrated books and contributed to the genre of children's literature. The artist's paintings were exhibited in prestigious galleries, and his illustrations captured the imagination of readers, particularly in the context of Victorian publications.
Continue ReadingImre Kertész
Hungarian author and Nobel Prize winner
Born
November 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old
This Hungarian author wrote extensively about the Holocaust and its lasting effects on humanity. Works include 'Fatelessness,' which reflects on the experiences of a young Jewish boy in Auschwitz. The literary career spanned several decades, with themes exploring individuality and existentialism. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2002 for the body of work, emphasizing the importance of personal experience in understanding history. The impact of historical trauma on human identity served as a central focus throughout writings.
Continue ReadingGeorges V. Matchabelli
Businessman and diplomat, founder of perfume
Born
July 23rd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1935 90 years ago — 49 years old
A Georgian-American businessman and diplomat established the Prince Matchabelli perfume brand in the early 20th century. The brand gained recognition for its luxurious fragrances and innovative marketing strategies. Matchabelli served as an ambassador for Georgia in the United States, promoting cultural and economic ties between the two nations. The perfume company became known for its signature scents and elegant packaging, making a lasting mark in the beauty industry. Matchabelli's contributions to both diplomacy and business extended beyond mere commercial success, facilitating connections between his heritage and the American market.
Continue ReadingWyndham Halswelle
Runner and Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 30th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1915 110 years ago — 32 years old
Competed as a middle-distance runner, achieving significant success in the early 20th century. Gained recognition for participation in the 1908 London Olympic Games, where won the gold medal in the 400 meters. Also represented Great Britain in various international competitions, contributing to the sport during a formative period.
Continue ReadingYuri Knorozov
Linguist and ethnographer, Maya script researcher
Born
November 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1999 26 years ago — 76 years old
A Russian linguist and ethnographer, contributions focused on deciphering the Maya script. Developed a method for reading and understanding the ancient text, which significantly advanced the field of Mesoamerican studies. Published works that outlined grammatical structures and meanings within the glyphs. The research provided insights into Maya culture and history, facilitating further scholarly investigation into Maya civilization and languages.
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