Debra Winger
Actress known for Terms of Endearment
Debra Winger is an American actress recognized for her roles in notable films. Achievements include three Academy Award nominations for Best Actress for performances in 'Terms of Endearment,' 'An Officer and a Gentleman,' and 'Shadowlands.' Winger gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s, becoming a prominent figure in American cinema. Additional work includes participation in the film 'The Sheltering Sky' and television including 'In Treatment.'
Nominated for three Academy Awards
Starred in Terms of Endearment
Starred in An Officer and a Gentleman
Other People Born on May 16th
Walter Yust
American journalist and author
Born
May 16th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1960 65 years ago — 65 years old
Worked as a journalist and editor, specializing in both reporting and editorial writing. Served as the editor of several prominent publications, contributing significant pieces that shaped public discourse. Authored books on various topics, reflecting a deep engagement with literature and history. Contributed to the field of journalism, influencing future generations of writers and reporters through editorial guidance and mentorship. Participated in significant historical events through reporting, providing detailed accounts that enhanced understanding of contemporary issues.
Continue ReadingDesanka Maksimović
Serbian poet and academic
Born
May 16th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1993 33 years ago — 95 years old
Contributed significantly to Serbian literature and education. Recognized for a compelling body of poetry reflecting themes of love, nature, and the human experience. Served as a professor of literature at various educational institutions. Engaged with cultural movements and contributed to the development of modern Serbian poetry. Published numerous collections, with works often emphasizing the struggles and joys of life.
Continue ReadingEdmund Kirby Smith
American Civil War general
Born
May 16th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1893 132 years ago — 68 years old
Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Played a significant role in key battles, including the Battle of First Manassas and the Battle of Chattanooga. Commanded the Trans-Mississippi Department and led forces in various campaigns across the southern United States. After the war, worked as a professor and held administrative roles in higher education.
Continue ReadingRoyal Rife
Microbiologist and inventor of Rife machine
Born
May 16th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed to microbiology and alternative medicine by developing the Rife machine, which purportedly could treat various diseases by using electromagnetic frequencies. Conducted research into the link between viruses and diseases and proposed theories on the existence of specific viruses responsible for multiple ailments. Established a series of experiments demonstrating the effects of frequency on microorganisms. Although his work faced skepticism from the medical community, it inspired later developments in alternative therapies and frequency-based treatments.
Continue ReadingMaria Gaetana Agnesi
Mathematician and philosopher, wrote 'Analytical Institutions'
Born
May 16th, 1718 307 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1799 227 years ago — 80 years old
An Italian mathematician and philosopher contributed significantly to mathematics and philosophy during the 18th century. Renowned for writing 'Analytical Institutions', which focused on calculus and introduced the concept of the witch of Agnesi. Also served as a professor at the Bologna University. Her work bridged the gap between geometry and analysis, and she was one of the first women to gain recognition in a male-dominated field. Agnesi’s contributions included advancements in the study of differential equations and functions, further enriching the mathematical discourse of her time. In her later years, she dedicated herself to charitable works and education.
Continue ReadingMargret Rey
Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
May 16th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Germany, this author and illustrator created beloved children's literature alongside her husband, H.A. Rey. The pair co-authored the iconic 'Curious George' series, which debuted in 1941 and has grown to include numerous books and adaptations in various media. After fleeing Europe during World War II, they settled in the United States, where their works gained immense popularity. The stories' gentle humor and engaging characters captured the imaginations of generations of children. The legacy continues through adaptations into television and film, ensuring the characters remain familiar to new audiences.
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