Denis Compton
Cricketer and footballer; England representative
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Played cricket for Middlesex County Cricket Club and represented England in international matches. Achieved significant success in the sport, including being part of the England team that won the 1947 Ashes series. In addition to cricket, played football for Arsenal Football Club and represented England at the international level in that sport. Notable for versatility in excelling in both cricket and football during the mid-20th century.
Represented England in cricket
Played for Arsenal in football
Other People Born on May 23rd
Hélène Boucher
French aviator and record-holder
Born
May 23rd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1934 91 years ago — 26 years old
Achieved significant milestones in aviation as a pioneering French pilot. Competed in the Coupe Deutsch de la Meurthe and set multiple speed records in the 1930s. Became the first woman to fly a series of races, showcasing remarkable skill and determination. Her contributions to aviation were cut short by a tragic accident in 1939, yet her legacy remains influential in the history of women in aviation.
Continue ReadingAlicia de Larrocha
Catalan pianist, concerto performer
Born
May 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Barcelona, a noted pianist gained international recognition for performances of Spanish classical music and interpretations of composers such as Granados and Albéniz. Debuted at the age of five and performed with major orchestras worldwide including the London Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. Collaborated with prominent conductors and musicians, receiving accolades for exceptional artistry and technique. Active in teaching and inspiring future generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingFelix Steiner
SS officer and military leader
Born
May 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1966 59 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Commanded the SS division known as the 11th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division Nordland. Participated in various military operations on the Eastern Front and played a significant role during the battles in the latter stages of the war. Post-war, faced legal issues related to wartime actions.
Continue ReadingS. Donald Stookey
American physicist and inventor of CorningWare
Born
May 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old
Born in 1915, this physicist and chemist contributed significantly to materials science. The invention of CorningWare revolutionized cooking and kitchenware, combining unique properties of glass and ceramic. This product gained widespread usage in homes and food service. Additionally, work on photo-sensitive glass led to advancements in imaging technology. The influence of these inventions extended into both culinary and industrial applications.
Continue ReadingBetty Garrett
Actress and singer in Broadway musicals
Born
May 23rd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent American actress, singer, and dancer, performed in Broadway musicals and films. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'On the Town' and featured in the film adaptation. Notably appeared in the television series 'Laverne & Shirley' as Edna Babish. Her career spanned several decades, captivating audiences with her talent in both musical theater and television.
Continue ReadingJules Dumont d'Urville
French Admiral and Antarctic Explorer
Born
May 23rd, 1790 235 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1842 183 years ago — 51 years old
An admiral and explorer, contributed to the understanding of the Antarctic region and the Pacific Ocean. Commanded several voyages, with notable expeditions aboard the Astrolabe and Zélée between 1837 and 1840. Played a significant role in the early exploration of Australasia and the South Pole, mapping numerous territories and introducing advancements in scientific exploration methodologies.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 23rd
F. Michael Rogers
American general
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a general in the United States Army, with a notable career including command of the United States Army's 1st Infantry Division during key operations. Led troops in various capacities, contributing to military strategy and execution in significant conflicts. Played a vital role in the evolution of military operations throughout the late 20th century, engaging in both training and combat scenarios.
Continue ReadingRay Jackson
Australian activist for Aboriginal rights
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
An activist focused on Aboriginal rights and recognition. Played a significant role in raising awareness about the struggles faced by Indigenous Australians. Co-founded the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in 1972, representing the ongoing fight for land rights and sovereignty. Advocated for justice and equality throughout his life, participating in various campaigns and demonstrations that aimed to address the issues affecting Aboriginal communities. His work contributed to the ongoing dialogue and activism surrounding Indigenous rights in Australia.
Continue ReadingAntonio Maccanico
Italian banker and politician
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent Italian figure in banking and politics, held influential positions throughout a significant career. Served as the Minister for Public Administration and Innovation and as the Minister of Treasury during the 1990s. Was involved in the establishment of the fiscal and regulatory framework of Italy during the transition to the Euro. Contributed to various legislative initiatives aimed at economic reform and modernization of public services.
Continue ReadingHelen Vendler
Literary critic and Harvard professor
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent literary critic, engaged with poetry and literature throughout a lengthy academic career. Served as a professor at Harvard University, contributing to the study of poetry and literary criticism. Authored several influential books, offering insights into the works of major poets. Also focused on aesthetic and philosophical aspects of literature, imparting knowledge to both students and the public. Participated in public lectures and discussions, contributing to the discourse on contemporary poetry and literary analysis. The impact of her writings extends to fields of literary study and criticism.
Continue ReadingBrian Boru
Irish king and Battle of Clontarf leader
Died
April 23rd, 1014 1011 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the High King of Ireland from 1002 until 1014. Played a significant role in unifying various Irish kingdoms and was central to the resistance against Viking invasions. Achieved notable military success in the Battle of Clontarf, which was fought on April 23, 1014, where his forces defeated the Vikings and their allies. His reign marked a crucial period in Irish history as it laid the foundation for a more centralized Irish state.
Continue ReadingDavid Halberstam
American journalist and author of books
Born
April 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 73 years old
A journalist and author, widely recognized for works focusing on American culture, politics, and media. Gained prominence during the Vietnam War, providing critical reporting that led to a Pulitzer Prize. Authored several books examining sports and historical events, including a notable work on the 1950s era in America, and various biographies of significant figures in sports and politics. Had a prolific career as a writer and commentator, contributing to various publications and often engaging in media discussions.
Continue Reading