Dick Irvin
Canadian ice hockey player and coach
Played professional ice hockey primarily for the Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned into coaching and led the Canadiens to multiple championships. Contributed to the game's development through his coaching strategies and leadership.
Played for Montreal Canadiens
Coached Montreal Canadiens to three Stanley Cup victories
Other People Born on July 19th
Samuel Colt
American engineer and inventor of firearms
Born
July 19th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1862 163 years ago — 47 years old
An engineer and businessman who founded Colt's Manufacturing Company in 1855. Colt revolutionized the firearms industry with the development of the revolver. The invention of the Colt Paterson revolver in 1836 allowed for multiple shots without reloading, enhancing the effectiveness of firearms. The company's products became widely used in the military and law enforcement. Colt's innovations established a standard for future firearm designs.
Continue ReadingSeraphim of Sarov
Russian monk and canonized saint
Born
July 19th, 1759 266 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1833 192 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in the Russian Orthodox Church, contributed to monastic life and spiritual teachings in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Established a hermitage near Sarov, where intense prayer and ascetic practices were emphasized. Engaged with the local community and offered guidance to those seeking spiritual counsel. Recognized for deep spirituality and emphasis on the importance of acquiring the Holy Spirit. Canonized in the early 20th century, became one of the most beloved saints in Russian Orthodoxy.
Continue ReadingGeorges Friedel
Mineralogist known for Friedel's law
Born
July 19th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in mineralogy and crystallography, made significant contributions to the understanding of crystal structures. Developed Friedel's law, which applies to the orientation of minerals. Focused on the analysis of mineral composition and structure through scientific methods. Served as a professor at the University of Strasbourg and contributed to various scientific publications, enhancing knowledge in the field of mineralogy.
Continue ReadingNeelie Kroes
Dutch politician, European Commissioner
Born
July 19th, 1941 84 years ago
Born in 1941, a Dutch politician served as a European Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society from 2014 to 2019. Previous roles included Minister of Transport, Public Works and Water Management in the Netherlands and a member of the Dutch Parliament. As a member of the European Commission, focused on enhancing the digital economy in Europe. Played a key role in implementing the 2015 Digital Single Market strategy aimed at ensuring high-speed internet access and digital services across member states.
Continue ReadingLewis Price
Welsh footballer with notable goalkeeping
Born
July 19th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional footballer excelled as a goalkeeper, starting career at Cardiff City. Played for clubs including Ipswich Town, Crystal Palace, and Newport County. Represented the Wales national team at various levels, contributing to international matches. Played in over 200 league games during club career and displayed exceptional skills that garnered attention in the football community.
Continue ReadingSue Thompson
American singer with pop hits
Born
July 19th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1925, a singer achieved success in the 1950s and 1960s. Released popular songs such as 'Sad Movies (Make Me Cry)' and 'Paper Roses.' Recorded multiple albums during a prolific career, showcasing a blend of pop and country music. Collaborated with various artists and influenced the music scene of her time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 15th
Bud Tingwell
Australian actor, director, producer
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
An Australian actor, director, and producer, he built a career across stage, television, and film. Notable roles included performances in the television series 'Homicide' and 'A Country Practice'. He appeared in films such as 'The Castle' and 'The Sum of Us'. His directing work encompassed both theater and television. He was recognized for contributions to the Australian entertainment industry over several decades.
Continue ReadingJerry Falwell
American minister and television host
Born
August 11th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2007 18 years ago — 73 years old
Founded the Thomas Road Baptist Church in 1956, serving as its pastor for decades. Established Liberty University in 1971, which became one of the largest Christian universities. Created the Old-Time Gospel Hour, a television program that broadcasted religious content nationwide. Played a significant role in the Moral Majority, a political organization that mobilized conservative Christians in the 1980s.
Continue ReadingFred Willard
American actor and comedian, 'Best in Show'
Born
September 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2020 5 years ago — 86 years old
An American actor and comedian, contributed significantly to the world of comedy through performances in television and film. Gained recognition for roles in cult classics such as 'This Is Spinal Tap' and 'Best in Show.' Appeared in various television series including 'Fernwood 2 Night' and 'Modern Family,' showcasing a distinctive comedic style. Participated in comedy improvisation and provided voice work for animated series, enhancing his versatility as a performer.
Continue ReadingJean-Luc Dehaene
Belgian politician and former Prime Minister
Born
August 7th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 73 years old
A lawyer and politician, served as the 63rd Prime Minister of Belgium from 1992 to 1999. Held significant roles in government that contributed to the country's development and European integration. Represented the Flemish Liberals and Democrats and was instrumental in constitutional reforms. Played a key role in the establishment of the euro and was involved in various European Union policies during tenure.
Continue ReadingArno Lustiger
German historian and author
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
Specialized in Holocaust studies and Jewish history, contributed significantly to understanding Nazi Germany's impact on Jewish communities. Authored several books that examined the historical context of the Holocaust and Jewish resistance during World War II. Engaged in educational efforts, raising awareness about the Holocaust through lectures and publications.
Continue ReadingGordon Prange
Historian and author of WWII works
Born
July 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1980 45 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent historian and educator specialized in World War II, focusing on the Pacific theater. Played a crucial role in documenting and analyzing the events surrounding the attack on Pearl Harbor. Authored several influential books including 'At Dawn We Slept', which provided a comprehensive account of the attack and its implications. His research and writings contributed extensively to the understanding of military history and the dynamics of warfare during this pivotal time.
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