Eliot Ness
Law enforcement agent and Prohibition agent
Served in law enforcement during the Prohibition era and gained fame as the leader of the Untouchables, a special unit tasked with enforcing prohibition laws in Chicago. Targeted the notorious gangster Al Capone and played a significant role in his conviction for tax evasion. Later became Public Safety Director of Cleveland, where significant reforms were implemented in the police department and city safety policies. Authored an autobiography detailing experiences and obstacles faced in combating organized crime.
Led the Untouchables against Al Capone
Implemented police reforms in Cleveland
Other People Born on April 19th
Deaf Smith
American soldier in the Texas Revolution
Born
April 19th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
1837 189 years ago — 50 years old
Served as a soldier in the Texas Revolution. Participated in significant battles including the Siege of Bexar and the Battle of San Jacinto. Worked closely with Sam Houston and was a trusted scout. After the revolution, engaged in various roles including land surveying and serving as a captain in the Texas militia. Played a crucial role in the early development of Texas.
Continue ReadingFerdinand I of Austria
Austrian Emperor and monarch, 1848 abdication
Born
April 19th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1875 150 years ago — 82 years old
Reigned as Emperor of Austria from 1835 until abdication in 1848. Faced significant challenges during his reign, including national uprisings and the revolutionary movements of 1848. Abdicated the throne due to pressure from revolutionaries and family, leading to the ascension of his nephew Franz Joseph I. His reign saw significant political unrest and the struggle for national identity within the Austrian Empire. Post-abdication, lived in exile until death in 1875.
Continue ReadingGeorge O'Brien
American actor in silent films
Born
April 19th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1985 40 years ago — 86 years old
An American actor played leading roles in silent films and early talkies. Gained prominence in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in Westerns. Notable films include 'The Iron Horse' and 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans', the latter winning an Academy Award for Best Unique and Artistic Picture. Transitioned to sound films successfully, showcasing versatility in various genres.
Continue ReadingWilliam Carnegie
Scottish Admiral, 7th Earl of Northesk
Born
April 19th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1831 194 years ago — 73 years old
Served in the Royal Navy and achieved the rank of Admiral. Oversaw various naval operations during his career. Inherited the title of 7th Earl of Northesk, a peerage in Scotland. Engaged in the naval engagements of the late 18th century, contributing to maritime dominance. Renowned for strategic leadership during periods of conflict.
Continue ReadingGetúlio Vargas
Brazilian lawyer and politician, President
Born
April 19th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1954 71 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1882, a lawyer and politician served as the 14th President of Brazil. First presidency spanned from 1930 to 1945, leading Brazil during the Vargas Era with significant industrial and social reforms. His government established labor rights, social welfare, and pivotal economic policies to modernize the nation. After a brief period out of power, returned in 1951, serving until 1954 when he resigned amid political pressure. His legacy includes influencing Brazilian politics for decades and shaping modern Brazilian society through economic and social changes.
Continue ReadingGermaine Tailleferre
French composer and educator
Born
April 19th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1983 42 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent figure in French music, contributed significantly to the 20th-century classical scene. Tailleferre studied at the Paris Conservatory under notable composers, establishing a reputation as an innovative composer. Collaborated with the group Les Six, whose members sought to create a distinctly French musical identity. Composed works across various genres, including orchestral pieces, operas, and choral music. Tailleferre's music often exhibited elements of neoclassicism and folk influences. Additionally, served as an educator, inspiring future generations of composers and musicians.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
John Stevens Henslow
English botanist and geologist
Born
February 6th, 1796 230 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1861 164 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of botany and geology through extensive research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge, where teachings focused on systematic botany. Played a pivotal role in the scientific community by mentoring young naturalists, including Charles Darwin. Advocated for the establishment of botanical gardens and guided explorations in natural history.
Continue ReadingKalle Hakala
Finnish politician and parliament member
Born
March 18th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 78 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament for the National Coalition Party. Participated actively in political discussions and legislative processes during a significant period in Finland's national development. Contributed to the formulation of policies impacting various sectors, including education and social welfare. Engaged in efforts to promote national interests and represent constituents' views in parliamentary sessions.
Continue ReadingMehmed VI
Ottoman Sultan during World War I
Born
January 14th, 1861 165 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1926 99 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1861, served as the last Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1918 until the abolition of the sultanate in 1922. His reign coincided with the tumultuous period of World War I and the subsequent occupation of Istanbul. Oversaw the empire during significant political and social changes, including the rise of nationalist movements. After the defeat of the Ottoman Empire, fled to Italy. His reign marked the end of a centuries-old dynasty that had ruled over vast territories, including parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Continue ReadingPiet Blauw
Dutch Politician and Public Official
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in Dutch politics, served as a member of the House of Representatives. Held various positions within the government, focusing on social policies and public welfare. Played a significant role in shaping legislative developments during tenure and was active in community initiatives.
Continue ReadingEdward Hardwicke
English actor of Sherlock Holmes series
Born
August 7th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 78 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, primarily recognized for roles in television and film. Gained significant recognition for portraying Dr. John Watson in the Sherlock Holmes television adaptations alongside Jeremy Brett. Participated in various theater productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed to numerous British television dramas, making a notable impact as a character actor.
Continue ReadingAlain Cuny
French actor in 'The Wages of Fear'
Born
July 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1994 31 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent French actor with a career spanning several decades, recognized for performances in notable films during the mid-20th century. Played significant roles in classics like 'The Wages of Fear' directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot, and 'The Longest Day', showcasing a range of emotional depth. Cuny contributed to the French cinema landscape and collaborated with various influential filmmakers, cementing his status in the performing arts.
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