Émile Henry

French anarchist and bomb maker

Émile Henry - Activists & Humanitarians born 1872
Born

1872
154 years ago

Died
Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

France

Links & References

Active in the late 19th century, engaged in anarchist activities. Conducted attacks against establishments in Paris and advocated for revolutionary change. Responsible for multiple bombings, which targeted public officials and symbolized resistance against authority. Spent time in prison due to activism and was executed by guillotine for his actions, highlighting the government's stance against anarchism.

Executed for bombings in Paris

Targeted prominent establishments

Other People Who Died on May 21st

Ann Little

American actress in silent films
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1984 42 years ago — 93 years old

Active in the early 20th century, this actress starred in silent films. Gained attention for performances in movies such as 'The Coming of Amos' (1913) and 'The Count of Monte Cristo' (1922). Transitioned to sound films but her prominence diminished with the advent of talkies. Continued to work in various acting roles throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Continue Reading

Raymond McCreesh

Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 25th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 45 years ago — 24 years old

Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.

Continue Reading

Conrad IV

King of Germany and Sicily
Born
1228 798 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1254 772 years ago — 26 years old

Became King of Germany in 1250 and later King of Sicily in 1254. His reign was marked by conflicts over imperial authority and control over the Kingdom of Sicily. Faced challenges from papal authority and opposition from other noble factions within the German territories. Died at a young age, leaving an unfinished legacy tied to both the Holy Roman Empire and the southern Italian kingdom.

Continue Reading

Binyavanga Wainaina

Kenyan writer and memoirist
Born
January 18th, 1971 55 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2019 7 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent Kenyan writer, contributed significantly to contemporary African literature. Authored the acclaimed memoir 'One Day I Will Write About This Place' which explores themes of identity and belonging in post-colonial Kenya. Also served as the editor for 'Kwani?', a Kenyan literary magazine which provided a platform for emerging African voices. His literary work often reflected on the complexities of race, culture, and politics in Africa.

Continue Reading

Pandolfo Petrucci

Tyrant of Siena
Born
February 14th, 1452 574 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1512 514 years ago — 60 years old

Governed Siena during the late 15th century. Achieved power through a combination of political maneuvering and military strength. Established a ruling dynasty in Siena that controlled the city for decades, influencing its affairs and politics. Oversaw significant changes in the governance and administration of the city-state. His rule marked the transition of Siena from a free comune to a more centralized authority.

Continue Reading

Wang Anshi

Chinese economist and chancellor
Born
December 8th, 1021 1004 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1086 940 years ago — 64 years old

An influential Chinese economist and chancellor, focused on reforming the Sung dynasty's economic policies. Implemented the New Policies, which aimed to stabilize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand state control over tax collection. These reforms included the promotion of state-sponsored loans and the establishment of a better government procurement system for grain. Writings on economic theory, governance, and philosophy contributed extensively to intellectual discourse during his time and afterward.

Continue Reading