F. E. McWilliam
Irish sculptor and educator
An Irish sculptor and educator, this individual contributed significantly to the field of sculpture throughout the 20th century. Active in both London and Ireland, the sculptor's work reflected modernist influences, characterized by a unique approach to form and space. Educated at the Belfast School of Art, the sculptor also had a notable teaching career that involved influencing future generations of artists. Some works integrated figurative elements with abstract styles, showcasing an innovative interpretation of traditional sculptural techniques. The artwork remains celebrated for its aesthetic qualities and conceptual depth.
Created significant works such as 'The Galleon'
Taught at the Royal College of Art in London
Exhibited widely including the Tate Gallery
Other People Born on April 30th
Anne of Gloucester
English noblewoman and historical figure
Born
April 30th, 1383 643 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1438 587 years ago — 55 years old
Born into English nobility, Anne of Gloucester was the daughter of Thomas of Woodstock, the Duke of Gloucester, and Eleanor de Bohun. Through her marriage to Richard of York, she became connected to the powerful Yorkist faction. Anne's life unfolded during a tumultuous period in English history marked by the conflicts of the Wars of the Roses. After the death of her husband, she played a role in the political landscape of the time. Anne's lineage and marriage positioned her within the shifting allegiances of noble families in England, which had lasting effects on the power dynamics of the era.
Continue ReadingFrançois de Laval
Bishop and Saint of Quebec
Born
April 30th, 1623 403 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1708 318 years ago — 85 years old
Francis de Laval served as the first bishop of Quebec, playing a pivotal role in the establishment of the Catholic Church in New France. Appointed the bishop in 1674, he dedicated his life to missionary work and the education of Native Americans. He established the Séminaire de Québec in 1663, which became a central institution for the training of priests. His work emphasized education and the importance of moral and spiritual guidance within the burgeoning colony. Canonized as a saint in 2014, he is revered in the Catholic Church for his contributions to faith and education in Canada.
Continue ReadingBobby Vee
Pop singer-songwriter with chart hits
Born
April 30th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 73 years old
A pop singer-songwriter gained prominence in the early 1960s. Launched a successful career with a hit cover of "Take Good Care of My Baby." Released numerous chart-topping singles, including "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" and "Rubber Ball." Vee's music resonated with audiences during the rise of rock and roll, contributing to the genre's evolution. Continued to perform and release music throughout the decades, maintaining a following.
Continue ReadingDorival Caymmi
Brazilian singer-songwriter and artist
Born
April 30th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1914, a prominent Brazilian singer-songwriter and painter, contributed significantly to the musical landscape of Brazil. Focused on the cultural themes of Bahia, his work blended regional influences with popular music. Caymmi's compositions gained popularity within Brazilian music circles and beyond. In addition to music, engaged in painting, complementing his artistic portfolio. Enjoyed a fruitful career in entertainment, influencing generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingFerdinand von Hochstetter
Austrian geologist and academic
Born
April 30th, 1829 197 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1884 141 years ago — 55 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of geology, particularly within the context of Austria and the South Pacific. Served as a professor at the University of Vienna, where geological sciences were further developed. Conducted significant geological surveys in New Zealand, leading to discoveries that enhanced understanding of the region's geology. Authored several important works on geology and paleontology, including a comprehensive study on the geological formations of New Zealand.
Continue ReadingJoachim von Ribbentrop
German Foreign Minister during WWII
Born
April 30th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 53 years old
Served as the 14th German Reich Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1938 to 1945. Played a significant role in Nazi Germany's foreign policy and diplomatic relations leading up to and during World War II. Instrumental in negotiating the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, a non-aggression treaty between Germany and the Soviet Union in 1939. Held influence over Germany's alliances and conflicts throughout the war, promoting military strategies and expansionist policies.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 13th
Earl Averill
Baseball player, All-Star outfielder
Born
May 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 112 years old
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1929 to 1941. Averill debuted with the Cleveland Indians and later played for the Detroit Tigers and the Chicago White Sox. Earned a reputation as a power hitter and was selected as an All-Star multiple times. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1975.
Continue ReadingJoseph Henry
American physicist and engineer known for electromagnetism
Born
December 17th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1878 147 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent American physicist and engineer, contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. His research laid foundational principles for the development of the telegraph and other electrical devices. Henry made substantial advancements in the understanding of self-induction and mutual induction, which are crucial for the operation of inductors in electrical circuits. He also served as the first Director of the National Institute for the Promotion of Science, now part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. An influential figure in the scientific community, engaged in extensive correspondence with contemporaries such as Michael Faraday.
Continue ReadingSamm-Art Williams
American playwright with acclaimed works
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
A playwright and screenwriter, contributions spanned theater and film. Developed works that highlighted African American experiences and narratives. Gained recognition for the play 'Home', which depicted the struggles of a returning Vietnam veteran. Served as a scriptwriter for various television productions, showcasing talent in creating relatable and poignant characters. Engaged in the arts community through multiple workshops and mentorship programs.
Continue ReadingRichard Ellmann
Literary critic and biographer of Joyce
Born
March 15th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1985 40 years ago — 67 years old
An American author and critic, specialized in modernist literature, particularly the works of James Joyce. Authored a celebrated biography of Joyce, which provided in-depth analysis and context to the author's life and writings. Also penned influential works on other literary figures, including W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett. Served as a professor at various universities and contributed significantly to literary criticism through essays and reviews, shaping the understanding of 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingKhalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan
2nd President of the UAE
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2022 3 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the second President of the United Arab Emirates from 2004 until death in 2022. Oversaw significant economic development and modernization in the UAE. Played a vital role in enhancing the country’s global stature and stability. Contributed to the establishment of various social and educational initiatives aiming to improve the well-being of citizens.
Continue ReadingJohn Nash
Architect of the Royal Pavilion, Brighton
Born
January 18th, 1752 274 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1835 190 years ago — 83 years old
An architect prominent in the early 19th century specialized in the Gothic Revival style. Designed the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, showcasing a unique blend of Indo-Saracenic and Chinese styles. This iconic structure served as a royal retreat for King George IV and remains a significant piece of British architectural heritage. Nash contributed to the redesign of London’s Regent's Park and was instrumental in the development of Regent Street, influencing urban planning in the city.
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