Faisal II of Iraq

Last King of Iraq (reigned 1939-1958)

Faisal II of Iraq - Last King of Iraq (reigned 1939-1958)
Born

May 2nd, 1935
90 years ago

Died

1958
67 years ago — 23 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Iraq

Links & References

Ascended to the throne in 1939 at the age of four after the death of his father. Presided over a period of significant political change and modernization attempts in Iraq amid regional and internal strife. Faced numerous challenges during his reign, including coup attempts and political instability. Was deposed and executed following a military coup in 1958, which ended the monarchy in Iraq.

Reigned as King of Iraq from 1939 until 1958

Oversaw modern development initiatives in Iraq

Was a constitutional monarch during a tumultuous period

Other People Born on May 2nd

Engelbert Humperdinck

Singer and pianist with hit songs
Born
May 2nd, 1936 89 years ago

Born in 1936, this English singer achieved global fame during the 1960s and 1970s with his romantic ballads. A successful career began after the release of the iconic single 'Release Me' in 1967, which topped the charts and became a signature song. The artist demonstrated unique vocal talent and flair in performances, contributing to a prominent presence in the music industry. Multiple albums and hit songs followed, securing a lasting legacy in popular music. The artist's style incorporated pop and easy listening, appealing to a wide audience across generations.

Continue Reading

John Glascock

Singer and bass player, Carpenters
Born
May 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1979 45 years ago — 28 years old

A bassist and singer prominent in the 1970s rock scene, contributed to the band Carpenters. Played bass guitar on the albums 'Horizon' and 'A Kind of Hush'. Joined the band after the departure of the original bassist and became an integral part of their sound during a successful period. Also known for work with bands such as C.T.A. and demonstrated versatility as a talented musician.

Continue Reading

Theodor Herzl

Zionist leader and political activist
Born
May 2nd, 1860 165 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1904 121 years ago — 44 years old

Austro-Hungarian Zionist philosopher, journalist, and author. Played a crucial role in establishing modern political Zionism. Advocated for the creation of a Jewish state as a solution to anti-Semitism in Europe. Authored 'Der Judenstaat', which outlined the vision for Jewish self-determination. Organized the First Zionist Congress in 1897 in Basel, Switzerland, which served as a key moment in the establishment of the Zionist movement.

Continue Reading

Văn Tiến Dũng

Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Born
May 2nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the sixth Minister of Defence of Vietnam from 1974 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding the North Vietnamese Army during key offensives. Participated in various military strategies leading to the reunification of Vietnam. After the war, contributed to the military reform policies within the country until retirement. Influenced defense policies during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history.

Continue Reading

Johan Botha

South African cricketer and captain
Born
May 2nd, 1982 43 years ago

A cricketer played as an off-spin bowler and a right-handed batsman. He represented South Africa in various formats, including Test, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20s. Captained the national team in limited-overs formats. Played domestic cricket for teams such as the Eastern Province and the Warriors. Contributed to several international series, including the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. Retired from international cricket in 2016.

Continue Reading

E. E. Smith

Science fiction author and engineer
Born
May 2nd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1965 59 years ago — 75 years old

An engineer and writer, crafted influential science fiction works primarily in the mid-20th century. His notable series included 'Lensman,' which set a foundation for space opera subgenre in literature. The intricate world-building and complex narratives in his novels garnered a dedicated following and inspired future writers in the genre. In addition to writing, contributions to engineering and technical fields were notable, illustrating a career bridging imagination and innovation.

Continue Reading