Farley Mowat

Canadian environmentalist and author

Farley Mowat - Canadian environmentalist and author
Born

May 12th, 1921
104 years ago

Died

May 6th, 2014
11 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Canada

Links & References

This Canadian author and environmentalist wrote extensively about nature and conservation. Many works highlighted the relationship between humans and the environment, with early publications reflecting a deep concern for wildlife preservation. The book 'Never Cry Wolf' presented an influential narrative on the life of wolves and their ecosystem. Mowat's writing style combined humor and heartfelt observations, which resonated with a wide audience. He traveled extensively, often immersing in the habitats he documented. His advocacy for the environment and critiquing of government policy drew national and international attention.

Wrote 'Never Cry Wolf'

Authored more than 40 books

Other People Born on May 12th

Gustav I of Sweden

King of Sweden; established Swedish independence
Born
May 12th, 1496 529 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1560 464 years ago — 64 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1523, initiating a significant shift in Swedish politics and society. Organized a rebellion against Danish domination during the Kalmar Union, leading to the eventual independence of Sweden. His reign marked the beginning of the Vasa dynasty, which consolidated power and reformed governance. Encouraged the Protestant Reformation within Sweden, transitioning the nation from Catholicism to Lutheranism. Implemented policies that strengthened the central authority of the monarchy and expanded Swedish territory through diplomacy and military action.

Continue Reading

Ian McLagan

Keyboard Player for Faces and Small Faces
Born
May 12th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2014 10 years ago — 69 years old

A British keyboard player and songwriter, contributed significantly to the rock music scene from the 1960s onward. Played with Small Faces, a prominent rock band, contributing to the band's self-titled album and hits like 'Itchycoo Park.' Later became a member of Faces, alongside Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood. The group released several albums, including 'A Nod Is As Good As a Wink... to a Blind Horse,' featuring popular tracks such as 'Stay With Me.' Collaborated with various artists throughout a long career, showcasing versatility across multiple genres.

Continue Reading

Joseph Beuys

German sculptor and social sculptor
Born
May 12th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1986 39 years ago — 64 years old

A sculptor and painter, focused on the concept of social sculpture and the role of art in society. Developed unique techniques and theories, emphasizing the connection between creativity and social change. Contributed to the Fluxus movement in the 1960s and engaged in various performances that incorporated materials like fat and felt, highlighting his belief in transformation and healing. Participated in political activism, advocating for democracy and environmental causes. Established the Free International University for Creativity and Interdisciplinary Research in 1973.

Continue Reading

Etika

YouTuber and live streamer
Born
May 12th, 1990 35 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2019 6 years ago — 29 years old

An American YouTuber and live streamer gained prominence through engaging content primarily focused on video games, particularly Nintendo franchises. Established a significant online presence with a lively personality and unique style that resonated with audiences. Created reaction videos that captured the excitement of gaming announcements and developments. Started the channel in 2012, quickly growing a large subscriber base. Faced challenges related to mental health, leading to an impactful discussion in online communities about mental well-being and support.

Continue Reading

Billy Squier

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 12th, 1950 75 years ago

An American musician, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. Achievements include releasing several successful albums during the 1980s, such as 'Don't Say No' and 'Emotions in Motion'. Also recognized for a string of hit singles that received significant airplay, including 'The Stroke' and 'Lonely Is the Night'. Squier's music features a blend of rock and pop elements, contributing to his reputation as a prominent figure in the genre. Influenced many artists with a distinctive guitar style and songwriting.

Continue Reading

Johan Vilhelm Snellman

Finnish philosopher and politician
Born
May 12th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1881 144 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1806, a philosopher and politician contributed significantly to the development of Finnish identity and nationalism. Played a critical role in the establishment of Finnish as a national language. Engaged in debates that shaped Finnish society and culture, emphasizing the importance of education and civic responsibility. Served as a member of the Senate and participated in various government initiatives that promoted Finnish autonomy within the Russian Empire.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 6th

Jimmy Ellis

American boxer and former champion
Born
February 24th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1940, this boxer gained recognition in the heavyweight division. Rising to fame in the late 1960s, held the WBA heavyweight title after defeating Jerry Quarry in 1968. Faced notable opponents, including Muhammad Ali, and served as a key figure in the boxing world during his active years. Retired in the mid-1970s, transitioned into coaching and sports commentary, contributing to boxing communities for several years following retirement.

Continue Reading

Novera Ahmed

Bangladeshi sculptor recognized for art.
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

An influential sculptor from Bangladesh, contributions spanned over several decades. Specialized in the use of traditional materials shaped into contemporary forms. Exhibited works in national and international galleries, gaining recognition for the fusion of modern and classical techniques. Focused on themes relevant to Bangladesh's culture and heritage, often utilizing local motifs in sculpture. Contributed to the establishment and promotion of the art scene in Bangladesh through mentorship and public engagement.

Continue Reading

Zhou Zuoren

Chinese author and translator of essays
Born
January 16th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1967 58 years ago — 82 years old

An influential figure in modern Chinese literature, contributed to the introduction of Western literary concepts. Served as a cultural mediator between China and the West during the early 20th century. Published a variety of essays and translations, primarily focusing on Western philosophical and literary works. Engaged with the May Fourth Movement, emphasizing the importance of vernacular literature. His literary work often explored themes of individualism and modernity.

Continue Reading

Enéas Carneiro

Brazilian physician and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Graduated in medicine and specialized in cardiology. Entered politics and gained notoriety through candidacies for the presidency of Brazil. Gained attention during the 1990s for his distinctive campaign style, often featuring a rapid speaking manner and a memorable call to action on healthcare issues. Elected to the Chamber of Deputies multiple times, where legislative focus included health care and public policies. His tenure was marked by significant contributions to discussions on health reform.

Continue Reading

Earl Blaik

American football coach and player
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1989 36 years ago — 92 years old

Played football at the University of Michigan and served as head coach at Dartmouth College and Army. Led the Army football team from 1941 to 1948, achieving significant success during that period. Under his guidance, the team won four national championships and had a remarkable record. Developed a reputation for producing future NFL players and coaching excellence.

Continue Reading

Maria Lassnig

Austrian painter and academic
Born
September 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old

Austrian painter specialized in body awareness and self-portraiture. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and later became a professor at the University of applied Arts in Vienna. Developed a unique style, focusing on the representation of the body through emotional and psychological lenses. Spent years in Paris and New York, where engagement with contemporary art developed significantly. Won the distinguished Grand Austrian State Prize for Fine Arts in 2011, cementing a significant academic career and establishing a legacy in the field of modern painting.

Continue Reading