Florence Nightingale
Nurse and founder of modern nursing
Born
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An Italian-English nurse, social reformer, and statistician, contributed significantly to healthcare and established nursing as a profession. Gained recognition during the Crimean War for organizing care for wounded soldiers, significantly reducing the death rate through improved sanitary conditions. Advocated for reforms in hospitals and the nursing profession, establishing the Nightingale Pledge and founding a training school for nurses in London. Emphasized the importance of statistics in healthcare, laying the groundwork for evidence-based nursing practices.
Established the Nightingale Pledge
Organized care during the Crimean War
Founded the Nightingale School of Nursing
Other People Born on May 12th
Rishi Sunak
British politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 12th, 1980 45 years ago
Held the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer from February 2020 to July 2022. Played a significant role in the government during the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing measures such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to support businesses and workers. Assumed office as Prime Minister in October 2022, focusing on economic stability and public services. Received education from prestigious institutions including Oxford and Stanford, contributing to the political landscape in the United Kingdom. Emphasized fiscal policies and economic reforms during tenure.
Continue ReadingMark Thomas
British sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
May 12th, 1965 60 years ago
A British sprinter specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, representing Great Britain. Achieved notable success in the 1990 Commonwealth Games, where earned a gold medal in the 4x100 meters relay. Also set multiple personal bests and participated in various international competitions during a career that spanned several years.
Continue ReadingDomhnall Gleeson
Irish actor from 'Star Wars' series
Born
May 12th, 1983 42 years ago
An actor with a range of roles across film and television. Starred in 'About Time' as Tim Lake, showcasing talent in romantic comedy. Gained significant recognition for participation in the 'Star Wars' sequel trilogy, portraying General Hux. Contributed to various projects in independent films, gaining acclaim for performances. Worked extensively with acclaimed directors and participated in stage productions in Ireland.
Continue ReadingSteve Smith Sr.
American football wide receiver
Born
May 12th, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for the Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens. Smith spent 13 seasons with the Panthers, becoming the franchise's all-time leading receiver. A five-time Pro Bowl selection, he was known for his exceptional speed and playmaking ability. Smith won Super Bowl 50 with the Ravens and finished his career with over 14,000 receiving yards, ranking among the all-time leaders in the league. His fierce competitiveness and leadership were noted throughout his career, earning him a reputation as one of the top receivers of his generation.
Continue ReadingEleftheria Eleftheriou
Singer and musician, represented Cyprus
Born
May 12th, 1989 36 years ago
Born in 1989, a Greek Cypriot singer and musician, gained recognition after representing Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 with the song 'Aphrodisiac'. She began her music career at a young age and has released several singles and albums reflecting her musical versatility. In addition to her singing career, Eleftheriou has also appeared in theatre productions, showcasing her talents as an actress. Her contribution to the music scene in Cyprus and participation in international competitions highlights her artistic endeavors.
Continue ReadingJesús Franco
Filmmaker and horror genre pioneer
Born
May 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
A Spanish director, screenwriter, producer, and actor, recognized for contributions to the horror genre. Directed over 200 films, spanning various styles and themes. Developed a unique style characterized by low budgets and provocative content. Collaborated with notable actors, including Christopher Lee and Soledad Miranda. Gained a cult following through films that often blended eroticism with horror. His works included titles such as 'Count Dracula', 'The Awful Dr. Orlof', and 'Vampyros Lesbos', which have garnered attention in film studies and retrospectives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 13th
Richard Alatorre
American politician and city council member
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a member of the Los Angeles City Council from 1985 to 1999. Influenced local policies and community development efforts during a significant period of urban change in Los Angeles. Engaged in various initiatives aimed at addressing housing issues and improving the quality of life in the city. Held a leadership role in city governance, contributing to the legislative process and serving constituents in the 14th district.
Continue ReadingTigran Petrosian
Chess Player, World Chess Champion
Born
June 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1984 41 years ago — 55 years old
A celebrated chess player, contributed significantly to the game during the mid-20th century. Achieved the title of World Chess Champion in 1963, successfully defending it until 1969. Participated in multiple international tournaments, showcasing strategic depth and defensive prowess. Led the Soviet team in various Chess Olympiads, contributing to their dominance in the chess world.
Continue ReadingJulia Child
Chef and author of Mastering the Art of French Cooking
Born
August 15th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent chef and author, she revolutionized American cooking with an emphasis on French cuisine. Child studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and gained fame through the television series 'The French Chef', which premiered in 1963. Her approachable style and clear instructions made gourmet cooking accessible to many home cooks in the United States. She authored multiple cookbooks, with 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' being particularly significant for its impact on culinary practices. Child won several awards, including a Peabody Award and an Emmy Award, cementing her legacy in the culinary world.
Continue ReadingKenny Baker
American fiddler and musician
Born
June 26th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
A fiddler and musician, performed extensively in the country music scene. Played with notable artists and contributed to various recordings, showcasing traditional American fiddle music. Participated in festivals and gatherings that celebrated American folk traditions, earning recognition in the genre for dedication to his craft.
Continue ReadingCollis Potter Huntington
American railroad magnate and entrepreneur
Born
October 22nd, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1900 125 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent American businessman and railroad magnate, played a significant role in the development of the western United States during the 19th century. Founded the Central Pacific Railroad, which was instrumental in the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad, connecting California with the eastern United States. Expanded business ventures into mining and shipping industries, establishing a strong economic presence in the region. During the late 1800s, worked on several other railroad projects that contributed to the expansion of the American railway system.
Continue ReadingLouis Bastien
French cyclist and fencer
Born
October 26th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1963 62 years ago — 81 years old
Accomplished in both cycling and fencing, contributions in these sports spanned multiple competitions. Competed prominently in cycling events during the early 20th century and represented France in various national and international fencing tournaments. Achieved recognition for skill and technique in both disciplines, earning respect within the sporting community.
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