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
Sam Nujoma
Namibian politician, 1st President
Born
May 12th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2025 1 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in the struggle for Namibia's independence, the first president played a significant role in the country’s transition from colonial rule to autonomy. Serving as president from 1990 to 2005, efforts included establishing a constitutional democracy and promoting national unity. Prior to presidency, involvement in the liberation movement as a leader of SWAPO (South West Africa People's Organization) was crucial in gaining political recognition. Engagement in various international platforms to advocate for African solidarity further defined the political career.
Continue ReadingFlorent Amodio
Figure skater and European champion
Born
May 12th, 1990 35 years ago
Competed in figure skating representing France. Achieved prominence by winning the 2012 European Figure Skating Championships. Participated in the 2010 Winter Olympics and several World Figure Skating Championships, frequently showcasing technical skills and artistic expression. Throughout career, established a reputation for captivating performances and strong competitive presence.
Continue ReadingMarcelo
Brazilian footballer, Real Madrid star
Born
May 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in Brazil, a professional footballer began career with Fluminense before moving to Spain. Played as a left-back for Real Madrid, debuting in 2007. Helped team secure multiple domestic and international titles, including four UEFA Champions League titles. Represented Brazil in several international tournaments.
Continue ReadingFrenkie de Jong
Dutch footballer and Barcelona midfielder
Born
May 12th, 1997 28 years ago
Born in 1997, this Dutch footballer rose through the ranks of youth football, eventually joining the senior team of Ajax. During time at Ajax, contributed significantly to the team's success in winning the Eredivisie and the KNVB Cup in 2019. His performances at Ajax caught the attention of European clubs, leading to a transfer to FC Barcelona in 2019. At Barcelona, continued to showcase exceptional skills as a midfielder, playing a key role in the team’s strategies and successes.
Continue ReadingEmperor Shōkō of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Muromachi period
Born
May 12th, 1401 624 years ago
Died
1428 598 years ago — 27 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1412 and ruled during a turbulent period marked by the onset of the Sengoku period. His reign witnessed the challenges of power struggles between various clans within Japan. The central authority weakened as regional daimyōs gained power, diminishing the imperial influence. Played a symbolic role as the head of state despite limited political power. The era was characterized by the emergence of new cultural practices and the continuation of the feudal system. His reign lasted until 1428 when he abdicated, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the political complexities of the time.
Continue ReadingClemens von Pirquet
Immunologist and creator of allergy testing
Born
May 12th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1929 97 years ago — 54 years old
Contributed significantly to immunology, particularly through the development of the skin test for allergies. Introduced the concept of 'allergy' as a medical term and formulated the von Pirquet test, which assessed hypersensitivity reactions. Published research on the immune response and strengthened the understanding of vaccines and infectious diseases, laying groundwork for future advancements in immunology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 13th
Ida McNeil
American broadcaster and flag designer
Born
September 8th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1974 51 years ago — 85 years old
A broadcaster and designer emerged from South Dakota. McNeil created the state flag of South Dakota, which was adopted in 1909. In addition to flag design, McNeil also contributed to various broadcasting initiatives, bringing attention to local stories and issues. The work in broadcasting fostered communication and engagement in the community, achieving statewide recognition.
Continue ReadingSigizmund Levanevsky
Soviet aircraft pilot of Polish origin
Born
May 15th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1937 88 years ago — 35 years old
Became a notable pilot in the Soviet Air Force, participating in various aviation expeditions. Achieved recognition for pioneering long-distance flights. Engaged in the quest to establish transpolar air routes, advancing logistical capabilities for the Soviet military during the 1930s.
Continue ReadingLonnie Mayne
American professional wrestler
Born
September 12th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1978 47 years ago — 33 years old
A professional wrestler active during the 1960s and 1970s, participated in major wrestling promotions including the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and American Wrestling Association (AWA). Gained recognition for a charismatic persona in the ring, with memorable storylines and rivalries. Wrestled alongside and against notable wrestlers of the era, contributing to the popularization of professional wrestling. Helped to enhance the spectacle of sports entertainment during this period.
Continue ReadingMickey Mantle
Baseball player, 3-time MVP
Born
October 20th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1995 30 years ago — 63 years old
One of the most celebrated baseball players, earned a reputation as a powerful switch-hitter during a career spanning from 1951 to 1968. Played for the New York Yankees and contributed to seven World Series championships. Achieved American League MVP titles in 1956, 1957, and 1962. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974 after a prolific career that included numerous All-Star selections and a Triple Crown win in 1956.
Continue ReadingEduard Buchner
German chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 20th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1917 108 years ago — 57 years old
A chemist and zymologist, significant contributions included research in fermentation, particularly focusing on the role of enzymes. Buchner's work established the foundation for the field of biochemistry. In 1907, he received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for discovering that fermentation can occur without living yeast cells, a groundbreaking finding in the study of biochemical processes. Buchner's research also included studies on the properties of enzymes and their role in fermentation.
Continue ReadingJames Roosevelt
American politician and general
Born
December 23rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1991 34 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1907, this individual served as a United States Army officer during World War II and later became a prominent politician. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, he represented California's 26th congressional district from 1955 to 1965. He played a significant role in various legislative efforts and was involved in discussions surrounding veteran affairs and social welfare. After leaving Congress, continued to engage in political discussions and community service.
Continue Reading