Francesco Baracca

Italian fighter pilot, wartime ace

Francesco Baracca - Italian fighter pilot, wartime ace
Born

May 9th, 1888
136 years ago

Died

June 19th, 1918
106 years ago — 30 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Italy

Links & References

Born in 1888, served in the Italian Air Force during World War I. Achieved prominence as a fighter pilot, becoming Italy's most celebrated air ace. Accumulated a significant number of aerial victories, showcasing exceptional aviation skills. Played a pivotal role in several key battles, demonstrating tactical prowess and bravery. His legacy endures through the Baracca emblem, a prancing horse, later adopted by Ferrari.

Achieved 34 confirmed aerial victories

Used the prancing horse as his personal emblem

Served in the Italian Air Force

Other People Born on May 9th

Anton Cermak

Czech-American politician and mayor
Born
May 9th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1933 92 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the 44th Mayor of Chicago from 1931 until his death in 1933. Cermak was an influential figure in the Democratic Party and played a key role in the city's political landscape during the early 20th century. Under his leadership, Chicago experienced significant changes in various municipal operations. Cermak's tenure included efforts to improve city services and infrastructure, boosting the city's reputation and appeal. He was involved in the controversial handling of organized crime, which was prevalent in Chicago at the time. Cermak was shot in an assassination attempt on President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933, though he later succumbed to his injuries.

Continue Reading

Brandon Webb

Professional baseball player and pitcher
Born
May 9th, 1979 45 years ago

A professional baseball player, achieved prominence as a pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). Played primarily for the Arizona Diamondbacks and enjoyed significant success during career tenure. After winning the National League Cy Young Award in 2006, represented the United States in international competition. Contributed to the team’s success in the playoffs as a key player.

Continue Reading

Jerónima de la Asunción

Spanish Catholic nun and founder
Born
May 9th, 1555 469 years ago
Died
1630 395 years ago — 75 years old

Established the first monastery in Manila, contributing to the spread of Catholicism in the Philippines. Dedicated life to religious service and education. Played a significant role in the formation of monastic life in the country during the Spanish colonial period.

Continue Reading

Anne Sofie von Otter

Swedish soprano and acclaimed actress
Born
May 9th, 1955 69 years ago

Born in Sweden in 1955, this soprano gained recognition for performances in opera and concert. Training at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm laid a foundation for a distinguished career. Notable roles included performances at the Metropolitan Opera, where operatic excellence was showcased. Collaborations with prominent conductors and orchestras contributed to a significant repertoire across various musical styles. In addition to classical singing, television appearances in operatic productions and concert films further established visibility. Recordings included award-winning projects that spanned both operatic and contemporary repertoire.

Continue Reading

Dorothy Hyman

English sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
May 9th, 1941 83 years ago

Born in 1941, a prominent English sprinter distinguished in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Achieved success at the 1960 Rome Olympics, finishing in the top spots. Competed actively in international championships during the 1960s, gaining recognition and accolades for sprinting prowess. Dominated the domestic tracks with multiple championship titles and consistently performed well across various prestigious meets, placing a strong focus on speed and technique. Her athletic career spanned several years, marking significant achievements in women's sprinting.

Continue Reading

James L. Brooks

Director of 'The Simpsons' and 'Terms of Endearment'
Born
May 9th, 1940 84 years ago

A prominent American director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to television and film. Created the animated television series 'The Simpsons', which has become one of the longest-running series in television history. Directed and produced the film 'Terms of Endearment', winning several Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Played a key role in shaping popular culture through innovative comedic storytelling.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 19th

Joseph Banks

Botanist and explorer of the Pacific
Born
February 24th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1820 204 years ago — 77 years old

A significant figure in the field of botany and exploration during the 18th century. Undertook an influential expedition to the Pacific Ocean aboard the HMS Endeavour, which lasted from 1768 to 1771. Collected thousands of plant specimens during the voyage, many of which were previously unknown to Europe. Served as president of the Royal Society from 1778 to 1820, promoting scientific research and exploration. Contributed extensively to the advancement of botanical knowledge through publications and his role in fostering the study of natural history.

Continue Reading

Anton Yelchin

Actor in Star Trek and Like Crazy
Born
March 11th, 1989 36 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2016 8 years ago — 27 years old

Born in 1989, this Russian-American actor gained recognition for performances in various film and television roles. Achieved prominence for roles in the 'Star Trek' film series as Pavel Chekov, bringing a fresh interpretation to the character. Delivered acclaimed performances in 'Like Crazy', a romantic drama that highlighted his range and emotional depth. His career was marked by collaborations with various well-known directors and actors, showcasing his acting versatility until his untimely death in 2016.

Continue Reading

Carlos Monsiváis

Mexican journalist and cultural critic
Born
May 4th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2010 14 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent Mexican journalist and author, contributed significantly to literature and social critique in Mexico. Played a crucial role in shaping contemporary Mexican thought and culture through essays, articles, and books. His work often focused on popular culture, politics, and the complexities of Mexican identity. Engaged with multiple genres, serving as a critic and chronicler of the evolving social landscape in Mexico. Wrote extensively about topics such as the Mexican Revolution, contemporary politics, and the cultural implications of globalization.

Continue Reading

Romuald

Italian mystic and founder of Camaldolese
Died
June 19th, 1027 997 years ago — None years old

In the 10th century, a mystic and saint founded the Camaldolese order, promoting eremitical monasticism. During early years in the monastic life, a spiritual awakening led to a commitment to asceticism. Established numerous monasteries, emphasizing solitude, prayer, and contemplation. His teachings encouraged a return to original monastic practices and a stronger connection to the divine. A significant figure in the monastic reforms of the period, his influence extended beyond his lifetime.

Continue Reading

Lee Krasner

American painter and Abstract Expressionist
Born
October 27th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1984 40 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent American painter, played a significant role in the development of Abstract Expressionism. Initially trained at the National Academy of Design and later at the Art Students League, explored various artistic styles before settling into a bold, expressive approach. Merged personal experiences with innovative techniques, utilizing dynamic color palettes and textured surfaces. Achieved recognition through solo exhibitions and inclusion in major art shows. Collaborated with other artists and was married to painter Jackson Pollock, contributing to the vibrant art scene of the time.

Continue Reading

Juan Bautista Alberdi

Argentine theorist and diplomat
Born
August 29th, 1810 214 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1884 140 years ago — 73 years old

A significant figure in Argentine history, contributed to the development of the country's constitutional framework. Played a vital role in drafting the Argentine Constitution of 1853. Emigrated to Europe after political conflicts, where writings on governance and political theory gained recognition. Writings emphasized the importance of civil liberties and modern political institutions, influencing future generations of politicians and thinkers in Argentina.

Continue Reading