Frank Gore
NFL running back and pro football player
Played college football at the University of Miami, where he gained recognition as a standout running back. Entered the NFL in 2005, drafted by the San Francisco 49ers. Accumulated over 16,000 rushing yards during a 16-season career, making him one of the league's all-time leading rushers. Played for multiple teams including the 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, and Buffalo Bills. Notable for consistent performance and longevity in the league, earning Pro Bowl selections throughout his career. Concluded NFL career with a reputation for durability and work ethic.
Accumulated over 16,000 rushing yards
Selected for five Pro Bowls
Part of San Francisco 49ers team
Played in Super Bowl XLVII
Other People Born on May 14th
Roy Halladay
Professional baseball pitcher, 2013 Hall of Fame
Born
May 14th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2017 8 years ago — 40 years old
A professional baseball pitcher played primarily for the Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved a remarkable career highlighted by two Cy Young Awards and a perfect game in 2010. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2019, Halladay established a reputation for excellence on the mound, contributing to both teams' successes during his tenure. Retired with a total of 203 wins and 2,117 strikeouts. Recognized for exceptional skill and sportsmanship throughout a notable career in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingGeorge Lucas
Film director and producer, Lucasfilm founder
Born
May 14th, 1944 81 years ago
An American director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual founded Lucasfilm in 1971, a company that produced the iconic Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises. The first Star Wars film, released in 1977, revolutionized special effects and became a cultural phenomenon. In 1980, the sequel The Empire Strikes Back was released, gaining critical acclaim and commercial success. Additionally, this individual played a crucial role in developing new technologies for film making, particularly in sound and visual effects, which have been widely adopted in the industry. In 2012, sold Lucasfilm to The Walt Disney Company, ensuring the continuation of Star Wars and other franchises.
Continue ReadingLudovico Manin
Last Doge of Venice
Born
May 14th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
1802 224 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 119th and last Doge of Venice from 1789 until 1797. Oversaw the political decline of the Venetian Republic during a period marked by external pressures from revolutionary movements and the expansion of French influence. Fled Venice after its surrender to Napoleon, marking the end of a governmental tradition that had lasted for over a thousand years. Returned to Venice after the fall of Napoleon, where he lived until his death.
Continue ReadingSidney Bechet
Saxophonist and clarinet player
Born
May 14th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1959 66 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent early jazz musician, played the soprano saxophone and clarinet. Contributed to the development of jazz in both the United States and Europe. Became a key figure in the New Orleans jazz scene, later moved to France where he gained popularity. Composed several pieces that are celebrated within the jazz community.
Continue ReadingThomas Gainsborough
English painter of landscapes and portraits
Born
May 14th, 1727 298 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1788 237 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1727, this painter specialized in portraiture and landscape painting. His work displayed a mastery of color and light, contributing significantly to English art. The most notable creations include 'The Blue Boy' and the portrait of Sarah Siddons. Operating primarily in Bath and London, he was a key figure in the 18th-century art scene. Gainsborough established a significant reputation through his innovative approach to depicting subjects with a naturalistic quality, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity in painting. He also was a founding member of the Royal Academy, further solidifying his legacy in the arts.
Continue ReadingCharles Beyer
Engineer, co-founder of Beyer, Peacock & Company
Born
May 14th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 62 years old
An engineer contributed significantly to locomotive design and manufacturing in the 19th century. Co-founded Beyer, Peacock & Company in Manchester, which became a prominent locomotive manufacturer. Played a pivotal role in the development and production of various steam locomotives that were used across the UK and beyond. His company produced some of the most innovative designs of the era, contributing to advancements in railway technology.
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