Gabourey Sidibe
Actress, Oscar-nominated for 'Precious'
An American actress gained prominence with a breakout role in the film 'Precious', which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Sidibe's performance received critical acclaim and led to further opportunities in both film and television. She starred in the television series 'Empire' as Becky Williams, showcasing her talent in a leading role. Sidibe also lent her voice to animated series and continued to appear in various films, showcasing a versatility across genres.
Received Academy Award nomination for 'Precious'
Starred as Becky Williams in 'Empire'
Appeared in 'American Horror Story'
Other People Born on May 6th
Robert Peary
Explorer of the Arctic regions
Born
May 6th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1920 105 years ago — 63 years old
An American admiral and explorer, played a significant role in Arctic exploration, leading multiple expeditions to the North Pole. In 1909, claimed to have reached the North Pole, although the validity of the claim has been debated. Conducted expeditions that contributed to the mapping and scientific understanding of the Arctic region. Also explored Greenland, gathering valuable data on its geography and culture.
Continue ReadingJean Senebier
Swiss physiologist and pastor
Born
May 6th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
1809 217 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent figure in the field of physiology, contributed to the understanding of plant respiration and photosynthesis. Conducted experiments that showed plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, establishing foundational principles in botany. Served as a pastor in Geneva and held a significant role in scientific discussions during the Enlightenment period.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Stuck
Cellist and composer of baroque music
Born
May 6th, 1680 345 years ago
Died
1755 271 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1680, significant contributions to the baroque music scene occurred. Stuck engaged in the composition of various works for cello and chamber music. As a cellist, performed in prominent orchestras, showcasing virtuosic skills and influencing future generations of musicians. His works were integral to the development of string music during the baroque period.
Continue ReadingJohann Joachim Becher
Physician and alchemist; author of 'Physica Restituta'
Born
May 6th, 1635 390 years ago
Died
1682 344 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1635, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and alchemy. Studied medicine at the University of Würzburg and later engaged in alchemical experiments. Authored several works, with 'Physica Restituta' being one of the most prominent, which integrated ideas from chemistry, physics, and alchemy. Worked on concepts that laid groundwork for modern chemistry. Detained for his political beliefs during the Thirty Years' War, he continued to publish and promote his theories throughout his life.
Continue ReadingHermann Raster
Journalist and politician advocating for immigrants
Born
May 6th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1891 134 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Germany, a journalist and politician contributed significantly to the discourse on immigration issues in America during the 19th century. Engaged in editing several German-American newspapers, he played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of immigrants. Active in local politics, he worked on issues affecting the German community, including educational reforms and workers' rights. His writings and political involvement helped shape the German-American identity during a time of significant immigration.
Continue ReadingHenry Edward Armstrong
Chemist recognized for chemical research
Born
May 6th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
1937 89 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Served as a professor at the City and Guilds of London Institute and later at University College London. Developed methods for the analysis of chemical compounds and made notable advancements in organic chemistry. Pioneered research into the fractional distillation of liquid air. Authored over 300 scientific papers and several influential textbooks in chemistry, enhancing the education of future chemists.
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