Gabriel Voisin
Pilot and engineer; aviation pioneer
A French pilot and engineer, Voisin significantly advanced early aviation technology in the early 20th century. He co-founded the first commercial aircraft manufacturing company in 1906, focusing on developing heavier-than-air flying machines. Voisin designed and built several notable aircraft, including the Voisin III, which became the first bomber aircraft used in warfare during World War I. His innovations in aerodynamics and aircraft design laid the groundwork for future developments in the aviation field. Voisin's contributions were pivotal to the establishment of France as a leader in early aviation.
Co-founded the first commercial aircraft company
Designed the Voisin III bomber aircraft
Other People Born on February 5th
Stephen J. Cannell
Television producer and screenwriter
Born
February 5th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 69 years old
A notable figure in television production and screenwriting, the career included the creation and production of several popular series. Contributions spanned from the 1970s to the early 2000s, with a significant influence on the crime and action genres. Established the production company Cannell Studios, which was responsible for hit shows such as 'The A-Team', 'Hunter', and '21 Jump Street'. Besides producing, also worked extensively as a writer, contributing to the screenplays of numerous successful television series and films.
Continue ReadingAndreas Papandreou
Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
February 5th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1996 29 years ago — 77 years old
An influential figure in Greek politics, served as Prime Minister of Greece in two non-consecutive terms from 1981 to 1989 and again from 1993 to 1996. As the leader of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), he implemented significant reforms that transformed the political landscape of the country. Papandreou was an advocate for social democracy and contributed to the modernization of Greece's economy. His administration focused on welfare expansion and economic development, impacting areas such as health and education. He played a crucial role in Greece's integration into the European Union during his tenure.
Continue ReadingBrad Fitzpatrick
Programmer, creator of LiveJournal
Born
February 5th, 1980 46 years ago
A programmer developed LiveJournal, a pioneering platform for social networking and online journaling, facilitating user-generated content and personal expression. The platform gained popularity in the early 2000s, allowing users to share thoughts and connect with others through blogs. Fitzpatrick contributed significantly to the open-source community and was involved in projects like the Metaweb Foundation and the development of the OpenID protocol.
Continue ReadingNeymar
Brazilian footballer and PSG star
Born
February 5th, 1992 34 years ago
A Brazilian footballer with a prolific career in both national and club football. Started professional career at Santos FC, where won the Copa do Brasil and the Copa Libertadores. Transferred to Barcelona in 2013, contributing to the team's success in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, earning a reputation as one of the world's top players. In 2017, joined Paris Saint-Germain for a record transfer fee, further establishing prowess in European football. Represented Brazil national team in multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and Copa América.
Continue ReadingJohan Ludvig Runeberg
Finnish poet and hymn-writer
Born
February 5th, 1804 222 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1877 148 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in Finnish literature, this individual contributed significantly to the development of the Finnish language through poetry. Works include the national epic 'The Tales of Ensign Stål', which illustrated Finnish history and culture. This person also wrote the lyrics to the Finnish national anthem, 'Maamme', originally penned in Swedish. His poetry often depicted the life and struggles of the Finnish people during the 19th century, highlighting themes of national identity and folklore.
Continue ReadingAdlai Stevenson II
American diplomat and UN Ambassador
Born
February 5th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1965 60 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 5th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 1961 to 1965. Played a significant role in foreign policy discussions during the Cold War, particularly during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Contributed to U.N. efforts focusing on the promotion of peace and international cooperation.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 25th
Mel Mathay
Politician, 8th Mayor of Quezon City
Born
1932 94 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 8th Mayor of Quezon City from 1992 to 1995. Prior to serving as mayor, held various positions in the local government and was involved in public service for many years. Focused on urban development and social welfare projects during the tenure as mayor. Continued involvement in politics and community service after leaving office.
Continue ReadingVic Chesnutt
Singer-songwriter with notable albums
Born
November 12th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 45 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, credited with a profound influence on the alt-country and indie rock genres. Began releasing albums in the early 1990s, garnering critical acclaim for lyrical depth and unique sound. Collaborated with various artists and received attention for his storytelling ability. Challenged by severe health issues, yet continued to produce music and tour until his passing in 2009. His work remains significant in contemporary music circles.
Continue ReadingRicardo Porro
Cuban-French architect and urban planner
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
An architect and urban planner, this individual was a significant figure in the Cuban architecture landscape. Studied architecture at the University of Havana and went on to influence modern Cuban architecture. Actively participated in the design of several landmark projects in Cuba, especially during the post-revolutionary period. In exile due to political reasons, moved to France, where continued to design and write about architecture. Received numerous honors for contributions to the field.
Continue ReadingCarlos Andrés Pérez
Venezuelan President and politician
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2010 15 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 66th President of Venezuela during two non-consecutive terms. The first term lasted from 1974 to 1979, focusing on economic modernization and social reforms. The second term ran from 1989 to 1993, which faced economic turmoil and public protests. His administration emphasized the importance of political participation and aimed to reduce poverty through various programs. Impeached in 1993 for corruption, significant events during his presidency included the implementation of anti-neoliberal policies during the economic crisis. Developed relationships with other Latin American leaders and participated in international diplomacy.
Continue ReadingWayne Thiebaud
American painter of pop art desserts
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2021 4 years ago — 101 years old
A prominent American painter specialized in pop art, focusing on everyday objects and desserts. His works often featured thickly applied paint and bright colors, showcasing cakes, pies, and ice cream. Thiebaud studied at the California School of Fine Arts and began teaching at various institutions. His art gained recognition in the 1960s, aligning with the pop art movement. The artist’s unique perspective led to a distinctive style that blended realism with abstraction. Exhibitions of his work appeared in major galleries, and he became a significant figure in American art.
Continue ReadingGeoff Pullar
English cricketer and batsman
Born
August 1st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
Debuted in first-class cricket in 1954 and played for Warwickshire County Cricket Club throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved a peak batting average of 41.25 in first-class matches, demonstrating consistent performance as an opening batsman. Contributed to Warwickshire's success, helping the team to win the County Championship in 1968. Represented England in international Test cricket, earning 21 caps between 1960 and 1966.
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