Georges Pompidou
French politician and banker, 19th President
Served as Prime Minister of France from 1962 to 1968. Elected as the 19th President of France, holding office from 1969 until death in 1974. Instrumental in modernizing France, emphasizing cultural development and technological advancement. Oversaw the construction of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, a major cultural landmark. His presidency was marked by economic stability and significant reforms in various sectors.
Served as Prime Minister from 1962 to 1968
Elected 19th President of France in 1969
Oversaw construction of the Centre Pompidou
Other People Born on July 5th
Pavel Nakhimov
Russian admiral and naval leader
Born
July 5th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1855 170 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1802, served in the Imperial Russian Navy. Played a pivotal role in the Crimean War, particularly in the Siege of Sevastopol. Contributed to naval strategy and operations, demonstrating significant leadership during critical maritime engagements. His tactics and decisions during the war showcased his naval acumen, resulting in notable military successes against opposing forces.
Continue ReadingStamford Raffles
Politician, founder of Singapore
Born
July 5th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1826 199 years ago — 45 years old
An English politician and colonial administrator played a pivotal role in the founding of Singapore during the early 19th century. This individual served as the Lieutenant-Governor of the island, shaping its early development and establishing it as a vital trading port in Southeast Asia. Raffles advocated for various reforms in the region, promoting trade and strengthening British influence. His policies contributed to Singapore's emergence as a key player in maritime commerce. Additionally, Raffles was deeply interested in local culture and biodiversity, authoring significant works on the flora and fauna of the region.
Continue ReadingRobert FitzRoy
English admiral and meteorologist
Born
July 5th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1865 160 years ago — 59 years old
Served as an admiral in the Royal Navy and made significant contributions to meteorology and oceanography. Commanded the HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin's famous voyage, allowing for crucial scientific observations that influenced evolutionary theory. Became the second Governor of New Zealand, overseeing early colonial governance and interactions with the Māori people. Advocated for scientific research and created the first system of weather forecasting in the United Kingdom.
Continue ReadingJi Chang-wook
South Korean actor in dramas and films
Born
July 5th, 1987 38 years ago
An accomplished South Korean actor, recognized for roles in popular television dramas. Gained prominence through performances in series such as 'Healer' and 'Descendants of the Sun'. In addition to television, acted in films like 'Fabricated City'. Established a significant fan base domestically and internationally, contributing to the Hallyu wave. Started the acting career in musical theater before transitioning to television, demonstrating versatility in various genres.
Continue ReadingJohn Howard Northrop
Nobel Prize-winning American chemist
Born
July 5th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1987 38 years ago — 95 years old
An American chemist made significant contributions to the study of proteins and enzymes. Birth occurred on July 5, 1891. The development of methods for purifying enzymes led to the isolation of the first crystalline enzyme, pepsin. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1946, alongside the recognition for work on the structure of enzymes and their roles in biological processes. Had a distinguished career in academia, with positions at various institutions, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingFrancis Seymour-Conway
1st Marquess of Hertford, politician
Born
July 5th, 1718 307 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1794 231 years ago — 75 years old
Served as a prominent English courtier and politician. Held the title of Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing the administration of the country during a pivotal period. Played a significant role in managing relations between Ireland and Great Britain. Contributed to various governmental functions, influencing policy and administration during his tenure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 2nd
Jan van Aartsen
Dutch politician and mayor
Born
1909 117 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent politician in the Netherlands, served as the mayor of The Hague from 1993 to 2000. Also held various roles within the Dutch government, including Minister of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality. Played a significant part in local and national politics, focusing on urban development and public service reforms.
Continue ReadingBetty Furness
Television journalist and actress
Born
January 3rd, 1916 110 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1994 31 years ago — 78 years old
Began acting career in the 1930s, appearing in films such as 'The Green Years' and 'The Courtship of Eddie's Father'. Transitioned to television in the 1950s, gaining prominence as a consumer advocate on shows like 'Consumer Reports'. Served as a reporter covering consumer-related topics and hosted segments that educated viewers on various issues. Worked with various organizations to raise awareness about consumer rights and protection.
Continue ReadingLevi Celerio
Filipino composer and songwriter of hits
Born
April 30th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 91 years old
A prolific composer and songwriter in the Philippines. Celerio wrote more than 4,000 songs across multiple genres, securing a prominent place in Filipino music. He gained recognition for creating music for films, radio, and television. Celerio became the only person to produce music using a leaf, which earned him a place in the Guinness World Records. His work contributed significantly to the Filipino cultural landscape.
Continue ReadingAlma Delia Fuentes
Mexican actress known for telenovelas
Born
January 22nd, 1937 89 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2017 8 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1937, a prominent figure in Mexican cinema and television, particularly in the realm of telenovelas. Starred in the acclaimed series 'Cuna de Lobos,' which garnered significant viewership and became a classic in the genre. Also featured in multiple films during a lengthy career. Her contributions to the entertainment industry established her as a well-respected actress in Mexico.
Continue ReadingJohn Barth
American novelist and author of 'Giles Goat-Boy'
Born
May 27th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent American novelist, contributions to fiction include postmodern works that explore metafiction and narrative structure. Significant works span several decades, with a critical approach to traditional storytelling. Notable titles include 'The Sot-Weed Factor', which parodies the 18th-century novel and 'Giles Goat-Boy', which combines satire with philosophical themes. Engaged in academia, held teaching positions at several universities, influencing literary studies and creative writing.
Continue ReadingJohn Sinclair
American poet and activist
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in the American poetry scene, made significant contributions through both written works and activism. Early work included performances with the Detroit Artists Workshop and connections with the counterculture movement. Helped establish the Ann Arbor-based group 'Poetry and Passions' and founded the influential magazine 'City Lights'. Additionally, organized events that promoted poetry as a means of social change and mobilization. Advocated for various social causes including the legalization of marijuana and prisoners' rights. His poetry often focused on themes of freedom, justice, and personal expression.
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