Gilbert Jessop
English cricketer and soldier
A prominent cricketer and soldier, played for Gloucestershire from 1894 to 1913. Achieved a reputation as a hard-hitting batsman and an exceptional fielder. Represented England in international matches, contributing significantly to the team's efforts during the early 1900s. Served in World War I, where military service took precedence over cricketing pursuits.
Played for England in Test matches
Scored over 2,500 runs in first-class cricket
Represented Gloucestershire for nearly two decades
Other People Born on May 19th
Nellie Melba
Soprano and acclaimed opera singer
Born
May 19th, 1861 165 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1931 95 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent Australian soprano achieved international fame during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Gained fame through performances in opera houses across Europe and America, particularly at the Royal Opera House and Covent Garden. Developed a powerful vocal technique that set new standards for operatic singing. Also ventured into theatrical roles, showcasing versatility. Contributed significantly to Australian arts through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingOla John
Dutch footballer with Benfica success
Born
May 19th, 1992 34 years ago
A professional football player originated from the Netherlands, played primarily as a winger. Started his career at FC Twente, where he achieved recognition in the Eredivisie. Transferred to Benfica in 2012, contributing to the club's successes in the Primeira Liga and the Taça da Liga. Additionally, represented the Netherlands at youth international levels, showcasing talent on the European stage.
Continue ReadingArthur Gorrie
Hobby shop proprietor and entrepreneur
Born
May 19th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1992 34 years ago — 70 years old
Established a successful hobby shop that became a significant resource for enthusiasts in Australia. Provided a wide range of hobby supplies and fostered a community around various hobbies, including model making and gaming. The business served as a gathering place for hobbyists and contributed to the local culture of the area.
Continue ReadingCarlos Guzmán
Mexican footballer, played for Santos Laguna
Born
May 19th, 1994 32 years ago
Born in 1994, a Mexican footballer primarily played as a defender. Developed through the youth ranks of Santos Laguna, made his professional debut in 2014 and became an integral part of the team. Contributed to the squad during the Liga MX seasons and participated in the CONCACAF Champions League. Known for his defensive skills and ability to read the game, also represented Mexico at various youth levels.
Continue ReadingDick Slater
Professional wrestler and wrestling promoter
Born
May 19th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 67 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, achieved recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in major wrestling promotions including World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Also contributed as a trainer to upcoming wrestlers throughout a long career spanning multiple decades. Gained a reputation for his technical wrestling skills and charismatic persona, influencing a generation of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingJim Lehrer
Journalist and News Anchor
Born
May 19th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 86 years old
An American journalist and author centered around public broadcasting and political coverage. Served as the executive editor and anchor of PBS NewsHour for over three decades. Moderated presidential debates, contributing to the discourse surrounding American politics. Authored several books, including memoirs and fiction.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 11th
Kim Philby
British spy and intelligence officer
Born
January 1st, 1912 114 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1988 38 years ago — 76 years old
A notable figure in British intelligence, played a key role during the Cold War. Worked for MI6 while secretly cooperating with the Soviet Union. Philby's espionage activities led to critical intelligence breaches affecting Western security. His treachery was part of the infamous Cambridge Five spy ring. In 1963, defected to the Soviet Union, where he lived for the remainder of his life.
Continue ReadingJerry Stiller
Actor and comedian in sitcoms
Born
June 8th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2020 6 years ago — 92 years old
An American actor and comedian, this individual gained recognition for memorable performances on television and in film. Notable works include a prominent role in the television sitcom "Seinfeld" and performances in "The King of Queens." The career spanned several decades, showcasing comedic talent and personality in various projects. Beyond acting, contributions to the arts included work as a producer. Stiller's comedy often involved character roles that resonated with audiences, leading to a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingDouglas Adams
English author of The Hitchhiker's Guide
Born
March 11th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2001 25 years ago — 49 years old
An English author and playwright contributed significantly to science fiction literature. The most notable work is 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,' originally a radio series and later adapted into books, television, and film. The series gained a large following and is recognized for its wit and satirical take on science fiction and modern society. Adams also wrote 'Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency,' which showcased his humor and inventive storytelling. In addition to writing, he worked as a script editor and contributed to several projects, including the television series 'Doctor Who.' Adams passed away in 2001.
Continue ReadingFritz Pollard
Football player and coach, first Black coach
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1986 40 years ago — 92 years old
Played as a running back and coach in American football. Served as the first Black head coach in the NFL with the Akron Pros in 1921. Had a notable career at Brown University, where he became a star player. Contributed significantly to the sport both as a player and as a pioneer for Black coaches in football. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005, recognizing contributions to the game.
Continue ReadingFloyd Patterson
Professional boxer and heavyweight champion
Born
January 4th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2006 20 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1935, this professional boxer became the youngest heavyweight champion at the age of 21 after a victory over Archie Moore in 1956. Over a career spanning two decades, won and lost the heavyweight title two times, defending it successfully against numerous challengers. Demonstrated remarkable agility and quickness in the ring, contributing to a unique fighting style that distinguished him in the sport. Renowned for notable matches against Ingemar Johansson, including a celebrated rematch that ended in a second-round knockout to regain the title in 1960. Transitioned into a career as a trainer and advocate for boxing after retirement.
Continue ReadingNorman Lloyd
Actor and director in film and television
Born
November 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2021 5 years ago — 106 years old
An American actor, director, and producer had a career spanning over seven decades. Gained recognition for contributions to both television and film, appearing in notable works such as the series 'St. Elsewhere' and the film 'Dead Poets Society.' Served as an executive producer and director on several projects, showcasing versatility in various roles within the industry.
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