Gopal Krishna Gokhale
Indian politician and social reformer
A prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, focused on social reform and the upliftment of the general populace. Established the Servants of India Society in 1905 to promote education and social service. Advocated for constitutional reforms and participated in the Indian National Congress, emphasizing moderation and dialogue with the British colonial administration. Frequented debates and discussions on social issues, promoting education as a means for uplifting society. Mentored several future leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi.
Founded the Servants of India Society
Advocated for constitutional reforms
Mentored Mahatma Gandhi
Other People Born on May 9th
Glenda Jackson
Actress and British politician
Born
May 9th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2023 2 years ago — 87 years old
Acclaimed for a career in both acting and politics. Achieved significant recognition as an actress, winning two Academy Awards for Best Actress for performances in 'Women in Love' and 'A Touch of Class'. Transitioned to a career in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Highgate from 1992 to 2015. Returned to acting after her parliamentary career, receiving accolades and awards for stage performances.
Continue ReadingGordon Bunshaft
American architect, Solow Building designer
Born
May 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1990 35 years ago — 81 years old
An American architect, notable for the design of the Solow Building in New York City. Contributed significantly to modern architecture and the development of innovative building techniques. Received the AIA Gold Medal in 1988. Worked primarily with the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill during the height of his career, emphasizing the integration of modernism in urban environments. Played a pivotal role in the industrial design movement.
Continue ReadingBulat Okudzhava
Russian singer-songwriter and poet
Born
May 9th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1997 28 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in the Soviet cultural scene, contributed to the genre of bard music, merging poetry and song. Authored numerous songs that reflected the struggles and aspirations of everyday life. Wrote poetry that was often critical of the socio-political climate. Gained recognition for performing in intimate settings, which challenged the state-controlled music industry. Associated with the underground arts movement, influencing future generations of performers and songwriters.
Continue ReadingPancho Gonzales
American tennis champion and legend
Born
May 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1995 30 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent American tennis player, celebrated for dominating the sport in the 1950s. Achieved significant success in both singles and doubles, winning numerous championship titles. Excelled on grass courts and hard courts. Secured the U.S. Championships in 1948, 1949, and 1950, and was the first player to earn a significant sum for competing professionally. Known for fierce rivalries and engaging playing style, contributed greatly to the popularity of tennis.
Continue ReadingZita of Bourbon-Parma
Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary
Born
May 9th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1989 36 years ago — 96 years old
Held the title of Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, serving during a tumultuous time marked by World War I. Zita became the last Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary from the House of Habsburg. After the defeat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, went into exile alongside her family. Spent years in Switzerland and other countries before returning to Austria for a visit in 1987. Died in 1989 at the age of 96, remembered for her commitment to her family's legacy and work during crises.
Continue ReadingJoan Sims
English actress in television and film
Born
May 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2001 24 years ago — 71 years old
An English actress gained recognition for a prolific career in film and television, particularly through participation in the 'Carry On' series. The series featured numerous comedic films, and she became a prominent figure in British comedy. Sims also appeared in popular television shows, including 'Doctor Who' and 'The Good Life', contributing to the cultural landscape of British entertainment. Her work spanned decades, leaving a significant legacy within the genre.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 19th
Eugene Whelan
Canadian politician and Minister of Agriculture
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 22nd Minister of Agriculture for Canada from 1972 to 1979. Represented the Essex West riding as a member of the Liberal Party. Advocated for agricultural policies that supported farmers and rural communities. Played a significant role in shaping Canadian agricultural policy during a time of modernization and technological advancement in farming. Actively engaged in promoting the interests of the agricultural sector at both national and international levels.
Continue ReadingJaroslav Velinský
Czech author and songwriter
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 80 years old
Velinský was a Czech author and songwriter who made significant contributions to literature and music. As a writer, produced numerous works that reflected the cultural and social landscape of Czech society. In the field of songwriting, crafted songs that resonated with many and were performed by notable artists. His literary style often blended narrative with lyrical elements, showing a deep understanding of both prose and poetry. Velinský's dual talents in writing and music allowed him to influence generations of Czech readers and listeners.
Continue ReadingLeo Rosten
Author and academic with Humor books
Born
April 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1997 28 years ago — 88 years old
An author and academic contributed significantly to literature and scholarship through works on humor and language. Most notable works include 'The Joys of Yiddish,' which explored Yiddish culture and language, and 'Hibbler's Guide to the Goliath,' addressing various aspects of life and society. Engaged in teaching and writing throughout his career, providing insight into American culture and identity. Rosten's academic pursuits were complemented by his literary contributions, establishing a notable presence in both fields.
Continue ReadingYegor Letov
Russian singer-songwriter and poet
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2008 17 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent figure in Russian rock music and poetry, this artist emerged in the 1980s as the leader of the influential band Grazhdanskaya Oborona. Known for powerful lyrics that addressed social issues, personal struggles, and political commentary, the musician made significant contributions to the genre. Grazhdanskaya Oborona released a number of successful albums, with 'Kreml' and 'Zvezda' receiving particular acclaim. The artist also pursued a solo career, producing several albums that continued to reflect on the complexities of life in post-Soviet Russia. His literary works further highlighted critical social themes, making a lasting impression on Russian culture.
Continue ReadingDale Gardner
American astronaut and mission commander
Born
November 8th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
An American captain and astronaut, played a crucial role in space exploration during the 1980s. Flew on two Space Shuttle missions, STS-7 in 1983 and STS-51G in 1985, participating in satellite deployment and scientific experiments. Served in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot before joining NASA. Contributed to the development and testing of new technologies for space missions. Upon retiring from NASA, worked in various engineering and management roles in the aerospace industry.
Continue ReadingPop Smoke
Rapper and songwriter, 'Shoot for the Stars' album
Born
July 20th, 1999 26 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2020 5 years ago — 20 years old
Rapper and songwriter gained prominence in the hip-hop scene with the release of the mixtapes 'Meet the Woo' and 'Meet the Woo 2'. The debut studio album, 'Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon', released posthumously, reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Popular tracks included 'Welcome to the Party' and 'Dior', which contributed to a resurgence of the Brooklyn drill music genre. Collaborated with artists like Travis Scott and Quavo, expanding musical horizons. His contribution to the genre is marked by a blend of aggressive lyrics and melodic hooks.
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