Gottfried Benn
German author and poet
An influential German author and poet, contributed significantly to modernist literature in the early 20th century. Initially trained as a physician, wrote extensively on themes of existence, identity, and the human condition. Benn's poetry was characterized by its experimental style and exploration of the subconscious. His major work includes the poetry collection 'Morgue' which reflects stark imagery and existential themes. Actively involved in various literary movements throughout his career, including Expressionism and later a return to classic forms, Benn's writings elicited both praise and controversy for their content and style.
Published the poetry collection 'Morgue'
Contributed to the Expressionist literary movement
Other People Born on May 2nd
Princess Charlotte of Wales
British royal and third in line to the throne
Born
May 2nd, 2015 11 years ago
Born as the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, significant events marked early life, including public appearances at royal engagements and various charity events. Charlotte attended school in London and participated in traditional royal family activities. As a member of the British royal family, Charlotte holds the title of Princess and is recognized for her role in modern royal functions and ceremonies.
Continue ReadingWilliam Petty
Irish-English politician, Prime Minister
Born
May 2nd, 1737 289 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1805 221 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1737, a prominent politician in Great Britain served as Prime Minister from 1782 to 1783. Held significant positions, including the 2nd Earl of Shelburne. Focused on liberal economic policies and promoted free trade. Played a role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which ended the American Revolutionary War. Contributed to the establishment of the British political landscape during a time of significant change.
Continue ReadingAxel Springer
German journalist and publisher, founded Axel Springer AG
Born
May 2nd, 1912 114 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent journalist and publisher established a major media empire in Germany. Founded Axel Springer AG in 1946, which became one of Europe's largest publishing companies. The organization launched several influential newspapers and magazines, including 'Bild', which became one of the highest-circulation newspapers in Europe. Focused on fostering a robust and democratic press in post-war Germany, emphasized the importance of journalism in political discourse.
Continue ReadingLink Wray
American guitarist and rock musician
Born
May 2nd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
A pioneering rock musician, contributed significantly to the genre with unique guitar techniques. Gained recognition for the instrumental track 'Rumble', which showcased innovative usage of distortion and power chords. The influence on later rock music artists is notable, shaping the sound of punk and garage rock. Continued to perform and record music throughout life, influencing generations of guitarists and musicians.
Continue ReadingJacques Rogge
International Olympic Committee President
Born
May 2nd, 1942 84 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the eighth president of the International Olympic Committee from 2001 to 2013. Played a significant role in the organization of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics. Became a member of the IOC in 2000 and was instrumental in promoting the Olympic values and addressing issues related to doping. Also held the position of president of the Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee before ascending to the IOC presidency.
Continue ReadingRené II
Duke of Lorraine and military leader
Born
May 2nd, 1451 575 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1508 517 years ago — 57 years old
Ascended to the duchy of Lorraine in 1473, exerting influence during a period marked by political strife in Eastern France. Engaged in numerous military conflicts, notably against Charles the Bold of Burgundy. Successfully defended Lorraine from invasions, solidifying the region's autonomy. Visited by several emissaries and dignitaries, René II played a critical role in the politics and alliances of the time. His reign was characterized by efforts to stabilize and develop the duchy economically and militarily. Died in 1508, leaving a legacy as a significant ruler in the region's history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 7th
Thomas Lucy
English politician and landowner
Born
April 24th, 1532 494 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1600 425 years ago — 68 years old
Entered the English Parliament as a member of the House of Commons. Served as the Member for the Borough of Warwick during the late 16th century. Held various positions including the High Sheriff of Worcestershire. Engaged in local governance and land management, which included his role as a Justice of the Peace. Participated in the political affairs of the time, especially during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
Continue ReadingMary Surratt
Conspirator in Lincoln assassination plot
Born
1823 203 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1865 160 years ago — 42 years old
Surratt operated a boarding house in Washington, D.C., where John Wilkes Booth and other conspirators planned the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Following Lincoln's assassination on April 14, 1865, Surratt was arrested and tried by a military commission. The trial included testimonies from several key witnesses and was highly publicized. Surratt's defense claimed that she was unaware of the conspiracy, but the commission found her guilty. She was executed on July 7, 1865, becoming the first woman to be executed by the federal government in the United States.
Continue ReadingLewis Payne
American Civil War conspirator
Born
1844 182 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1865 160 years ago — 21 years old
Active during the American Civil War, participated in a plot to assassinate government officials. Collaborated with others in a conspiracy to eliminate key leaders of the Union, including President Abraham Lincoln. Following the assassination of Lincoln, was captured, tried, and convicted for involvement in the conspiracy. Executed by hanging in 1865 at the age of 21.
Continue ReadingTile Kolup
Impostor claiming to be Frederick II
Died
July 7th, 1285 740 years ago — None years old
Claimed to be Frederick II, a Holy Roman Emperor, and succeeded in fooling numerous people and courts across Europe. This individual gained notoriety for portraying himself as the emperor, leveraging pre-existing political tensions and the absence of the real Frederick II. The ruse led to various political intrigues and conflicts during the late 13th century. His activities were a reflection of the chaotic political landscape of the era, ultimately ending with his death.
Continue ReadingHenri Nestlé
Businessman, founder of Nestlé
Born
August 10th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1890 135 years ago — 75 years old
A German businessman established a company that revolutionized the food industry. In 1866, relocated to Switzerland where the company began to produce infant formula. The creation of a milk-based food product in 1867 addressed the issues of infant malnutrition. This innovation led to the establishment of Nestlé, which expanded globally and diversified its product line to include a variety of food and beverage items.
Continue ReadingPenelope Blount
English noblewoman and Countess of Devonshire
Born
1563 463 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1607 418 years ago — 44 years old
An English noblewoman held the title of Countess of Devonshire. Penelope Blount was born into the aristocracy and became influential in the court of Queen Elizabeth I. Known for her beauty and intelligence, she was often at the center of political intrigues. Blount's marriage to the Earl of Devonshire linked her to one of the most prominent families in England. Her legacy included involvement in the intricacies of Elizabethan court life and the social dynamics of the nobility during a tumultuous period in English history. She died in 1607.
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