H. R. Giger
Swiss surrealist painter and designer
A Swiss painter, sculptor, and set designer, influential in the world of contemporary art and film. His work blended surrealism with biomechanical elements, culminating in the design of the iconic creature and landscapes in the film 'Alien.' Giger's unique aesthetic shaped not only cinema but also album covers and various forms of art installations. He won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects in 1980 for his contributions to 'Alien,' establishing a legacy as an innovator in visual design in the film industry.
Designed the creature in 'Alien'
Won an Academy Award for 'Alien'
Other People Born on February 5th
Leilani Latu
Rugby league player, Penrith Panthers
Born
February 5th, 1993 32 years ago
Played as a professional rugby league player in Australia. Primarily a front-row forward, gained recognition for contributions to the Penrith Panthers in the National Rugby League. Competed in high-stakes matches, showcasing skills in both defense and attack. Notable for strong physical presence on the field and tactical gameplay. Career included participation in several notable seasons and matches, contributing to team strategies and successes.
Continue ReadingMarina Melnikova
Russian tennis player and competitor
Born
February 5th, 1989 36 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis and participated in various international tournaments. Achieved a notable ranking in singles and doubles categories. Represented Russia in multiple Federation Cups and had significant contributions to the national team’s efforts in international competitions.
Continue ReadingBonnie Crombie
Mayor of Mississauga, Canadian politician
Born
February 5th, 1960 65 years ago
Born in 1960, a Canadian businesswoman and politician served as the 6th Mayor of Mississauga. Prior to becoming mayor, held various positions including city councillor and chair of the Mississauga Board of Trade. Elected as mayor in 2014, focused on urban development, public transportation, and community engagement.
Continue ReadingYvon Vallières
Canadian educator and politician
Born
February 5th, 1949 76 years ago
An educator and politician from Canada, Vallières served as a member of the National Assembly of Quebec, representing the Lévis electoral district. Active in local politics, held various positions that contributed to educational reform and public policy. Engaged with community initiatives and advocacy for education enhancement throughout his career. Worked on several committees addressing educational needs and reforms in the province.
Continue ReadingAdnan Januzaj
Professional footballer and winger
Born
February 5th, 1995 30 years ago
A Belgian-Albanian footballer, played primarily as a winger. Started his professional career with Manchester United, making his debut at the age of 17. Gained attention for his technical skills and ability to score goals. After time with United, transferred to various clubs including Sunderland, Real Sociedad, and, most recently, Sevilla. Represented Belgium at various youth levels and made appearances for the senior national team.
Continue ReadingMarie Baron
Dutch swimmer and diver 1928 Olympics
Born
February 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 40 years old
Competed in swimming and diving events during the late 1920s. Participated in the 1928 Summer Olympics held in Amsterdam. Excelled in both swimming and diving disciplines, showcasing versatility in aquatic sports. Contributed to the early development of women's competitive swimming in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Bedřich Smetana
Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 2nd, 1824 201 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1884 141 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1824, a Czech composer and pianist became a key figure in the development of Czech national music. His composition, 'The Bartered Bride,' gained international recognition for its incorporation of Czech folk themes. Smetana's work 'Má vlast' contains symphonic poems that celebrate the landscapes and history of Bohemia. Amidst his successful career, he also faced personal challenges, including hearing loss, which impacted his later compositions. His legacy endures through the influence on subsequent generations of composers in the classical genre.
Continue ReadingMarco Cé
Italian cardinal and church leader
Born
July 8th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Ordained a priest in 1950, served in various capacities within the Roman Catholic Church. Appointed bishop of Verona in 1986, later became a cardinal in 1998. Participated in the 2005 papal conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI. Known for significant contributions to the church's governance and pastoral care.
Continue ReadingJ. E. B. Stuart
American Confederate cavalry general
Born
February 6th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1864 161 years ago — 31 years old
Participated in the American Civil War as a Confederate cavalry general. Played a significant role in battles such as the Battle of Chancellorsville and the Battle of Gettysburg. Commanded the cavalry of the Army of Northern Virginia. Gained recognition for his daring cavalry raids, remarkably during the 1862 Maryland Campaign. Died from wounds sustained at the Battle of Yellow Tavern in 1864.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Sheares
Singaporean physician and 2nd President
Born
August 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 73 years old
A physician and politician, served as the 2nd President of Singapore from 1971 until 1981. Contributed to the development of the Singapore Medical Association and various healthcare initiatives. Advocated for the importance of improving medical education and public health services. Played a significant role in shaping healthcare policies during a key period of national development.
Continue ReadingLambert-Sigisbert Adam
French sculptor and illustrator, notable works
Born
October 10th, 1700 325 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1759 266 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1700, this sculptor and illustrator became a prominent figure in the French artistic landscape during the 18th century. Specializing in decorative sculptures, contributions included significant works in the Palace of Versailles, where intricate carvings enhanced the royal architecture. In addition to sculptures, created numerous illustrations for various publications and art collections, showcasing exceptional skill and artistry. His work exemplified the Baroque style, characterized by elaborate forms and emotional intensity, and established a legacy within French sculpture and design that influenced subsequent generations of artists.
Continue ReadingHussein Maziq
Libyan politician, Prime Minister
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Libya during the 1960s. Played a key role in government administration and policy-making in post-independence Libya. Focused on modernization and economic development initiatives. His tenure witnessed significant political changes in the region. Held office from 1964 until 1965, contributing to the country's early governance structure after gaining independence.
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