Harriet Quimby
Pioneer aviator and screenwriter
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
This individual became the first woman in the United States to earn a pilot's license in 1911. She flew her first flight across the English Channel in 1912, making her the first woman to complete such a journey. In addition to aviation, engaged in screenwriting and produced several films. Her contributions laid groundwork for future female aviators.
First woman to earn a pilot's license in the U.S.
First woman to fly solo across the English Channel
Other People Born on May 11th
Charlie Gehringer
Baseball player and manager
Born
May 11th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1993 33 years ago — 89 years old
An American baseball player and manager, this individual played for the Detroit Tigers from 1924 to 1942. Recognized as a skilled second baseman, he was a key member of the Tigers team that won the World Series in 1945. In addition to his playing career, he served as the team's manager in the mid-1950s. His contributions to baseball earned him induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949. Gehringer's proficiency at the plate led to a career batting average of .320 and he established several records during his tenure.
Continue ReadingLouis Farrakhan
Religious leader and Nation of Islam figure
Born
May 11th, 1933 93 years ago
A religious leader became the prominent figure of the Nation of Islam, advocating for Black empowerment and religious education. Founded the original Million Man March in 1995, which aimed to promote unity and self-improvement among African American men. Involved in various social and political issues, addressing topics such as social justice, racism, and economic development within the African American community. Sustained leadership over multiple decades, influencing the direction of the Nation of Islam and engaging in controversial discussions.
Continue ReadingLise de Baissac
SOE agent during World War II
Born
May 11th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2004 22 years ago — 98 years old
Born in Mauritius, worked as a secret agent for the Special Operations Executive during World War II. Entered occupied France in 1943, where she conducted espionage and sabotage missions. Took part in various operations to disrupt German forces and support the Resistance. Played a role in coordinating the intelligence of the Allies, contributing to the overall war effort. After the war, shifted focus to humanitarian efforts.
Continue ReadingNene Macdonald
Rugby league player for Papua New Guinea
Born
May 11th, 1994 32 years ago
A rugby league player from Papua New Guinea, made a mark in the National Rugby League (NRL) and represented the national team. Played as a winger or center and showcased skills in various clubs within the NRL. Participated in international competitions, contributing to Papua New Guinea's representation on the world stage.
Continue ReadingEdward J. King
American politician, Governor of Massachusetts
Born
May 11th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 66th Governor of Massachusetts from 1979 to 1981. King was the first Democratic governor of Massachusetts in 20 years. His administration focused on issues such as education reform, fiscal policy, and urban development. King faced challenges dealing with a struggling economy and rising unemployment during his tenure. After leaving office, he continued to be active in politics and public service.
Continue ReadingJacques Brugnon
Tennis player and Davis Cup champion
Born
May 11th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1978 48 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent French tennis player, achieved significant recognition during the 1920s and 1930s. Competed in singles and doubles, demonstrating exceptional skill on the court. Secured multiple Grand Slam titles and contributed to France's success in international competitions. Played a crucial role in the French team that won the Davis Cup in 1927, showcasing talent alongside other notable players. Retired from professional tennis after a successful career that spanned over a decade.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 1st
Czesław Olech
Mathematician and academic from Poland
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 84 years old
Contributions spanned topology, algebra, and functional analysis. Worked as a professor at the University of Warsaw, influencing many students in the field of mathematics. Engaged in various scholarly publications and conferences, fostering mathematical understanding. Active member of mathematical societies and organizations, promoting research and education in mathematics throughout Poland. Received recognition for academic achievements and impact on mathematics education.
Continue ReadingPeter Barnes
English playwright and screenwriter
Born
January 10th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2004 22 years ago — 73 years old
A significant playwright and screenwriter, garnered recognition for addressing social issues and the human condition in works. Wrote plays such as 'The Ruling Class' and 'Red Noses', which explored complex themes through dark humor and satire. Contributed to screenwriting, with adaptations including the film version of 'The Ruling Class'. Had a career that spanned several decades, influencing British theatre and cinema.
Continue ReadingAnatoly Kornukov
Ukrainian-Russian general
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2014 12 years ago — 72 years old
A high-ranking military officer, served as commander of the Russian Air Force from 1996 to 2002. Played a significant role in military operations during the 1990s and early 2000s. Oversaw the modernization of air force capabilities and participated in various strategic military initiatives. Achieved the rank of General and was influential in shaping air defense strategies during his tenure.
Continue ReadingJean-Louis Rosier
French race car driver, Le Mans winner
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2001 25 years ago — 76 years old
A noted French race car driver, competed in endurance racing events during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, notably winning the race in 1950. Additionally drove for various teams, including Ferrari and Aston Martin, making substantial contributions to the sport. Developed a reputation for skillful driving and strategic race planning.
Continue ReadingMahmud II
Ottoman Sultan and reformer
Born
July 20th, 1789 237 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1839 187 years ago — 49 years old
Sultan during a significant period of change in the Ottoman Empire. Ruled from 1808 to 1839, initiating extensive military, administrative, and social reforms aimed at modernizing the empire. Effectively abolished the Janissary corps in 1826, which was a powerful military group. Established new educational institutions and promoted Western-style reforms within the empire. His reign also involved military campaigns that expanded and consolidated Ottoman territory.
Continue ReadingSola Sierra
Human Rights Activist in Chile
Born
December 1st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1999 27 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Chile in 1935, significant contributions to human rights advocacy occurred during a time of political repression in the country. Focused on the plight of victims of state terrorism, played a crucial role in raising awareness of human rights abuses during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. Actively campaigned for justice for victims' families and worked to document human rights violations. Collaborated with various organizations, striving to hold perpetrators accountable and to promote human rights education.
Continue Reading