Hélène Boucher

French aviator and record-holder

Hélène Boucher - French aviator and record-holder
Born

May 23rd, 1908
117 years ago

Died

November 30th, 1934
90 years ago — 26 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

France

Links & References

Achieved significant milestones in aviation as a pioneering French pilot. Competed in the Coupe Deutsch de la Meurthe and set multiple speed records in the 1930s. Became the first woman to fly a series of races, showcasing remarkable skill and determination. Her contributions to aviation were cut short by a tragic accident in 1939, yet her legacy remains influential in the history of women in aviation.

Set a world speed record for women in aviation

First woman to compete in the Coupe Deutsch de la Meurthe

Pioneered long-distance flying for women

Other People Born on May 23rd

Dan Evans

Tennis player; achieved ATP ranking success
Born
May 23rd, 1990 35 years ago

A professional tennis player achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 26 in the ATP rankings. Gained attention for performance in the 2021 Australian Open, reaching the fourth round. Captured his first ATP title in 2017 at the Barcelona Open. Represented Great Britain in the Davis Cup, contributing to the team's success.

Continue Reading

Epitácio Pessoa

Brazilian politician and former president
Born
May 23rd, 1865 160 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1942 83 years ago — 76 years old

A lawyer and judge, held the office of 11th President of Brazil from 1919 to 1922. Oversaw a period of relative political stability and economic progress in the country. Developed policies that promoted infrastructure improvements and modernization of the Brazilian economy. Involved in various legal and political reforms during tenure as president, shaping the future governance of Brazil.

Continue Reading

Andrea Pazienza

Illustrator and painter; graphic novels
Born
May 23rd, 1956 69 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 32 years old

An influential Italian illustrator and painter whose work contributed significantly to the evolution of comic art and graphic novels in Italy. Studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Bologna, where a passion for drawing and storytelling developed. Created iconic characters and stories, particularly through works such as 'Zanardi' and 'Pertini'. Contributed to magazines like 'Il Male' and 'Frigidaire', addressing societal issues through satirical art. His unique style combined surrealism and social commentary, leaving a lasting legacy in the art community.

Continue Reading

Ingeborg Hallstein

German soprano known for opera performances
Born
May 23rd, 1936 89 years ago

Renowned German soprano and actress, recognized for contributions to both opera and theatre. Performed leading roles in numerous operas, including appearances at prestigious venues such as the Bayreuth Festival. Also acted in various stage productions and made significant contributions to German musical life throughout the 20th century. Demonstrated versatility in both classical and contemporary works, earning respect and admiration in the performing arts community.

Continue Reading

Gracie Otto

Australian actress and film director
Born
May 23rd, 1987 38 years ago

Born in 1987, this individual began a career in the entertainment industry, focusing on acting and directing. Gained recognition for directing the film 'The Last Goodbye' and for appearances in the series 'Dirtgame' and 'The Nightingale.' Produced and wrote multiple projects, highlighting skills in various facets of filmmaking.

Continue Reading

Ben Ross

Rugby league player with NRL success
Born
May 23rd, 1980 45 years ago

A rugby league player from Australia, participated in the National Rugby League (NRL) primarily as a prop. Played for clubs including the Penrith Panthers, St. George Illawarra Dragons, and the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Earned a reputation as a strong forward known for defensive capabilities and persistence on the field. Made contributions to his teams during multiple seasons, with notable performances leading to team successes.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 30th

Wilhelm Furtwängler

Conductor acclaimed for conducting Wagner
Born
January 25th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1954 70 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent German conductor and composer, contributed significantly to the world of classical music during the 20th century. Conducted leading orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic and the Vienna Philharmonic. Renowned for interpretations of the works of composers such as Beethoven and Wagner. Engaged in music during tumultuous historical periods, including World War II. Continued to perform and record music after the war, emphasizing the importance of the conductor's role in interpreting works. Furtwängler's conducting style and philosophies left a lasting legacy in the classical music community and influenced future generations of conductors.

Continue Reading

Andrew Stratford

English verderer and landowner
Died
November 30th, 1378 646 years ago — None years old

Served as a verderer, a position responsible for the management of forests, particularly in areas such as the New Forest. Engaged in landowning, which involved maintaining and overseeing agricultural lands and resources. Contributed to the local governance and management of natural resources during the medieval period. Died in 1378, leaving a legacy in land stewardship.

Continue Reading

Eldar Ryazanov

Russian film director and screenwriter
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2015 9 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent figure in Soviet and Russian cinema, recognized for blending humor with social commentary. Directed numerous iconic films during the 1960s to the 1990s. A hallmark of his work includes a series of romantic comedies that gained popularity for their realistic depictions of life. Ryazanov's films often featured memorable characters and clever dialogue, resonating with audiences across generations. Also engaged in screenwriting, collaborating with notable writers to create engaging narratives.

Continue Reading

Compton Mackenzie

Author of 'Whisky Galore!'
Born
January 17th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1972 52 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1883, this individual was an English-Scottish author, poet, and playwright. The literary career began with the publication of short stories, eventually leading to novels known for their humor and social commentary. Writings included works that explored various facets of Scottish culture and identity. Besides literary accomplishments, contributions to theatre and journalism were notable. A strong advocate for Scottish nationalism, this individual placed significant emphasis on Scottish heritage and language throughout various writings.

Continue Reading

John Selden

English jurist, scholar, and antiquarian
Born
December 16th, 1584 440 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1654 370 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1584, a prominent English jurist and scholar specializing in law, antiquities, and biblical studies. Authored significant works that influenced legal thought in England, particularly during the early modern period. Played a critical role in developing the understanding of English law and its historical foundations. Engaged in important debates concerning religious and legal matters of his time, contributing to the development of constitutional law and historical scholarship. His critical assessments of common law and civil law have been referenced by later legal scholars.

Continue Reading

Charles XII of Sweden

King of Sweden during the Great Northern War
Born
1682 343 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1718 306 years ago — 36 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1697 at the age of 15. Led Sweden in the Great Northern War against a coalition of rivals, including Russia and Denmark-Norway. Achieved notable victories at battles such as Narva in 1700 and Kliszow in 1702. Faced significant setbacks later in the war, notably at the Battle of Poltava in 1709, leading to a prolonged exile. Died in 1718 during a siege in Norway.

Continue Reading