Henry Dunant

Co-founder of the Red Cross and laureate

Henry Dunant - Activists & Humanitarians born May 8th, 1828
Born
Died

1910
116 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Switzerland

Links & References

A Swiss businessman and activist played a crucial role in establishing the International Committee of the Red Cross. After witnessing the suffering of soldiers during the Battle of Solferino in 1859, organized efforts for humanitarian relief and advocated for the protection of wounded soldiers. Authored a book titled 'A Memory of Solferino', which led to the creation of the Red Cross and the adoption of the Geneva Conventions. Awarded the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901 for contributions to peace and humanitarian efforts.

Co-founded the International Committee of the Red Cross

Wrote 'A Memory of Solferino'

Received the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901

Other People Born on May 8th

Wilhelm Friedrich de Gaay Fortman

Dutch politician and Minister of The Interior
Born
May 8th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 86 years old

A jurist and politician who served as the Minister of The Interior in the Netherlands. Involved in multiple legislative processes and reforms, aimed at improving governmental structures and public administration. Played a significant role in the Dutch political landscape during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla

Mexican priest and rebel leader
Born
May 8th, 1753 273 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1811 214 years ago — 58 years old

A Mexican priest initiated the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule. He issued the Grito de Dolores, a call to arms that mobilized the population in 1810. He became a symbol of Mexican independence and is commemorated on national holidays and monuments. After leading a series of military campaigns, he was captured and executed in 1811, but his actions paved the way for subsequent victories in the independence movement.

Continue Reading

Nicolaes Witsen

Mayor of Amsterdam, Netherlands
Born
May 8th, 1641 385 years ago
Died
1717 309 years ago — 76 years old

Served as Mayor of Amsterdam multiple times during the 17th century. Played a vital role in the city's growth and development during the Dutch Golden Age. Contributed to the fields of cartography and naval architecture. Engaged in various civic improvements and invested in urban planning.

Continue Reading

Aloysius Stepinac

Croatian Cardinal and Archbishop
Born
May 8th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1960 66 years ago — 61 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Zagreb and a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during World War II. Opposed the Axis powers' influence in Croatia and spoke out against the persecution of Jews and other marginalized groups. After the war, faced a show trial by the Yugoslav communist government, resulting in a conviction viewed as politically motivated. Later, canonized by the Catholic Church for his service and martyrdom.

Continue Reading

Martha Wainwright

Singer-songwriter with acclaimed albums
Born
May 8th, 1976 50 years ago

Born in 1976, a Canadian-American singer-songwriter and guitarist has contributed significantly to contemporary folk and rock music. Released several acclaimed albums, including 'Martha Wainwright' and 'Come Home to Mama.' Known for emotive lyrics and a powerful vocal style, performed at major music festivals and collaborated with notable artists in the music scene. Active in the music community and has appeared in various projects that highlight independent music.

Continue Reading

Darren Hayes

Singer-songwriter, lead of Savage Garden
Born
May 8th, 1972 54 years ago

A prominent figure in pop music, gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the duo Savage Garden. The duo achieved worldwide success with hit singles such as "Truly Madly Deeply" and "I Knew I Loved You." Following the group’s disbandment, pursued a solo career, releasing several albums, including "Spin" and "The Tension and the Spark." Contributed to the music industry with a distinctive voice and emotional songwriting.

Continue Reading