Herbert Backe
German agronomist and politician
An agronomist and politician contributed significantly to agricultural policy in Germany during the 1930s. Played a key role in the establishment of the Lebensraum theory, advocating for agricultural expansion in Eastern Europe. Assumed various political roles, including serving as State Secretary of Food and Agriculture from 1933 to 1945. Participated in the organization of food production and distribution during World War II, influencing food supply strategies. His policies directly affected the agricultural landscape in Nazi Germany and were associated with wartime strategies.
Served as State Secretary of Food and Agriculture
Promoted Lebensraum policy
Contributed to agricultural strategies during WWII
Other People Born on May 1st
Sidónio Pais
Portuguese politician and 4th President
Born
May 1st, 1872 154 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 46 years old
An influential soldier and politician in early 20th century Portugal, served as the 4th President from 1918 until assassination in 1919. After a military coup in 1917, assumed leadership of the country and implemented significant political reforms. Advocated for national stability and economic recovery during a tumultuous period marked by social unrest and World War I. His presidency ended following a violent coup.
Continue ReadingDan O'Herlihy
Irish-American actor in 'Robinson Crusoe'
Born
May 1st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2005 21 years ago — 85 years old
An Irish-American actor noted for a prominent career in film and television. Played the title role in the film 'Robinson Crusoe' (1954), which garnered significant acclaim. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'All the King's Men' (1949). Portrayed characters in various television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Last Days of World War II'.
Continue ReadingHani
South Korean singer and actress from EXID
Born
May 1st, 1992 34 years ago
Born in South Korea in 1992, this individual pursued a career in music and acting. As a member of the girl group EXID, gained significant recognition with the hit single 'Up & Down.' The group achieved a strong fanbase and contributed to the K-pop phenomenon both domestically and internationally. In addition to music, ventured into acting, appearing in various television dramas. Participated in talent shows and variety programs, showcasing versatility and charm.
Continue ReadingBradley Roby
American football cornerback and champion
Born
May 1st, 1992 34 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Achieved a Super Bowl championship with the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50. Drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft after a successful college career at Ohio State University, where earned a first-team All-Big Ten selection. Known for contributions to defensive plays and coverage skills during tenure in the league.
Continue ReadingNikolai Yezhov
Russian police officer and politician
Born
May 1st, 1895 131 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1940 86 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a key figure in the Soviet secret police, Yezhov rose to prominence during the Great Purge initiated by Joseph Stalin. Played a crucial role in orchestrating widespread repression, leading to the arrest and execution of thousands of perceived enemies of the state. His tenure marked an intensification of state terror in the late 1930s, known for implementing harsh measures against dissent, including the extensive use of show trials. Eventually fell from favor, leading to his arrest and execution in 1940 as part of the ongoing purges.
Continue ReadingCurtis Martin
American football running back, Super Bowl champion
Born
May 1st, 1973 53 years ago
A professional American football player, achieved significant success in the National Football League (NFL). Played primarily for the New England Patriots and the New York Jets. Earned the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 1995. Became a five-time Pro Bowl selection, showcasing consistent performance throughout a career that spanned over a decade. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012, cementing a legacy within the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 6th
Wilma Mankiller
Tribal leader and author
Born
November 18th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2010 16 years ago — 64 years old
Played a key role as the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation from 1985 to 1995. Focused on self-determination and economic development for Native American people. Authored the book 'Mankiller: A Chief and Her People', which detailed the challenges and successes of Indigenous people in contemporary society. Worked to address issues of race and gender through leadership and advocacy.
Continue ReadingDollard St. Laurent
Ice hockey player with Montreal Canadiens
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2015 11 years ago — 86 years old
A former ice hockey player played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). Spent the majority of the playing career with the Montreal Canadiens. Contributed to the team’s success during the 1950s and early 1960s. Also played for the New York Rangers and the Detroit Red Wings. Won three Stanley Cup championships with the Canadiens in 1953, 1956, and 1957. Transitioned to a coaching career after retirement from professional play.
Continue ReadingMickey Rooney
Actor and dancer in classic films
Born
September 23rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2014 12 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and dancer, this individual began performing in silent films as a child and rose to prominence in the 1930s and 1940s. Notable work included leading roles in The Andy Hardy series, for which there were a total of 16 films. Over a career spanning nearly nine decades, this performer showcased versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Apart from acting, also gained recognition for considerable work in dance and musical theater.
Continue ReadingHans Küng
Swiss theologian and author of major works
Born
March 19th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2021 5 years ago — 93 years old
A Swiss theologian and author, contributed extensively to the fields of theology and philosophy. Held a notable position at the University of Tübingen, where a significant part of the academic career unfolded. Engaged in dialogue on interfaith understanding and criticism of the Catholic Church's doctrines. Authored several influential books, emphasizing a humanistic approach within the Christian faith and advocating for a more inclusive worldview.
Continue ReadingFang Lizhi
Astrophysicist and Chinese academic
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2012 14 years ago — 76 years old
An astrophysicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics, particularly in the studies concerning solar dynamics and the conditions of the universe. Served as a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China. Played an important role in the pro-democracy movement in China, advocating for political reform during the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989. After the crackdown, sought asylum in the United States and continued to engage in academic pursuits while critiquing the Chinese government's policies.
Continue ReadingBigas Luna
Spanish film director and screenwriter
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2013 13 years ago — 67 years old
Key figure in Spanish cinema, focused on themes of sexuality and identity. Gained recognition in the 1990s for distinct visual style and narrative techniques. Directed films such as 'Jamón Jamón', which highlighted the cultural dynamics of Spain and showcased the talents of actors like Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem. Also directed 'The Age of Beauty' and 'The Last Supper', both of which explored societal issues through a unique artistic lens. His work contributed to the rise of a new wave of Spanish filmmakers during this era.
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