Imi Lichtenfeld
Martial artist, creator of Krav Maga
Born in Hungary, a martial artist, boxer, and gymnast developed Krav Maga, a self-defense system integrating techniques from various martial arts and boxing. Emigrated to Israel and became involved in training military and law enforcement personnel. The system emphasized practical defense against real-world threats, contributing to its widespread adoption across the globe. Established a training center in Israel, further promoting the discipline. His work laid a foundation for the evolution of modern self-defense.
Developed Krav Maga as a self-defense system
Trained Israeli military and police forces
Established the Krav Maga Federation
Other People Born on May 26th
Ashley Vincent
Footballer with West Bromwich Albion
Born
May 26th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, a professional footballer had a career primarily as a winger. Played for West Bromwich Albion, contributing to the team's campaigns in various leagues. After leaving West Bromwich Albion, moved to several clubs, including a notable spell at a non-league side. His playing style showcased speed and dribbling skills, often assisting his teammates in goal-scoring opportunities.
Continue ReadingHasan Kabze
Turkish footballer and national player
Born
May 26th, 1982 43 years ago
Debuted professionally in 1999 with Kocaelispor, securing a position as a forward. Played for several teams in Turkey, including Çanakkale Dardanelspor, MKE Ankaragücü, and Gaziantepspor. Competed in the Turkish Super Lig, showcasing skills and goal-scoring ability. Represented Turkey at various youth levels and made appearances for the senior national team, contributing to international competitions. Transitioned to lesser-known leagues toward the end of the career, continuing to play football until retirement.
Continue ReadingFrankie Manning
Dancer and choreographer of Lindy Hop
Born
May 26th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2009 16 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent figure in the Lindy Hop dance movement, contributed significantly to the evolution of swing dance. Served as a dancer and choreographer at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem during the 1930s. Helped popularize the dance style internationally through performances and workshops. His choreography and innovative aerial moves greatly influenced future generations of dancers. Worked extensively in film and television, bringing Lindy Hop to wider audiences.
Continue ReadingMathew Barzal
Ice hockey player; New York Islanders center
Born
May 26th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, made his NHL debut with the New York Islanders in the 2017-2018 season. Played a significant role in the Islanders' playoff runs, demonstrating exceptional skills as a center. Won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year in 2018. Contributed to Team Canada in international competitions, showcasing talent on a global stage.
Continue ReadingDani Samuels
Australian discus thrower and champion
Born
May 26th, 1988 37 years ago
An accomplished discus thrower, this athlete gained recognition for her achievements in international competitions. In 2009, secured the gold medal at the World Championships held in Berlin, marking a significant milestone in her career. Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and represented Australia in multiple World Championships and Commonwealth Games. Achieved personal best throws that ranked among the top in the world during her peak years. Over the course of her career, earned multiple National Championships titles.
Continue ReadingMicah Parsons
American football linebacker, Defensive Rookie of the Year
Born
May 26th, 1999 26 years ago
Positioned as a linebacker, a remarkable football player emerged from Penn State and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In his inaugural season, notable performances included rapid tackles and consistent pressure on quarterbacks. Parsons' unique ability to adapt and excel in various defensive roles contributed to his reputation as a dynamic player. He secured the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2021, showcasing stellar athleticism and intelligence on the field. Parsons demonstrated strong leadership qualities, becoming a vital part of the Cowboys' defense, influencing several games through key plays. In subsequent seasons, continued to exhibit outstanding performance and solidified status as one of the league's premier linebackers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 9th
Zygmunt Bauman
Polish sociologist and theorist
Born
November 19th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2017 9 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent sociologist, one of the leading voices in contemporary social theory. Focused on issues such as modernity, postmodernity, consumerism, and the complexities of life in a fluid society. Authored several influential works, including 'Liquid Modernity', which critiques the rapid changes in society and their impact on individuals. Explored themes of identity, morality, and the implications of globalization. His scholarship provided frameworks to understand social cohesion in a world of increasing individualism.
Continue ReadingNapoleon III
French politician and 1st President of France
Born
April 20th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1873 153 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the first President of France from 1848 to 1852. Elected following the revolution of 1848, implemented various economic and social reforms during presidency. Later declared himself Emperor of the French, ruling as Napoleon III from 1852 until 1870. His reign is marked by modernization efforts in France, including the expansion of the railway system and urban renewal of Paris. Involved in several military conflicts, including the Crimean War and the Franco-Prussian War, which led to his ultimate fall from power.
Continue ReadingJames M. Buchanan
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2013 13 years ago — 94 years old
An economist and academic focused on public choice theory. Played a crucial role in establishing the field of political economy, exploring how economic analysis can be applied to political decision-making. Served as a professor at George Mason University and held positions at several other institutions. Regarded for contributions to the understanding of the mechanisms of government and markets. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1986 for work on non-technical economics.
Continue ReadingPaul du Toit
South African painter and sculptor
Born
October 31st, 1965 60 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2014 12 years ago — 48 years old
A South African painter and sculptor focused on modern and contemporary art. Worked extensively with various mediums, integrating elements of abstraction and realism. Gained recognition for contributions to South African art, participating in numerous exhibitions both locally and internationally. Produced a body of work that included large-scale sculptures and vibrant paintings, often reflecting themes of society and culture.
Continue ReadingKazimierz Serocki
Polish pianist and composer, Symphony No. 1
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1981 45 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent Polish pianist and composer contributed to the 20th-century classical music scene. Studied at the Warsaw Conservatory and later in Paris, developing a unique style that fused traditional Polish elements with modern techniques. Composed numerous works including symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. Actively involved in the Polish music community and held various teaching positions at institutions in Poland. His compositions were featured in concerts and festivals across Europe, showcasing a dedication to both performance and education. Earned recognition for the ability to blend various musical influences and create innovative works.
Continue ReadingCountee Cullen
American poet and playwright
Born
May 30th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1946 80 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent figure during the Harlem Renaissance, the individual contributed significantly to American literature through poetry and plays. The work often explored themes of race, identity, and society, with a notable emphasis on African American experiences. Notable poetry collections include 'Color' and 'Copper Sun'. The individual also wrote plays that were performed in New York, enriching the cultural fabric of the era. In addition to literary achievements, involvement in various artistic and social circles characterized this person's career, fostering connections among contemporary thinkers and artists.
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