Irena Sendler
Polish nurse and humanitarian
Worked as a nurse and social worker during World War II, providing assistance to Jewish families in German-occupied Poland. Facilitated the escape of approximately 2,500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto, placing them with Polish families and in convents to protect them from the Holocaust. After the war, continued to advocate for social justice and human rights. Received numerous awards and honors posthumously for contributions to saving lives during the Holocaust.
Saved approximately 2,500 Jewish children
Smuggled children out of the Warsaw Ghetto
Other People Born on February 15th
Ángel Sepúlveda
Professional footballer, striker
Born
February 15th, 1991 35 years ago
Born in 1991, a Mexican footballer played predominantly as a striker. His career included notable stints with Club Santos Laguna and Club Atlético Morelia in the Liga MX. Displays of skill and goal-scoring ability contributed to team successes and individual accolades.
Continue ReadingAllan Arbus
Actor and Photographer, M*A*S*H
Born
February 15th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 95 years old
Performed as psychiatrist Dr. Sidney Freedman in the television series M*A*S*H, contributing to the show's critical success. Transitioned from a successful career in photography to acting, appearing in various television series and films. Worked as a photographer for magazines such as Vogue and became noted for portraiture. Collaborated with prominent figures in the arts and fashion industries.
Continue ReadingTomislav Nikolić
Politician and 4th President of Serbia
Born
February 15th, 1952 74 years ago
Served as the 4th President of Serbia from 2012 to 2017. Played a significant role in Serbian politics, especially as a member of the Serbian Progressive Party, which he co-founded. Before the presidency, served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. Focused on reforms and European Union integration during tenure as president.
Continue ReadingMick Avory
English musician and songwriter from The Kinks
Born
February 15th, 1944 82 years ago
A musician and songwriter, contributed significantly to the rock genre as the drummer for The Kinks. The band emerged in the 1960s and became influential figures in the British Invasion of music. Spent years with The Kinks, contributing to their albums and singles which achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. The band's music includes hits characterized by distinct melodies and lyrical storytelling, helping to shape the rock landscape.
Continue ReadingBirdman
American rapper and music producer
Born
February 15th, 1969 57 years ago
Birdman is a prominent figure in the American hip-hop scene, co-founding Cash Money Records in 1991. As a rapper, he gained widespread attention with the release of multiple albums, including '2002's 5 * Stunna', and collaborated with numerous notable artists. His work in the music industry has resulted in critical acclaim and significant commercial success, contributing to the rise of many other rap artists.
Continue ReadingJohnny Cueto
Dominican baseball player, World Series champion
Born
February 15th, 1986 40 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher from the Dominican Republic, he played in Major League Baseball for teams including the Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, and Chicago White Sox. Cueto debuted in MLB in 2008 and gained recognition for his effective pitching style, combining speed and precision. Key moments in his career included a significant role in the Cincinnati Reds' rotation, leading the league in earned run average in 2014. His contributions helped the Kansas City Royals secure the World Series title in 2015, becoming a crucial asset during the championship run.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Mike Agostini
Trinidadian Olympic sprinter
Born
January 23rd, 1935 91 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 81 years old
A notable sprinter achieved success in the 100 meters and 200 meters events during the 1960s. Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics, representing Trinidad and Tobago. Held the national record in the 100 meters, setting a standard for future generations of athletes. Also won several medals in regional competitions, contributing to the development of track athletics in Trinidad and Tobago.
Continue ReadingThomas Wentworth
1st Earl of Strafford, English politician
Born
April 13th, 1593 433 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1641 385 years ago — 48 years old
Held the title of 1st Earl of Strafford and served as a prominent English soldier and politician during the 17th century. Played a key role as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing the governance and administration of Ireland at a tumultuous time. Implemented administrative reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority, often leading to friction with local leaders and the English Parliament. His policies contributed to significant political unrest, culminating in his arrest and execution amid the struggles between monarchy and Parliament.
Continue ReadingNelly Sachs
Nobel Prize-winning poet and playwright
Born
December 10th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1970 56 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Germany, a notable poet and playwright created significant works that addressed themes of exile and the Jewish experience during World War II. Fleeing the rise of the Nazi regime, relocated to Sweden, where the majority of her literary contributions were made. Much of her writing reflected her personal loss and the broader tragedy of the Holocaust, utilizing a deeply emotional and lyrical style. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1966 in recognition of her literary achievements and profound impact on poetry.
Continue ReadingFelix Steiner
SS officer and military leader
Born
May 23rd, 1896 130 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1966 60 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Commanded the SS division known as the 11th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division Nordland. Participated in various military operations on the Eastern Front and played a significant role during the battles in the latter stages of the war. Post-war, faced legal issues related to wartime actions.
Continue ReadingGöran Fredrik Göransson
Swedish industrialist and ironmaster
Born
January 20th, 1819 207 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1900 126 years ago — 81 years old
Established the first modern steel mill in Sweden during the 19th century. Revolutionized steel production with the introduction of the Bessemer process, significantly enhancing the efficiency and quality of steel manufacturing. Contributed to the industrial development of the region and helped in creating jobs and fostering economic growth. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the iron and steel industry in Sweden, making the nation a leader in metal production.
Continue ReadingCharles Barry
Architect, designer of Palace of Westminster
Born
May 23rd, 1795 231 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1860 166 years ago — 64 years old
An English architect played a pivotal role in the development of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed the Palace of Westminster in London after the original building was destroyed by fire in 1834. Completed the iconic structure in 1876, establishing a landmark of British politics. Also designed Upper Brook Street Chapel in Manchester, showcasing neoclassical elements.
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