Israel Putnam
American Revolutionary War general
Served as a general in the American Revolutionary War. Participated in the Battle of Bunker Hill, where decisive leadership was exhibited. Spent early life as a farmer and gained experience in military affairs during the French and Indian War. His prominence grew as a military commander for the Continental Army, contributing to various campaigns.
Led American forces at the Battle of Bunker Hill
Fought in the French and Indian War
Other People Born on January 7th
Mariano Paredes
Mexican general and president (1845-1846)
Born
January 7th, 1797 229 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1849 176 years ago — 52 years old
A military leader in Mexico, played key roles in the country's political landscape during the mid-19th century. As a general, engaged in several military campaigns, contributing to the stability of the nation. Served as the 16th president from 1845 to 1846, during a tumultuous period marked by conflict and military challenges. Paredes participated in the U.S.-Mexican War, which influenced his political and military decisions.
Continue ReadingSadako Sasaki
Japanese peace activist and symbol
Born
January 7th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1955 70 years ago — 12 years old
Survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima at the age of two, developing leukemia due to radiation exposure years later. While in the hospital, began folding origami cranes, inspired by the belief that folding 1,000 cranes would grant her a wish for recovery. This act and her story became symbols of peace and anti-nuclear sentiment globally. After her death, a statue was erected in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to honor the legacy of her wishes for peace.
Continue ReadingJohn Steiner
English actor in film and television
Born
January 7th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1941, an English actor performed in films and television series. Gained recognition for roles in 'The Last Express' and 'The Italian Job'. Appeared in various productions throughout the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the British film scene. Collaborated with notable filmmakers adding to a diverse portfolio spanning several genres.
Continue ReadingOrval Faubus
36th Governor of Arkansas during desegregation
Born
January 7th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 36th Governor of Arkansas from 1955 to 1967. Gained national attention for opposing the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School in 1957, utilizing the Arkansas National Guard to prevent nine African American students from entering the school. This act of defiance against federal authority prompted intervention by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who deployed federal troops to enforce the desegregation order. Faubus's tenure included a focus on education and infrastructure but was overshadowed by his stance on civil rights.
Continue ReadingJordan Bell
Basketball player, NBA champion
Born
January 7th, 1995 31 years ago
A professional basketball player competing in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played college basketball at the University of Oregon, helping the team reach the NCAA Championship game in 2017. Selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 2nd round of the 2017 NBA Draft but immediately traded to the Golden State Warriors. Contributed to the Warriors' success in the 2018 NBA playoffs, culminating in an NBA Championship victory.
Continue ReadingHenry II
Count of Nassau-Siegen
Born
January 7th, 1414 612 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1177 849 years ago — -237 years old
Became Count of Nassau-Siegen in the early 15th century. Played a significant role in the ongoing conflicts of the time, particularly during the Hundred Years' War. Engaged in military campaigns to defend and expand territorial claims in the region. Also served as a prominent figure in the political landscape of the Low Countries.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 29th
Doc Watson
American bluegrass musician and songwriter
Born
March 3rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1923, this American musician gained recognition for contributions to the bluegrass and folk music genres. Blind from a young age, proficiency on guitar and flatpicking technique showcased remarkable talent. Released albums such as 'Doc Watson' and 'Will the Circle Be Unbroken', collaborating with a range of artists including the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Emphasized traditional and contemporary pieces, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingJoséphine de Beauharnais
French empress, wife of Napoleon
Born
June 23rd, 1763 262 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1814 211 years ago — 50 years old
First Empress of the French, influencing the early 19th century. Married Napoleon Bonaparte in 1796, becoming a prominent figure in the court during his rise to power. Actively engaged in cultural and social life, she was instrumental in promoting the arts and fashion. Played a crucial role in Napoleon's personal and political life until their divorce in 1810. Became the queen of France when Napoleon was crowned in 1804. Following her marriage, she established the Château de Malmaison, a center of horticulture and a showcase of her interests in botany.
Continue ReadingConstantine XI Palaiologos
Byzantine Emperor during Fall of Constantinople
Born
February 8th, 1405 620 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1453 572 years ago — 48 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1449 as the last Byzantine Emperor. Faced the Ottoman siege of Constantinople from 1453. Defended the city against overwhelming forces until its fall. Died during the final battle, symbolizing the end of the Byzantine Empire. His reign marked a significant point in the history of the region.
Continue ReadingDoris Hart
Tennis player with multiple Grand Slam titles
Born
June 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent American tennis player, achieved significant success during the 1940s and 1950s. Secured a total of six Grand Slam singles titles and an impressive 35 Grand Slam titles across various categories, which includes doubles and mixed doubles. Played for the United States in several international competitions. After retirement, transitioned into a career in education, contributing to the development of tennis programs and teaching the sport to young athletes.
Continue ReadingBob Rogers
Australian radio and television host
Born
December 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent radio and television host in Australia, whose career spanned several decades. Gained recognition through early morning radio programs and became a household name in the industry. Also hosted television shows, contributing to the entertainment landscape of the country. Actively engaged with audiences, and his programs often featured music and various guest appearances. Retired from broadcasting but remained a respected figure in Australian media.
Continue ReadingMily Balakirev
Russian composer and pianist, founder of the Mighty Handful
Born
January 2nd, 1837 189 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1910 115 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in 19th-century Russian music, Balakirev dedicated efforts to promoting Russian classical music. He founded a collective of composers known as 'The Mighty Handful,' which aimed to create a distinctly Russian sound in classical music. As a pianist, he showcased his talents through performances and compositions that blended romanticism with folk elements. Balakirev's influential works include the symphonic poem 'Tamara' and the piano pieces 'Islamey' and 'Bard's Song.' His teachings and mentorship inspired future generations of Russian composers.
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