IU
Korean singer-songwriter and actress
Born in 1993, this artist gained recognition as a singer-songwriter and actress in South Korea. Debuted in 2008 with the album 'Lost and Found' which included the hit single 'Mia'. The success of the song 'Good Day' in 2010 solidified popularity, showcasing vocal ability and artistry. Transitioned into acting with roles in popular television dramas such as 'Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo' and 'My Mister'. Received multiple awards for both music and acting, contributing to an influential career in the Korean entertainment industry.
Released hit albums like 'Palette' and 'LILAC'
Starred in 'Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo'
Won multiple Melon Music Awards and Golden Disc Awards
Other People Born on May 16th
Kenji Mizoguchi
Japanese film director and screenwriter
Born
May 16th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1956 69 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent director and screenwriter in Japanese cinema. Pioneered the vertical narrative style in film with a focus on women's struggles in society. Established a significant body of work during the 1940s and 1950s. Influenced international cinema with unique storytelling and visual compositions. His films often explored themes of suffering and social issues, particularly those affecting women in Japan. Received critical acclaim, including awards at major film festivals.
Continue ReadingMario Monicelli
Italian director and screenwriter of films
Born
May 16th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2010 15 years ago — 95 years old
Monicelli contributed significantly to Italian cinema, particularly through the Commedia all'italiana genre. Directed iconic films such as 'Big Deal on Madonna Street' (1958) and 'The Organiser' (1963), showcasing a blend of humor and social commentary. His career spanned several decades, earning acclaim for innovative storytelling and unique character development. Worked with notable actors and writers, gaining recognition in international film festivals. He received numerous awards, including the David di Donatello and the Silver Ribbon, cementing a legacy in the film industry.
Continue ReadingStuart Bell
English lawyer and politician
Born
May 16th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Elected to Parliament as a Labour member, served as the representative for Middlesbrough since 1983. Played a significant role in legal matters and local governance. Took part in various parliamentary committees and advocated for community issues throughout tenure. Retired in 2012 after nearly three decades in politics.
Continue ReadingMerton Miller
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 77 years old
An economist and academic contributed significantly to the field of finance and economics. Developed the capital asset pricing model alongside other crucial theories. Received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1990 for contributions to the understanding of financial markets and derivatives. Had a long academic career, including teaching at the University of Chicago, influencing generations of economists and practitioners in financial theory.
Continue ReadingYvonne Craig
Ballet dancer and actress in TV series
Born
May 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Initiated a career as a ballet dancer, performing with prestigious ballet companies. Transitioned to acting and gained recognition for roles in television, particularly as Batgirl in the series 'Batman' during the 1960s. Appeared in films such as 'The Gene Krupa Story' and 'Mars Needs Women'. Also contributed to the arts as a choreographer for various productions.
Continue ReadingWilliam H. Seward
U.S. Secretary of State, negotiated Alaska
Born
May 16th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1872 153 years ago — 71 years old
A lawyer and politician, served as the 24th United States Secretary of State from 1861 to 1869. Played a crucial role in the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, a decision often referred to as 'Seward's Folly' at the time. Instrumental in supporting the Union during the Civil War and enhancing foreign relations. Advocated for the abolition of slavery and promoted various reforms throughout his political career.
Continue Reading