J. E. B. Stuart
American Confederate cavalry general
Participated in the American Civil War as a Confederate cavalry general. Played a significant role in battles such as the Battle of Chancellorsville and the Battle of Gettysburg. Commanded the cavalry of the Army of Northern Virginia. Gained recognition for his daring cavalry raids, remarkably during the 1862 Maryland Campaign. Died from wounds sustained at the Battle of Yellow Tavern in 1864.
Commanded the cavalry of the Army of Northern Virginia
Participated in the Battle of Gettysburg
Led cavalry raids during the 1862 Maryland Campaign
Died from wounds at the Battle of Yellow Tavern
Other People Born on February 6th
Christine Boutin
French politician and housing minister
Born
February 6th, 1944 81 years ago
A French politician served as the Minister of Housing and Urban Development from 2007 to 2012. Held a prominent position within the Christian Democratic Party and was involved in French politics for several decades, focusing on issues related to housing policy and urban development. Engaged in various legislative efforts, particularly advocating for the interests of lower-income families in accessing housing. Contributed to discussions on social issues and urban planning throughout the political career.
Continue ReadingJin Yong
Author and founder of Ming Pao
Born
February 6th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent author and publisher from Hong Kong, contributed significantly to Chinese literature through the creation of wuxia novels. Founded the newspaper Ming Pao in 1959, which became a significant platform for Chinese readers. His literary works have been translated into multiple languages, gaining a wide readership beyond Chinese-speaking populations. He published numerous novels that were adapted into films, television series, and video games, broadening the influence of his storytelling.
Continue ReadingTakashi Yanase
Poet and illustrator, creator of Anpanman
Born
February 6th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1919, a notable poet and illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature in Japan. Created the beloved character Anpanman, which became a staple in Japanese culture. Worked on various illustrations and poems that resonated with both children and adults. Engaged in artistic endeavors throughout life and emphasized themes of kindness and imagination.
Continue ReadingAntoine Arnauld
Mathematician and philosopher of logic
Born
February 6th, 1612 413 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1694 331 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, theology, and philosophy during the 17th century. Engaged in the intellectual movement of Jansenism, which emphasized predestination and grace in contrast to Jesuit theology. Published works on logic, including 'The Port-Royal Logic', which influenced modern thought. Participated in debates concerning the nature of free will and divine grace. Also involved in the creation of the 'Grammaire de Port-Royal', which contributed to the study of language and grammar. Served as a key figure in the development of the philosophical discourse surrounding Cartesian ideas.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Zafarullah Khan
Pakistani politician and diplomat
Born
February 6th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 92 years old
Elected as the first Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan in 1947, played a significant role in shaping the country's foreign policy during its formative years. Engaged in founding the All-India Muslim League and was instrumental in the Lahore Resolution. Represented Pakistan at various international forums, including the United Nations. Served as the President of the International Court of Justice from 1970 to 1973. Contributed to international law and the promotion of human rights through diplomatic channels.
Continue ReadingRobert Maillart
Swiss civil engineer, concrete bridge designer
Born
February 6th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1940 85 years ago — 68 years old
Developed innovative designs for reinforced concrete structures, particularly bridges. Created the Salginatobel Bridge in 1929, which earned recognition for its pioneering use of reinforced concrete. Focused on aesthetic considerations alongside structural functionality. Influenced modern bridge engineering through techniques that emphasized simplicity and elegance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan
Diplomat and UN High Commissioner
Born
January 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2003 22 years ago — 70 years old
A French-Pakistani diplomat served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 1965 to 1977. During this tenure, efforts focused on advocating for refugee rights and addressing the needs of displaced populations globally. Established initiatives and programs aimed at providing humanitarian assistance and facilitating resettlement. He played a key role in promoting international cooperation to tackle refugee crises effectively. After leaving his position, continued to influence humanitarian efforts through various foundations and organizations.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Bergner
German actress with notable film roles
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1986 39 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent actress from Germany, she gained recognition for performances in theatrical productions and films during the early to mid-20th century. Bergner's career included memorable roles in films such as 'Escape Me Never' and 'The Mad Fox'. She worked with directors like Paul Czinner and appeared in various productions that showcased her talent on stage and screen. Bergner's contributions to theatre included successful performances in Shakespearean plays and other significant works. She relocated to the United Kingdom and later to the United States, continuing her acting career throughout. Her influence in the performing arts spanned several decades until her death in 1986.
Continue ReadingIrena Sendler
Polish nurse and humanitarian
Born
February 15th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 98 years old
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.
Continue ReadingH. R. Giger
Swiss surrealist painter and designer
Born
February 5th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
A Swiss painter, sculptor, and set designer, influential in the world of contemporary art and film. His work blended surrealism with biomechanical elements, culminating in the design of the iconic creature and landscapes in the film 'Alien.' Giger's unique aesthetic shaped not only cinema but also album covers and various forms of art installations. He won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects in 1980 for his contributions to 'Alien,' establishing a legacy as an innovator in visual design in the film industry.
Continue ReadingDennis Nilsen
Scottish serial killer and murderer
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2018 7 years ago — 73 years old
A serial killer who operated in London during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Committed numerous murders of young men and boys, luring victims to his home before killing them. Gained notoriety for the gruesome nature of the crimes and techniques used to dispose of the bodies. Arrested in 1983 after a plumber discovered human remains in the drains of his apartment. Convicted in 1984 and sentenced to life imprisonment, serving 25 years before death in 2018.
Continue ReadingSarat Pujari
Indian actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
August 8th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
An actor, director, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Pujari worked in numerous films primarily in the Odia and Bengali languages. He directed multiple acclaimed films and also developed a reputation for his work in theater. Much of his career was spent focusing on regional cinema, where his storytelling and character portrayals achieved recognition among audiences. Notable for both performances and directorial efforts, he played a crucial role in promoting regional narratives and cultural themes through film.
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