Jack Kevorkian

Pathologist and assisted suicide advocate

Jack Kevorkian - Pathologist and assisted suicide advocate
Born

May 26th, 1928
96 years ago

Died

June 3rd, 2011
13 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

A pathologist and author, contributed to the euthanasia debate in the United States. Developed a machine known as the 'Mercitron' to assist terminally ill patients in self-administering lethal doses of medication. Conducted over 130 assisted suicides during the 1990s, bringing significant media attention to the topic. Wrote several books discussing the ethics of assisted suicide. Faced legal challenges, resulting in a 1999 murder conviction and a prison sentence that ended in 2007.

Developed the 'Mercitron' device for assisted suicide

Assisted in over 130 suicides

Other People Born on May 26th

Lyudmila Petrushevskaya

Russian author and playwright of short stories
Born
May 26th, 1938 86 years ago

An influential Russian author and playwright emerged in the Soviet literary scene. Winning acclaim for unique storytelling, developed a distinctive voice addressing themes of hardship and survival. Major works include 'The Time: Night' and 'The Short Stories of Lyudmila Petrushevskaya'. Also worked as a screenwriter and television playwright, contributing to Soviet and post-Soviet media landscapes. Recognized for capturing the complexities of life during tumultuous political changes and personal struggles. Received several prestigious awards, including the 2006 Russian State Literary Prize. Through various works, explored psychological depth and societal challenges faced by women.

Continue Reading

Sam Posey

Race car driver and television journalist
Born
May 26th, 1944 80 years ago

Began racing professional cars in the 1960s, competing in various disciplines including sports cars and IndyCar. Achieved recognition for participation in the Indianapolis 500, finishing in the top 10 on several occasions. Later transitioned to journalism and broadcasting, serving as a commentator for ESPN and producing work that covered different aspects of motorsports. Also authored books reflecting on racing and its culture.

Continue Reading

Matt Stone

Animator and co-creator of South Park
Born
May 26th, 1971 53 years ago

Contributed to the creation of the animated television series South Park, which debuted in 1997. Co-founded the production company Parker-Stone Productions and produced the film South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut. Worked as a voice actor for several characters in South Park. Engaged in various projects that reflect a satirical approach to current events and culture.

Continue Reading

Paul Lukas

Hungarian-American actor and singer
Born
May 26th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1971 53 years ago — 76 years old

Starting a career in Hungary, gained prominence in the United States after migrating in the 1920s. Appeared in many films during the 1930s and 1940s. Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'Watch on the Rhine' in 1943. Excelled in both dramatic and musical performances throughout his career, showcasing versatile talent in various stage productions.

Continue Reading

Louis-Jean Cormier

Singer and songwriter, 'Le Treizième étage'
Born
May 26th, 1980 44 years ago

Born in 1980, a Canadian singer and songwriter gained recognition in the music scene as a member of the band Karkwa. After the band's success, ventured into a solo career. Released several albums, including 'Le Treizième étage' which received critical acclaim and won multiple Félix Awards. Showcased a blend of folk, rock, and pop influences in songwriting and performance.

Continue Reading

Dani Samuels

Australian discus thrower and champion
Born
May 26th, 1988 36 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 Reading

Other People Who Died on June 3rd

Mary Kingsley

English explorer and author of travels
Born
October 13th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1900 124 years ago — 37 years old

An explorer and author, contributed significantly to the understanding of West Africa through extensive travels. Undertook solo expeditions in regions such as Gabon and Nigeria, documenting cultures and landscapes. Published works include 'Travels in West Africa' which provided insight into African societies, natural history, and her experiences. Advocated for the need to respect and understand indigenous cultures. Her writings remain valued in the fields of anthropology and travel literature.

Continue Reading

Ludwig Ritter von Köchel

Composer and botanist with Köchel catalog
Born
January 14th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1877 147 years ago — 77 years old

Austrian composer and botanist contributed significantly to both music and botany. Developed the Köchel catalog, a chronological index of the works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, which became an essential reference for classical music scholars. Engaged in plant classification and published various scientific papers focused on botany. His efforts in organizing Mozart's compositions helped in preserving and studying them, profoundly influencing the understanding of the composer's oeuvre.

Continue Reading

Roy Salvadori

Racing driver with Le Mans successes
Born
May 12th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2012 12 years ago — 90 years old

Active as a racing driver from the 1950s, participation included Formula One and sports car racing. Achieved notable success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, finishing second overall in 1950 driving for Aston Martin. Competed in various other significant races across Europe and served as a manager for racing teams later in his career. His experience in the sport contributed to advancements in racing strategies and team management.

Continue Reading

Prince Guaimar IV of Salerno

Prince and ruler of Salerno
Died
June 3rd, 1052 972 years ago — None years old

Ruled as the Prince of Salerno during the 11th century. Governed during a period marked by political fragmentation in Southern Italy. Engaged in conflicts with neighboring principalities and notable for efforts to consolidate power within his realm. His reign witnessed cultural and economic developments in the region, contributing to the historical landscape of Medieval Italy. Died in 1052, leaving a legacy tied to the feudal structures of the time.

Continue Reading

Hjalmar Schacht

Economist and banker, Reichsbank president
Born
1877 148 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1970 54 years ago — 93 years old

An economist and banker associated with Germany, played a significant role in the economic policies of the Weimar Republic and during the Nazi regime. Served as the president of the Reichsbank from 1923 to 1930 and again from 1933 to 1939. Instrumental in the economic recovery of Germany in the 1920s, implementing policies that reduced hyperinflation. Contributed to the establishment of the German Labor Front after the elimination of trade unions. Involved in several economic negotiations and agreements leading up to and during World War II, including managing relations with foreign investors.

Continue Reading

Franz Kafka

Czech-Austrian author of surreal fiction
Born
July 3rd, 1883 141 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1924 100 years ago — 40 years old

Born in Prague, an influential writer produced significant works of surreal fiction. Notable writings include 'The Metamorphosis' and 'The Trial', often exploring themes of alienation, existential anxiety, and bureaucratic absurdity. Kafka's distinctive style combined elements of realism and fantasy, defining modern narrative techniques. Despite limited recognition during his lifetime, posthumously gained acclaim as one of the seminal figures of 20th-century literature.

Continue Reading