Jacob Riis

Journalist and social reformer

Jacob Riis - Activists & Humanitarians born May 3rd, 1849
Born
Died

1914
112 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

A Danish-American journalist and photographer, became prominent for documenting the living conditions of the poor in New York City. Authored 'How the Other Half Lives,' which illustrated the struggles of impoverished immigrant families and contributed to social reform efforts. His work combined photography and journalism to raise awareness about urban poverty and housing issues. Helped inspire reforms in housing and labor laws, emphasizing the importance of social justice and improved living conditions.

Authored 'How the Other Half Lives'

Pioneered photojournalism in the U.S.

Other People Born on May 3rd

Stu Hart

Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
May 3rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 88 years old

An influential professional wrestler and trainer, he founded the legendary Stampede Wrestling promotion in Calgary, Alberta. Developed a wrestling school which produced many future wrestling stars, including Bret Hart and Chris Jericho. Served as a key figure in the wrestling community for decades, training numerous athletes in the craft. His contributions to wrestling extended beyond mere performance, with a focus on developing the next generation of talent.

Continue Reading

Jacques-Louis Lions

Mathematician and partial differential equations expert
Born
May 3rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed to the field of mathematics with a focus on partial differential equations and control theory. Served as a professor at the Collège de France. Collaborated with various researchers to advance mathematical theories and techniques. Authored several influential papers and books that shaped modern analysis and numerical methods.

Continue Reading

Georges Moustaki

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 3rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Egypt and later based in France, a notable singer-songwriter and guitarist emerged in the music scene during the 1960s. This artist blended French chanson with various musical influences, creating a unique style. The artist penned many iconic songs, with 'Le Métèque' standing out as a defining hit. Throughout a prolific career, performances spanned numerous stages in France and internationally, influencing generations of musicians. Moustaki's work often reflected themes of love, freedom, and identity, resonating with audiences across cultures. Alongside musical achievements, the artist's background as a Greek-Jewish immigrant added depth to the artistic narrative, enriching contributions to music and culture.

Continue Reading

Amaro Pargo

Spanish corsair with a notorious reputation
Born
May 3rd, 1678 347 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1747 278 years ago — 69 years old

A significant figure in the early 18th century, operated as a corsair in the Atlantic and Caribbean seas. Commanded piracy against British and Dutch ships, contributing to the wealth and naval strength of Spain. Engaged in notable battles and served as a privateer, receiving royal commissions for his actions. Established a base in Tenerife, where he became a legendary figure due to his exploits and adventures on the high seas. Left behind tales of daring, treasure, and maritime skill that have echoed through history. His legacy includes a combination of both heroic feats and controversial piracy.

Continue Reading

George Paget Thomson

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 3rd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1975 50 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent English physicist and academic, contributions to physics include research on electron diffraction, which demonstrated the wave-like properties of electrons. The work provided significant enhancement to quantum mechanics and solidified the understanding of wave-particle duality. In 1937, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded for these contributions, sharing the honor with Clinton Davisson. Thomson was also involved in education, holding various academic positions throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Pavlo Skoropadskyi

Ukrainian general and Hetman of Ukraine
Born
May 3rd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 71 years old

A German-Ukrainian general and politician, served as the Hetman of Ukraine from 1918 to 1919. Skoropadskyi led the Ukrainian state during a tumultuous period following World War I, advocating for Ukrainian independence and the establishment of a stable government. The political landscape was marked by conflict with various factions, including Bolshevik forces. After the defeat of his government, he went into exile, living in Germany. Skoropadskyi remained active in Ukrainian political circles until his death in 1945.

Continue Reading