Jacques Rogge
International Olympic Committee President
Served as the eighth president of the International Olympic Committee from 2001 to 2013. Played a significant role in the organization of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics. Became a member of the IOC in 2000 and was instrumental in promoting the Olympic values and addressing issues related to doping. Also held the position of president of the Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee before ascending to the IOC presidency.
President of the International Olympic Committee
Oversaw 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics
Other People Born on May 2nd
Tokugawa Hidetada
Japanese shōgun during Edo period
Born
May 2nd, 1579 446 years ago
Died
1632 394 years ago — 53 years old
Served as the second shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate from 1605 to 1623. Oversaw the consolidation of power for the Tokugawa regime following the leadership of his father, Tokugawa Ieyasu. Maintained stability in Japan during the early Edo period and enforced policies that strengthened the shōgunate's control over the daimyos. Promoted the establishment of a centralized feudal system.
Continue ReadingPatrick Hillery
Irish Physician and President of Ireland
Born
May 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 84 years old
An influential physician and politician served as the 6th President of Ireland from 1976 to 1990. A graduate of University College Dublin, specialization in medicine led to a prominent career in public health. The political journey began in 1957 as a member of the Fianna Fáil party, contributing to various government roles, including Minister for Health and Minister for Foreign Affairs. During the presidency, focused on promoting peace and reconciliation in Ireland. A noted advocate for social justice and education, the tenure included significant participation in international diplomatic efforts.
Continue ReadingPaul George
Basketball player with the Indiana Pacers
Born
May 2nd, 1990 35 years ago
A professional basketball player, born in 1990, played primarily as a small forward. Achieved recognition for outstanding performances in the National Basketball Association (NBA) during tenures with the Indiana Pacers and Los Angeles Clippers. Secured multiple All-Star selections and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Team. Gained acclaim for contributions to the Pacers' playoff runs, including reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2013. Represented the United States in international competitions, winning gold medals in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Continue ReadingVăn Tiến Dũng
Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Born
May 2nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 24 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the sixth Minister of Defence of Vietnam from 1974 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding the North Vietnamese Army during key offensives. Participated in various military strategies leading to the reunification of Vietnam. After the war, contributed to the military reform policies within the country until retirement. Influenced defense policies during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history.
Continue ReadingEddie Collins
Baseball player and manager with accolades
Born
May 2nd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1951 75 years ago — 63 years old
A distinguished baseball player and manager, excelled as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Philadelphia Athletics and Chicago White Sox, achieving significant success during the early 20th century. Collected over 3,300 hits throughout a career spanning nearly three decades. Managed the Chicago White Sox after his playing career, contributing to the team's strategy and performance during a transformative period in baseball. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949, reflecting a legacy of excellence in the sport.
Continue ReadingTroy Murphy
Basketball player with NBA achievements
Born
May 2nd, 1980 45 years ago
A basketball player competed in the NBA from 2001 to 2012. Played primarily as a power forward. Played for teams like the Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, New Jersey Nets, and the Miami Heat. Attended the University of Notre Dame, where earned All-American honors.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 29th
Brigham Young
Religious leader, LDS Church President
Born
June 1st, 1801 224 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1877 148 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent religious leader played a crucial role in the expansion of the Latter-day Saint movement during the 19th century. Served as the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1847 until death in 1877. Led members to the Great Salt Lake Valley, establishing Salt Lake City and influencing the settlement of the western United States. Advocated for the establishment of communities and promoted agricultural development in the region.
Continue ReadingGeorge Huntington Hartford
American businessman and founder of A&P
Born
September 5th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1917 108 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent American businessman, established the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company (A&P) in the late 19th century. The company became one of the first supermarket chains in the United States. Under leadership, A&P expanded significantly, creating a new retail model that revolutionized grocery shopping. The company was known for its innovative marketing strategies, including the introduction of self-service shopping. Hartford also invested in various business ventures beyond A&P, contributing to the growth of the retail industry.
Continue ReadingPál Tomori
Hungarian archbishop and military leader
Born
1475 551 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1526 499 years ago — 51 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Esztergom and a military commander during the early 16th century. Played a significant role in the defense of Hungary against the Ottoman Empire. Died at the Battle of Mohács in 1526 while leading Hungarian forces in a crucial military confrontation. This battle marked a pivotal moment in Hungarian history, leading to significant territorial losses.
Continue ReadingAlesso Baldovinetti
Italian painter, notable for frescoes
Born
October 14th, 1425 600 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1499 526 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Florence, a prominent painter of the Early Renaissance. Developed a unique style characterized by clarity and delicate color palette. Contributions included altarpieces and frescoes, highlighting scenes from the Virgin Mary's life. Worked closely with the Florentine tradition and demonstrated influences from both Gothic and early Renaissance art. Renowned for achievements in religious art, particularly in the San Miniato al Monte church. Collaborated with other significant artists of the period, enhancing the visual culture of Florence.
Continue ReadingLehman Engel
Composer and conductor of Broadway musicals
Born
September 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in American musical theatre, contributions included the creation of the original Broadway scores for productions such as 'The Golden Apple' and 'The Pajama Game.' Engel served as a conductor for a number of high-profile performances and contributed to various recordings that showcased the richness of American musical compositions. His influence extended beyond composing as an educator and advocate for musical theatre, leading the BMI Musical Theatre Workshop. This workshop nurtured the talents of many aspiring composers and lyricists.
Continue ReadingUlrich von Hutten
German religious reformer and writer
Born
April 21st, 1488 537 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1523 502 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1488, this individual became an influential figure in the German religious reform movement. A critic of the Catholic Church, wrote extensively on issues of faith and authority. Associated with the early Protestant Reformation, he corresponded with Martin Luther and supported the reformist cause. His works emphasized the importance of individual belief and the authority of Scripture over tradition. The dramatic social and political landscape of the era saw this figure advocate for reform through pamphlets and public speeches.
Continue Reading