James Connolly
Irish rebel leader and socialist
Born in Scotland, became a key figure in the Irish labor movement and revolutionary politics. Founded the Irish Socialist Republican Party and was instrumental in the 1916 Easter Rising, which sought to end British rule in Ireland. Served as a leader in the rising and was a signatory of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. Advocated for workers' rights and promoted the idea of a socialist republic in Ireland. His writings and speeches contributed to the growth of socialist ideology in the country, influencing future generations of Irish socialists and republicans.
Founded the Irish Socialist Republican Party
Led the 1916 Easter Rising
Other People Born on June 5th
Conrad Marca-Relli
Painter and academic in Abstract Expressionism
Born
June 5th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2000 25 years ago — 87 years old
An American-Italian painter and academics significant in the Abstract Expressionism movement, an art style that emerged in the mid-20th century. Studied at the New York School under notable artists and influenced by both European and American artistic traditions. Worked primarily in collage and paint, creating distinctive works characterized by their layering and fragmentation. Exhibited alongside contemporaries in prestigious galleries, contributing to the evolution of modern art. Teaching at various institutions, provided guidance to emerging artists, fostering new talent.
Continue ReadingKathleen Kennedy
Film producer; co-founded Amblin Entertainment
Born
June 5th, 1953 72 years ago
An American film producer was instrumental in the growth of the modern film industry. Founded Amblin Entertainment with Steven Spielberg and has produced numerous films and franchises. Worked as a producer on various successful movies, including 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,' 'Jurassic Park,' and the 'Star Wars' sequel trilogy. Served as president of Lucasfilm, overseeing the 'Star Wars' franchise's expansion into new films and media.
Continue ReadingLudovico III Gonzaga
Marquis of Mantua, Italian ruler
Born
June 5th, 1412 613 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1478 547 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1412, this Italian noble held the title of Marquis of Mantua during the Renaissance period. As a significant political figure, he played a pivotal role in the governance of Mantua and its surrounding territories. Under his leadership, the city became a cultural hub, attracting artists and intellectuals of the time. His reign was marked by military campaigns and alliances that strengthened the position of Mantua in the region. He also promoted the arts, contributing to the flourishing of Renaissance culture in the area.
Continue ReadingSpalding Gray
American actor and monologist
Born
June 5th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2004 21 years ago — 62 years old
An actor and screenwriter, achieved recognition primarily through performance art and monologues. Gray gained acclaim for his storytelling abilities, often focusing on personal experiences and introspection. His most notable works included the film 'Swimming to Cambodia' and his stage performances such as 'Gray's Anatomy'. His style blended humor and tragedy, offering insights into the human condition. Gray's works often reflected his own life struggles and experiences, resonating with audiences across various platforms.
Continue ReadingJohan Gadolin
Finnish chemist with gadolinium discovery
Born
June 5th, 1760 265 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1852 173 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed to the fields of chemistry and physics, specifically in mineralogy. Conducted research on rare earth elements and discovered the element gadolinium in 1880. Published works on analytical chemistry, enhancing methodologies for quantitative analysis. His studies on minerals and their properties have informed subsequent research in materials science.
Continue ReadingSalvatore Ferragamo
Italian shoe designer and founder
Born
June 5th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1898, a prominent Italian shoe designer founded a luxury footwear brand in Florence. Gained recognition for innovative designs, craftsmanship, and the use of unique materials. Specialized in creating shoes for Hollywood stars, enhancing the glamour of the film industry in the 1920s and 1930s. Established a boutique that attracted famous clientele, which solidified the brand's status in high fashion. Later expanded into a full luxury brand offering ready-to-wear collections and accessories. Played a crucial role in the development of the modern shoe industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Thomas Wentworth
1st Earl of Strafford, English politician
Born
April 13th, 1593 432 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1641 384 years ago — 48 years old
Held the title of 1st Earl of Strafford and served as a prominent English soldier and politician during the 17th century. Played a key role as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing the governance and administration of Ireland at a tumultuous time. Implemented administrative reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority, often leading to friction with local leaders and the English Parliament. His policies contributed to significant political unrest, culminating in his arrest and execution amid the struggles between monarchy and Parliament.
Continue ReadingFelix Steiner
SS officer and military leader
Born
May 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1966 59 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Commanded the SS division known as the 11th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division Nordland. Participated in various military operations on the Eastern Front and played a significant role during the battles in the latter stages of the war. Post-war, faced legal issues related to wartime actions.
Continue ReadingAnselme Payen
French chemist and academic
Born
January 6th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1878 147 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed to the field of chemistry by discovering the enzyme diastase, an important catalyst in the breakdown of starch into sugars. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and published numerous scientific articles. Participated in the establishment of the Société Chimique de France, promoting chemical research in France.
Continue ReadingCornell Borchers
Lithuanian-German actress and singer
Born
March 16th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
Born in Lithuania, a prominent actress and singer emerged in post-World War II Germany. Initial performances were concentrated in theater, later transitioning to film. Gained recognition for roles in films during the 1950s, particularly featured in "The Tenth Victim" and "The Man Who Knew Too Much". Contributions extended to music, where performances included popular songs that resonated with audiences across Europe. Active in both fields throughout her life, left a legacy of artistic works appreciated in both theater and cinema.
Continue ReadingHeinie Manush
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
July 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1971 54 years ago — 69 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball from the 1920s to the 1940s. Played primarily as an outfielder for teams such as the Washington Senators, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Braves. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1964. Managed minor league teams following a successful playing career.
Continue ReadingGöran Fredrik Göransson
Swedish industrialist and ironmaster
Born
January 20th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1900 125 years ago — 81 years old
Established the first modern steel mill in Sweden during the 19th century. Revolutionized steel production with the introduction of the Bessemer process, significantly enhancing the efficiency and quality of steel manufacturing. Contributed to the industrial development of the region and helped in creating jobs and fostering economic growth. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the iron and steel industry in Sweden, making the nation a leader in metal production.
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