Jay Silverheels
Actor best known for playing Tonto
An actor recognized for portraying Tonto in the television series The Lone Ranger, Silverheels was one of the first Indigenous actors to gain fame in Hollywood. Silverheels, born in Canada, began his career in the entertainment industry as a professional lacrosse player before transitioning to acting in the 1940s. He appeared in various films, often playing Native American characters, contributing to the representation of Indigenous peoples in media. His role as Tonto from 1949 to 1957 made a significant cultural impact and set a precedent for future Indigenous actors. In addition to his work in film and television, Silverheels was an advocate for Indigenous rights and supported various charitable organizations.
Portrayed Tonto in The Lone Ranger
Appeared in movies like Key Largo
Other People Born on May 26th
Necip Fazıl Kısakürek
Turkish author and playwright
Born
May 26th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1983 42 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1904, engaged in poetry, playwriting, and social critique. Wrote influential works reflecting Islamic philosophy and Turkish nationalism. Founded the Turkish National Literature movement. Contributed to literature through journalism and activism. Left a significant legacy through poetry and political thought, shaping modern Turkish literature.
Continue ReadingAugust Kopisch
German poet and painter of the 19th century
Born
May 26th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
1853 172 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Germany, a prominent poet and painter emerged during the 19th century. The artistic journey began with a focus on Romantic poetry, which gained attention for its vivid imagery and emotional depth. The most recognized work includes the poem "Der Stein" that celebrated the beauty of nature and memory. In addition to poetry, contributions to the arts included notable paintings, with a particular focus on landscape themes that reflected the German Romantic movement. Besides literary achievements, engagement in the artistic community led to important collaborations with other contemporary artists.
Continue ReadingClement VII
Pope during the Reformation era
Born
May 26th, 1478 547 years ago
Died
1534 491 years ago — 56 years old
Serving as pope from 1523 to 1534, this leader presided over the Catholic Church during a tumultuous time marked by the Protestant Reformation. Birth in Florence led to a significant rise within the Church hierarchy, resulting in the role of pope following a contentious conclave. Responsibilities included managing internal Church issues and foreign relations, particularly with influential figures across Europe. The papacy was characterized by attempts to preserve Church authority amidst emerging theological challenges and political pressures. The era also saw the challenge of Henry VIII’s desire for annulment, which contributed to the English Reformation. The pope's legacy is intertwined with complex political dynamics and the shifting religious landscape of the 16th century.
Continue ReadingMary of Teck
Queen consort of the United Kingdom
Born
May 26th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1953 72 years ago — 85 years old
Born in England, served as queen consort from 1910 to 1936. Married George V, providing support during World War I and the abdication crisis of 1936. Took a keen interest in royal duties and was involved in numerous charitable endeavors. Contributed to royal family stability during significant national changes.
Continue ReadingRubén González
Cuban pianist renowned for Buena Vista Social Club
Born
May 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Cuba, a prominent pianist contributed significantly to the Cuban music scene, particularly in the genre of son Cubano. Gained international recognition as a member of the Buena Vista Social Club, a highly acclaimed group that revitalized interest in traditional Cuban music. His playing style blended classical influences with authentic Cuban rhythms, showcasing the richness of Cuban musical heritage. Continued to perform and record, garnering attention in both national and international arenas, especially during the resurgence of traditional Cuban music in the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingJack Kevorkian
Pathologist and assisted suicide advocate
Born
May 26th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 14 years ago — 83 years old
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.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 5th
Robert C. O'Brien
American author and journalist, wrote 'Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH'
Born
January 11th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1973 52 years ago — 55 years old
An American author and journalist, one celebrated work is 'Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH', a children's novel published in 1971. This book gained recognition for its engaging narrative and complex themes, which addressed issues of ethics and science. O'Brien also contributed to children's literature through other works, adopting the pseudonym 'C. Robert O'Brien' for some publications. His journalistic career included writing articles and essays for various publications, reflecting insights on societal issues. In addition to literature, he engaged with themes of science and the environment, influencing young readers through imaginative storytelling. O'Brien's impact on children's literature remains significant, and his works are often included in educational curricula.
Continue ReadingSuppo I
Frankish nobleman and ruler
Died
March 5th, 824 1201 years ago — None years old
From a prominent noble family in the Frankish realm, significant contributions to the political landscape during the early medieval period occurred. Served in various capacities, including as a count. Engaged in the consolidation of power among the nobility and played a role in the governance of territories under Frankish control during a time of great transition.
Continue ReadingPierre-Simon Laplace
French mathematician and astronomer
Born
March 23rd, 1749 276 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1827 198 years ago — 77 years old
Contributions to mathematics and astronomy significantly influenced the development of these fields. Introduced the concept of Laplace transforms, providing tools for solving differential equations. Collaborated on the formulation of celestial mechanics and worked extensively on the stability of the solar system. Published the treatise 'Mécanique Céleste', which synthesized and expanded Newton's theories, earning recognition in both mathematics and physics.
Continue ReadingVlada Divljan
Serbian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in the Serbian music scene, contributed significantly as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Initiated a career in the late 1970s and became known as a founding member of the influential rock band Riblja Čorba. Successfully merged rock music with poetic lyrics, producing several albums that resonated with the public during the 1980s and 1990s. Engaged in various musical projects throughout a prolific career, gaining recognition for both solo work and collaborations with other artists. His music often explored themes of love, society, and personal introspection, and he maintained an active public presence until his passing in 2015.
Continue ReadingTom Pryce
Race car driver with Formula One influence
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 28 years old
Began motorsport career in karting, achieving significant success before transitioning to single-seaters. Competed in Formula One from 1974 until 1977. Joined the Shadow team in 1975, where notable performances highlighted skill and talent. Recorded a remarkable sixth place finish at the 1975 Monaco Grand Prix, establishing a strong reputation in the racing community. Tragically lost life during a race at the South African Grand Prix in 1977, marking a premature end to a promising career.
Continue ReadingAntonio da Correggio
Italian painter and educator, notable for frescoes
Born
1489 536 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1534 491 years ago — 45 years old
An influential painter of the Renaissance, significant for contributions to the development of chiaroscuro and foreshortening techniques. Worked primarily in Northern Italy, creating artworks that showcased a mastery of movement and light. Many pieces were commissioned for churches and palaces, demonstrating a unique style that combined emotional depth with dynamic composition. Notable works include 'The Assumption of the Virgin', which exemplified the grandeur of his frescoes, and the 'Lamentation of Christ'. His innovative approach influenced the direction of baroque painting.
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