Jean Astruc
French physician and medical scholar
Born in 1684, a physician and scholar contributed significantly to medical literature and practice. His work focused on the understanding of syphilis and the study of medical history. Astruc was also interested in the classification of diseases, which influenced subsequent medical techniques. In addition, he advocated for the humane treatment of patients and emphasized the importance of clinical observation in medicine.
Published 'De l'origine des syphilis'
Contributed to the history of medicine
Other People Born on March 19th
Túpac Amaru II
Peruvian rebel leader and insurrectionist
Born
March 19th, 1742 284 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1781 245 years ago — 39 years old
A leader of indigenous resistance in Peru during the colonial era, this figure initiated a significant uprising against Spanish colonial authority in 1780. The rebellion was fueled by widespread discontent among indigenous peoples due to harsh taxation and oppression. The insurrection aimed to restore indigenous sovereignty and empower native populations. The uprising gained momentum, gathering a large following, but ultimately faced repression from Spanish forces. The leader was captured in 1781 and executed, becoming a symbol of resistance and indigenous rights in Peru.
Continue ReadingHenry Morgentaler
Physician and abortion rights advocate
Born
March 19th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2013 13 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Poland, a physician emigrated to Canada in the late 1950s. Focused on women's reproductive rights, performed illegal abortions in the 1960s and 1970s, which led to several arrests and trials. Advocated for the decriminalization of abortion, contributing significantly to changes in Canadian law. The Supreme Court of Canada ruled in 1988 in a landmark decision that Canadian abortion laws were unconstitutional. Founded clinics across Canada and provided services in various provinces, impacting access to reproductive health care.
Continue ReadingLennie Tristano
Jazz pianist and educator
Born
March 19th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
1978 48 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent figure in the world of jazz, contributed greatly to the genre as a pianist and composer. Developed a unique style characterized by complex harmonies and improvisational techniques. Influenced many musicians through teaching and mentorship. Established a school of jazz and produced a number of notable recordings. His innovative approach laid the groundwork for modern jazz improvisation.
Continue ReadingArthur Blyth
Politician and 9th Premier of South Australia
Born
March 19th, 1823 203 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1891 134 years ago — 68 years old
Born in England, migrated to Australia and entered politics. Served as the 9th Premier of South Australia from 1856 to 1857 and again in 1863. Introduced several notable reforms during tenure, focusing on land and education policies. Resigned from premiership in 1857 but remained active in South Australian parliamentary politics. Contributed to discussions on governance and economic development throughout the latter half of the 19th century.
Continue ReadingWilliam Morton Wheeler
Entomologist and expert on ants
Born
March 19th, 1865 161 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1937 89 years ago — 72 years old
An American entomologist and myrmecologist, focused research on the biology and behavior of ants. Contributed significantly to the understanding of the social structure and ecology of ant species. Served as a professor at Harvard University, educating future generations in entomology and promoting research in the field. Authored several influential publications, enhancing knowledge of insect life.
Continue ReadingEarl Warren
Chief Justice of the United States
Born
March 19th, 1891 135 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1974 51 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1891, served as the 14th Chief Justice of the United States from 1953 to 1969. Oversaw landmark decisions in civil rights and civil liberties. Previously held the position of Governor of California and was involved in significant legal reforms and policies during his tenure. Led the Supreme Court during a time of substantial social change in America, contributing to the establishment of important judicial precedents.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 5th
Charlotte of Bourbon
Princess consort of Orange
Born
1547 479 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1582 444 years ago — 35 years old
Married to William I of Orange, served as the Princess consort of Orange. Part of the House of Bourbon, contributed to the political landscape of the time through marriage alliances. Held significant influence during a period of religious conflict in the Low Countries, particularly relating to the Eighty Years' War. Despite the challenges faced, maintained the role of a supportive consort and helped in the management of estates.
Continue ReadingGino Bartali
Cyclist and Tour de France winner
Born
July 18th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2000 26 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent Italian cyclist, he achieved significant success in the 1930s and 1940s. Victories included the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France, where he won in 1938 and 1948 respectively. Apart from racing, he played a crucial role in underground resistance during World War II, helping to save Jewish lives by providing them with false documents and transporting them to safety. His contributions extended beyond cycling, showcasing bravery in challenging circumstances.
Continue ReadingRobert Ressler
FBI agent and criminal profiling pioneer
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2013 13 years ago — 76 years old
An FBI agent contributed significantly to the development of criminal profiling techniques. Worked on cases involving serial killers and helped establish the Behavioral Science Unit. Authored several books on criminal psychology, including 'Whoever Fights Monsters.' Participated in interviews with notorious criminals to understand their motivations and behaviors, which shaped modern criminal profiling.
Continue ReadingBobby Sands
PIRA volunteer and hunger striker
Born
March 9th, 1954 72 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1981 45 years ago — 27 years old
A member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, advocated for the rights of political prisoners during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Sands led a hunger strike in 1981 while imprisoned, which garnered significant international attention and brought awareness to the conditions faced by Republican prisoners. Sands wrote poetry and a diary during his time in prison, expressing his thoughts on the political situation in Ireland. Sands died on May 5, 1981, after 66 days without food.
Continue ReadingLudwig Erhard
Politician and second Chancellor of West Germany
Born
February 4th, 1897 129 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1977 49 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the second Chancellor of West Germany from 1963 to 1966. Played a significant role in post-World War II economic recovery through the implementation of the social market economy. Influenced German policy and is recognized for promoting free-market principles while maintaining social welfare. Initially served as the Minister of Economics and contributed to the economic miracle that transformed Germany into one of the world's leading economies.
Continue ReadingCasimir II the Just
Polish Prince and Duke of Sandomierz
Born
1138 888 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1194 832 years ago — 56 years old
This figure played a significant role in the fragmentation of the Kingdom of Poland in the 12th century. Ruled as Duke of Sandomierz from 1177 until 1194 and also served as the High Duke of Poland after a period of civil strife. Implemented reforms to strengthen the power of the monarchy and promoted religious tolerance. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate territories and reduce conflicts among the nobility.
Continue Reading