Jean Rey
Belgian politician, 2nd President of EC
A prominent Belgian lawyer and politician held the position of the second President of the European Commission from 1967 to 1970. Played a crucial role in developing European integration during this tenure. Also served as the Minister of Transport and Communications in Belgium. Contributed significantly to various legal reforms and policies that shaped Belgium's participation in the European community. After leaving the European Commission, continued involvement in European affairs as a public figure and advocate for European unity.
Served as the 2nd President of the European Commission
Participated in the establishment of the European Economic Community
Other People Born on July 15th
Birabongse Bhanudej
Thai racing driver and sailor, royal member
Born
July 15th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 71 years old
This individual served as a prominent racing driver and sailor, representing Thailand in various competitions. Born into the Thai royal family, significant achievements included competing in the Mille Miglia and participating in the 1950 Formula One season. Also engaged in sailing, he took part in numerous regattas and championships, showcasing skills on both land and water. The blend of royal lineage and dedication to motorsport marked a unique journey in athletics.
Continue ReadingM. T. Vasudevan Nair
Indian author and screenwriter
Born
July 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
An influential figure in Indian literature and cinema, this individual predominantly worked in Malayalam. Contributions include novels, short stories, and film scripts. His works often reflect the cultural and social milieu of Kerala. Major achievements encompass various literary awards, including the Jnanpith Award, India's highest literary honor. In addition to writing, involvement in film direction and screenplay writing further shaped the industry, leading to notable adaptations of literary works into award-winning films.
Continue ReadingReuben Chapman
American lawyer, 13th Governor of Alabama
Born
July 15th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1882 143 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 13th Governor of Alabama from 1837 to 1841. Prior to the governorship, held various political offices in Alabama. Contributed to the establishment of early state institutions and legal frameworks. Engaged in law practice before entering politics and maintained a focus on public service throughout his career.
Continue ReadingLeopoldo Galtieri
Argentine General and President
Born
July 15th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2003 23 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 44th President of Argentina from March to June 1982. Commanded the Argentine Army during the Falklands War against the United Kingdom. Implemented policies during a time of economic turmoil and military rule. Resigned after the defeat in the Falklands, which led to the transition to democracy in Argentina.
Continue ReadingRisto Jarva
Finnish director, producer, and screenwriter
Born
July 15th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1977 48 years ago — 43 years old
Active in Finnish cinema from the 1960s until the early 1970s. Directed several notable films, including 'Kaksipäisen kotkan varjossa,' which explored themes of war and identity. Also produced the film 'Kirkastettu sydän,' showcasing his versatility in filmmaking. Contributed significantly to the development of Finnish film as a medium for addressing social issues and cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingJürgen Möllemann
German politician and Vice-Chancellor
Born
July 15th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2003 22 years ago — 57 years old
Served as a soldier and politician, holding significant positions in the German government. Played a key role in the Free Democratic Party (FDP), rising to national prominence during his tenure. Served as Vice-Chancellor from 1998 to 1999, contributing to the coalition government during a critical period in German politics. Shifted from military service to political life, impacting both domestic and foreign policy discussions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 19th
Jadunath Sarkar
Indian historian and biographer
Born
December 10th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1958 67 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of history, focusing primarily on the Mughal Empire. Authored several foundational texts including 'History of Aurangzeb' and 'Rise and Fall of the Mughal Empire'. Served as a professor of history at the University of Calcutta, shaping the study of Indian history through rigorous methodologies. Developed a reputation as a leading scholar and critic of earlier historiography, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of India's past. Engaged in various academic pursuits and contributed to the establishment of history as a formal discipline in India.
Continue ReadingClaude Henri de Rouvroy
Economist and philosopher, Saint-Simon
Born
October 17th, 1760 265 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1825 200 years ago — 64 years old
Born in France, one of the prominent figures in early socialism. Developed theories on industrial society and the role of the industrial class in social progress. Advocated for a new social order that emphasized the importance of productive work and the coordination of industry. Founded the Saint-Simonian movement, which influenced socialist thought and later socialist movements across Europe. Writings included 'The New Christianity' and 'The Industrial System', which emphasized scientific and industrial development as key to societal advancement.
Continue ReadingPope Celestine V
Pope and founder of a monastic order
Born
1215 811 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1296 729 years ago — 81 years old
Celestine V was elected Pope in 1294 after a lengthy conclave that lasted nearly two years. Prior to his papacy, he founded the Order of Peter Celestine, a hermit order dedicated to a life of asceticism. His reign as Pope was marked by efforts to reform the church and the struggle with political influences on papal authority. After only a few months in office, he abdicated the papacy, becoming one of the few Popes to resign voluntarily. Following his resignation, he was imprisoned by his successor to prevent his return to power, living the remainder of his life in a solitary manner until his death in 1296.
Continue ReadingJeffrey Catherine Jones
Comics and fantasy artist
Born
January 10th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 67 years old
An influential figure in the world of comic book art and fantasy illustration. Contributed significantly to the field with a unique style characterized by ethereal landscapes and striking character designs. Worked on projects for major publishing companies, particularly known for contributions to "Creepy" and "Eerie" magazines. Involved with the production of the comic book "The Secret Adventures of Houdini". Engaged in personal projects that explored gender identity and the human experience, leaving a lasting mark on the art community.
Continue ReadingOgden Nash
American poet and whimsical humorist
Born
August 19th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1971 54 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in American poetry, contributed to the literary landscape with light verse characterized by playful language and inventive rhymes. Published more than 500 pieces, often featured in magazines such as The New Yorker. Works include "The Cow" and "The Tale of Custard the Dragon." Developed a unique style that made poetry accessible to a wider audience. Held a reputation for sharp wit and insightful observations on human nature and society. In addition to poetry, engaged in writing for musicals and adaptations, broadening influence beyond traditional poetry.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Kashiwabara of Japan
Emperor during the Muromachi period
Born
1464 562 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1526 499 years ago — 62 years old
Reigned from 1500 to 1526 as the 101st emperor of Japan. His reign took place during the Muromachi period, a time of political intrigue and shifting power dynamics among the samurai class. Despite the challenges faced during this period, the imperial court continued traditional practices and rituals. His reign is noted for the struggle for power between the Ashikaga shogunate and various regional daimyōs. He presided over the imperial ceremonies and maintained the cultural legacy of the court even amidst the tumultuous political landscape, albeit with limited political power.
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