Joe Louis
Professional boxer and world heavyweight champion
A professional boxer and wrestler gained international fame as a heavyweight champion. Held the world heavyweight boxing title from 1937 to 1949, defending it 25 times, a record at the time. Became a significant figure in sports history, transcending athletics to influence social issues during his career. Fought in several iconic bouts, most notably defeating Max Schmeling in 1938, a match symbolizing the racial tensions of the era. Transitioned to wrestling later in his career, continuing to engage audiences nationwide until retirement.
Held the world heavyweight boxing title from 1937 to 1949
Defended the title 25 times
Defeated Max Schmeling in 1938
Other People Born on May 13th
Joe Forshaw
American runner, competed in the Olympics
Born
May 13th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1964 62 years ago — 83 years old
Competed in long-distance running events during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, representing the United States. Specialized in the 10,000 meters and cross-country races, achieving notable rankings in national competitions. Contributed to the sport's development by inspiring future generations of athletes through participation in prestigious events.
Continue ReadingJim Jones
Cult leader, founded Peoples Temple
Born
May 13th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1978 47 years ago — 47 years old
Founded the Peoples Temple in the 1950s, promoting a mix of socialism and religion. Jones gained a following in California before moving the congregation to Guyana, establishing Jonestown. The settlement became infamous for the mass murder-suicide that occurred on November 18, 1978, leading to the deaths of over 900 people, including children. Prior to the tragedy, Jones was involved in various political activities and claimed to advocate for civil rights.
Continue ReadingHarry Schwarz
Anti-apartheid diplomat and lawyer
Born
May 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2010 16 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent lawyer and anti-apartheid leader, played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Served as the 13th South African Ambassador to the United States, contributing to diplomatic efforts during a pivotal period in South African history. Engaged in legal practices and advocacy aimed at dismantling apartheid legislation and promoting human rights. Also involved in various civil society organizations that worked toward equality and justice.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Papanikolaou
Pathologist, invented the Pap smear
Born
May 13th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1962 63 years ago — 78 years old
A Greek-American pathologist contributed significantly to cancer screening techniques through the invention of the Pap smear, a revolutionary method for detecting cervical cancer. After receiving his medical degree from the University of Athens, Papanikolaou emigrated to the United States, where he started working at New York Hospital. The Pap smear was introduced in 1943 and became a standard procedure in gynecological examinations, significantly reducing cervical cancer mortality rates. Throughout his career, he conducted extensive research on reproductive biology and the cellular changes associated with cancer.
Continue ReadingInge Lehmann
Danish seismologist known for Moho
Born
May 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 104 years old
Contributions to the field of seismology included significant research on the Earth's interior. Developed the concept of the Lehmann discontinuity, which delineates the boundary between the Earth's crust and the underlying mantle. Conducted pioneering work in seismology, particularly in understanding seismic waves and their behavior. Published influential papers on earthquakes and the Earth's structure, enhancing the scientific understanding of geophysical phenomena.
Continue ReadingSteve Mildenhall
English footballer and goalkeeper
Born
May 13th, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper in English football, beginning his career at Southampton. Had successful spells at various clubs, including a notable tenure at Grimsby Town. Contributed to the team's promotion to League One during the 2011-2012 season. Also played for other clubs, showcasing consistent performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 12th
Adoniram Judson
American missionary and lexicographer
Born
August 9th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1850 175 years ago — 61 years old
A significant figure in American Christianity, contributed to the missionary movement in Burma. Arrived in Burma in 1813 and dedicated efforts toward evangelism and translation. Developed the first complete Burmese-English dictionary and helped translate the Bible into Burmese, facilitating the spread of Christianity and helping to establish a Burmese church. Engaged in extensive linguistic studies, influencing the understanding of Burmese culture and language.
Continue ReadingMoran Campbell
Canadian physician and inventor of venturi mask
Born
August 31st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2004 21 years ago — 78 years old
A Canadian physician and academic contributed significantly to the field of medicine through the invention of the venturi mask, a device used to deliver oxygen to patients in a controlled manner. The mask has become an essential tool in respiratory therapy, widely adopted in healthcare settings. The innovation reflects a commitment to improving patient care and enhancing medical practices. Campbell's work has had a lasting influence on the treatment of patients requiring supplementary oxygen, establishing a standard in respiratory therapy.
Continue ReadingCharles VII
Holy Roman Emperor and Elector of Bavaria
Born
August 6th, 1697 328 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1167 858 years ago — -531 years old
Born in 1697, served as Holy Roman Emperor and Elector of Bavaria during a significant period of European history. His reign encompassed the War of the Austrian Succession and the ensuing political turbulence. He sought to unify the German states and strengthen the power of the emperor amid rising challenges. His ascension faced opposition, and his reign was marked by conflicts with Britain and France over territorial disputes in Europe. Efforts included military campaigns to defend the realm and preserve the interests of Bavaria in the empire. Died in 1745, leaving a complex legacy within the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingKarim Fakhrawi
Bahraini journalist, co-founder of Al-Wasat
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 49 years old
Co-founded Al-Wasat, a prominent Bahraini newspaper, in 2002, providing a platform for independent journalism. Fakhrawi played a crucial role in promoting press freedom in Bahrain. His career as a journalist was marked by a commitment to uncovering stories and presenting unbiased news. While facing challenges, he continued to advocate for journalistic integrity and transparency in the media landscape. Fakhrawi's contributions to journalism were significant during a time of political change in Bahrain. His dedication to his craft persisted until his untimely death in 2011.
Continue ReadingClara Barton
Nurse and founder of American Red Cross
Born
1821 205 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1912 113 years ago — 91 years old
A pioneering nurse and humanitarian, this individual founded the American Red Cross in 1881, establishing an organization dedicated to providing emergency assistance, disaster relief, and education in preparedness. Efforts during the American Civil War included serving as a nurse on the front lines, where medical care was minimal. Extensive work with missing soldiers led to the establishment of the Bureau of Records for Missing Soldiers. Served as the organization’s first president for 23 years, shaping its mission and operational framework. This person advocated for international relief efforts and contributed to the development of the Geneva Conventions.
Continue ReadingCharles Messier
French astronomer specializing in comet cataloging
Born
June 26th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1817 208 years ago — 86 years old
An astronomer and academic focused on comet studies. Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Created the Messier catalog, which lists over 100 astronomical objects. This catalog helped distinguish between comets and fixed celestial bodies. Messier's work laid the foundation for modern astronomical observations and discoveries.
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