Johann Palisa
Austrian astronomer and comet discoverer
Born in 1848, this astronomer specialized in the observation and discovery of comets. He established a prolific career at the Vienna Observatory, where he made significant contributions to the field of astronomy. Over his lifetime, he discovered or co-discovered multiple comets and received accolades for his work. His meticulous observations and records advanced the understanding of these celestial objects.
Discovered 122 comets
Co-discovered several asteroids
Published numerous astronomical papers
Other People Born on December 6th
Homer N. Wallin
American Admiral, WWII strategist
Born
December 6th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1984 41 years ago — 90 years old
An American admiral had a significant role in the United States Navy during World War II. Commanded naval forces in both the Pacific and European theaters, contributing to key victories. Played a crucial part in planning operations and executing strategies that led to successful amphibious assaults and naval engagements. After the war, served in various high-ranking positions in the Navy and influenced military policies. Wallin's leadership and strategic insights were instrumental in shaping modern naval warfare.
Continue ReadingMark Reckless
English politician and Member of Parliament
Born
December 6th, 1970 55 years ago
Served as a Member of Parliament for Rochester and Strood from 2010 to 2015. Elected as a Conservative MP and later joined UKIP in 2014. Contributed to political debates focusing on issues such as immigration and local governance. Participated in the 2015 general election, representing UKIP.
Continue ReadingViktor Antipin
Ice hockey player, KHL champion
Born
December 6th, 1992 33 years ago
Began professional career in 2010 with Metallurg Novokuznetsk. Played in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) for teams such as Salavat Yulaev Ufa and Metallurg Magnitogorsk. Competed at the international level, representing Russia in various tournaments. Achieved the Gagarin Cup with Metallurg Magnitogorsk in 2019.
Continue ReadingA Boogie wit da Hoodie
Rapper with notable album 'Hoodie SZN'
Born
December 6th, 1995 30 years ago
An American rapper and singer-songwriter gained prominence in the music industry with the debut studio album 'Hoodie SZN' in 2018, which reached number two on the Billboard 200 chart. The artist is recognized for blending melodic elements with hip-hop, often reflecting themes of love and street life in lyrics. Early mixtapes, such as 'Artist' (2016), helped establish a dedicated fan base. Collaborations with various artists in the rap and hip-hop genre contributed to a growing discography, including singles that charted on the Billboard Hot 100.
Continue ReadingJoseph Louis Gay-Lussac
French physicist and chemist, gas laws
Born
December 6th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1850 175 years ago — 71 years old
Significant contributions were made in the fields of physics and chemistry. Published findings on gas laws, notably Gay-Lussac's Law, detailing the relationship between pressure and temperature of gases. Conducted pioneering work in the study of gases, including the behavior of gases at varying temperatures. Also involved in the development of the technique of using a high-altitude balloon to study the atmosphere.
Continue ReadingFrankie Beverly
Soul/Funk Singer with Maze
Born
December 6th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in the soul and funk music genre, formed the band Maze in the early 1970s. The group produced a string of successful albums, blending smooth melodies with rhythmic grooves. Maze became notable for their live performances and a dedicated fan base, often performing at sold-out venues across the United States. The song 'Before I Let Go' achieved significant popularity and remains a staple in the genre, often covered by various artists. The influence of this musician's work continues to resonate in contemporary music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Sjoukje Dijkstra
Dutch figure skater and Olympic champion
Born
January 28th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 82 years old
Dijkstra was a prominent figure skater from the Netherlands. She achieved significant success in the 1960s, winning multiple championships. Her skills on the ice led to winning the gold medal at the 1964 Innsbruck Winter Olympics in ladies' singles figure skating. She also captured the European championship title multiple times during her career and performed a combination of technical and artistic programs that set her apart in the sport.
Continue ReadingJames Gates Percival
American poet and geologist
Born
September 15th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1856 169 years ago — 60 years old
Recognized for contributions to poetry and geology, this individual authored significant works such as 'Tales of the Heart' and 'The Dream of the Earth.' His poetic style often integrated themes from nature and science. As a geologist, served as the first state geologist of Wisconsin, contributing to geological surveys and mapping of the region. Held a degree in medicine and practiced surgery while engaging in literary pursuits.
Continue ReadingClara Immerwahr
Chemist and peace activist
Born
June 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1915 110 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1870, a chemist and academic specialized in physical chemistry. Engaged in scientific research while opposing the militarization of science. Served as a lecturer at the Technical University of Berlin. Advocated for pacifism and disarmament, particularly in the context of her husband's work on explosives. Her commitment to peace influenced several movements during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingBlanche of Artois
French noble and regent of Navarre
Born
1248 777 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1300 725 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1250, a member of the Capetian dynasty, served as regent of the Kingdom of Navarre following the death of her husband, King Henry I. Played a significant role in maintaining the stability of the kingdom during her son's minority. Involved in the political dynamics of the region, establishing alliances through her daughter's marriage to the King of France. Died in 1300.
Continue ReadingMaya Plisetskaya
Ballet dancer and choreographer, 'The Dying Swan'
Born
November 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent ballerina and choreographer, this individual became a significant figure in ballet during the 20th century. Received extensive training at the Moscow Choreographic Institute, debuting with the Bolshoi Ballet in 1943. Contributed to the world of dance as both a performer and a creator of original ballets. Acclaimed for roles in classical pieces such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Dying Swan'. Established a legacy through innovative choreography and captivating performances that blended classical ballet with personal expression. Directed and choreographed numerous productions, influencing ballet both in Russia and internationally.
Continue ReadingArif Wazir
Pakistani politician and activist leader
Born
1982 43 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 38 years old
A leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, focused on advocating for the rights of Pashtuns in Pakistan. Active in political mobilization, emphasized issues related to human rights, social justice, and accountability. Participated in various protests and public gatherings to promote the movement's objectives. Engaged in political discourse aimed at highlighting grievances faced by Pashtun communities.
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