John André
British Soldier and Spy
Born in 1750, a British officer and spy played a key role during the American Revolutionary War. Stationed at the British headquarters in New York, involved in various military operations. Conspired with American General Benedict Arnold, aiming to deliver West Point to British forces. Captured in 1780 while on a reconnaissance mission after Arnold's betrayal. Tried and executed for espionage, his actions and subsequent death became a pivotal moment in the war's narrative.
Conspired with Benedict Arnold
Executed for espionage
Other People Born on May 2nd
Schuyler Bailar
Swimmer and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights
Born
May 2nd, 1996 29 years ago
First openly transgender man to compete on a men's NCAA Division I swimming team. Competed for Harvard University and participated in various championships. Advocated for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports and raised awareness about transgender issues in athletics.
Continue ReadingJoe Wilkinson
English comedian and actor
Born
May 2nd, 1975 50 years ago
Born in England in 1975, this comedian and actor gained recognition for performances on television and stage. Served as a writer and performer on various shows, showcasing a unique style of humor. Achieved prominence through appearances on BBC and Channel 4 programs, contributing to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingJurgis Baltrušaitis
Lithuanian poet and literary critic
Born
May 2nd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1944 81 years ago — 70 years old
Active in the early 20th century, contributed significantly to Lithuanian literature. Worked as a poet, critic, and translator, blending modernist styles with national themes. Engaged in cultural movements promoting Lithuanian language and identity during a period of foreign domination. His poetry reflected personal experiences and broader societal issues. Baltrušaitis also participated in literary critique, influencing the direction of literary thought in Lithuania.
Continue ReadingPatrick Hillery
Irish Physician and President of Ireland
Born
May 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 84 years old
An influential physician and politician served as the 6th President of Ireland from 1976 to 1990. A graduate of University College Dublin, specialization in medicine led to a prominent career in public health. The political journey began in 1957 as a member of the Fianna Fáil party, contributing to various government roles, including Minister for Health and Minister for Foreign Affairs. During the presidency, focused on promoting peace and reconciliation in Ireland. A noted advocate for social justice and education, the tenure included significant participation in international diplomatic efforts.
Continue ReadingEddie Collins
Baseball player and manager with accolades
Born
May 2nd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1951 74 years ago — 63 years old
A distinguished baseball player and manager, excelled as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Philadelphia Athletics and Chicago White Sox, achieving significant success during the early 20th century. Collected over 3,300 hits throughout a career spanning nearly three decades. Managed the Chicago White Sox after his playing career, contributing to the team's strategy and performance during a transformative period in baseball. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949, reflecting a legacy of excellence in the sport.
Continue ReadingChris Kirkland
English football goalkeeper
Born
May 2nd, 1981 44 years ago
A goalkeeper, played for multiple clubs including Coventry City, Liverpool, and Wigan Athletic. Made significant contributions in the Premier League and various cup competitions. Represented the England U21 team and was later called up to the senior national team, contributing to his team's efforts during European Championships.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 2nd
Nipsey Russell
Comedian and actor, The Wiz
Born
September 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old
This American comedian and actor gained recognition for performances in television and film. A notable role included playing the Cowardly Lion in the film adaptation of 'The Wiz'. Stands out for being a regular panelist on the television game show 'Hollywood Squares'. Russell's career spanned several decades, during which he appeared in numerous comedy clubs and made guest appearances on various television shows.
Continue ReadingAthalaric
King of the Ostrogoths in Italy
Died
October 2nd, 534 1491 years ago — None years old
Became king of the Ostrogoths at a young age and ruled from 526 until death in 534. His reign occurred during a period of political instability and challenges to Ostrogothic rule in Italy. Contended with internal and external pressures from the Byzantine Empire and other factions. His leadership was marked by efforts to maintain the unity of the Ostrogothic kingdom amidst these challenges.
Continue ReadingGeorge Grizzard
American actor in stage and film
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved recognition on Broadway and in film productions. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' and received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for the role. Made notable appearances in films such as 'The Group' and 'The Day of the Dolphin'. Gained critical acclaim for performances in television series, including 'George Washington' and 'The Old Man Who Cried'. Received multiple Emmy nominations for roles in television, showcasing talent across various platforms. Continued performing until his later years, leaving a legacy in theater and film.
Continue ReadingWilliam Cavendish
English politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 8th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1764 261 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1720, held the title of 4th Duke of Devonshire. Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1756 to 1757 during the Seven Years' War. His administration struggled with military challenges and faced a turbulent political atmosphere. The duke served as a member of the Whig party, holding various political positions prior to premiership, including Lord Chamberlain and a role in the Board of Trade. His tenure as Prime Minister was short-lived, marked by the challenges of the war and political dissatisfaction. Cavendish was influential in the politics of his time, engaging in discussions regarding military strategy and international relations.
Continue ReadingPaul Halmos
Mathematician & author of 'Naive Set Theory'
Born
March 3rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Hungary, a mathematician emigrated to the United States where significant contributions to mathematical logic, statistics, and functional analysis were made. Authored several influential texts, including 'Naive Set Theory', which provided accessible insights into the foundations of mathematics. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Illinois and the University of Michigan. His work in mathematical writing emphasized clarity and precision, influencing generations of mathematicians.
Continue ReadingColeridge Goode
Bassist and composer, jazz innovator
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 101 years old
Coleridge Goode was a Jamaican-English bassist and composer who made significant contributions to the jazz genre. Relocating to England, he became part of the burgeoning jazz scene in London. He performed with several prominent jazz artists, contributing to the development of jazz music in the UK. Goode was instrumental in introducing Caribbean rhythms to British jazz, influencing many musicians. He also collaborated with notable figures in jazz, contributing his skill as a bassist to recordings and live performances. His legacy includes both his recordings and the impact he had on fellow musicians.
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