José de la Riva Agüero
Peruvian soldier and 1st President of Peru
A soldier and politician from Peru, served as the first President of Peru from 1823 to 1824. Held the position of the second President of North Peru in 1836. His leadership occurred during a turbulent period of political instability in early Peruvian history. Initiated significant political reforms during presidency but faced challenges in governance. Resigned from presidency after conflicts with congress and was later involved in regional politics. His presidency marked one of the first attempts at establishing a centralized government in Peru after independence from Spain.
Served as the first President of Peru
Became the second President of North Peru
Other People Born on May 3rd
Vagn Walfrid Ekman
Oceanographer and ocean current theorist
Born
May 3rd, 1874 152 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1954 72 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent oceanographer, contributions focused on ocean currents and their effects on marine environments. Developed Ekman layers and Ekman transport, fundamental concepts in oceanography. Worked at the University of Stockholm and contributed to academic literature in marine science. Participation in international oceanographic expeditions facilitated exploration and study of ocean dynamics.
Continue ReadingCharles XV of Sweden
King of Sweden and Norway
Born
May 3rd, 1826 200 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1872 153 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1826, this monarch ascended the throne in 1859 and served until 1872. His reign was marked by a commitment to modernization and national unity in both Sweden and Norway. Promoted cultural developments and facilitated progressive reforms in the legal and educational systems. Fostered strong diplomatic relations, especially with other Scandinavian countries. His efforts contributed to the peaceful dissolution of the union between Sweden and Norway in 1905, which laid the foundation for their respective national identities.
Continue ReadingGolda Meir
Israeli politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 3rd, 1898 128 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1978 47 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Ukraine, became a prominent politician in Israel. Worked in various capacities within the Israeli government, eventually serving as the fourth Prime Minister from 1969 to 1974. Played a significant role in the 1973 Yom Kippur War and was a key figure in the development of the state of Israel. Advocated for social welfare and the rights of Jews worldwide. Instrumental in fundraising efforts for the country during its early years, emphasizing the need for security and stability.
Continue ReadingJacob Riis
Journalist and social reformer
Born
May 3rd, 1849 177 years ago
Died
1914 112 years ago — 65 years old
A Danish-American journalist and photographer, became prominent for documenting the living conditions of the poor in New York City. Authored 'How the Other Half Lives,' which illustrated the struggles of impoverished immigrant families and contributed to social reform efforts. His work combined photography and journalism to raise awareness about urban poverty and housing issues. Helped inspire reforms in housing and labor laws, emphasizing the importance of social justice and improved living conditions.
Continue ReadingSteve Barclay
English lawyer and politician
Born
May 3rd, 1972 54 years ago
Served as a Member of Parliament since 2010. Held various roles in government, including Secretary of State for Health and Social Care from 2022 to 2023. Engaged in legal practice prior to entering politics and contributed to policy on healthcare and parliamentary procedures. Actively involved in Brexit negotiations.
Continue ReadingVicente Saldivar
Boxer and former world champion
Born
May 3rd, 1943 83 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 42 years old
A professional boxer, secured the WBC Featherweight title in 1965. Held the championship until 1970, renowned for a disciplined fighting style and technical proficiency. Retired with an impressive record that showcased skills and determination in the ring. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, affirming a significant place in boxing history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
August Kundt
German physicist known for Kundt's tube
Born
November 18th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1894 132 years ago — 54 years old
A physicist and educator made significant contributions to experimental physics. Developed Kundt's tube, an apparatus used to measure the speed of sound in gases. Served as a professor and emphasized the importance of practical experiments in teaching physics.
Continue ReadingBinyavanga Wainaina
Kenyan writer and memoirist
Born
January 18th, 1971 55 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2019 7 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent Kenyan writer, contributed significantly to contemporary African literature. Authored the acclaimed memoir 'One Day I Will Write About This Place' which explores themes of identity and belonging in post-colonial Kenya. Also served as the editor for 'Kwani?', a Kenyan literary magazine which provided a platform for emerging African voices. His literary work often reflected on the complexities of race, culture, and politics in Africa.
Continue ReadingTwinkle
English singer-songwriter with chart hits
Born
July 15th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 11 years ago — 66 years old
A singer-songwriter born in England, notable for contributions to the music scene in the late 1960s. Gained recognition with hit singles, particularly 'Golden Lights' and 'Angel of the Morning'. Her style incorporated elements of folk and pop, leading to a dedicated fan base. Continued to perform and release music decades after initial fame, showcasing resilience in the industry.
Continue ReadingLouis V
Elector Palatine, ruler in Germany
Born
July 2nd, 1478 548 years ago
Died
May 21st, 987 1039 years ago — -492 years old
Born in 1478, served as Elector Palatine, overseeing the Palatinate region of Germany. Held the title during a tumultuous period characterized by political conflict and the rise of the Protestant Reformation. The electoral power allowed for significant influence in the Holy Roman Empire. Engaged in several territorial disputes and had an important role in the governance of the Palatinate. His tenure featured efforts to consolidate power and navigate the complexities of regional politics.
Continue ReadingPatsy O'Hara
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
July 11th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 45 years ago — 23 years old
Engaged in activism for Irish republicanism, participated in the 1981 hunger strike in the Maze Prison. Advocated for political recognition for prisoners and rights for the Irish people. Died from starvation after 61 days on hunger strike, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish self-determination.
Continue ReadingJohn Garfield
American actor in 'Body and Soul'
Born
March 4th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1952 74 years ago — 39 years old
An American actor and singer, achieved recognition during the 1940s. Became notable for a powerful performance in 'Body and Soul', which showcased exceptional talent in dramatic roles. Established a strong presence in film and theater, often portraying complex characters. Faced challenges with the Hollywood blacklist, which affected career opportunities. Remains a significant figure in classic cinema and theatrical performance.
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