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
Princess Élisabeth of France
French Princess and Revolutionary figure
Born
May 3rd, 1764 262 years ago
Died
1794 232 years ago — 30 years old
Born into the French royal family, a member of the House of Bourbon. Participated actively in the events leading up to the French Revolution. Opposed the revolution and was executed by guillotine in 1794 during the Reign of Terror. Despite royal lineage, she expressed a desire for a more personal connection with her subjects. Throughout her life, she maintained close ties with her family, including her brother, King Louis XVI, and her sister-in-law, Marie Antoinette.
Continue ReadingJ. T. Hearne
English cricketer and cricket coach
Born
May 3rd, 1867 159 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1944 82 years ago — 76 years old
This individual played first-class cricket from 1891 to 1920, primarily for Middlesex. He achieved remarkable success as a bowler, becoming one of the leading wicket-takers during his career. In addition to his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and contributed significantly to the development of cricket in England. His expertise in fast bowling and tactical knowledge influenced many young cricketers. This individual lived until 1944, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingFrançois Coty
Fragrance entrepreneur and pioneer
Born
May 3rd, 1874 152 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1934 92 years ago — 60 years old
Established a successful fragrance business in France, focusing on luxury perfumes. Founded Coty Inc., which transformed the beauty industry with innovative marketing and product presentation. Introduced notable fragrances such as La Rose Jacqueminot and became a prominent figure in the cosmetics sector.
Continue ReadingVirgil Fox
American organist, composer, and performer
Born
May 3rd, 1912 114 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1980 46 years ago — 68 years old
An acclaimed organist and composer, contributions include performances across major concert halls in the United States and Europe. Developed a unique style that integrated classical organ literature with contemporary elements. Held a prominent position in the American organ community, influencing generations of musicians through his innovative techniques and interpretations.
Continue ReadingGeorge Paget Thomson
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 3rd, 1892 134 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1975 51 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent English physicist and academic, contributions to physics include research on electron diffraction, which demonstrated the wave-like properties of electrons. The work provided significant enhancement to quantum mechanics and solidified the understanding of wave-particle duality. In 1937, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded for these contributions, sharing the honor with Clinton Davisson. Thomson was also involved in education, holding various academic positions throughout his career.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Raymond McCreesh
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 25th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 45 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.
Continue ReadingDominique Venner
French journalist and historian
Born
April 16th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2013 13 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed to French history and political commentary through journalism. Engaged in historical studies focusing on European identity and heritage. Published significant works aimed at preserving cultural memory and criticized contemporary political movements. Actively involved in various historical and cultural associations, advocating for a return to traditional values.
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 ReadingAnnarita Sidoti
Italian race walker, multiple champion
Born
1969 57 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 11 years ago — 46 years old
An accomplished race walker, achieved significant milestones in international competitions. Secured a gold medal at the 1996 European Athletics Championships in the 10 km walk. Represented Italy at multiple Olympic Games, showcasing talent in race walking events. Achieved personal bests that remained competitive in the sport. Contributed to the development of race walking in Italy through participation in various national and international events.
Continue ReadingConrad IV
King of Germany and Sicily
Born
1228 798 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1254 772 years ago — 26 years old
Became King of Germany in 1250 and later King of Sicily in 1254. His reign was marked by conflicts over imperial authority and control over the Kingdom of Sicily. Faced challenges from papal authority and opposition from other noble factions within the German territories. Died at a young age, leaving an unfinished legacy tied to both the Holy Roman Empire and the southern Italian kingdom.
Continue ReadingWang Anshi
Chinese economist and chancellor
Born
December 8th, 1021 1004 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1086 940 years ago — 64 years old
An influential Chinese economist and chancellor, focused on reforming the Sung dynasty's economic policies. Implemented the New Policies, which aimed to stabilize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand state control over tax collection. These reforms included the promotion of state-sponsored loans and the establishment of a better government procurement system for grain. Writings on economic theory, governance, and philosophy contributed extensively to intellectual discourse during his time and afterward.
Continue Reading