Joseph Addison

English essayist and playwright

Joseph Addison - English essayist and playwright
Born

May 1st, 1672
352 years ago

Died

June 17th, 1719
305 years ago — 47 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English essayist, poet, and playwright whose works shaped the landscape of early 18th-century literature. Played a pivotal role in establishing the periodical essay format, particularly through contributions to The Tatler and The Spectator. Addison's writings often explored themes of virtue, personal conduct, and social harmony. As a politician, he held the office of Secretary of State for Southern Affairs. His literary contributions are regarded as significant in the development of the English essay and political commentary.

Co-founded The Tatler and The Spectator

Wrote the play Cato, a Tragedy

Served as Secretary of State for Southern Affairs

Other People Born on May 1st

Yvonne van Gennip

Speed skater with Olympic medals
Born
May 1st, 1964 60 years ago

Competed in speed skating and achieved notable success during the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Won three gold medals in the 1500 meters, 3000 meters, and 5000 meters events, becoming the first female athlete to accomplish this feat in a single Olympic competition. Set world records in multiple distances throughout her career. Active in competitive speed skating during the 1980s and early 1990s, contributing to the growth of the sport in the Netherlands.

Continue Reading

Charli D'Amelio

Social media influencer and dancer
Born
May 1st, 2004 20 years ago

Born in 2004, this individual gained prominence through platforms like TikTok, where dance videos garnered millions of followers. Rising to fame in 2019, became the most followed creator on TikTok, establishing a significant presence in social media. Released music and participated in various collaborations, expanding influence beyond dance. Engaged in philanthropic efforts, advocating for mental health awareness and various charitable causes.

Continue Reading

Greta Andersen

Danish swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
May 1st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

A competitive swimmer, gained recognition in the 1940s and 1950s. Competed in the 1948 and 1952 Summer Olympics, earning a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle in 1948. Achieved multiple titles at European Championships, securing several gold medals. Set numerous world records during the career, contributing to the development of women's swimming in Denmark.

Continue Reading

Ray Parker Jr.

Singer-songwriter and Ghostbusters theme creator
Born
May 1st, 1954 70 years ago

Born in 1954, this American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer gained prominence in the music industry in the late 1970s and 1980s. He formed the band Raydio, which achieved success with hits such as "You Can't Change That" and "Jack and Jill." The artist achieved further recognition for composing and performing the iconic theme song for the film "Ghostbusters" in 1984. His blend of funk, rock, and pop elements garnered a significant following, and he became a sought-after session musician, collaborating with notable artists like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin. Over the years, Parker has received accolades, including Grammy nominations and wins.

Continue Reading

Alexander Hleb

Belarusian footballer and midfielder
Born
May 1st, 1981 43 years ago

A professional footballer from Belarus, played primarily as a midfielder. Career included stints at several clubs, notably VfB Stuttgart and Arsenal. Achieved recognition in the English Premier League and La Liga with FC Barcelona. Participated in multiple UEFA Champions League campaigns, contributing significantly to club successes during various seasons. Represented the Belarus national team in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Santiago Ramón y Cajal

Neuroscientist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
May 1st, 1852 172 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1934 90 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of the structure of the nervous system. Developed the neuron doctrine, which established that neurons are distinct entities rather than being part of a continuous network. Pioneered the use of numerous staining techniques to visualize nerve cells, which advanced the study of neuroanatomy. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1906 alongside Camillo Golgi for discoveries in the structure of the nervous system.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 17th

Claude Louis Hector de Villars

French General, Minister of Defence
Born
May 8th, 1653 371 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1734 290 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1653, a prominent French general and politician served as the Minister of Defence. Achieved significant military success during the War of the Spanish Succession, particularly at the Battle of Denain in 1712, where his leadership played a critical role in securing victory for France. Held esteemed positions, including governor of several territories and managing military strategies that impacted national security. Recognized for contributions to military reforms and strengthening the French army.

Continue Reading

Daskalogiannis

Greek rebel leader during Ottoman rule
Born
1722 303 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1771 253 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent figure in the Cretan revolt against Ottoman authority, he played a crucial role in leading the Greek independence movement in the 18th century. Daskalogiannis was instrumental in organizing and gathering support for the uprising, becoming a symbol of resistance in Crete. Captured by Ottoman forces, he faced execution, which further fueled revolutionary sentiments among Greeks. His legacy endures as a representation of the struggle for freedom in Greece.

Continue Reading

Catherine of Portugal

Portuguese princess and queen consort
Born
November 26th, 1436 588 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1463 561 years ago — 26 years old

A member of the Portuguese royal family, she became Queen consort of England through marriage to King Henry VI. Her influence contributed to the political landscape of 15th-century England, particularly during the Wars of the Roses. She played a role in negotiating alliances and strengthening relationships between Portugal and England. Catherine's marriage to Henry VI occurred in 1445, marking a significant political union.

Continue Reading

Ingeborg of Norway

Princess consort and regent of Sweden
Born
1301 724 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1361 663 years ago — 60 years old

Ingeborg of Norway served as the princess consort of Sweden and as regent during the absence of her husband. Born into Norwegian royalty, Ingeborg's union strengthened ties between Norway and Sweden. Her tenure as regent involved navigating the complexities of medieval politics, including dealing with rival factions and ensuring the stability of the kingdom. The period during which she ruled saw significant challenges, especially regarding territorial disputes and dynastic claims. Ingeborg played a crucial role in maintaining the interests of the crown, overseeing governance, and supporting her husband's rule until his return.

Continue Reading

Uthman

Caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate
Died
June 17th, 656 1368 years ago — None years old

Born in 579, served as the third caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate from 644 until 656. Played a significant role in the expansion of the Islamic state, overseeing conquests in Persia, North Africa, and the Balkans. Under caliphate, standardized the written Quran, preserving its text for future generations. His governance faced internal dissent, leading to unrest and his eventual assassination in 656.

Continue Reading

Charles Fitzpatrick

Canadian lawyer and Lieutenant-Governor
Born
December 19th, 1853 171 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1942 82 years ago — 88 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician served as the 12th Lieutenant-Governor of Quebec from 1906 to 1911. Before this role, held significant positions in the legal field, including being appointed as a judge. Involved in numerous social and legal reforms during tenure. Contributed to the development of legal education and the practice of law in Quebec. Played a key role in representing the interests of Quebec at the provincial level.

Continue Reading