Joseph Wiseman
Canadian-American actor in films
Born in Canada and later becoming a naturalized American, significant contributions to film and theater were made. Gained recognition for the role of Dr. No, the first James Bond villain, in the 1962 film of the same name. Featured in various stage productions throughout his career, showcasing a range of characters. Worked with numerous renowned directors and actors, earning a reputation for distinctive performances.
Portrayed Dr. No in the 1962 film
Acted in the 1950 Broadway production of 'The Barrets of Wimpole Street'
Featured in the 1956 film 'The Man with the Golden Arm'
Other People Born on May 15th
Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban
French military engineer and fortification expert
Born
May 15th, 1633 393 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1707 319 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent French military engineer, contributions centered on the development of fortified cities and modern military architecture. Served as a marshal of France under Louis XIV. Advanced the art of fortification through principles that emphasized geometric design and comprehensive defensive systems. Authored several treatises on military engineering, influencing the design of fortresses in Europe for centuries.
Continue ReadingPierre Curie
French physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1859 167 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1906 120 years ago — 46 years old
A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Worked alongside Marie Curie in the early 20th century. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 for joint research on radiation phenomena. Made foundational contributions to piezoelectricity and magnetism, advancing understanding in these fields. His work laid the groundwork for future research in radioactivity and its applications.
Continue ReadingAngus MacLean
Canadian politician and commander
Born
May 15th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2000 26 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 25th Premier of Prince Edward Island from 1943 to 1948. Held various roles in the provincial government, including Minister of Education. Contributed to the establishment of multiple educational reforms during tenure. Involved in local politics and military service during World War II.
Continue ReadingArthur Jackson
American lieutenant and target shooter
Born
May 15th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2015 11 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Armed Forces and excelled in target shooting competitions. Achieved notable success in various shooting events, contributing to the military's marksmanship programs. Worked extensively in training and mentoring upcoming shooters in the discipline. Held various leadership positions within the shooting community, promoting the sport and enhancing competitive standards.
Continue ReadingCecilia Malmström
Swedish politician and trade commissioner
Born
May 15th, 1968 58 years ago
An academic and politician, served as the 15th European Commissioner for Trade from 2014 to 2019. Focused on modernizing trade agreements and promoting free trade policies. Played a significant role in negotiations for trade agreements with various countries and regions. Contributed to initiatives aimed at balancing trade and sustainability.
Continue ReadingKatherine Anne Porter
American short story writer and novelist
Born
May 15th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1980 46 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent writer, produced significant works in literature, focusing on themes of human experience and social justice. Best recognized for short stories and novels that explore the complexities of life, reflecting on personal and collective struggles. Received accolades for literary contributions, including winning the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1966 for the novel 'Ship of Fools'. Her mastery of prose captures a range of emotions and insights, establishing a strong presence in American literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 19th
Isham Jones
American saxophonist and bandleader
Born
January 31st, 1894 132 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1956 69 years ago — 62 years old
An American saxophonist, composer, and bandleader contributed significantly to the big band era in music. Founded the Isham Jones Orchestra, which became a prominent ensemble during the 1920s and 1930s. Composed several popular songs that remain standards in the jazz repertoire. His most famous piece, "On the Alamo," was widely covered and appreciated in the music community.
Continue ReadingSon House
Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 21st, 1902 124 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1988 37 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1902, this artist played a significant role in the development of the Delta blues genre. He began performing in the 1920s and gained recognition for his emotional vocal style and slide guitar technique. His recordings, including 'Death Letter Blues' and 'Preachin' the Blues', became influential in shaping blues music and inspired future musicians. After a period away from music, a revival in the 1960s brought renewed attention, with performances at festivals and clubs. His contributions to music were recognized through various accolades and he remains a pivotal figure in American music history.
Continue ReadingEdna St. Vincent Millay
Poet and playwright, won Pulitzer Prize
Born
February 22nd, 1892 134 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1950 75 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1892, this American poet and playwright gained prominence in the early 20th century. Celebrated for her lyrical poetry, she often explored themes of love, nature, and feminism. The poem collection 'A Few Figs from Thistles' showcased her bold style and independence. In 1923, she received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for her work 'The Ballad of the Harp-Weaver', which vividly depicted emotional depth and beauty. Engaging in social issues, she supported various progressive causes throughout her career.
Continue ReadingWinifred Asprey
Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
April 8th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2007 18 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent mathematician and computer scientist, contributions included work on the development of programming languages and computer education. Engagement with the Association for Computing Machinery highlighted a commitment to advancing the field. Active participation in academic communities fostered the growth of computer science education. Mentored future generations of computer scientists and mathematicians, having a lasting influence through teaching and scholarship.
Continue ReadingLyman Hall
American physician and politician
Born
April 12th, 1724 302 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1790 235 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1724, Hall served as a physician and clergyman. He represented Georgia in the Continental Congress and was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. He held the position of the 16th Governor of Georgia from 1783 to 1784. Hall played a significant role in the early governance of Georgia following its break from British rule, contributing to the establishment of the state as a key player in the formation of the United States.
Continue ReadingMarie Thérèse of France
French princess and Dauphine of France
Born
December 19th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1851 174 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1778, played a significant role in royal lineage as the only surviving child of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Following the execution of her parents during the French Revolution, faced imprisonment and eventual exile. Resided in various countries and negotiated her family's return to France. Eventually married Louis-Antoine, Duke of Angoulême, solidifying her commitment to the royal legacy. Lived until 1851, witnessing the dramatic changes in France over decades.
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