Josh Malihabadi
Indian-Pakistani poet and author
A prominent Urdu poet and author, contributed significantly to modern Urdu poetry. Birth occurred in 1898 in what is now India, leading to a literary career marked by political activism and social commentary. The poet faced exile and displacement during the partition of India in 1947, moving to Pakistan. Various literary works, including ghazals and poems, expressed themes of love, patriotism, and social justice. Worked as an editor for several literary magazines and participated in various cultural movements. The literary contributions have been recognized in both India and Pakistan.
Authored the celebrated poem 'The Exile'
Wrote extensively about social justice
Served as editor for notable Urdu literary magazines
Other People Born on December 5th
Elbert Frank Cox
Mathematician, first African American PhD
Born
December 5th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1969 57 years ago — 74 years old
A mathematician and academic, he earned the first PhD in Mathematics awarded to an African American in 1925 from Cornell University. A long career in academia included positions at various institutions, focusing on teaching and research in mathematics. Active in promoting education and opportunities for African Americans in higher education, he contributed to the development of mathematics as a field during the mid-20th century. His legacy includes mentoring countless students and advocating for diversity in mathematics.
Continue ReadingHilary Koprowski
Virologist and immunologist; developed vaccines
Born
December 5th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
This Polish-American virologist and immunologist developed the first effective oral polio vaccine, which significantly contributed to the global effort to eradicate poliomyelitis. The vaccine was tested in mass campaigns in Colombia and later used in other countries. Koprowski's research included work on vaccines for other diseases, including rabies. His contributions to the field of virology included pioneering work in the study of viruses.
Continue ReadingClyde Vernon Cessna
Aircraft manufacturer and businessman
Born
December 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1954 71 years ago — 74 years old
Established the Cessna Aircraft Corporation in 1927, significantly contributing to the advancement of general aviation. Cessna designed and built the first Cessna aircraft, the Cessna Model A, and later produced iconic aircraft models like the Cessna 172, widely regarded for its reliability and performance. Played a key role in promoting private flying and was instrumental in popularizing light aircraft in the United States.
Continue ReadingJohn Jellicoe
Admiral and Governor-General of New Zealand
Born
December 5th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1935 90 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1859, served as a distinguished admiral in the Royal Navy. Commanded the British fleet at the Battle of Jutland during World War I. Contributed to naval strategy and operations in the war. Later appointed as the 2nd Governor-General of New Zealand, overseeing important developments in the country's governance.
Continue ReadingPope Julius II
Renaissance Pope, architect of St. Peter's
Born
December 5th, 1443 582 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1513 512 years ago — 69 years old
One of the most notable popes of the Renaissance era, this figure served as the 216th pope from 1503 until 1513. A patron of the arts, he commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and begin work on St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. His papacy is often referred to as the 'Warrior Pope' due to his military involvement in the Italian Wars, striving to reclaim territories for the Papal States. He also convened the Fifth Lateran Council to address various issues within the Church. His leadership marked a significant shift in the role of the papacy during the Renaissance, focusing on territorial expansion and cultural patronage.
Continue ReadingJohn Beresford
Irish polo player and champion
Born
December 5th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1925 100 years ago — 58 years old
A leading figure in the sport of polo, played during the late 19th century. Achievements included participation in high-profile tournaments and contributions to the development of the sport in Ireland. Competed at a time when polo gained popularity among the British aristocracy and was involved in establishing polo clubs that fostered further interest in the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 22nd
Morgan Woodward
American actor in television and film
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old
An American actor with a prolific career spanning several decades, excelled in both television and film roles. Gained significant recognition for performances in popular series during the 1960s and 1970s. Notable appearances included roles in 'Gunsmoke' and 'Dallas', showcasing versatility in diverse character portrayals. Contributed to the entertainment industry through various guest appearances and supporting roles throughout the career. Remained active in acting until the mid-2010s.
Continue ReadingMaximianus
Bishop of Ravenna, religious leader
Died
February 22nd, 556 1469 years ago — None years old
Served as the Bishop of Ravenna from the early 6th century until death. Maximianus was influential in the ecclesiastical development of the region during a time of significant political and religious change. Oversaw the construction of several important churches, and was instrumental in the promotion of Christian orthodoxy amidst various theological disputes of the era. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen the church's authority and manage relationships with both local and imperial authorities.
Continue ReadingMarie Colvin
War correspondent and journalist
Born
1956 70 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 56 years old
Acclaimed for reporting from conflict zones, covered wars in countries such as Iraq, Kosovo, and Syria. Worked for The Sunday Times and was recognized for her fearless approach to journalism. Colvin's experiences included being wounded in Sri Lanka while covering the civil war. Delivered powerful accounts of the human cost of war through her writings, including a significant piece about the suffering in the besieged city of Homs during the Syrian Civil War. Her reporting exemplified the challenges faced by journalists operating in dangerous environments.
Continue ReadingLee Eun-ju
South Korean actress and singer
Born
1980 46 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 25 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, worked in the South Korean entertainment industry. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Scarlet Letter' and 'The Uninvited'. Also starred in the television series 'The Love Story'. Passed away at a young age in 2005, leaving a significant mark on the industry through her performances.
Continue ReadingOlivier van Noort
Dutch explorer of the Pacific Ocean
Born
1558 468 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1627 398 years ago — 69 years old
Explored the Pacific Ocean during the early 17th century. Led the first Dutch expedition to circumnavigate the globe from 1598 to 1601. Documented the voyage in a journal that provided valuable information about the regions visited. Returned to the Netherlands and participated in maritime discussions and explorations. His contributions helped to establish Dutch maritime presence and influence in various territories.
Continue ReadingMargaret of Cortona
Italian penitent and saint
Born
1247 779 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1297 728 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1247, a woman from the Tuscany region dedicated life to penance following the death of an unfaithful lover. Joined the Franciscans and established a convent in Cortona. Led a life of austerity and charity, helping the poor and sick. Advanced spirituality fostered devotion and reverence, culminating in canonization by the Catholic Church in 1728.
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