Karl Lehmann
German cardinal and theologian
Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and held the position of Bishop of Mainz from 1983 to 2016. Actively engaged in ecumenical dialogue and was involved in various church councils, including the Synod of Bishops. Contributed to theological discussions and addressed social issues within the church. Participated in the papal conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013.
Bishop of Mainz from 1983 to 2016
Participated in the papal conclave of 2013
Other People Born on May 16th
Kay Andrews
English politician and Baroness
Born
May 16th, 1943 83 years ago
A prominent English politician, served in various governmental roles. Held the title of Baroness Andrews, contributing to policy development and public service. Played a significant role in shaping legislation during a tenure that focused on social issues and community development. Engaged in numerous initiatives to improve local governance and community engagement.
Continue ReadingKevin McDonald
Actor and screenwriter, Kids in the Hall
Born
May 16th, 1961 65 years ago
Born in 1961, an actor and screenwriter participated in the Canadian sketch comedy series 'The Kids in the Hall', which gained a significant following in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The show featured a unique blend of absurdist humor and innovative sketches, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. McDonald contributed as a writer and performer, showcasing his comedic talents alongside other ensemble members. Furthermore, appeared in various guest roles in television series, including 'Freaks and Geeks' and 'That '70s Show'. McDonald also lent his voice to animated characters in projects such as 'CatDog' and 'The Magic School Bus'.
Continue ReadingBruce Norris
Playwright, won Pulitzer Prize
Born
May 16th, 1960 66 years ago
A playwright, recognized for contributions to contemporary theater. Works often address social issues and provoke critical thought. Achieved prominence with the play "Clybourne Park," which explores themes of race and gentrification. The play received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2011. Other works include "The Pain and the Itch" and "A Parallelogram," both of which showcase distinctive narrative styles and character complexity. Norris has also engaged in various collaborative artistic projects and contributed to dialogues about theater's role in society.
Continue ReadingRicardo Costa
Footballer, UEFA Europa League winner
Born
May 16th, 1981 45 years ago
A Portuguese footballer played as a defender primarily. Career spanned over two decades, featuring stints at clubs such as F.C. Porto, where significant contributions led to multiple domestic league titles. Also played for clubs like Losc Lille and Wolverhampton Wanderers, highlighting versatility across leagues. Competed internationally with the Portuguese national team, participating in major tournaments including the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup. Retired from professional football in 2016.
Continue ReadingEphraim Katzir
Israeli biophysicist and politician
Born
May 16th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2009 17 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed to the field of biophysics and served as a prominent politician in Israel. Held the position of the fourth President of Israel from 1973 to 1978. Had a significant academic career, focusing on the study of proteins and enzymes. Played a vital role in promoting science and technology in Israel through various initiatives and policies.
Continue ReadingMilton Jones
Comedian with absurdist humor style
Born
May 16th, 1964 62 years ago
An English comedian, actor, and screenwriter developed a distinctive style of absurdist humor, incorporating one-liners and wordplay. Gained prominence through television appearances, including on shows like 'Mock the Week' and 'The Matthew Wright Show.' Created and starred in the BBC Radio 4 series 'Milton Jones's Possible Impossibilities,' showcasing a unique blend of surreal comedy. Additionally performed stand-up comedy across the UK and internationally, earning a reputation for his outlandish jokes and clever puns.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 11th
Paul Alexander
Polio survivor and author
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2024 2 years ago — 78 years old
Survived polio as a child, leading to significant physical challenges throughout life. Advocated for people with disabilities and shared personal experiences through writing. Authored a memoir detailing the journey of overcoming adversity and exploring themes of resilience and hope. Participated in various speaking engagements, promoting awareness about the struggles faced by individuals with disabilities.
Continue ReadingMoshoeshoe I
King of Lesotho and founder of the nation
Born
1786 240 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1870 156 years ago — 84 years old
Founded the Basotho nation in the early 19th century by uniting various groups in present-day Lesotho. Established a centralized kingdom and sought to protect his people from colonial expansion. Developed strong diplomatic relations with neighboring territories and European powers. Played a crucial role in the cultural and political identity of the Basotho.
Continue ReadingDoreen Massey
Geographer and political activist
Born
January 3rd, 1944 82 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2016 10 years ago — 72 years old
Significant contributions to human geography included work on space, place, and power dynamics. Advocated for a relational understanding of how social and spatial processes interact. Engaged in political activism, focusing on social justice and community issues. Served as a professor at the Open University and published several influential books.
Continue ReadingSophronius of Jerusalem
Christian Patriarch and theologian
Died
March 11th, 638 1388 years ago — None years old
Served as Patriarch of Jerusalem from 634 until death in 638. Played a significant role in the early Christian church during a time of considerable turmoil. Contributed to theological discourse, particularly regarding Christology and the relationship between God and Jesus. Authored numerous works, including biblical commentaries and hymns. Engaged with various ecclesiastical and political issues, including the spread of Islam in the region and the defense of Christian orthodoxy. His leadership was marked by the challenges posed by external threats and the internal complexities of the church.
Continue ReadingMary Rosenblum
Science fiction and mystery author
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2018 8 years ago — 66 years old
An author specialized in science fiction and mystery genres. Wrote several notable works, including the book 'The Drylands'. Contributed to anthologies and magazines, gaining recognition within literary circles. Also engaged in teaching and mentoring aspiring writers, emphasizing speculative fiction techniques.
Continue ReadingHendrik Willem van Loon
Historian and journalist, wrote 'The Story of Mankind'
Born
January 14th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1944 82 years ago — 62 years old
Born in the Netherlands, an emigrant to the United States. Held a career as a historian and journalist, gaining recognition for contributions to historical literature and education. Authored 'The Story of Mankind', which became a widely used text in schools and earned the first Newbery Medal in 1922. In addition to this work, wrote numerous articles and books covering a variety of historical subjects, effectively popularizing history for general audiences. Engaged in lectures and public speaking, including radio broadcasts, helping to communicate historical ideas to the public during formative years of the 20th century.
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