Karl Marx
German philosopher and economic theorist
A pivotal figure in the development of modern political theory, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of philosophy, economics, and sociology. Best known for co-authoring 'The Communist Manifesto' in 1848, which laid the theoretical foundations for Marxism, and for 'Das Kapital', an analysis of capitalist economic theory published in multiple volumes. His ideas have influenced political movements and ideologies around the world, shaping the course of history in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Co-authored 'The Communist Manifesto' in 1848
Wrote 'Das Kapital', published in multiple volumes
Other People Born on May 5th
Ray Gosling
Journalist and author of 'The Gay History'
Born
May 5th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A journalist, author, and activist contributed significantly to discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and issues in the UK. Worked in various media outlets throughout the career, including television and print. Authored multiple books, with a focus on gay history and the challenges faced by the community. Developed a reputation for candid storytelling and advocacy, particularly during the 20th century when activism for LGBTQ+ rights gained momentum. Involved in various projects that highlighted societal issues and personal narratives.
Continue ReadingRupert of Germany
Count Palatine and Holy Roman King
Born
May 5th, 1352 673 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1410 615 years ago — 58 years old
Rupert held titles as the Count Palatine of the Rhine and King of Germany during the late 14th and early 15th centuries. His reign was characterized by involvement in the power struggles of the imperial succession and conflicts with rival factions. Rupert played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire. He was elected King of the Romans in 1400, a title that sought to legitimize his authority amid the complex feudal and dynastic conflicts of the time. His leadership included challenges in maintaining the loyalty of various territorial princes and dealing with external threats. Rupert's military strategies and alliances were essential in his political manoeuvring.
Continue ReadingEd Lee
American politician and attorney.
Born
May 5th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 43rd Mayor of San Francisco from 2011 until his death in 2017. Prior to becoming mayor, held the position of San Francisco's city administrator and director of the Department of Public Works. Focused on housing, economic growth, and education during the tenure as mayor. Advocated for the expansion of affordable housing and developed initiatives to support small businesses and the tech industry in the city.
Continue ReadingArthur Leonard Schawlow
Physicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
May 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of laser technology and optics. Earned a Ph.D. in physics from Columbia University. Worked at Bell Laboratories, where developed methods to produce laser light and co-invented the laser. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1981 for contributions to laser spectroscopy. Later served as a professor at Stanford University. Recognized for extensive academic contributions and advancements in scientific research.
Continue ReadingGuru Amar Das
Indian Sikh Guru and religious leader
Born
May 5th, 1479 546 years ago
Died
1574 452 years ago — 95 years old
Third Sikh Guru served from 1552 to 1574. Promoted equality and social welfare among all individuals regardless of caste or gender. Established various institutions for education and community service. Emphasized the importance of devotion to God and collective spiritual practice. Played a significant role in the formation of the Sikh community's principles and practices.
Continue ReadingJuan Manuel
Nobleman and author of 'El Conde Lucanor'
Born
May 5th, 1282 743 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1348 677 years ago — 66 years old
Born into Spanish nobility in 1282, a significant figure in medieval literature and politics. Authored 'El Conde Lucanor', a collection of tales offering moral lessons, influencing both Spanish and European literary traditions. Served as the Prince of Villena and held various political roles within the Kingdom of Castile, engaging in diplomatic negotiations and power struggles of the time. Contributed to the cultural and literary landscape of medieval Spain through both governance and literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 14th
Charlie Whiting
Motorsport director for Formula One
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2019 6 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the FIA Formula One Race Director and Safety Delegate. Managed race operations and regulations, contributing to the safety and fairness of Formula One racing events. Oversaw technical and regulatory aspects of the sport for several decades. Played a crucial role during races ensuring compliance with rules and safety protocols. Worked closely with teams and officials, maintaining close communication to resolve any issues.
Continue ReadingBernard Ryan
Executed Irish republican leader
Born
1901 125 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1921 104 years ago — 20 years old
An Irish republican leader participated in the struggle for Irish independence during the early 20th century. He played a significant role in the events leading up to the Irish War of Independence. Following his involvement in the armed conflict, he faced arrest and was executed for his actions. His execution occurred on March 14, 1921, becoming part of the broader narrative of resistance against British rule in Ireland. His legacy is associated with the fight for Irish freedom and the subsequent evolution of Irish nationalism.
Continue ReadingFélix Rodríguez de la Fuente
Spanish environmentalist and broadcaster
Born
March 14th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1980 45 years ago — 52 years old
An influential Spanish environmentalist and broadcaster dedicated to wildlife conservation. Focused on educating the public about the importance of preserving nature through various media. Hosted the television program 'El Hombre y la Tierra', which highlighted the relationship between humans and wildlife. Engaged in numerous conservation campaigns aimed at protecting endangered species and habitats. Published books and articles that contributed to environmental awareness in Spain and beyond.
Continue ReadingPierre Schoendoerffer
French film director and screenwriter
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
A French director and screenwriter primarily focused on war films. Notable works include the acclaimed film 'The 317th Platoon' which depicted the experiences of French soldiers during the First Indochina War. Schoendoerffer served in the French army as a war correspondent, providing firsthand accounts of the conflicts he portrayed on screen. His unique perspective brought authenticity to his films and helped to shape the narrative around the experiences of soldiers in difficult circumstances.
Continue ReadingC. R. M. F. Cruttwell
Historian and author of military history
Born
May 23rd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1941 84 years ago — 53 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of military history. Published notable works, including 'A History of the Great War'. Engaged in academic pursuits and focused on the analysis of military strategy and operations during World War I. Served as a professor, imparting knowledge on historical events and their implications on modern warfare.
Continue ReadingJohann Salomo Semler
German historian and biblical critic
Born
December 18th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1791 234 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed to biblical criticism and historical methodology. Played a key role in the development of textual criticism of the Bible. Established the importance of historical context in understanding religious texts through his scholarly works. Helped lay the foundation for later developments in liberal theology and critical scholarship.
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