Ken Downing

English racing driver and competitor

Ken Downing - English racing driver and competitor
Born

December 5th, 1917
107 years ago

Died

May 3rd, 2004
21 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Competed in various racing events during the mid-20th century, including participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable success in sports car racing and was a prominent figure in the British motorsport scene. Contributed to the development of racing techniques and car modifications in the post-war era of motorsport.

Participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans

Achieved success in British sports car races

Other People Born on December 5th

C. F. Powell

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 5th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1969 56 years ago — 65 years old

This physicist contributed significantly to the field of particle physics. Developed the photographic emulsion technique that enabled the discovery of many subatomic particles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions, influencing the education of future physicists. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1950 for contributions to the development of the photographic method for studying nuclear processes and the meson theory.

Continue Reading

Paul Kogerman

Chemist and academic specializing in chemistry
Born
December 5th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1951 74 years ago — 59 years old

Born in Estonia, a chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chemistry. Kogerman focused on organic chemistry and authored numerous scholarly articles. His work mainly revolved around the study of phenolic compounds and their derivatives. Throughout his career, he held various academic positions and was involved in scientific research that enhanced the understanding of chemical processes. Kogerman's contributions were crucial in advancing research methodologies in Estonia and beyond.

Continue Reading

Art Monk

American football wide receiver, Hall of Famer
Born
December 5th, 1957 67 years ago

Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League, primarily with the Washington Redskins. Instrumental in the team's three Super Bowl victories. Accumulated over 900 receptions during a career spanning 16 seasons. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008, recognized for exceptional contributions to the sport and enduring legacy.

Continue Reading

Clinton Hart Merriam

Zoologist and ornithologist; conducted studies
Born
December 5th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1942 83 years ago — 86 years old

An American zoologist, ornithologist, and entomologist made significant contributions to the understanding of North American wildlife. Played a pivotal role in establishing wildlife conservation efforts. Developed the concept of the 'life zone,' which categorizes environments based on elevation and climate. Served as the chief of the U.S. Biological Survey and contributed to the founding of the American Ornithologists' Union. Authored numerous scientific papers and books on bird behavior and ecology.

Continue Reading

Justin Smoak

Baseball player with 2017 All-Star selection
Born
December 5th, 1986 38 years ago

Professional baseball player played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB) for teams including the Seattle Mariners, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Texas Rangers. Debuted in 2010 and achieved an All-Star selection in 2017. Recorded significant power-hitting statistics throughout his career, demonstrating consistent performance at the plate and contributing to team success.

Continue Reading

Quinnen Williams

American football defensive tackle
Born
December 5th, 1997 27 years ago

Drafted as the third overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, a defensive tackle played for the New York Jets. Achieved recognition for exceptional performance, contributing to the team's defensive strategies. Played college football at the University of Alabama, where earned first-team All-American honors in 2018, helping the team secure a national championship in 2017. Demonstrated impressive skills in tackling and pass-rushing throughout professional career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 3rd

Richard Grey

3rd Earl of Kent, English peer
Born
1481 544 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1524 501 years ago — 43 years old

An English nobleman who held the title of 3rd Earl of Kent. Born into a prominent family, he was involved in the politics and governance of England during the late medieval period. His tenure included participation in various royal courts and he played a role in the tumultuous years surrounding the Wars of the Roses. The earl's lineage linked him to significant historical figures, reinforcing the influence of his family in English history. His death in 1524 marked the end of his contributions to the earldom.

Continue Reading

Jack Weston

American actor in 'The Hospital'
Born
August 21st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 71 years old

An American actor active from the 1950s through the early 2000s. Contributed to film and television with a notable presence in stage performances. Featured prominently in 'The Hospital' alongside George C. Scott. Appeared in television shows including 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Engaged in various roles that showcased comedic and dramatic talents.

Continue Reading

Warja Honegger-Lavater

Swiss illustrator and artist
Born
September 28th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 93 years old

An influential Swiss illustrator, significant contributions included work in children's literature and graphic design. Developed a unique visual language that combined simplicity with strong narratives, leading to a distinctive style. Collaborated with various publishing houses, producing illustrations for numerous books. Engaged with international exhibitions, showcasing the artistic talent of Switzerland. Active engagement in the Swiss artist community enhanced her profile within the creative arts sector.

Continue Reading

Christine Jorgensen

American transgender rights advocate
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1989 36 years ago — 63 years old

Transgender rights advocacy began following transition in 1952, raising awareness of transgender issues in the U.S. through personal narrative and media appearances. Gained fame as the first American to receive sex reassignment surgery after World War II. Became a public speaker and author, contributing to discussions on gender identity and representation. Participated in various television shows and interviews, influencing perceptions of transgender individuals.

Continue Reading

Narciso Yepes

Spanish guitarist and composer
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1997 28 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the classical guitar repertoire. Developed unique arrangements that blended classical, traditional Spanish, and contemporary music styles. Instrumental in promoting the guitar as a legitimate orchestral instrument. Held a distinguished career performing solo and with orchestras globally.

Continue Reading

John Joseph O'Connor

American cardinal and archbishop
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2000 25 years ago — 80 years old

Served as an archbishop of New York from 1984 until death in 2000. Played a significant role in the Catholic Church during a time of various challenges, including the sexual abuse crisis. Advocated for social justice and was involved in various charitable activities. Contributed to the interfaith dialogue among different religious communities. Participated in the preparation for the papal visit of Pope John Paul II to the United States.

Continue Reading