Konrad Henlein
Czech soldier and politician
A soldier and politician in Czechoslovakia, played a significant role in the German minority politics of the country during the interwar period. Founded the Sudeten German Party in 1935, advocating for the interests of Sudeten Germans. His party became a prominent political force, leveraging growing national tensions in Europe. Collaborated with Nazi Germany leading up to World War II. In 1938, he expressed support for the annexation of the Sudetenland, which significantly influenced Czechoslovakia's fate following the Munich Agreement. Took on a leadership role in the area after its incorporation into Germany.
Founded the Sudeten German Party in 1935
Advocated for Sudeten German interests
Supported the annexation of Sudetenland
Other People Born on May 6th
Rolf Maximilian Sievert
Physicist known for radiation measurement
Born
May 6th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1966 59 years ago — 70 years old
A Swedish physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of radiation measurement and dosimetry. Developed the Sievert, a unit of measurement for ionizing radiation, as part of work to quantify radiation exposure and its biological effects. Engaged in research related to radiation effects on health and established guidelines for safe radiation levels. Held a position at the Karolinska Institute and contributed to the development of medical applications of radiation.
Continue ReadingTrinley Thaye Dorje
Tibetan religious leader, the 17th Karmapa Lama
Born
May 6th, 1983 42 years ago
Born in 1983, a prominent Tibetan religious leader and the 17th Karmapa Lama, played a significant role in the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Educated at monasteries in India and Tibet, assumed the responsibilities of a spiritual leader at a young age. Engaged in various social and environmental initiatives, promoting education and cultural preservation. Led teachings and guidance for practitioners worldwide, addressing contemporary issues within the context of Buddhist philosophy.
Continue ReadingMaximilien Robespierre
French Revolutionary Leader and Politician
Born
May 6th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1794 231 years ago — 36 years old
Active during the French Revolution, emerged as a leading figure in the Committee of Public Safety. Advocated for the rights of the common citizen and the establishment of a democratic government. Instrumental in the Reign of Terror, which targeted perceived enemies of the Revolution. Focused on implementing radical measures to achieve social and political equality. Appointed to France's National Assembly and played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
Continue ReadingWillie Mays
Baseball Hall of Famer, San Francisco Giants
Born
May 6th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
A legendary baseball player and coach, played primarily for the San Francisco Giants. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1951 and had a career spanning over two decades. Achieved a batting average of .302 and collected 660 home runs during his career. Won two National League MVP awards in 1954 and 1965. Contributed to the Giants' victory in the 1954 World Series and received numerous accolades for his impressive defensive skills, including 12 Gold Glove awards.
Continue ReadingCharles Batteux
French philosopher, aesthetics pioneer
Born
May 6th, 1713 312 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1780 245 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of aesthetics and philosophy. Developed ideas regarding the nature of beauty and the relationship between the arts. Served as a professor at the Collège royal. Authored influential works on aesthetics and introduced concepts that would shape future philosophical discourse.
Continue ReadingAlexander Akimov
Chernobyl reactor operator during disaster
Born
May 6th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 33 years old
Worked as a senior control room operator at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Involved in the operation during the catastrophic accident on April 26, 1986. Played a pivotal role in managing the reactor's conditions and responding to the emergency. Subsequently faced severe health issues due to radiation exposure, leading to hospitalization and eventual death as a result of the disaster's aftermath.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 10th
John Wayne Gacy
American serial killer and rapist
Born
March 17th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1994 31 years ago — 52 years old
Engaged in criminal activities starting in the 1960s, a series of murders occurred across Illinois. Worked as a contractor and was involved in local politics. Arrested in 1978, investigations uncovered numerous bodies buried on his property and in nearby areas. Convicted of the murders of 33 young men and boys, sentenced to death in 1980, and executed in 1994.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Pérez Rubalcaba
Spanish politician and chemist
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2019 6 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent Spanish politician and chemist. Served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior from 2011 to 2012. Held various positions within the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party and was a key figure during Spain's economic crisis. Contributed to numerous legislative initiatives, including education reform and anti-terrorism measures. Participated in education-related reforms during the José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero administration and played a significant role in the response to the 2004 Madrid train bombings.
Continue ReadingKaifi Azmi
Indian poet and lyricist of Urdu literature
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2002 23 years ago — 83 years old
An influential figure in Urdu literature, contributed significantly as a poet, lyricist, and playwright. Active in the Progressive Writers' Movement, wrote extensively on social issues. Gained fame for lyrics in films such as 'Haqeeqat' and 'Gaman'. Also composed poetry that resonated with the themes of love, loss, and nationalism. Instrumental in promoting Urdu language and literature through various platforms. Explored themes of social justice and human rights in works, leading to recognition in literary circles.
Continue ReadingLeonid Kravchuk
Ukrainian politician, 1st President
Born
January 10th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2022 3 years ago — 88 years old
First President of Ukraine, serving from 1991 to 1994. Played a significant role in Ukraine's independence from the Soviet Union. Previously held positions as Chairman of the Supreme Soviet of Ukraine and was involved in the development of the country's new constitution. His leadership helped establish Ukraine's political framework in the post-Soviet era.
Continue ReadingShel Silverstein
Poet and illustrator, 'The Giving Tree'
Born
September 25th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1999 26 years ago — 68 years old
A poet and illustrator, gained prominence through children's literature. Authored widely read books including 'The Giving Tree' and 'Where the Sidewalk Ends'. Worked as a cartoonist and songwriter, contributing music to notable artists such as Johnny Cash. Established a unique style combining whimsical stories with profound themes, making a lasting impact on children's poetry.
Continue ReadingBob Lanier
American politician and banker
Born
March 10th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2022 3 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the Mayor of Houston from 1974 to 1978. Prior to his political career, held various positions in banking, ultimately contributing to economic development initiatives in Houston. Played a significant role in local governance and urban planning. Actively participated in community affairs and worked to improve infrastructure and public services in the city.
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