Laverne Cox
Actress and LGBT advocate
Acclaimed actress and advocate raised in Mobile, Alabama. Studied at Indiana University and later moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. Gained wide recognition for the role of Sophia Burset in the Netflix series 'Orange Is the New Black', becoming the first openly transgender person nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. As an advocate for transgender rights, regularly participates in public speaking engagements and panels to promote visibility and equality for the transgender community.
Role of Sophia Burset in 'Orange Is the New Black'
First openly transgender Emmy nominee
Other People Born on May 29th
Rudolf Tobias
Estonian organist and composer
Born
May 29th, 1873 153 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1918 107 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1873, this individual made significant contributions to the realm of organ music and composition. Studied music in Saint Petersburg and later settled in Estonia, where compositions reflected influences from both German and Estonian traditions. Played an integral role in the Estonian choral movement and contributed to various musical institutions. His work extended to teaching, where he shaped future generations of musicians. Active in the early 20th century, compositions included choral works and organ pieces.
Continue ReadingCharles II of England
Monarch and Royalist leader
Born
May 29th, 1630 396 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1685 341 years ago — 54 years old
Ascended to the throne as King of England, Ireland, and Scotland in 1660 following the English Civil War and the period of Commonwealth. His reign, known as the Restoration, marked the return of the monarchy after the rule of Oliver Cromwell. Established the Church of England as state religion and promoted arts and sciences, leading to a cultural flourishing. His court became a center of culture, attracting numerous artists and intellectuals.
Continue ReadingJohn Harsanyi
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 29th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2000 26 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Hungary, an academic focused on game theory, utility, and social choice theory. Emigrated to the United States after World War II and continued work in economics. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1994 for contributions to analyzing cooperative games and bringing psychological insights into economic thinking.
Continue ReadingGregg Sulkin
Actor in 'Pretty Little Liars' and 'Runaways'
Born
May 29th, 1992 34 years ago
An English actor gained recognition for roles in various television series, particularly in 'Pretty Little Liars' as Ezra Fitz and in 'Runaways' as Chase Stein. Early work included appearances in the British series 'As the Bell Rings'. Sulkin's transition to American television highlighted his versatility as an actor. He participated in multiple projects that showcased his talent, including roles in Disney Channel movies.
Continue ReadingFay Vincent
Baseball Commissioner; implemented reforms
Born
May 29th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2025 1 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 8th Commissioner of Major League Baseball from 1989 to 1992. Oversaw significant changes in the sport, including the introduction of stricter drug policies and enhanced oversight on player conduct. Played a role in the establishment of the Major League Baseball Player's Association and fostered relationships with both players and owners. Promoted the game globally and contributed to various initiatives designed to improve the sport's integrity and appeal.
Continue ReadingPaul R. Ehrlich
American biologist and author
Born
May 29th, 1932 94 years ago
An American biologist and author, contributions include work on population dynamics and environmental issues. Published 'The Population Bomb' in 1968, which anticipated significant challenges arising from overpopulation. Held a position as a professor at Stanford University, focusing on ecology and population studies. Advocated for sustainable resource management and warned against ecological degradation.
Continue Reading