Leo Lionni
Children's author and illustrator
An American author and illustrator created numerous children's books, blending storytelling with unique artistic styles. Significant works include 'Frederick', which tells the story of a field mouse who collects words instead of food, and 'Inch by Inch', focusing on a little inchworm that measures different animals. Lionni's vibrant collages and philosophical themes have influenced children's literature. His contributions earned the American Library Association's Caldecott Honor multiple times, solidifying a place in children's literary history.
Authored 'Frederick' and 'Inch by Inch'
Received multiple Caldecott Honors
Other People Born on May 5th
Nathan Chen
Figure skater and Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 5th, 1999 26 years ago
This figure skater achieved notable success in competitive figure skating, winning the 2022 Winter Olympics men's singles gold medal. An accomplished skater at a young age, significant achievements include winning multiple U.S. Championships and World Championships. His performances are characterized by technical difficulty, particularly in executing quadruple jumps. Competed for several years at both national and international levels, establishing a reputation for excellence in the sport.
Continue ReadingAfonso III of Portugal
King of Portugal and Algarve
Born
May 5th, 1210 815 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1279 746 years ago — 68 years old
Ruled as King of Portugal from 1248 until death in 1279. Expanded the territory significantly, particularly through the conquest of the Algarve. Consolidated royal authority and established the Kingdom's administrative structure, contributing to the centralization of governance. Promoted the growth of the Portuguese economy and the establishment of trade routes. His reign marked a significant period in the development of the Portuguese state.
Continue ReadingTammy Wynette
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
May 5th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1998 27 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent country music artist, gained fame in the late 1960s and 1970s. Her most recognized song, "Stand By Your Man," became an anthem of loyalty in relationships. Wynette released numerous albums and earned multiple awards, including Grammy Awards and Country Music Association Awards. With her emotional vocal delivery, she gained significant popularity and is often referred to as the 'First Lady of Country Music'.
Continue ReadingPreczlaw of Pogarell
Cardinal and Bishop of Wrocław
Born
May 5th, 1310 715 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1376 649 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the Bishop of Wrocław from 1350 until death in 1376. Played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the late medieval period and was elevated to the rank of cardinal. Held multiple ecclesiastical roles, contributing to the administration of the church and its influence in Lower Silesia. Engaged in various diplomatic missions, particularly related to church and state affairs.
Continue ReadingAnna Johnson Pell Wheeler
Mathematician specializing in topology
Born
May 5th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1966 60 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of topology and made advancements in differential equations. Worked as a professor at several institutions, including the University of California, Berkeley. Published numerous papers that explored the foundations of topology and its applications. Played a critical role in expanding the educational opportunities for women in mathematics and encouraged female students to pursue mathematical studies.
Continue ReadingJustin Kluivert
Dutch footballer from AS Roma
Born
May 5th, 1999 26 years ago
A professional footballer, recognized for playing as a winger. Beginnings in youth football at Ajax led to a senior debut in 2016. Contributions included significant time at Ajax, before moving to AS Roma in 2018. Achievements also included assisting in Ajax's Eredivisie title win and participating in the UEFA Champions League.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 11th
Redd Foxx
Stand-up comedian and television actor
Born
December 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old
An influential figure in comedy, Redd Foxx gained prominence as a stand-up comedian, performing in nightclubs and theaters throughout the mid-20th century. Foxx is widely recognized for the television series Sanford and Son, which aired from 1972 to 1977. The show showcased his comedic talent and contributed to his legacy in television. He also appeared in films, including appearances in prominent comedies of his era. Throughout his career, Foxx became a staple in African American entertainment, influencing future generations of comedians and actors with his style and humor.
Continue ReadingCarmelo Simeone
Footballer and manager, Atlético Madrid
Born
September 22nd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Italy and raised in Argentina, a professional footballer and manager. Played as a midfielder for various clubs, especially focusing on his time at Atlético Madrid. Transitioned into coaching, leading several teams in Argentina and Spain, including a successful tenure at Atlético Madrid. Developed a reputation for tactical acumen and motivational skills.
Continue ReadingWalther Stampfli
Swiss lawyer, 50th President of Switzerland
Born
December 3rd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1965 60 years ago — 80 years old
This individual served as the 50th President of the Swiss Confederation and was an influential figure in Swiss legal and political circles. In addition to the presidency, contributions included significant involvement in law, shaping the legislative landscape of Switzerland. Active in various organizational roles, facilitated discussions on national and local governance, reflecting the principles of Swiss democracy. Engaged in international relations, promoting Switzerland's interests abroad through diplomacy and negotiations, and participated in numerous conferences addressing legislative matters.
Continue ReadingRita Cetina Gutiérrez
Mexican poet and educator
Born
May 22nd, 1846 179 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1908 117 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1846, a prominent Mexican poet and educator contributed significantly to literature and women's rights in Mexico. Actively engaged in advocating for education, particularly for women, she emphasized the importance of literacy and intellectual development. Known for participating in cultural movements, her works often reflected themes of social justice and identity. Established schools aimed at promoting education among girls and helped foster a literary community that supported emerging writers.
Continue ReadingDorothea Lange
Photographer of Migrant Mother photo
Born
May 26th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1965 60 years ago — 70 years old
A photographer and journalist, this individual documented the struggles of displaced families during the Great Depression. The iconic photo 'Migrant Mother' became a symbol of the era's hardship. Work included contributions to the Farm Security Administration, capturing images that highlighted rural poverty and the plight of migrant workers. Later, engaged in documentary photography and photojournalism, showcasing the impact of economic distress on American society.
Continue ReadingNeal Hefti
American trumpet player and composer
Born
October 29th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent trumpet player and composer, contributions spanned various musical genres. Composed numerous pieces for big band orchestras, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s. Collaborated with famous bandleaders and musicians, enhancing the jazz and pop scenes. Best recognized for compositions in television and film, including scores for the 1960s television series 'Batman' and the film 'The Odd Couple'. Hefti's distinctive work entrenched him in the American music landscape.
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