Leo Ryan
American politician and educator
Served as a United States Congressman from California. Earned a reputation as an advocate for educational reform and community development. Involved in various legislative initiatives focused on education, health, and public safety. Died in the Jonestown Massacre while investigating claims of human rights abuses.
Served as a Congressman for California's 11th district
Participated in the investigation of the Jonestown tragedy
Other People Born on May 5th
Kirsty Muir
Freestyle skier; Winter X Games medalist
Born
May 5th, 2004 21 years ago
A freestyle skier from Scotland, focused primarily on slopestyle and big air events. Competed in international competitions at a young age, gaining recognition in the skiing community. Achievements include participation in the Winter X Games and earning a medal in her freestyle skiing events. Muir's skills in various tricks and unique style during competitions have contributed to her rising prominence in the sport.
Continue ReadingCathleen Synge Morawetz
Canadian mathematician and researcher
Born
May 5th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1923, a prominent mathematician focused on applied mathematics. Contributed extensively to the field of partial differential equations, particularly in mathematical biology and fluid dynamics. Held a professorship at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, influencing many students and researchers. The first woman to achieve the rank of distinguished professor at New York University. Actively engaged in promoting mathematics through various academic initiatives and collaborations.
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 ReadingPat Carroll
American actress and voice artist
Born
May 5th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2022 3 years ago — 95 years old
An actress with a prolific career in television and voice acting. Gained significant recognition for voicing Ursula in Disney's animated film 'The Little Mermaid.' Appeared on television in series such as 'The Odd Couple' and 'ER.' Received a Daytime Emmy Award for her work on 'General Hospital.' Had a substantial presence in theatrical productions and was known for her roles in a variety of stage performances.
Continue ReadingBrian Williams
Journalist and NBC Nightly News anchor
Born
May 5th, 1959 66 years ago
Served as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News from 2004 to 2015. Played a significant role in covering major events, including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. Faced criticism and a suspension for inaccuracies in reporting. Joined MSNBC as a breaking news anchor after leaving NBC Nightly News.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on November 18th
Émile Nelligan
Canadian poet celebrated for 'Chants d'Automne'
Born
December 24th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1941 84 years ago — 61 years old
A significant figure in Canadian literature, this poet emerged in the early 20th century. His work captured the essence of the Symbolist movement, influencing subsequent generations of writers. The poet's first collection, 'Les fleurs du mal' (1897), showcased a talent that would define his legacy. Suffering from mental illness, he spent a significant portion of his life in a psychiatric institution, which limited his output. Despite these challenges, his poetry resonated with readers and critics alike, often reflecting themes of solitude and existential angst. His style combined rich imagery with a deep emotional undercurrent, leaving a lasting imprint on the literary landscape of Quebec.
Continue ReadingKurt Schuschnigg
Austrian politician and chancellor
Born
December 14th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1977 48 years ago — 79 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the 15th Federal Chancellor of Austria from 1934 to 1938. Focused on maintaining Austria's independence during rising tensions in Europe. Implemented policies aimed at consolidating power and opposing the influence of National Socialism. Resigned in March 1938 under pressure from Nazi Germany, leading to the annexation of Austria. Later detained by the Nazis and spent years in concentration camps.
Continue ReadingMarcel Proust
French novelist, author of 'In Search of Lost Time'
Born
July 10th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1922 103 years ago — 51 years old
Born in France, a literary figure gained prominence through a seven-volume novel cycle titled 'In Search of Lost Time', published between 1913 and 1927. The work explores themes of memory, time, and social change, reflecting a rich narrative style and intricate character development. Proust's writing style employed detailed descriptions and introspective monologues, influencing modern literature profoundly. His critiques and essays also contributed significantly to literary discussions during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingWalther Nernst
Chemist and Physicist, Nobel Laureate
Born
June 25th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1941 84 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1864 in Germany, contributions to the fields of chemistry and physics included the development of the Nernst equation and the formulation of the third law of thermodynamics. Significant work in physical chemistry involved heat measurements and chemical equilibria. His research greatly advanced the understanding of chemical potentials and reaction rates. Nernst was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1920 for his work in thermochemistry.
Continue ReadingDenton Cooley
Cardiothoracic surgeon and innovator
Born
August 22nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2016 9 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent cardiothoracic surgeon and scientist, contributions to heart surgery and medical education included pioneering techniques and procedures. Established one of the first artificial hearts and performed the first successful heart transplant in the United States. Founded the Texas Heart Institute in Houston, focusing on cardiovascular diseases and education in surgical techniques in the field.
Continue ReadingDanny Whitten
Singer-songwriter and guitarist (Crazy Horse)
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1972 53 years ago — 29 years old
American singer-songwriter and guitarist contributed significantly to the music scene of the 1960s and early 1970s. As a member of the band Crazy Horse, played a crucial role in its sound and success. Collaborated with Neil Young, providing guitar and vocal contributions on several of Young's albums. Died from a drug overdose, which marked a tragic end to a promising career.
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