Levi P. Morton

American banker and Vice President

Levi P. Morton - American banker and Vice President
Born

May 16th, 1824
201 years ago

Died

May 16th, 1920
105 years ago — 96 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as the 22nd Vice President of the United States from 1889 to 1893 under President Benjamin Harrison. Initially involved in the banking sector, established a successful career as a financier. Contributed to various infrastructure projects, enhancing national growth. After his vice presidency, served as the U.S. Ambassador to France from 1894 to 1895, representing American interests abroad. Engaged in Republican politics and was active in public service throughout his career.

Served as 22nd Vice President of the U.S.

Acted as U.S. Ambassador to France

Other People Born on May 16th

Olga Korbut

Soviet gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
May 16th, 1955 70 years ago

Achieved international fame as a competitive gymnast during the 1970s. Won three gold medals and a silver at the 1972 Munich Olympics, which marked a significant moment in gymnastics history. Notable for her innovative and daring routines, which contributed to the evolution of the sport. After retiring from competition, transitioned to coaching and performing internationally.

Continue Reading

Darrell Sweet

Scottish drummer of Nazareth
Born
May 16th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 52 years old

A Scottish drummer played with the rock band Nazareth from its formation in 1968 until 2018. The band achieved international fame with hit songs such as 'Love Hurts' and 'Hair of the Dog.' Sweet contributed to the band’s distinctive sound, showcasing a powerful rhythm section that drove their music. His drumming style combined rock and blues influences and helped shape the band's identity. Sweet also played on various albums throughout his career, including 'Nazareth,' 'Hair of the Dog,' and 'Expect No Mercy.' Apart from performing, he participated in multiple tours, bringing the band's music to audiences worldwide. Sweet passed away in 2018.

Continue Reading

Kirstin Maldonado

Singer and songwriter with Pentatonix
Born
May 16th, 1992 33 years ago

A singer and songwriter gained recognition as a member of the a cappella group Pentatonix. The group rose to fame after winning the third season of the TV show 'The Sing-Off' in 2011. The unique vocal harmonies and arrangements contributed to the group's popularity, leading to multiple Grammy Awards. Maldonado also pursued a solo career, releasing singles and collaborations that showcase her vocal talent and musical versatility.

Continue Reading

Ephraim Katzir

Israeli biophysicist and politician
Born
May 16th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2009 16 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed to the field of biophysics and served as a prominent politician in Israel. Held the position of the fourth President of Israel from 1973 to 1978. Had a significant academic career, focusing on the study of proteins and enzymes. Played a vital role in promoting science and technology in Israel through various initiatives and policies.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Rückert

German poet and translator of Ballads
Born
May 16th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1788, a German poet and translator achieved prominence in the 19th century. Rückert published numerous collections of poetry, drawing inspiration from various cultures and languages. His interest in translation led to notable renditions of Persian and Arabic literature, contributing to the appreciation of Eastern poetry in German literature. Rückert's work often reflected themes of love, nature, and melancholy. His poetic style incorporated various forms, including ballads and sonnets. In addition to his literary contributions, Rückert's academic pursuits included professorships that influenced future generations of poets and translators.

Continue Reading

Edmund Kirby Smith

American Civil War general
Born
May 16th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1893 132 years ago — 68 years old

Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Played a significant role in key battles, including the Battle of First Manassas and the Battle of Chattanooga. Commanded the Trans-Mississippi Department and led forces in various campaigns across the southern United States. After the war, worked as a professor and held administrative roles in higher education.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 16th

Filip Mișea

Aromanian activist and politician
Born
1873 152 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1944 81 years ago — 71 years old

An Aromanian activist contributed to the cultural and political representation of the Aromanian community. Worked as a physician while advocating for Aromanian rights and welfare. Engaged in political activities that promoted the interests of Aromanians in Romania. Participated in various initiatives aimed at improving social conditions for minority groups within the country.

Continue Reading

Edward Gibbon Wakefield

English politician and colonization advocate
Born
March 20th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1862 163 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to theories of colonization and land settlement. Advocated for systematic colonization in the 19th century, promoting the establishment of new colonies under direct government control. Instrumental in the founding of South Australia, which emphasized free settlement and the sale of land. Known for principles that aimed at balancing land availability with labor supply to create prosperous communities.

Continue Reading

Jim Henson

Puppeteer and creator of The Muppets
Born
September 24th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1990 35 years ago — 53 years old

An American puppeteer, director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed to the entertainment industry through innovative puppet creations. Creator of The Muppets, which gained worldwide acclaim through television and film. Developed iconic characters such as Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Founded the Jim Henson Company, expanding the artistic realm of puppetry in both children's programming and adult entertainment. Established a legacy in puppetry that influenced generations of performers and creators.

Continue Reading

James Agee

American novelist and screenwriter
Born
November 27th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1955 70 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent American novelist, screenwriter, and critic, contributions include the novel 'A Death in the Family', which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1958. Agee crafted essays and screenplays that explored social issues and human experiences, establishing a significant voice in literature and film. His collaboration with photographer Walker Evans on 'Let Us Now Praise Famous Men' provided a nuanced portrayal of impoverished families in the South during the Great Depression. Agee's work often combined elements of autobiography and journalism, reflecting a deep understanding of his subjects.

Continue Reading

Kevin Hickey

American baseball player and pitcher
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 56 years old

A professional baseball player who played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made his debut in 1981 with the Chicago White Sox and appeared in games for the team until 1983. Also played for the New York Mets in 1985. Over the course of his career, compiled a win-loss record of 14-15 and an earned run average of 4.29. Concluded his playing days in the minor leagues after his last MLB appearance.

Continue Reading

John Stevens Henslow

English botanist and geologist
Born
February 6th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1861 164 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of botany and geology through extensive research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge, where teachings focused on systematic botany. Played a pivotal role in the scientific community by mentoring young naturalists, including Charles Darwin. Advocated for the establishment of botanical gardens and guided explorations in natural history.

Continue Reading