Levi P. Morton
American banker and Vice President
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
Billy Martin
Baseball player and manager with Yankees
Born
May 16th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1989 36 years ago — 61 years old
Played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball, primarily with the New York Yankees, and later served as a manager for several teams, including multiple stints with the Yankees. Contributed to five World Series championships as a player with the Yankees from 1949 to 1953. After retiring as a player, shifted to coaching and managerial roles, gaining a reputation for his fiery demeanor and leadership style in the dugout. Also managed the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, and Oakland Athletics during career in baseball management.
Continue ReadingMario Segni
Italian politician and academic leader
Born
May 16th, 1939 86 years ago
An Italian politician and professor, contributed to the development of the Italian political landscape during the late 20th century. Segni was a member of the Christian Democracy party and served in the Italian Parliament. He played a significant role in advocating for electoral reform and was instrumental in promoting the idea of a mixed electoral system. In 1993, he founded the Italian People's Party, which transitioned from the Christian Democracy party after its decline in the early 1990s. Throughout his career, Segni emphasized the importance of political accountability and democratic processes. His expertise extended to political theory and governance, and he had a significant academic presence alongside his political work.
Continue ReadingRobert Fripp
Guitarist and co-founder of King Crimson
Born
May 16th, 1946 79 years ago
A significant figure in progressive rock, played guitar and served as a songwriter and producer. Co-founded the band King Crimson, which released influential albums such as 'In the Court of the Crimson King'. Developed the Frippertronics guitar technique, which combines tape loops and effects. Collaborated with various artists across genres and contributed to several projects that bridged rock and classical music.
Continue ReadingJohn Conyers
U.S. Congressman and civil rights advocate
Born
May 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman from Michigan for over five decades. Played a significant role in the civil rights movement and was instrumental in the establishment of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. Advocated for various issues including health care reform and economic justice throughout his tenure. Participated in numerous legislative efforts addressing social inequalities.
Continue ReadingHarry Carey Jr.
American actor in Western films
Born
May 16th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1921, this individual gained recognition as an actor and producer, particularly associated with the Western film genre. Appeared in multiple films directed by John Ford and worked with notable actors such as John Wayne. The career included performances in classics like 'She Wore a Yellow Ribbon,' 'The Searchers,' and 'The Wild Bunch.' Additionally, contributed as a producer and screenwriter, showcasing talents in various behind-the-scenes roles.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Schorlemmer
Theologian and social activist
Born
May 16th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 80 years old
A German Protestant theologian contributed to the dialogue between faith and social issues. Engaged in the peaceful revolution in East Germany, advocated for human rights and religious freedom during the last years of communist rule. Worked extensively in both theological education and public speaking, addressing themes of justice and peace. Additionally, promoted interfaith dialogue and served as a critical voice in the transformation of society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
Pietro da Cortona
Italian painter and Baroque architect
Born
November 1st, 1596 429 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1669 356 years ago — 72 years old
An influential Baroque painter and architect, noted for his dynamic compositions and grand ceiling frescoes. Trained in Rome and developed a distinct style characterized by movement and dramatic use of light. Contributed significantly to the decoration of several prominent churches and palaces, including the Palazzo Barberini. Employed both traditional and innovative techniques in painting, impacting the Baroque art movement.
Continue ReadingDabney Coleman
Actor in film and television comedies
Born
January 3rd, 1932 94 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1932, this American actor gained recognition through a prominent career in film and television. This individual frequently portrayed characters with a mix of authority and humor, often in comedic settings. Major roles included appearances in the films 'Tootsie' and 'Nine to Five,' as well as the television series 'Buffalo Bill.' Over the decades, this actor became a familiar face in mainstream entertainment, contributing to memorable scenes and performances that garnered a loyal audience.
Continue ReadingVito Favero
Italian professional road cyclist
Born
1932 94 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
Competed primarily in the post-war era, recognized for participation in major cycling tours. Achieved notable success in the 1950s, including multiple victories in professional races. Contributed to the development of competitive cycling in Italy through both performance and sportsmanship.
Continue ReadingEliot Ness
Law enforcement agent and Prohibition agent
Born
April 19th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1957 68 years ago — 54 years old
Served in law enforcement during the Prohibition era and gained fame as the leader of the Untouchables, a special unit tasked with enforcing prohibition laws in Chicago. Targeted the notorious gangster Al Capone and played a significant role in his conviction for tax evasion. Later became Public Safety Director of Cleveland, where significant reforms were implemented in the police department and city safety policies. Authored an autobiography detailing experiences and obstacles faced in combating organized crime.
Continue ReadingH. B. Reese
Candy maker, creator of Reese's Cups
Born
May 24th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1956 69 years ago — 76 years old
An American candy maker and businessman established a confectionery company that produced a popular chocolate and peanut butter candy. The creation of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups emerged from a side business started in the 1920s. The product gained popularity and became a staple in the candy industry. After a successful launch, the company expanded, and following his death in 1956, it was acquired by The Hershey Company, ensuring the continued success of the brand.
Continue ReadingChuck Brown
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in the development of go-go music, a subgenre of funk. Originated in Washington, D.C. and played a critical role in popularizing the style throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Brown's signature sound combined funk rhythms with a strong emphasis on live percussion and audience participation. Recorded numerous albums, with standout tracks like 'Bustin' Loose' achieving considerable success. His influence extended to other artists and genres, seamlessly blending funk, R&B, and hip-hop elements in performances.
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