Liu Bowen
Chinese military strategist and poet
A military strategist, statesman, and poet from China, contributed significantly to military theory during the Ming dynasty. Recognized for notable strategies that influenced major battles and governance, served as an important advisor to the first Ming emperor, Hongwu. Authored various works on military strategy, poetry, and governance that have been studied for centuries. Played a pivotal role in the consolidation of the Ming dynasty's power and stability, shaping the military landscape of the era.
Advised the Ming dynasty's first emperor
Authored 'The Art of War' interpretations
Developed strategies for key military campaigns
Other People Born on July 1st
Ignaz Semmelweis
Physician known for hand hygiene practices
Born
July 1st, 1818 207 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1865 160 years ago — 47 years old
A Hungarian-Austrian physician and obstetrician developed the practice of hand washing to prevent puerperal fever in maternity wards. Worked at Vienna General Hospital, where discovered that the incidence of infection could be drastically reduced by instructing staff to wash their hands with chlorinated lime. Faced significant resistance from his contemporaries, who were skeptical of his findings. Despite the challenges, his theories laid the groundwork for modern antiseptic procedures in medicine.
Continue ReadingAhmed Deedat
South African Islamic writer & speaker
Born
July 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old
An influential Islamic writer and public speaker, focused on comparative religion. Gained prominence through debates with Christian theologians and lectures emphasizing Islamic teachings. Founded the Islamic Propagation Centre International in Durban. Dedicated efforts to spreading knowledge about Islam through literature and public engagement.
Continue ReadingKaren Black
Actress known for Five Easy Pieces
Born
July 1st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
An American actress gained recognition in the late 1960s and 1970s for work in film and television. Significant roles included performances in 'Five Easy Pieces' and 'Nashville.' Black also appeared in 'Easy Rider,' contributing to the counterculture cinema of the era. In addition to acting, involvement in writing and producing showcased versatility. Black received nominations for prestigious awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Throughout a career spanning over five decades, her contributions encompassed various genres and formats, making a mark in both indie and mainstream projects.
Continue ReadingDavid Duke
American white supremacist politician
Born
July 1st, 1950 75 years ago
A prominent figure in the white supremacist movement, involved in the Ku Klux Klan as a Grand Wizard. Entered politics, campaigning for various offices, including the U.S. House of Representatives and Louisiana Governor. Advocated for controversial views on race and immigration, often drawing strong criticism. Founded the National Association for the Advancement of White People, promoting a white nationalist agenda. Authored several books detailing his beliefs and perspectives on race.
Continue ReadingArthur Borton
English colonel, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
July 1st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 50 years old
An English colonel served during World War I and received the Victoria Cross for gallantry during action in 1917. Borton demonstrated exceptional bravery and leadership that led to significant contributions to military operations. After the war, continued service in the armed forces marked a commitment to duty and country. Recognized for extraordinary courage under fire, the actions during combat earned a distinguished place in military history.
Continue ReadingRod Gilbert
Ice Hockey player with the New York Rangers
Born
July 1st, 1941 84 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2021 4 years ago — 80 years old
An ice hockey player played for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Garbbed the franchise's all-time scoring leader with 1021 points. Played in 1,065 regular season games and participated in seven NHL All-Star games. Gilbert's contributions extended beyond the ice as he engaged in philanthropic efforts and community service, supporting various charities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
Edward Hardwicke
English actor of Sherlock Holmes series
Born
August 7th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 78 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, primarily recognized for roles in television and film. Gained significant recognition for portraying Dr. John Watson in the Sherlock Holmes television adaptations alongside Jeremy Brett. Participated in various theater productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed to numerous British television dramas, making a notable impact as a character actor.
Continue ReadingPietro 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 ReadingBruno Covas
Brazilian politician and lawyer
Born
April 7th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 41 years old
Served as the Mayor of São Paulo from 2017 until his death in 2021. Began a political career in the state legislature of São Paulo and later became a city council member. Managed various initiatives focused on urban development and public health. Prior to becoming mayor, held the position of Secretary of Urban Development in the São Paulo government.
Continue ReadingDick Trickle
Race car driver with notable NASCAR wins
Born
October 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in American auto racing, he competed in NASCAR from the 1970s until his retirement in the early 2000s. Trickle built a reputation for his skill on short tracks and was known for his consistency and determination. He participated in over 300 NASCAR Cup Series races and achieved several top finishes. His racing career was marked by participation in the Daytona 500 and being a fan favorite at various events. In addition to his professional career, he inspired many aspiring racers with his dedication to the sport.
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 ReadingClemens Krauss
Conductor of the Vienna State Opera
Born
March 31st, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1954 71 years ago — 61 years old
Born in Austria, this conductor gained prominence in the early to mid-20th century, notably leading the Vienna State Opera and the Bavarian State Opera. Renowned for expertise in conducting operas, particularly those by Richard Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Worked extensively in both Germany and Austria, influencing the performances of many operatic masterpieces. Also served as a conductor for various orchestras across Europe, leaving a lasting legacy in classical music. Participated in conducting the first performance of Strauss's 'Ariadne auf Naxos' in 1916.
Continue Reading