Louis XV of France
French monarch and ruler in the 18th century
Ruled as King of France from 1715 to 1774. Ascended to the throne at the age of five, following the death of Louis XIV. His reign was marked by increasing centralization of power and significant engagement in wars. Presided over military campaigns during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Faced challenges such as growing dissent among the nobility and issues related to financial management. His legacy includes the establishment of the French Enlightenment, promoting arts and architecture in Paris, particularly exemplified by the construction and expansion of the Palace of Versailles. Died in 1774, leaving a complex legacy that influenced the subsequent political landscape of France.
Ruled as King of France from 1715 to 1774
Oversaw France during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War
Promoted arts and architecture, notably expanding the Palace of Versailles
Other People Born on February 15th
Hugo Savinovich
Wrestler and sportscaster with AAA
Born
February 15th, 1959 67 years ago
Began a wrestling career in the 1980s, competing initially in Ecuador. Gained prominence in Mexico, notably with the promotion AAA (Asistencia Asesoría y Administración), where contributed as both a performer and a commentary figure. Transitioned to sportscasting, providing coverage for numerous wrestling events. Expanded reach as a commentator for various wrestling promotions, including appearances on international broadcasts. Influenced the visibility of lucha libre wrestling in other regions through media involvement.
Continue ReadingÓscar Freire
Professional cyclist with three World Championships
Born
February 15th, 1976 50 years ago
Born in 1976, a renowned Spanish cyclist specialized in road racing. Achievements include winning the UCI Road World Championships three times in 1999, 2001, and 2004. Competed in various Grand Tours and secured several stage wins, including the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. Known for sprinting abilities and tactical racing skills.
Continue ReadingPedro Menéndez de Avilés
First Spanish Governor of Florida
Born
February 15th, 1519 507 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1574 451 years ago — 55 years old
Served as the first Spanish Governor of Florida, establishing the settlement of St. Augustine in 1565, which became the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Appointed by King Philip II of Spain, Menéndez led military expeditions in the region and focused on converting the local Indigenous populations to Christianity. His tenure marked the beginning of a structured Spanish presence in Florida.
Continue ReadingAmber Riley
American actress and singer from Glee
Born
February 15th, 1986 40 years ago
An actress and singer achieved recognition for the role of Mercedes Jones in the television series Glee. Graduated from the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. Participated in various singing competitions, showcasing vocal talent. Won the 17th season of Dancing with the Stars, demonstrating skill in dance. Acted in the Broadway production of Dreamgirls, earning acclaim for live performances.
Continue ReadingDavid Degen
Swiss footballer, FC Basel player
Born
February 15th, 1983 43 years ago
A professional footballer from Switzerland, played as a winger. Began career at FC Basel, where significant contributions were made to the team's success. Later played for several clubs in Switzerland and abroad, including a stint in England. Achieved recognition in domestic leagues and participated in European competitions. Represented the national team at youth levels and contributed to the senior team during international fixtures.
Continue ReadingÁngel Sepúlveda
Professional footballer, striker
Born
February 15th, 1991 35 years ago
Born in 1991, a Mexican footballer played predominantly as a striker. His career included notable stints with Club Santos Laguna and Club Atlético Morelia in the Liga MX. Displays of skill and goal-scoring ability contributed to team successes and individual accolades.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 10th
John Wayne Gacy
American serial killer and rapist
Born
March 17th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1994 32 years ago — 52 years old
Engaged in criminal activities starting in the 1960s, a series of murders occurred across Illinois. Worked as a contractor and was involved in local politics. Arrested in 1978, investigations uncovered numerous bodies buried on his property and in nearby areas. Convicted of the murders of 33 young men and boys, sentenced to death in 1980, and executed in 1994.
Continue ReadingChris Burden
Sculptor known for 'Transfixed'
Born
April 11th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2015 11 years ago — 69 years old
An American sculptor, illustrator, and academic. Gained recognition for early performance art pieces, including 'Shoot' in 1971, where a friend shot him in the arm. Later created large-scale sculptures that commented on contemporary issues. 'Transfixed', a notable installation, featured a Volkswagen Beetle impaled on two steel beams. Served as a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, influencing a generation of artists. Contributed to the Los Angeles art scene through both his works and academic endeavors.
Continue ReadingSoraya
Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
March 11th, 1969 57 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2006 20 years ago — 37 years old
Born in Colombia and raised in the United States, a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer gained recognition in the Latin music scene. Debuted with the album 'Onto This Road' in 1996 and continued to release several successful albums. Gained acclaim for blending pop and traditional Latin music styles. Advocated for various social causes, including awareness around breast cancer following a personal battle with the disease.
Continue ReadingDavid Goodall
Botanist and ecologist with research impact
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2018 8 years ago — 104 years old
A prominent botanist and ecologist, contributed significantly to the field of plant biology. Focused on the study of Australian flora and ecology, published numerous research papers, particularly regarding vascular plants. Worked extensively with the Council of Heads of Australian Herbaria, promoting plant conservation and biodiversity. Advocated for environmental sustainability and the importance of botanical research in addressing ecological challenges. Continued to work actively in scientific research well into old age, reflecting a commitment to plant science and education.
Continue ReadingLeyla Gencer
Turkish soprano with operatic acclaim
Born
October 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2008 18 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent Turkish soprano, this artist gained recognition for powerful performances in major operas. Debuted at La Scala in 1954 and became a pivotal figure in the operatic world, known for roles in works by Puccini and Verdi. Achieved critical acclaim for interpretations of characters such as Tosca and Lady Macbeth. Participated in various international festivals and received numerous accolades throughout a lengthy career, establishing a legacy in the realm of classical music.
Continue ReadingPeter Weiss
German playwright and painter
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1982 44 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in German literature, Weiss specialized in theater and visual arts. Contributions included significant plays that explored themes of oppression, war, and existentialism. 'The Investigation', a play based on the Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, critically examined the Holocaust. Also engaged in surrealist painting, showcasing complex imagery and social critique.
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