Malcolm X
Minister and civil rights activist
A prominent figure in the civil rights movement, advocated for the rights of African Americans. Played a key role as a national spokesman for the Nation of Islam and later founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity. Emphasized black empowerment, self-sufficiency, and the need for racial justice. Assassinated in 1965, leaving a significant impact on civil rights discourse.
Served as a national spokesman for the Nation of Islam
Founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity
Other People Born on May 19th
Evgeny Kuznetsov
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
May 19th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, this athlete played as a center in the NHL. Drafted by the Washington Capitals in 2010, showcased talent with dynamic playmaking skills. Key contributor to the Capitals' victory in the 2018 Stanley Cup, achieving significant personal and team milestones. Also represented the Russian national team in international competitions, demonstrating considerable ice hockey prowess.
Continue ReadingOliver Letwin
English politician and philosopher
Born
May 19th, 1956 69 years ago
Served as a prominent politician and philosopher in the United Kingdom. Held the position of Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, focusing on government reform and policy development. Contributed significantly to various parliamentary committees and forums over the years. Engaged in discussions on issues such as social policy, public service reform, and the UK's relationship with the European Union.
Continue ReadingMichael Angelakos
Singer-songwriter of Passion Pit
Born
May 19th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in 1987, contributed to the popular music scene as a singer-songwriter and producer. Gained prominence with the electronic band Passion Pit, which formed in 2007. Released the critically acclaimed album 'Manners' in 2009, featuring the hit single 'Sleepyhead'. The group's music blends elements of synth-pop and indie rock.
Continue ReadingJames Reyne
Singer-songwriter with Australian Crawl
Born
May 19th, 1957 68 years ago
A singer-songwriter emerged in the Australian music scene in the 1980s. Formed the band Australian Crawl, which enjoyed significant success with hits like 'Reckless' and 'Beautiful People'. Launched a solo career following the band's breakup, releasing multiple albums and receiving acclaim for both rock and country music. Continues to perform and is recognized for contributions to the Australian music industry.
Continue ReadingYo Gotti
American rapper and songwriter
Born
May 19th, 1981 44 years ago
An American rapper and songwriter, rose to prominence in the 2000s with a series of successful mixtapes. Gained widespread recognition with the release of the studio album 'I Am' in 2013, featuring the hit single 'Racks'. Established the record label Collective Music Group (CMG) and signed several notable artists. Has collaborated with various artists across the hip-hop genre and participated in numerous charitable endeavors.
Continue ReadingKevin Amankwaah
English footballer and player at Bristol City
Born
May 19th, 1982 43 years ago
Amankwaah played as a defender in English football, beginning his career with local clubs before settling at Bristol City. During his tenure, the team competed in the Football League Championship and League One. He made significant contributions to the team's efforts and development in these leagues. After leaving Bristol City, Amankwaah played for several clubs, including Swindon Town and Weymouth. His career spanned both domestic and international competitions, showcasing his skills on the field throughout various stages of his professional journey.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Clark Terry
Trumpet player and composer
Born
December 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent trumpet player, composer, and educator, made significant contributions to jazz music over a career spanning several decades. Played with notable bands including the Duke Ellington Orchestra and the Count Basie Orchestra. Composed multiple pieces for jazz ensembles and worked as a music educator, influencing countless students. Developed innovative trumpet techniques and contributed to the advancement of jazz pedagogy through teaching and workshops.
Continue ReadingWilliam Weston
Australian politician, 3rd Premier of Tasmania
Born
November 28th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1888 137 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 3rd Premier of Tasmania from 1887 until 1888. Political career included leadership roles in the Tasmanian Legislative Council. Played a significant role in shaping early Tasmanian politics and governance.
Continue ReadingBaruch Spinoza
Dutch philosopher of ethics and understanding
Born
November 24th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1677 348 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent 17th-century philosopher and scholar, contributed significantly to the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and political philosophy. Spinoza advocated for rationalism and laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of liberty and democracy. His seminal works include 'Ethics', in which he formulated his views on the nature of reality, God, and human freedom, and 'Theological-Political Treatise', which examined the relationship between religion and state. His ideas about the separation of church and state and the nature of truth challenged contemporary beliefs and political structures.
Continue ReadingEmperor Ninkō of Japan
Emperor of Japan during the 19th century
Born
March 16th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1846 179 years ago — 45 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1817, Ninkō presided over a period of political turmoil and transformation in Japan. This era witnessed the opening of Japan to foreign influence, marking the beginning of the end for the Tokugawa shogunate. The emperor's reign included the Boshin War, which was pivotal in the transition from feudalism to modernization in Japan. Ninkō's rule was characterized by a reluctance to embrace the changes that foreign contact brought, as the country faced internal conflicts and pressures for reform. Despite the civil strife, this period laid the groundwork for Japan's subsequent rapid modernization.
Continue ReadingEric Brown
Pilot and test pilot for the UK
Born
January 21st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2016 9 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent test pilot, achievements included extensive test flights of various aircraft types, including the British jet aircraft. Played a key role in the development of the British aircraft industry. Served in the Royal Navy and contributed significantly during World War II, flying various combat missions and later participating in the development of jet technology. After the war, took on various test pilot roles, including significant contributions to the Hawker Sea Hawk and the de Havilland Comet. Continued to advocate for aviation and participate in historical aerospace events until death.
Continue ReadingDuncan Edwards
English footballer and Manchester United star
Born
October 1st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1958 67 years ago — 21 years old
One of the most talented footballers of his time, played as a midfielder for Manchester United. Joined the club at a young age and quickly established himself as a key player. Contributed to Manchester United's success in the FA Cup and showcased exceptional skill and strength on the field. Tragically lost life in a plane crash in 1958 at the age of 21, which also claimed many of his teammates. Left a legacy within the club and is remembered as one of the club's greatest players.
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