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
Lena Einhorn
Swedish director and writer
Born
May 19th, 1954 71 years ago
Director, writer, and physician. Developed a career in film and literature. Authored several works, including a widely recognized biography of Astrid Lindgren. Directed documentaries and features that gained attention in Sweden and beyond. Also contributed insight into historical and medical topics through written work.
Continue ReadingMichael Carcone
Ice Hockey Player with Vancouver Canucks
Born
May 19th, 1996 29 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player, played in the National Hockey League (NHL). Debuted in the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks. Prior to NHL, played in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Utica Comets and the Tucson Roadrunners, contributing significantly in scoring.
Continue ReadingVictoria Wood
British comedian and actress
Born
May 19th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent comedian, actress, and writer, gained recognition for her unique blend of comedy and musical talent. Created and starred in the award-winning television series "Dinnerladies." Her stage performances and television specials showcased a distinct wit and charm, contributing significantly to British comedy. Wrote and performed memorable songs that became staples in her acts, presenting relatable themes with humor and insight. Continued to influence the comedy landscape until her passing in 2016.
Continue ReadingJessica Fox
English actress in 'Hollyoaks'
Born
May 19th, 1983 42 years ago
An English actress gained recognition for portraying the character Jasmine Fitton in the long-running soap opera 'Hollyoaks'. Debuting in the show in 2006, she became a central figure, contributing to several major storylines over the years. Fox's performance earned her a nomination for Best Newcomer at the British Soap Awards. In addition to her work in 'Hollyoaks', she appeared in various television programs and participated in reality competitions, showcasing versatility beyond her soap opera role.
Continue ReadingMarshmello
Electronic music producer and DJ
Born
May 19th, 1992 33 years ago
An electronic music producer and DJ, gained prominence with chart-topping singles and collaborations. The debut album, 'Joytime', released in 2016, showcased a unique blend of future bass and dubstep. Achieved significant commercial success with tracks such as 'Alone', which reached high positions on various music charts. Collaborated with numerous artists including Khalid and Anne-Marie, further expanding reach within the music industry.
Continue ReadingSam Smith
Singer-songwriter known for 'Stay With Me'
Born
May 19th, 1992 33 years ago
An English singer-songwriter rose to fame with the debut single 'Stay With Me' in 2014. The song topped charts globally and received multiple awards. The first album, 'In the Lonely Hour,' earned critical acclaim and commercial success, featuring hits like 'Lay Me Down' and 'I'm Not the Only One'. Smith's distinct vocal style and emotional lyricism resonated with audiences, solidifying a place in contemporary pop music. Subsequent works include collaborations with artists such as Disclosure and Normani, and songs for major soundtracks, further establishing a successful career. Smith's impact on music has been marked by numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Mireya Arboleda
Colombian Classical Pianist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2021 4 years ago — 93 years old
Acclaimed as a prominent classical pianist, contributions spanned performances and recordings that celebrated Colombian and international composers. Educated at notable institutions, achieved recognition for skills and dedication to music. Participated in prestigious festivals and recitals across Colombia and internationally. Notably served as a music educator, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingCharles Beaumont
American author and screenwriter, The Twilight Zone
Born
January 2nd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1967 58 years ago — 38 years old
An influential author and screenwriter, produced notable works primarily in the genre of science fiction. Contributed significantly to the television series The Twilight Zone, writing several key episodes that explored complex themes and ideas. Also authored short stories and novels, with a distinctive narrative style that blended imagination with philosophical inquiries. Struggled with health issues later in life, which affected productivity, but left a lasting legacy in the realm of speculative fiction.
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 ReadingBernard Nathanson
Physician and abortion rights activist
Born
July 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
A physician and abortion rights activist, contributed to the legalization of abortion in the United States. Played a crucial role in founding the National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws. Later became an outspoken opponent of abortion after undergoing a personal transformation regarding the ethics of the procedure. Authored the book 'Aborting America', detailing the history of abortion in America and advocating for the pro-life movement.
Continue ReadingInge Lehmann
Danish seismologist known for Moho
Born
May 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 104 years old
Contributions to the field of seismology included significant research on the Earth's interior. Developed the concept of the Lehmann discontinuity, which delineates the boundary between the Earth's crust and the underlying mantle. Conducted pioneering work in seismology, particularly in understanding seismic waves and their behavior. Published influential papers on earthquakes and the Earth's structure, enhancing the scientific understanding of geophysical phenomena.
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.
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