Manuel I of Portugal
King of Portugal during the Age of Discovery
Ruled as King of Portugal from 1495 to 1521. Oversaw a period of maritime exploration and expansion during the Age of Discovery. Implemented policies that supported the establishment of trade routes and colonies. Consolidated the Portuguese Empire, significantly increasing its global reach. Contributed to the cultural and economic development of Portugal through support of art and architecture.
Initiated the expansion of the Portuguese Empire
Promoted cultural developments in Portugal
Established strong trade networks with India
Other People Born on May 31st
Mac Suzuki
Japanese baseball player, MLB pitcher
Born
May 31st, 1975 50 years ago
This individual played professional baseball as a pitcher, making a significant mark in Major League Baseball (MLB). After starting a career in Japan, played for the Yokohama BayStars in Nippon Professional Baseball before transitioning to MLB. Debuted in 1999 with the Seattle Mariners and later played for the Kansas City Royals. Known for adept pitching skills, competed at the highest level of the sport and contributed to team success during tenure in the league.
Continue ReadingGable Steveson
Olympic gold medalist wrestler
Born
May 31st, 2000 25 years ago
Achieved significant success in amateur wrestling, winning a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in the men's freestyle 125 kg category. During collegiate wrestling, secured multiple titles, including the 2021 NCAA Division I championship, showcasing dominance in the sport. Known for a high-profile match against the two-time world champion, demonstrating skill and competitiveness. Transitioned to professional wrestling, signing with WWE, where aspirations for a successful career in sports entertainment began.
Continue ReadingRobert Richards
Australian politician, 32nd Premier
Born
May 31st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 32nd Premier of South Australia from 1944 to 1947. Held the position of Minister for Health and Minister for Education prior to becoming Premier. Led the Liberal and Country League party during his political career. Focused on post-war recovery and development in South Australia. Involved in various legislative reforms during tenure as Premier.
Continue ReadingBreece Hall
American football running back
Born
May 31st, 2001 24 years ago
Professional football player played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Attended Iowa State University, where achieved significant success, earning All-American honors. Selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. Made an immediate impact during rookie season with impressive rushing yards and touchdowns, becoming one of the standout players on the team before suffering an injury.
Continue ReadingJóhann Páll Jóhannsson
Icelandic politician and public figure
Born
May 31st, 1992 33 years ago
Icelandic politician served as a member of the Althing, the national parliament. Elected to represent the South Constituency, played a significant role in legislative discussions on environmental issues, social policies, and economic reforms. Engaged in local community initiatives aimed at improving public welfare and promoting sustainable practices. Participated in various political campaigns focused on renewable energy and climate change, contributing to public discourse on these pressing matters.
Continue ReadingWaka Flocka Flame
American rapper with hit songs.
Born
May 31st, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, this American rapper rose to fame in the 2010s. Debut album 'Flockaveli' featured significant hits that contributed to the popularity of the southern hip hop genre. Collaborated with various artists and produced multiple chart-topping singles. His energetic style and distinct personality resonated with fans, leading to a successful music career. In addition to music, engaged in various business ventures, including a line of merchandise, showcasing an entrepreneurial spirit.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 13th
Lew Grade
Film producer and television executive
Born
December 25th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Ukraine, Grade became a significant figure in the British television landscape. His career included founding the production company Associated Television (ATV), which produced a range of popular programs. He played a pivotal role in bringing many iconic series to the screen, including 'The Avengers' and 'Thunderbirds'. As an influential producer, he also ventured into film production, contributing to movies like 'The Italian Job'. His contributions to the industry earned him numerous accolades and recognition.
Continue ReadingEgas Moniz
Portuguese neurologist, Nobel laureate
Born
November 29th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1955 70 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent Portuguese physician and neurologist, this individual significantly advanced the field of neuropsychology. Contributions included the development of cerebral angiography and the introduction of lobotomy as a treatment for severe mental disorders. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for pioneering these techniques. The work focused on understanding the brain's functions and exploring innovative treatment methods for psychiatric conditions.
Continue ReadingDon E. Fehrenbacher
American historian and author
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1997 28 years ago — 77 years old
An American historian focused on the Civil War era, significant contributions included writing extensively about Abraham Lincoln and the American political landscape of the 19th century. Served as a professor at Stanford University, specializing in American history. His scholarship contributed to a deeper understanding of political and constitutional issues during Lincoln's presidency. Authored several influential books, including 'The Dred Scott Case: Its Significance in American Law and Politics', offering critical analysis of one of the most contentious Supreme Court decisions in history.
Continue ReadingDavid Wheeler
Computer Scientist; developed early programming
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 77 years old
English computer scientist contributed significantly to the development of programming languages and computer architecture. Developed the concepts of the subroutine and the use of binary numbers in computing. Pioneered work on the Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Computer (EDSAC), one of the first stored-program computers. His academic career included positions at the University of Cambridge, where he influenced generations of students and researchers in the field of computer science.
Continue ReadingGustave Le Bon
French psychologist and sociologist
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1931 94 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to social psychology and sociology. Developed the concept of the collective mind, which explored how individuals in groups can behave differently than when alone. Authored 'The Crowd: A Study of the Popular Mind', which analyzed mob behavior and social influence. His work laid the groundwork for modern crowd psychology and social sciences.
Continue ReadingAlexander Schmemann
Theologian and liturgical scholar
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1983 42 years ago — 62 years old
An Estonian-American priest and theologian, contributed significantly to Orthodox Christianity. Served as a professor at St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. Focused on the relationship between liturgy and the life of the Church, emphasizing the importance of worship in spiritual life. Authored several influential books, including 'For the Life of the World' and 'The Historical and Dogmatic Foundations of the Liturgical Renewal'. Participated actively in ecumenical dialogues, promoting understanding between different Christian traditions. His work has shaped modern Orthodox thought and liturgical practice.
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