Manuel Teixeira Gomes
Portuguese politician and President
Elected as the 7th President of Portugal, served from 1923 to 1925. Focused on stabilizing the political landscape marked by turmoil in the early 20th century. Resigned amidst political unrest and left for exile in France, where he continued writing and reflecting on politics. His presidency was defined by efforts to promote democracy and reform the political system.
Served as the 7th President of Portugal
Resigned during political turmoil
Other People Born on May 27th
Dolores Hope
American singer and philanthropist
Born
May 27th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 102 years old
A prominent singer and philanthropist, played a significant role in the entertainment industry through musical performances. Gained popularity as a vocalist showcasing talent on radio and both in live venues. Contributed to charitable causes, particularly focused on supporting the arts and various humanitarian efforts. Partnered with husband Bob Hope in charity work, often participating in fundraising events.
Continue ReadingHarlan Ellison
Author and screenwriter of speculative fiction
Born
May 27th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2018 7 years ago — 84 years old
Born on May 27, 1934, contributed significantly to speculative fiction through novels, short stories, and television scripts. Worked on the original Star Trek series, writing the episode 'The City on the Edge of Forever.' Published influential works such as 'A Boy and His Dog' and 'I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream,' which have become classics in the genre. Engaged in critical commentary on the science fiction genre and media culture, shaping conversations around storytelling and ethical dilemmas in technology.
Continue ReadingTheodor Curtius
German chemist known for Curtius rearrangement
Born
May 27th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1928 98 years ago — 70 years old
Contributions to organic chemistry included the development of the Curtius rearrangement, a reaction involving the conversion of carboxylic acids to isocyanates. Work included studies on photochemical reactions and the synthesis of new compounds. Published extensively in scientific journals, enhancing knowledge in organic chemistry. Collaborated with various researchers in the field, influencing further studies and methodologies.
Continue ReadingCaspar Schoppe
German author and scholar of literature
Born
May 27th, 1576 449 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1649 376 years ago — 73 years old
Active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, this author and scholar contributed significantly to the fields of rhetoric, linguistics, and literature. Engaged in scholarly debates and produced numerous works that explored classical literature and philosophy. His writings often examined the works of Cicero and Horace, highlighting their relevance in the contemporary context. The influence of classical texts on his scholarship provided a foundation for later thinkers.
Continue ReadingJuan Vicente Pérez
Venezuelan supercentenarian
Born
May 27th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 114 years old
One of the oldest verified people in history. Born on May 27, 1909, lived through significant historical events in Venezuela and the world. Achieved recognition for longevity, surpassing 113 years. Became a figure of interest in studies about aging and health.
Continue ReadingCornelius Vanderbilt
Business magnate and philanthropist
Born
May 27th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1877 149 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent American businessman, he made significant contributions to the shipping and railroad industries during the 19th century. Starting with a ferry service, amassed wealth through shipping by the time of the Civil War. Expanded into railroads, acquiring and consolidating lines, ultimately creating one of the largest railroad networks in the United States. Established the Vanderbilt University in Tennessee through philanthropy, leaving a lasting legacy in education.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 18th
Infante João of Portugal
Portuguese Infante and military leader
Born
1400 626 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1442 583 years ago — 42 years old
Born into the royal family of Portugal, an Infante of the Kingdom played a significant role in the military campaigns of his time. Participated in conflicts during the 15th century, helping to consolidate Portuguese power. Also assumed administrative duties that contributed to the governance of the kingdom. His life was marked by involvement in the Reconquista, aiding in the efforts to reclaim territory from Moorish influence.
Continue ReadingAlfred Binet
Psychologist and creator of IQ testing
Born
July 8th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1911 114 years ago — 54 years old
A psychologist developed the first practical intelligence test, the Binet-Simon scale, in collaboration with Théodore Simon. This testing method aimed to identify children needing special educational assistance. The Binet-Simon scale later evolved into what is now known as the IQ test. Throughout the career, contributions focused on the study of intelligence and cognitive development. The work laid foundational principles for modern psychology and educational assessment, influencing future research and testing methodologies.
Continue ReadingPope Pius III
Pope with a brief papacy
Born
1439 587 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1503 522 years ago — 64 years old
Served as Pope for only 26 days in 1503, following the death of Pope Alexander VI. His pontificate was marked by efforts to address corruption within the church. Despite his short reign, he issued several decrees intended to reform the church's financial practices and its moral integrity. His death occurred before substantial initiatives could take hold, leading to a subsequent conclave and the election of Pope Julius II. The brief duration of his administration left a minimal but notable imprint on the papacy's approach to reform.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory XII
Pope during the Western Schism
Born
1326 700 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1417 608 years ago — 91 years old
Served as Pope from 1406 to 1415 during a period marked by the Western Schism, where multiple claimants contested the papacy. Resigned in 1415 to help resolve this schism, leading to the election of Pope Martin V at the Council of Constance. His papacy was characterized by efforts to restore unity in the church and to address challenges from rival popes and factions within Christendom.
Continue ReadingLesser Ury
German painter known for Impressionism
Born
November 7th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1931 94 years ago — 69 years old
Lesser Ury was a German painter associated with the Impressionist movement. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ury primarily focused on urban scenes and landscapes, capturing the fleeting effects of light and color. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Berlin and later moved to Paris, where he was influenced by the Impressionists. His work was exhibited in several notable exhibitions, and he became an influential figure in German art circles. Ury's paintings often depicted the streets of Berlin, cafes, and landscapes, showcasing his unique approach to color and light. He continued to produce significant works until his death in 1931.
Continue ReadingHenry Travers
Actor in It's a Wonderful Life
Born
March 5th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1965 60 years ago — 91 years old
Born in England, an actor migrated to the United States and developed a successful career in film and theater. Gained recognition for the role of Clarence Oddbody in the classic film 'It's a Wonderful Life' released in 1946. Also appeared in various other productions during the 1930s and 1940s, contributing to the cinematic landscape of the era. Often cast in supporting roles, he brought warmth and humor to his performances, which continued to resonate with audiences in later years.
Continue Reading