Mikhail Botvinnik

Chess player and world champion

Mikhail Botvinnik - Chess player and world champion
Born

August 17th, 1911
113 years ago

Died

May 5th, 1995
30 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Russia

Links & References

A prominent chess player and engineer, made significant contributions to chess theory and practice. Became World Chess Champion three times, first winning the title in 1948. Developed the Botvinnik system of chess training, combining technical study and practical play. Influenced future generations of chess players through teaching and writing. Engaged in various engineering projects and was awarded the title of Honored Master of Sports in the Soviet Union for achievements in chess.

Won the World Chess Championship in 1948

Contributed to the development of chess theory

Mentored many future chess champions

Other People Born on August 17th

Pauline A. Young

American educator and aviation pioneer
Born
August 17th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 91 years old

A teacher and a historian, contributed to the understanding of African American history and culture. Engaged in activism for civil rights and women's rights. Became an aviator, promoting opportunities for women in aviation. Established educational initiatives and served as a mentor for students.

Continue Reading

Johann

Prince of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen
Born
August 17th, 1578 446 years ago
Died
1638 387 years ago — 60 years old

A member of the Hohenzollern family, the first prince of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen established the ruling dynasty over the territory in 1623. This prince played a crucial role in the political landscape of Germany during the early 17th century, overseeing the administration and defense of his principality amid the Thirty Years' War. The principality served as a key center of authority and a player in the complex feudal allegiances of the time. In addition to political leadership, contributions included the promotion of trade and the development of local governance.

Continue Reading

Kelvin Mercer

American rapper and producer for De La Soul
Born
August 17th, 1969 55 years ago

This individual is a rapper, songwriter, and producer. Rising to prominence in the late 1980s, played a vital role in shaping the hip-hop genre with innovative sounds and socially conscious lyrics. Founded the hip-hop group De La Soul, which released critically acclaimed albums such as '3 Feet High and Rising' in 1989. The group was known for its eclectic style, sampling, and contributions to the alternative rap scene. They garnered attention for their unique approach to music, using humor and wordplay in their lyrics. The group received several nominations and awards, including a Grammy Award in 1997 for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for the song 'Stakes Is High.'

Continue Reading

Josef Dobrovský

Czech philologist and historian
Born
August 17th, 1753 271 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1829 196 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of the Czech language, history, and literature. Played a vital role in the formation of modern Czech philology. Authored essential works on Czech grammar and language structure, enhancing the understanding of Slavic languages. Engaged in historical research that set the groundwork for future scholarship in Czech studies.

Continue Reading

Phil Jagielka

English footballer with Premier League success
Born
August 17th, 1982 42 years ago

Born in 1982, this footballer played primarily as a defender. Early career began at Sheffield United, where progress led to a first-team debut. Transferred to Everton in 2007, becoming a key player for the club over the years. Achievements include captaining the team and participating in major tournaments, including the UEFA Europa League. Also represented the England national team, contributing to qualification campaigns and international competitions.

Continue Reading

Brady Corbet

Actor and director of 'Funny Games'
Born
August 17th, 1988 36 years ago

An American actor and director, significant contributions include performances in 'Funny Games' and 'Melancholia'. Transitioning to directing, directed acclaimed films such as 'The Childhood of a Leader' and 'Vox Lux'. Received recognition for creativity in storytelling and unique cinematic style.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 5th

Carl Johan Bernadotte

Count of Wisborg
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old

Held the title of Count of Wisborg and was a notable figure in the Swedish royal family. Was the son of Prince Carl, Duke of Västergötland, and the grandson of King Gustav V of Sweden. Engaged in various charitable activities and took part in royal duties. Actively participated in events related to the royal family and contributed to several cultural and social initiatives.

Continue Reading

Alfred Hermann Fried

Austrian journalist and Nobel laureate
Born
November 11th, 1864 160 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1921 104 years ago — 56 years old

Born in Austria in 1864, a prominent journalist and peace activist contributed significantly to pacifism and international cooperation. Through writing and organizing efforts, advocated for disarmament and peaceful conflict resolution. Co-founded the Austrian Peace Society and played a role in the International Peace Bureau. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1911 for efforts in promoting peace and understanding among nations.

Continue Reading

Irv Robbins

Co-founder of Baskin-Robbins ice cream
Born
December 6th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2008 17 years ago — 90 years old

Co-founded Baskin-Robbins, an ice cream and cake shop franchise, in 1945. Established a wide variety of ice cream flavors, leading the industry with innovative products. Expanded the franchise system across the United States and internationally, focusing on customer experience and quality. Played a significant role in popularizing the concept of ice cream parlors as social gathering spots.

Continue Reading

Charlotte of Bourbon

Princess consort of Orange
Born
1547 478 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1582 443 years ago — 35 years old

Married to William I of Orange, served as the Princess consort of Orange. Part of the House of Bourbon, contributed to the political landscape of the time through marriage alliances. Held significant influence during a period of religious conflict in the Low Countries, particularly relating to the Eighty Years' War. Despite the challenges faced, maintained the role of a supportive consort and helped in the management of estates.

Continue Reading

Millie Small

Jamaican singer known for 'My Boy Lollipop'
Born
October 6th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2020 5 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Jamaica, a singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1960s with the release of the ska hit 'My Boy Lollipop'. The song became an international success, contributing to the popularity of ska music outside of Jamaica. Small's unique voice and catchy melodies helped to popularize reggae and ska genres. Throughout the years, performed and recorded various songs, but 'My Boy Lollipop' remained the defining track of the career. Her contributions to music have left a lasting legacy, influencing future generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Ludwig Erhard

Politician and second Chancellor of West Germany
Born
February 4th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the second Chancellor of West Germany from 1963 to 1966. Played a significant role in post-World War II economic recovery through the implementation of the social market economy. Influenced German policy and is recognized for promoting free-market principles while maintaining social welfare. Initially served as the Minister of Economics and contributed to the economic miracle that transformed Germany into one of the world's leading economies.

Continue Reading