Moms Mabley
Comedian and singer, 'The Original Queen of Comedy'
A comedian and singer active from the 1920s to the 1970s, rose to prominence in the world of stand-up comedy. Performed at the Apollo Theater, where a significant fanbase was developed. Appeared in films including 'Amazing Grace' and 'The Big Broadcast of 1938'. Renowned for her distinctive style, which combined humor with commentary on social issues. Pioneered breaking racial barriers in entertainment, appealing to both black and white audiences.
Appeared in the film 'Amazing Grace'
Performed regularly at the Apollo Theater
Pioneered comedy for black women in America
Other People Born on March 19th
Schofield Haigh
Cricketer and Umpire, Test Match Umpire
Born
March 19th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1921 104 years ago — 49 years old
Played first-class cricket for Yorkshire from 1883 to 1904, participating in 406 matches. Contributed to Yorkshire's successful campaigns, securing the County Championship title multiple times. Transitioned to officiating matches as a Test umpire from 1901 to 1906, overseeing numerous important games, including the Ashes series. Had a significant role in the development of cricket officiating in England.
Continue ReadingCarl Frederik Tietgen
Danish businessman and industrialist
Born
March 19th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
1901 125 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1829, Carl Frederik Tietgen became a prominent figure in Danish business, focusing on infrastructure and telecommunications. He played a significant role in the establishment of the Danish telephone system, contributing to the modernization of communication in Denmark. Tietgen was instrumental in the founding of several companies, including the Great Northern Telegraph Company and the Danish West India Company. His vision extended beyond telecommunications, encompassing investments in various industries, including shipping and banking. Tietgen's contributions to the expansion of Danish industrial and commercial enterprises left a lasting legacy in the country's economic development.
Continue ReadingEduardo Saverin
Businessman & Facebook co-founder
Born
March 19th, 1982 43 years ago
Co-founded Facebook in 2004 alongside Mark Zuckerberg, Andrew McCollum, Dustin Moskovitz, and Chris Hughes while studying at Harvard University. Saverin served as the company's first CFO and business manager during its early days. Following a legal dispute with Zuckerberg, Saverin left Facebook in 2005 and later settled with the company. After relocating to Singapore, Saverin became involved in various investment ventures, focusing on technology startups and venture capital. He has invested in numerous companies across different sectors and developed a reputation as a significant figure in the tech investment landscape.
Continue ReadingGaston Lachaise
Sculptor known for monumental works
Born
March 19th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1935 90 years ago — 53 years old
Born in France, Gaston Lachaise emigrated to the United States in 1906. His career as a sculptor flourished in New York City, where he created numerous notable pieces. Lachaise focused on themes of the human form, often using materials like bronze and marble. His works reflect a blend of classical and modern styles. One of his most recognized pieces is the sculpture 'Standing Woman,' which showcases his interest in femininity and form. Through his sculptures, Lachaise explored strength and beauty, becoming a prominent figure in the American art scene during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingGuy Lewis
Basketball player and coach, Houston Cougars
Born
March 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
An American basketball player and coach, this individual served as head coach of the University of Houston men's basketball team from 1956 to 1986. The team gained prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, leading to several deep NCAA tournament runs. During the coaching career, he cultivated talents such as Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. The individual's coaching strategy emphasized fast-paced play and athleticism, contributing to a significant evolution in college basketball. The team reached the NCAA Final Four three times, including back-to-back appearances in 1982 and 1983.
Continue ReadingJosé Prudencio Padilla López
Colombian naval commander and politician
Born
March 19th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1828 198 years ago — 44 years old
A Colombian naval commander and politician, contributed to the naval campaigns during the Colombian wars of independence. Played a crucial role in naval battles against Spanish forces, including the Battle of Lake Maracaibo. Served in various political positions following independence, particularly in the Congress of Gran Colombia. Padilla's leadership and strategic insights in naval warfare were instrumental in securing Colombian sovereignty.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 23rd
Franz Ernst Neumann
Mineralogist and physicist, Neumann's Law
Born
September 11th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1895 130 years ago — 96 years old
A German mineralogist and physicist, contributed significantly to the field of mineralogy and theoretical physics. Developed Neumann's Law, which describes the symmetry of crystal growth. Made advancements in the study of geometric and physical properties of crystals. Worked as a professor at the University of Berlin, where engaged in scientific discourse and education. Published numerous papers and textbooks that influenced future studies in mineralogy and physics.
Continue ReadingJohn D. Rockefeller
Businessman, founder of Standard Oil
Born
July 8th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1937 88 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1839, this individual founded the Standard Oil Company in 1870, which revolutionized the petroleum industry and defined the structure of modern philanthropy. The company dominated the oil industry and was a pivotal player in the creation of the U.S. oil market. In addition to business pursuits, engaged in significant philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the University of Chicago and the Rockefeller Foundation. This individual significantly influenced the economic landscape of the United States and expanded the role of philanthropy in society.
Continue ReadingAugust Jakobson
Estonian author and politician
Born
September 2nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1963 62 years ago — 58 years old
An author and politician from Estonia, contributed significantly to literature and political life in the 20th century. Played a vital role in the Estonian independence movement and was involved in post-war government efforts. Focused on issues pertaining to Estonian culture and language. Published various works that explored themes of identity and nationalism, leaving a lasting influence on Estonian literature.
Continue ReadingJohn Wood
English architect, designed The Circus
Born
1704 322 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1754 271 years ago — 50 years old
An English architect, active during the early 18th century, contributed significantly to the development of architectural design in Bath, England. Important works include The Circus and Queen Square, both exemplary of the Georgian architectural style. Wood's designs involved intricate layouts, classical features, and an emphasis on proportionality, which became characteristic of the period in Bath. He laid the groundwork for future developments in urban planning and architecture in the city. His approach to architecture integrated functionality with aesthetic appeal, influencing subsequent generations of architects.
Continue ReadingGéraud Duroc
French general and diplomat
Born
October 25th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1813 212 years ago — 40 years old
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary Wars and as a diplomat during the Napoleonic Wars. Held the title of Duke of Friuli and played a crucial role in the establishment of diplomatic relations between France and various European states. Participated in major campaigns, including the Austerlitz campaign and the Peninsular War. Took part in various treaties to negotiate peace and alliances. Duroc was a close confidant of Napoleon Bonaparte and served as his Grand Marshal of the Palace.
Continue ReadingIsmail I
First Emperor of Safavid Empire
Born
1487 539 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1524 501 years ago — 37 years old
Founded the Safavid Empire in Persia, establishing Shia Islam as the state religion. Reigned from 1501 until his death in 1524, expanding territory and centralizing power. Established cultural and religious practices that defined the empire, influencing Persian identity.
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