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
Josef Albers
Painter and educator of color theory
Born
March 19th, 1888 138 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1976 50 years ago — 88 years old
A German-American artist, celebrated for contributions to color theory and design education. Albers' work spanned painting, teaching, and theoretical writing. Influential at the Bauhaus and later at Black Mountain College, he developed a distinctive approach to color. His series 'Homage to the Square' showcased geometric abstraction and the interaction of colors.
Continue ReadingIvan Ljubičić
Croatian tennis player and coach
Born
March 19th, 1979 47 years ago
A Croatian tennis player achieved significant success on the ATP Tour. His highest singles ranking was No. 3 in May 2006. Ljubičić won 10 career singles titles, including the prestigious Indian Wells Masters in 2010. He represented Croatia in the Davis Cup, helping the team secure victory in 2005. After retiring from professional tennis, he transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of various players on the ATP Tour.
Continue ReadingVern Schuppan
Race car driver; 1983 Le Mans winner
Born
March 19th, 1943 83 years ago
Born in 1943 in Australia, a race car driver who competed in various international racing events during the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved significant success in endurance racing, highlighted by victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1983 driving for the Porsche team. Achieved a total of 12 victories in the World Sportscar Championship. Participated in Formula One with teams including the Ensign and the Shadow, where he contributed to the sport from a technical and competitive standpoint.
Continue ReadingMartin Ravallion
Economist specializing in poverty analysis
Born
March 19th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 70 years old
An Australian economist and academic focused on development economics, with significant contributions to understanding global poverty. Served as the Director of the World Bank's Research Department and specialized in poverty measurement, targeting, and analysis. Contributed extensively to methodological approaches for measuring poverty in many countries, focusing on how to effectively assess the impact of policy interventions. Authored numerous influential papers and books on poverty and development.
Continue ReadingRuth Pointer
American musician and member of The Pointer Sisters
Born
March 19th, 1946 80 years ago
A prominent musician, contributed significantly to the success of The Pointer Sisters, a group formed in 1969. The group achieved notable recognition with a blend of R&B, pop, and country music. The Pointer Sisters garnered numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Vocal Group Performance in 1984 for the hit song 'Automatic'. The group also earned recognition with songs like 'Fire' and 'Jump (For My Love)', which became chart-topping hits in the 1980s. Their unique sound and style established them as pioneers in the music industry, leading to widespread acclaim.
Continue ReadingEduardo Saverin
Businessman & Facebook co-founder
Born
March 19th, 1982 44 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on May 23rd
August 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 ReadingBonnie Parker
American criminal and bank robber
Born
October 1st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1934 91 years ago — 23 years old
Born in Texas, pursued a life of crime alongside Clyde Barrow. Engaged in a series of bank robberies during the Great Depression, gaining notoriety across the United States. The criminal couple became legendary figures due to their escapades, evading law enforcement multiple times. Documented in numerous books and films, their story symbolizes the romanticized view of outlaws in American culture. Their life of crime ended in a shootout with law enforcement in 1934, leading to their deaths.
Continue ReadingJean Van Houtte
Belgian Prime Minister and academic leader
Born
March 17th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1991 34 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1907, an academic and politician served as the 50th Prime Minister of Belgium. Held various positions in government and contributed to higher education policy and reform. Engaged in significant political activities during the mid-20th century, focusing on issues pertinent to Belgian society. Played a role in Belgium's post-war recovery efforts and fostered relationships within political institutions.
Continue ReadingBig Bill Neidjie
Australian activist and language advocate
Died
May 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — None years old
An activist dedicated to the preservation of Indigenous culture and language. As the last fluent speaker of the Gaagudju language, contributed significantly to language revitalization efforts. Advocated for the rights of Indigenous Australians and raised awareness about their cultural heritage through public speaking and education. Engaged with various organizations to promote Aboriginal land rights and the importance of language in cultural identity.
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 ReadingSterling Hayden
Actor and author in film and literature
Born
March 26th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1986 39 years ago — 70 years old
An American actor and author played significant roles in film and literature throughout a career spanning several decades. Gained recognition for performances in classic films, including 'Dr. Strangelove' and 'The Godfather'. Beyond acting, authored several books that reflected on experiences in life and the arts. Engaged in various pursuits, from sailing to writing, contributing to a multifaceted artistic legacy.
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