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
Ashley Giles
Cricketer and coach with England team
Born
March 19th, 1973 53 years ago
Played international cricket for England as a left-arm spin bowler and lower-order batsman. Debuted in 1999 and participated in the 2003 Cricket World Cup. Transitioned to a coaching role after retiring from professional cricket. Served as the head coach of the England Lions and later the England national team, contributing to player development and strategic planning.
Continue ReadingKjell Aukrust
Norwegian author, poet, painter
Born
March 19th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed to Norwegian literature and art. Created beloved characters such as Flåklypa and produced a variety of works encompassing poetry and paintings. His literary career included children's books that intertwined humor and social commentary. Gained recognition for the creation of the Flåklypa universe, which celebrated Norwegian culture and landscapes through storytelling and visual art. Continued to influence Norwegian culture and creativity throughout the 20th century.
Continue ReadingLouis Hayward
Actor known for action films
Born
March 19th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1985 41 years ago — 75 years old
South African-American actor gained recognition during the mid-20th century. Starred in notable action films and television series. Gained fame for leading roles in 'The Count of Monte Cristo' and 'The Man in the Iron Mask'. Appeared in numerous films, showcasing versatility in both leading and supporting roles. Spent a significant part of career in Hollywood, contributing to adventure and action genres.
Continue ReadingGay Brewer
Professional golfer with Masters win
Born
March 19th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2007 19 years ago — 75 years old
Became a professional golfer in the 1950s. Achieved significant success on the PGA Tour, including a victory at the 1967 Masters Tournament. Regularly competed in major championships throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Participated in the 1969 Ryder Cup, contributing to the United States team. Continued to influence the game through participation in senior tours later in the career.
Continue ReadingEdith Nourse Rogers
Social worker and U.S. congresswoman
Born
March 19th, 1881 145 years ago
Died
1960 66 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Massachusetts for over 30 years. Played a key role in veterans' affairs, particularly for women’s service during and after World War II. Advocated for healthcare and educational benefits for veterans. Instrumental in the establishment of programs to assist veterans and their families.
Continue ReadingRichie Ashburn
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
March 19th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1997 29 years ago — 70 years old
This individual played as a center fielder in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. His career spanned from 1948 to 1962. After retiring as a player, transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a prominent sportscaster for the Phillies. Achieved recognition for his insightful commentary and engaging personality during games. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1995.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 23rd
Urban I
Pope of the Catholic Church
Died
May 23rd, 230 1796 years ago — None years old
Served as pope in the early 3rd century. Focused on spiritual leadership and consolidation of the Church's authority during a period of persecution. Advocated for Christian communities amid external challenges. Played a significant role in establishing early Church doctrine, promoting unity among believers.
Continue ReadingJames Otis Jr.
American lawyer and politician advocating for rights
Born
February 5th, 1725 301 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1783 243 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in the early stages of the American Revolution, this individual served as a lawyer and politician. Advocated for colonial rights and liberty against British taxation without representation. Published influential pamphlets challenging the legitimacy of British authority. Played a significant role in the legal battles leading to the revolution, particularly with the Writs of Assistance case in 1761. Richly engaged in politics, contributed to the radical Whig movement promoting civil liberties.
Continue ReadingFranz Ernst Neumann
Mineralogist and physicist, Neumann's Law
Born
September 11th, 1798 228 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1895 131 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 ReadingWilliam Kidd
Scottish pirate hunter and privateer
Born
January 22nd, 1645 381 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1701 325 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1645 in Scotland, served as a sailor and privateer. Gained notoriety during the late 17th century while undertaking missions to combat piracy. Commanded the adventure ship 'Lauretta' and was granted a privateering commission by the British government. Later faced charges of piracy himself. Captured in 1699, tried, and hanged in 1701. His story contributed to legends surrounding piracy and privateering in the Caribbean.
Continue ReadingJehan de Lescurel
French poet and composer of medieval works
Died
May 23rd, 1304 722 years ago — None years old
A prominent figure in the medieval literary scene, played a significant role in the development of early French poetry and music. Contributed to the cultural landscape of the time through compositions that reflect the themes and styles of the period. Works often encompassed both lyrical poetry and musical compositions, showcasing the intricate relationship between text and melody. Engaged with the courtly tradition and often intertwined narratives with elements of chivalry and romance.
Continue ReadingJean Van Houtte
Belgian Prime Minister and academic leader
Born
March 17th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1991 35 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.
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