Muriel McQueen Fergusson
Canadian Speaker of the Senate
A Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the first female Speaker of the Senate from 1972 to 1974. Contributed to various legislative reforms and advocated for women's rights. Engaged in public service and participated in multiple committees, promoting equality and social progress. Resided in New Brunswick throughout much of life.
First female Speaker of the Senate
Served in the Senate from 1970 to 1974
Advocated for women's rights and equality
Other People Born on May 26th
Nicolaus Zinzendorf
Bishop and founder of the Moravian Church
Born
May 26th, 1700 325 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1760 265 years ago — 59 years old
Born in Germany, played a significant role in the establishment of the Moravian Church, a Protestant denomination emphasizing religious freedom and missionary work. Founded the settlement of Herrnhut, where the Moravian community thrived under his leadership. Advocated for unity among different denominations and worked towards social justice, emphasizing the importance of education and community service.
Continue ReadingDani Samuels
Australian discus thrower and champion
Born
May 26th, 1988 37 years ago
An accomplished discus thrower, this athlete gained recognition for her achievements in international competitions. In 2009, secured the gold medal at the World Championships held in Berlin, marking a significant milestone in her career. Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and represented Australia in multiple World Championships and Commonwealth Games. Achieved personal best throws that ranked among the top in the world during her peak years. Over the course of her career, earned multiple National Championships titles.
Continue ReadingAh Young
South Korean singer and actress
Born
May 26th, 1991 34 years ago
Born on May 26, 1991, a singer and actress from South Korea became recognized as a member of the girl group Eye Candy. The group released music and gained popularity in the K-pop scene. Transitioning to acting, achievements in various television dramas were noted, with leading roles showcasing acting skills. Projects included appearances in shows that highlighted versatility and appeal within the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPaula Findlay
Canadian triathlete, 2010 ITU World Champion
Born
May 26th, 1989 36 years ago
Triathlete specialized in Olympic distance events. Achieved significant success early in career with a series of wins on the ITU circuit. Claimed the ITU World Championship title in 2010, establishing a strong international presence. Competed in the London 2012 Olympics, where notable performance drew attention to the sport in Canada. Overcame injuries later in career, returning to compete in various events, including the Ironman series.
Continue ReadingImi Lichtenfeld
Martial artist, creator of Krav Maga
Born
May 26th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1998 28 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Hungary, a martial artist, boxer, and gymnast developed Krav Maga, a self-defense system integrating techniques from various martial arts and boxing. Emigrated to Israel and became involved in training military and law enforcement personnel. The system emphasized practical defense against real-world threats, contributing to its widespread adoption across the globe. Established a training center in Israel, further promoting the discipline. His work laid a foundation for the evolution of modern self-defense.
Continue ReadingAndrea Catellani
Italian footballer and striker
Born
May 26th, 1988 37 years ago
A footballer played primarily as a striker, beginning a professional career in 2006. Initially associated with the youth teams of several clubs, made appearances in Serie A and Serie B. Played for clubs such as Reggiana, Sassuolo, and Parma, gaining recognition for contributions in the Italian football leagues. Contributed to club success by achieving notable performances and accolades during various seasons.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 11th
Julia Tsenova
Bulgarian pianist and composer
Born
July 30th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2010 15 years ago — 61 years old
A Bulgarian pianist and composer, recognized for contributions to classical music. Tsenova studied music in Sofia and furthered education in Italy and France. Tsenova performed in numerous concerts across Europe, showcasing talents in solo and chamber music. Compositions include works for piano, vocal, and orchestral arrangements. She held teaching positions at music institutions, sharing expertise with future generations. Tsenova's artistry and dedication to music spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingBruno Hoffmann
Glass harp player and composer
Born
September 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1991 34 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent glass harp player, contributed significantly to the artistic expression of glass music. Created and performed numerous compositions that showcased the unique sound of the glass harp, an instrument crafted from varying sizes of glass bowls. Gained recognition for performances that blended classical and contemporary styles, capturing the interest of audiences across Europe. Participated in various concerts and festivals, illustrating the versatility and beauty of the glass harp. Helped to revive interest in this rare instrument during the 20th century, inspiring a new generation of musicians.
Continue ReadingBunny Ahearne
Businessman in the UK sports industry
Born
November 19th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1985 40 years ago — 84 years old
Irish-born businessman established a significant presence in the English sports industry. As a key figure in the late 20th century, contributed to the development of various sports organizations. Played a critical role in the administration and promotion of greyhound racing in the UK. Advocated for the interests of the sport through strategic leadership and management.
Continue ReadingHilary Koprowski
Virologist and immunologist; developed vaccines
Born
December 5th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
This Polish-American virologist and immunologist developed the first effective oral polio vaccine, which significantly contributed to the global effort to eradicate poliomyelitis. The vaccine was tested in mass campaigns in Colombia and later used in other countries. Koprowski's research included work on vaccines for other diseases, including rabies. His contributions to the field of virology included pioneering work in the study of viruses.
Continue ReadingJames Anthony Bailey
Co-founder of Ringling Bros. Circus
Born
July 4th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1906 119 years ago — 58 years old
Co-founded Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, which became one of the most famous circuses in the United States. Established the circus as a major entertainment entity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Played a key role in organizing and promoting large-scale circus performances and events, contributing to the circus's growth and national prominence.
Continue ReadingEdward Canby
American general during Civil War era
Born
1817 209 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1873 152 years ago — 56 years old
Served as a general in the United States Army, participating in the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. Commanded Union troops during significant engagements. Played a role in the Indian Wars, notably overseeing military operations in the Southwest. Died while commanding forces against hostile Native American tribes, emphasizing a commitment to military leadership during critical periods in American history.
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