Ne Win
Burmese Army General and President
Served as an army general and politician, leading Burma as its fourth president. Assumed control of the country through a military coup in 1962, instituting a one-party socialist state. Focused on nationalization and central planning, implementing policies that significantly altered the economy. Remained a dominant figure in Burmese politics until stepping down in 1988. His regime faced criticism for human rights violations and suppression of dissent.
Led a military coup in 1962
Served as President from 1962 to 1988
Instituted a one-party socialist state
Other People Born on May 14th
Blake Brockington
Transgender activist and public speaker
Born
May 14th, 1996 29 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 19 years old
An American activist focused on transgender issues. Engaged in advocacy for transgender rights and visibility. Facilitated discussions around gender identity and inclusion. Played a significant role in raising awareness about challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly in educational settings. Actively participated in initiatives supporting LGBTQ+ youth and community outreach.
Continue ReadingZach Edey
Basketball player, NCAA star
Born
May 14th, 2002 23 years ago
A basketball player who played for Purdue University. Edey gained recognition for his skills as a center, contributing significantly to his team's success. In the 2022-2023 season, he was a major player in NCAA basketball, leading Purdue to the Big Ten Championship and earning the Naismith Men's College Player of the Year award. His height and agility allowed him to dominate in the paint and make a considerable impact on the court.
Continue ReadingFrançois Steyn
Rugby player; 2007 Rugby World Cup winner
Born
May 14th, 1987 38 years ago
A rugby player from South Africa, debuted for the national team in 2006. Established a reputation as a versatile back, playing primarily as a fly-half and fullback. Contributed to South Africa's 2007 Rugby World Cup victory, becoming the youngest player to win a World Cup at the age of 20. Played for various clubs, including the Sharks and Racing 92, and achieved significant success in domestic leagues and international competitions.
Continue ReadingDan Auerbach
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 14th, 1979 46 years ago
A prominent figure in the music industry, contributed extensively to rock music as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Formed the Grammy Award-winning duo The Black Keys in 2001, gaining recognition for its garage rock sound. Released solo albums including 'Keep It Hid' and 'Waiting on a Song', showcasing a blend of blues, rock, and folk influences. Produced and collaborated with various artists across genres, enhancing musical projects in the contemporary scene.
Continue ReadingPernille Blume
Danish swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
May 14th, 1994 31 years ago
An accomplished swimmer, made significant contributions to Denmark's swimming achievements. Competed in various international competitions, including the Olympics. Specialized in freestyle events, particularly the 50m distance. Achieved notable success at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, where secured a gold medal in the 50m freestyle. Also participated in the World Championships and European Championships, earning multiple medals throughout the career.
Continue ReadingKristina Mladenovic
French professional tennis player
Born
May 14th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional tennis player from France achieved significant success in both singles and doubles competitions. In singles, reached a career-high ranking of world No. 10. In doubles, partnered with various players, including Ecaterina Mergea, to win the 2016 French Open title. Competed for France in multiple Fed Cup and Olympic tournaments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 5th
George Brecht
Chemist and composer of chance music
Born
August 27th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1926, contributions to the field of experimental music and avant-garde compositions marked a significant part of the career. Brecht's work in chemistry led to important developments in chemical research. Collaborated closely with avant-garde artists and musicians, integrating scientific concepts into musical art forms. The concept of 'event scores', which provided instructions for performance rather than traditional sheet music, gained recognition within the fluxus movement.
Continue ReadingCharles Evans
Mountaineer and educator with Everest ascent
Born
October 19th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1918, this mountaineer made significant contributions to both education and medicine. He played a key role in the 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, during which he became a member of the first successful team to reach the summit. Beyond mountaineering, he practiced as a surgeon and dedicated efforts towards academic education in the medical field, shaping future generations of surgeons. His legacy includes the advancement of surgical techniques and a commitment to training in high-pressure environments, drawing from his mountaineering experiences.
Continue ReadingErnest C. Brace
American captain and pilot
Born
August 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a captain and pilot in the United States Navy. Participated in the Vietnam War, where a mission resulted in an aircraft crash and subsequent capture by North Vietnamese forces. Spent more than seven years as a prisoner of war. Returned to the U.S. after being released in 1973. Contributed to international military relations as a pilot and instructor after retirement.
Continue ReadingJacques Roubaud
French poet and mathematician
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
A French poet, writer, and mathematician, contributed significantly to both literature and mathematical theory. Associated with the Oulipo group, explored the connections between mathematics and literature. Authored numerous poetry collections, essays, and novels, emphasizing the interplay between form and freedom. Engaged with themes of memory and language, showcasing a unique blend of logical rigor and creative expression.
Continue ReadingJesse Pearson
American actor and screenwriter
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1979 46 years ago — 49 years old
An American actor, singer, and screenwriter engaged in film and television. Achieved recognition for roles in productions such as the 1963 film 'Bye Bye Birdie' as Conrad Birdie, which garnered significant attention. Involved in various theatrical performances, showcasing talent in both acting and music throughout different stages of career. Contributed writing to projects, expanding creative involvement beyond acting. Had a career spanning several decades and maintained presence in entertainment until the late 1970s. Passed away in December 1979.
Continue ReadingAugust Ames
Pornographic actress and performer
Born
August 23rd, 1994 31 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 23 years old
Raised in Canada, a career in adult film began in 2013, gaining attention quickly in the industry. Worked with various production companies and achieved significant recognition for performances. Became one of the leading figures in the adult entertainment sector. In addition to acting, engaged in social media influencing and personal branding, drawing a substantial following. The career was marked by participation in multiple award nominations.
Continue Reading