Neelam Sanjiva Reddy
President of India and politician
Served as the 6th President of India from 1977 to 1979. Held various positions in Indian politics, including Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Played a significant role in the Indian National Congress party and was involved in the Indian independence movement. Worked in various capacities, including serving as the Minister of Home Affairs and the Minister for Undivided Andhra Pradesh. His presidency was marked by considerable political change in India.
Served as the 6th President of India
Held the position of Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh
Other People Born on May 19th
Colin Chapman
British engineer and founder of Lotus Cars
Born
May 19th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1982 43 years ago — 54 years old
An English engineer and businessman founded Lotus Cars, a marque synonymous with innovative automotive design. Established in 1952, the company gained recognition for its lightweight sports cars and Formula One racing vehicles. The innovative use of materials and engineering principles revolutionized the racing industry. Chapman played a significant role in the development of the Lotus 49, which was the first car to use a rear-mounted engine, leading to numerous successes in Formula One during the 1960s. His contributions to automotive engineering left a lasting legacy, influencing car design well beyond his time.
Continue ReadingPeter Mayhew
Actor best known as Chewbacca
Born
May 19th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2019 6 years ago — 74 years old
An actor and former hospital orderly, gained fame for portraying Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise, starting with the original film in 1977. Mayhew reprised the role in several sequels and spin-offs, including The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Revenge of the Sith. The character became iconic in popular culture, recognized for its distinct personality and presence alongside Han Solo. Mayhew was known for his towering height, standing at 7 feet 3 inches, which contributed to the character's imposing yet friendly demeanor. Outside of his acting career, Mayhew engaged in charitable work, particularly with children’s hospitals.
Continue ReadingTaane Milne
New Zealand rugby league player
Born
May 19th, 1995 30 years ago
Milne played as a professional rugby league player, primarily in the center position. He began his professional career with the Wests Tigers in 2014 and later played for St. George Illawarra Dragons and the New Zealand Warriors. Throughout his career, he showcased his skills in the National Rugby League (NRL), becoming recognized for his performances on the field.
Continue ReadingAndrew Johns
Rugby league player and sportscaster
Born
May 19th, 1974 51 years ago
One of the most accomplished rugby league players in Australian history. Played as a halfback primarily for the Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby League (NRL). His career spanned from 1993 to 2007, earning the title of Dally M Medallist on multiple occasions. Served as a representative for New South Wales in the State of Origin series and for Australia in international competitions. After retiring from professional play, transitioned to coaching and sports commentary, sharing insights and analysis on various media platforms.
Continue ReadingManik Bandopadhyay
Indian author and playwright
Born
May 19th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1956 69 years ago — 48 years old
An influential Indian author, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to Bengali literature. Wrote numerous short stories and novels, exploring themes of social justice, human relationships, and the struggles of rural life. His works often depicted the lives of common people, reflecting the socio-political landscape of Bengal. Notable works include the novel 'Padma Nadir Majhi' and the play 'Kalo Choshma'. Bandopadhyay's unique narrative style and deep psychological insights established a significant literary presence in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingDick Slater
Professional wrestler and wrestling promoter
Born
May 19th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 67 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, achieved recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in major wrestling promotions including World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Also contributed as a trainer to upcoming wrestlers throughout a long career spanning multiple decades. Gained a reputation for his technical wrestling skills and charismatic persona, influencing a generation of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 1st
Pádraig Faulkner
Irish politician and Minister of Defence
Born
March 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old
Served as the 19th Minister of Defence in Ireland. Held various positions in the government, contributing to national defense strategies and policies. Involved in politics for several decades, impacting various legislative processes during tenure.
Continue ReadingKitabatake Chikafusa
Japanese author and historian
Born
1293 733 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1354 671 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in the 14th century, contributed significantly to Japanese literature and history. Authored 'Jinno Shotōki', a historical text detailing the imperial family and its legacy. Focused on the importance of the imperial lineage and the legitimacy of the imperial court, influencing subsequent generations of historians and scholars. Engaged in the political struggles of the era, advocating for the legitimacy of the Southern Court during the Nanboku-chō period. His work became a vital resource for understanding the historical dynamics of feudal Japan.
Continue ReadingAdolf Eichmann
German Nazi SS-Obersturmbannführer
Born
March 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1962 63 years ago — 56 years old
A high-ranking official in the Nazi regime, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the logistics of the Holocaust. Joined the SS in 1932 and was appointed to lead the Department of Jewish Affairs. Instrumental in implementing policies leading to the deportation of Jews to concentration camps. Captured by Israeli agents in Argentina in 1960, faced trial for crimes against humanity, and was executed in 1962.
Continue ReadingTony Thompson
American singer with hit albums
Born
September 2nd, 1975 50 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2007 18 years ago — 31 years old
A prominent American singer, contributed significantly to the R&B and soul music scenes. Gained recognition in the 1990s as the lead vocalist for the group Hi-Five. Released several albums with notable chart success. Pursued a solo career after the group's initial success, producing hit singles that continued to resonate within the genre. Collaborated with various artists, showcasing vocal abilities and musical range throughout the career.
Continue ReadingJean Ritchie
American folk singer and songwriter
Born
December 8th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent figure in American folk music, Ritchie contributed significantly to the preservation and popularization of traditional Appalachian music. Born in Kentucky, she began her career in the 1940s, sharing songs that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the region. Ritchie's music often featured instruments such as the dulcimer, which she helped to revive among folk musicians. Throughout her career, she recorded numerous albums and published several songbooks, influencing generations of folk artists. Ritchie was also involved in the development of folk music education and was a beloved figure within the folk music community until her passing.
Continue ReadingCurly Lambeau
American football coach, Green Bay Packers
Born
April 9th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1965 60 years ago — 67 years old
An influential figure in American football, played as a player and served as a head coach. Founded the Green Bay Packers in 1919, which became one of the most storied franchises in NFL history. Coached the Packers to six championships, including the first two Super Bowls. His leadership and vision shaped the early years of professional football.
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