Otto Kretschmer

German admiral and U-boat commander

Otto Kretschmer - German admiral and U-boat commander
Born

May 1st, 1912
112 years ago

Died

August 5th, 1998
26 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Germany

Links & References

An admiral in the German Navy, notable for command of U-99 during World War II. Achieved significant success in the Battle of the Atlantic, sinking numerous Allied ships. Became one of the most successful U-boat commanders, earning a reputation for tactical innovation in submarine warfare. After being captured in 1941, spent the remainder of the war as a prisoner. Post-war, contributed to naval strategy and operations in the Bundesmarine.

Sank 47 ships during World War II

Awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross

Other People Born on May 1st

Jacob Mikhailovich Gordin

Journalist and playwright
Born
May 1st, 1853 171 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 56 years old

Born in Ukraine and later relocating to the United States, Gordin gained recognition as a playwright and journalist. His plays often focused on Jewish themes and life, reflecting the struggles and joys of Jewish communities. Gordin's work contributed to the Yiddish theater movement in New York City, and his writing often explored complex social issues, earning acclaim during the early 20th century. He engaged audiences with his compelling narratives and character development, shaping the cultural landscape of American theater.

Continue Reading

Ulric Cross

Trinidadian diplomat and judge
Born
May 1st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

A navigator, judge, and diplomat from Trinidad, contributed significantly to the fields of law and international relations. Served as a judge on the Caribbean Court of Justice and contributed to the establishment of various legal frameworks in the Caribbean. Actively participated in the independence movement in various Caribbean nations, advocating for self-governance. Held several key diplomatic roles, representing his country and region in various international forums.

Continue Reading

Antal Szerb

Hungarian scholar and author of novels
Born
May 1st, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1901, this Hungarian scholar was a prolific author and literary critic. He contributed significantly to Hungarian literature and exploration of philosophical themes. Notable works include the novels 'The Pendragon Legend' and 'Journey by Moonlight', which reflect complex character studies and the intricacies of human emotion. His scholarly work encompassed studies on Romantic literature and Hungarian poetry, establishing a significant impact within academic circles. His career was cut short due to the geopolitical turmoil of the time, and he faced persecution during World War II, ultimately dying in a concentration camp in 1945.

Continue Reading

Giovannino Guareschi

Italian journalist and author of 'Don Camillo'
Born
May 1st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1968 56 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1908, an Italian journalist and author gained recognition for creating the character Don Camillo, featured in a series of stories that explored the dynamics between a Catholic priest and a Communist mayor in a small Italian village. The stories not only provided social commentary on post-World War II Italy but also showcased his wit and storytelling abilities. Published during the 1940s and 1950s, the 'Don Camillo' tales became immensely popular, leading to adaptations in film and television, solidifying their status in Italian culture.

Continue Reading

Jan Heylen

Race car driver with notable achievements
Born
May 1st, 1980 44 years ago

Debuted in motorsport at a young age, racing in various series. Competed in the American Le Mans Series and achieved notable success in sports car racing. Won multiple championships and participated in prestigious events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Established a reputation in the racing community for consistency and skill behind the wheel.

Continue Reading

Hugo Alfvén

Swedish composer and conductor of 'Midsommarvaka'
Born
May 1st, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1872, contributed significantly to Swedish music as a composer, conductor, and violinist. Alfvén's works includes orchestral music, operas, and choral pieces, with 'Midsommarvaka' being one of the most recognized. His style often reflected Swedish folk music, and he was also involved in painting. Alfvén held positions such as conductor of the Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra and contributed to the development of music education in Sweden. He was inducted into the Royal Swedish Academy of Music.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 5th

Bob Caruthers

Baseball player and manager with St. Louis
Born
January 5th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1911 113 years ago — 47 years old

An American baseball player and manager, became a prominent figure in the Major Leagues during the late 19th century. Played as a pitcher and outfielder, achieving significant success with the St. Louis Browns. Following a successful playing career, transitioned into management, overseeing teams in the American Association and later in the National League. Notably recognized for contributions to the early development of baseball strategies and for a pitching style that influenced future generations.

Continue Reading

Richard of Conisburgh

3rd Earl of Cambridge and nobleman
Born
1375 650 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1415 609 years ago — 40 years old

Held the title of 3rd Earl of Cambridge, a significant peerage during the late medieval period in England. Served in military roles, notably participating in campaigns during the early 15th century. Related to the royal family, being a grandson of King Edward III, maintaining a prominent position in the English nobility. Died in 1415 at the Battle of Agincourt, contributing to the ongoing conflicts in France during the Hundred Years' War.

Continue Reading

Arthur Walter James

Journalist and politician in England
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2015 9 years ago — 103 years old

Started a career in journalism, contributing significantly to various publications. Engaged in politics, representing a constituency in the House of Commons. Advocated for numerous issues during tenure and served on several committees. Continued to provide insights and commentary in the media until retirement.

Continue Reading

Darrell Porter

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
January 17th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2002 22 years ago — 50 years old

A professional baseball player and later a sportscaster, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball during the 1970s and 1980s. Played as a catcher and also appeared as a designated hitter. Had a successful career with teams such as the Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, and Milwaukee Brewers. Highlighted by participation in the World Series and awarded the World Series MVP in 1982 for exemplary performance with the Cardinals. Transitioned into broadcasting and offered insights into the game.

Continue Reading

Joan Robinson

Economist and influential author
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1983 41 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of economics, particularly in the development of Keynesian theories. Served as a professor at Cambridge University, shaping economic thought through teaching and publications. Authored several important works including 'The Economics of Imperfect Competition', impacting the understanding of market structures. Engaged with various economic debates of her time, influencing both academic and practical approaches to economics.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand Ritter von Hebra

Austrian dermatologist, introduced histology
Born
1816 209 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1880 144 years ago — 64 years old

Austrian physician and dermatologist specialized in skin diseases. Pioneered the use of microscopy in dermatology, greatly advancing the understanding of skin pathology. Served as a professor at the University of Vienna, where contributed to education and practice in dermatology. Published significant works and established numerous teaching resources that influenced future generations of dermatologists. Helped establish the Vienna School of Dermatology, which played a crucial role in shaping the field.

Continue Reading