Otto Kretschmer

German admiral and U-boat commander

Otto Kretschmer - German admiral and U-boat commander
Born

May 1st, 1912
113 years ago

Died

August 5th, 1998
27 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

Ajith Kumar

Indian actor, celebrated for Mankatha
Born
May 1st, 1971 54 years ago

An accomplished actor and race car driver, this individual ventured into the film industry in the late 1990s. Gained significant recognition for performances in Tamil cinema, leading to a prominent film career. Starred in films such as 'Mankatha', 'Veeram', and 'Vedalam', establishing a dedicated fan base. Besides acting, pursued professional car racing and participated in various events, making a mark in motorsport. His multifaceted career combines the worlds of cinema and racing, showcasing talent in both fields.

Continue Reading

Clelia Lollini

Italian physician, women's health advocate
Born
May 1st, 1890 135 years ago

Graduated in Medicine and Surgery, completed medical studies at the University of Bologna. Specialized in obstetrics and gynecology, focusing on women's health issues. Contributed to advancements in the understanding of gynecological conditions and reproductive health. Worked in various medical institutions, promoting initiatives for women's healthcare and education. Participated in professional associations and fostered collaboration among peers to improve health services for women. Died in the early 1960s.

Continue Reading

Bernard Vukas

Croatian football player, FIFA participant
Born
May 1st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1983 42 years ago — 55 years old

A Croatian football player, contributions included representing the national team in significant international matches. Played for the 'Rest of the World' team during the historic game against England at Wembley in 1953. Had a notable club career primarily with Hajduk Split, showcasing exceptional skills as a forward. Vukas earned respect within the sport for his technical ability and scoring prowess.

Continue Reading

Arthur Wellesley

British Field Marshal and Prime Minister
Born
May 1st, 1769 256 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1852 173 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1769, this individual served as a prominent military leader and politician in the United Kingdom. Achieving the rank of field marshal, he played a crucial role in the Napoleonic Wars, particularly at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, where he commanded the allied forces that defeated Napoleon Bonaparte. In addition to military service, this individual held the position of Prime Minister, contributing to significant political developments of the era.

Continue Reading

Giovannino Guareschi

Italian journalist and author of 'Don Camillo'
Born
May 1st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1968 57 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

Shahar Pe'er

Tennis player and Israeli champion
Born
May 1st, 1987 38 years ago

A tennis player from Israel achieved significant success on the professional circuit. Career highlights include reaching the quarterfinals of the Australian Open in 2011 and the fourth round of the US Open in 2007. Pe'er consistently ranked within the top 20 players in the WTA rankings and earned a reputation for her competitive spirit and strong performance on the court. Competing for Israel in international events, she contributed to the nation's presence in the sport and participated in the Fed Cup.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 5th

Paul Brown

American football coach and innovator
Born
September 7th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent figure in American football, significant contributions were made as a head coach and team founder. Coached the Cleveland Browns in the All-America Football Conference before the team transitioned to the NFL. Achieved three NFL championships and led the Browns to multiple playoff appearances. Instituted tactical innovations in football coaching, including the use of game film and extensive player preparation. Helped develop the modern offensive style of play, influencing numerous future coaches and teams.

Continue Reading

Arnold Horween

American football player and coach
Born
July 7th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1985 40 years ago — 87 years old

This individual played as a center for the Harvard University football team and later transitioned to coaching. As a head coach, contributions included leading the team at both Harvard and the University of Chicago. Played an instrumental role in the development of the game during the early 20th century. Also served as a prominent executive within the American Football League and is recognized for promoting the sport through his various roles.

Continue Reading

Willie Dunn

Canadian singer-songwriter and producer
Born
August 14th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old

Active in the folk music scene, contributed to the Canadian music landscape with a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Released influential albums, showcasing themes of Indigenous rights and environmentalism. Notable for the song 'I Pity the Country' which critiques the degradation of natural environments. Participated in various festivals and initiatives promoting cultural awareness and Indigenous issues.

Continue Reading

Millicent Fawcett

Activist for women's suffrage in the UK
Born
June 11th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1929 96 years ago — 82 years old

An English academic and activist played a pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement in the United Kingdom. Fawcett served as the president of the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) from 1897 to 1919, advocating for women's right to vote through peaceful protests and campaigns. She authored several works related to women's rights and maintained a focus on the importance of education in achieving gender equality. Fawcett's efforts contributed significantly to the passing of the Representation of the People Act 1918, which granted limited suffrage to women over the age of 30 in the UK.

Continue Reading

Arthur Walter James

Journalist and politician in England
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2015 10 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

Chick Hearn

Sportscaster for the Los Angeles Lakers
Born
November 27th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old

An influential American sportscaster, best recognized for a long tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, served as the voice of the team for over four decades. Hearn's career began in the 1940s, and he developed a unique style that included a vast vocabulary of phrases and insights that became integral to Lakers broadcasts. He introduced the concept of the 'three-peat' and popularized the term 'air ball.' Hearn's work contributed to the widespread popularity of basketball in Los Angeles and beyond, with his broadcasts reaching a broad audience. He received numerous awards for his contributions to sports broadcasting, including induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his achievements in sports media.

Continue Reading