Otto Lilienthal
Pioneer aviator and glider inventor
A German aviation pioneer, contributed significantly to the development of controlled flight. Conducted over 2,000 flights, demonstrating the principles of aerodynamics through various glider designs. Published numerous works on flight and aerodynamics. His studies laid the groundwork for future aviators and engineers in the emerging field of aviation. The successes of his gliders inspired subsequent aviation efforts globally.
Conducted over 2,000 successful glider flights
Published 'Birdflight as the Basis of Aviation'
Other People Born on May 23rd
Richard Chase
American serial killer
Born
May 23rd, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1980 45 years ago — 30 years old
Born in 1950, this individual became notorious during the late 1970s for a series of disturbing crimes in California. Known for the brutal murders committed in a short time frame, this person was linked to the deaths of six victims over a span of several months. The crimes included home invasions and were characterized by extreme violence, leading to widespread fear in the local community. The individual exhibited significant psychological issues and was apprehended in 1978. Following the arrest, the case drew significant media attention and raised discussions around mental health and criminal behavior. In 1979, this individual was convicted and sentenced to death, though the sentence was later commuted to life imprisonment. Subsequent reports detailed struggles with mental illness throughout life.
Continue ReadingArtie Shaw
Clarinetist and bandleader, influential composer
Born
May 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2004 21 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent clarinet player, composer, and bandleader, this musician gained recognition during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s. Shaw's band achieved major popularity with the hit song "Begin the Beguine," which displayed his sophisticated musical style. Aside from leading successful big bands, he composed several pieces that showcased his innovative approach. Shaw's influence extended beyond the clarinet, as he embraced classical music elements within his jazz compositions. He collaborated with notable musicians and made significant contributions to the development of modern jazz.
Continue ReadingJózef Wieniawski
Polish pianist and composer of operas
Born
May 23rd, 1837 188 years ago
Died
1912 114 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Poland, a prominent pianist and composer focused on the Romantic era. Composed various works, including operas, orchestral pieces, and piano music. Held a significant position in music as both a performer and educator. Contributed to the development of Polish music and influenced future generations of musicians. Served as a professor at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels, where he nurtured talent and shared expertise. His works often showcased technical prowess and emotional depth, reflecting the musical trends of the period.
Continue ReadingJoe Slovo
Politician and anti-apartheid activist
Born
May 23rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1995 31 years ago — 68 years old
A lawyer and politician, contributed to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Co-founded the South African Communist Party and served as the Chief of Staff of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress. Participated in the negotiations to end apartheid and served as a minister in the post-apartheid government.
Continue ReadingPaul Augustin Mayer
Cardinal and prominent church leader
Born
May 23rd, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 99 years old
Mayer served as a German cardinal in the Catholic Church, contributing significantly to the hierarchy and administration of the Church. His ecclesiastical career included various positions, culminating in his role as Archbishop of Munich and Freising. Mayer participated in the Second Vatican Council, which addressed important changes within the Church, aiming to modernize its practices and outreach. Throughout his life, he worked on several key initiatives, enhancing the Church's engagement with contemporary issues. His influence extended beyond Germany as he was involved in various international ecclesiastical matters.
Continue ReadingZack Wheat
Baseball player and police officer
Born
May 23rd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 84 years old
Played Major League Baseball primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1909 to 1926. Wheat established himself as a prominent left fielder during his career, known for his exceptional batting skills. He achieved a .317 lifetime batting average, accumulating over 2,000 hits. After retiring from baseball, Wheat served as a police officer in his hometown, contributing to the community in a different capacity following his athletic career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 10th
Homer Burton Adkins
American chemist and pioneer in catalysis
Born
January 16th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1949 76 years ago — 57 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the area of catalysis. Developed the Adkins catalyst, which facilitated organic reactions. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, training many future chemists. Made advancements in the study of hydrogenation and its applications in organic chemistry.
Continue ReadingWalter Gerlach
German physicist and academic
Born
August 1st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1979 46 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in quantum mechanics and atomic structure. Developed the Stern-Gerlach experiment alongside Otto Stern, which demonstrated the quantization of angular momentum. Held academic positions at various universities and influenced the education of future physicists through teaching and research.
Continue ReadingAletta Jacobs
Physician and suffrage activist
Born
February 9th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1929 96 years ago — 75 years old
First woman to officially register for university education in the Netherlands. Obtained a medical degree in 1879, becoming the first female physician in the country. Advocated for women's suffrage and reproductive rights. Played a significant role in the women's rights movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingTekuder
Khan of the Mongol Ilkhanate
Died
August 10th, 1284 741 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the Khan of the Mongol Ilkhanate from 1284 until his death. Continued the legacy of his predecessors in managing a vast empire that stretched across Persia and parts of the Middle East. His governance encountered various challenges including internal conflicts and interactions with neighboring states. Briefly attempted to strengthen ties with the Islamic populace within the realm, advocating for more tolerance towards Muslim practices in his administration.
Continue ReadingMaarten Tromp
Dutch admiral and naval commander
Born
April 23rd, 1598 427 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1653 372 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent Dutch admiral in the 17th century, played a key role in the naval conflicts between the Dutch Republic and Spain during the Eighty Years' War. Commanded the Dutch fleet at the Battle of Delft in 1653, achieving a decisive victory against the English fleet. Demonstrated exceptional naval tactics and strategies which contributed to the supremacy of the Dutch navy during this period. Died in battle during the Second Anglo-Dutch War.
Continue ReadingHon'inbō Shūsaku
Japanese Go player, Go Seigen Rival
Born
1829 197 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1862 163 years ago — 33 years old
A prominent Go player, significantly contributed to the game during the Edo period. Played in the 19th century and approached competitive play with new strategies that revolutionized the understanding of Go. Established a legacy through his numerous victories and innovative techniques. His reputation in the Go community stems from playing in official tournaments and private matches, demonstrating mastery and deep strategic thinking throughout matches.
Continue Reading