Pandurang Vaman Kane
Indologist and Sanskrit scholar
An influential Indologist and Sanskrit scholar contributed significantly to the study of ancient Indian texts and culture. Recipient of the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India, for scholarly contributions. Authored 'History of Sanskrit Literature', a comprehensive account of Sanskrit literary tradition. Engaged in several academic and educational initiatives to promote Sanskrit studies in India.
Received Bharat Ratna award in 1963
Authored 'History of Sanskrit Literature'
Promoted Sanskrit education
Other People Born on May 7th
Jacques Viger
Canadian archaeologist and 1st mayor of Montreal
Born
May 7th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1858 167 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1787, an early figure in Canadian archaeology and politics. Served as the first mayor of Montreal from 1840 to 1841. Contributed to the establishment of the historic and architectural preservation of the city. Involved in various civic initiatives and urban development projects. Played a role in promoting Montreal's cultural heritage during the early 19th century.
Continue ReadingRabindranath Tagore
Indian poet and Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 7th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1941 84 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent author and poet, this individual contributed significantly to literature and music in India. He wrote extensively across poetry, prose, and songs, blending mysticism with humanism. In 1913, this individual became the first non-European to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for the collection of poems titled 'Gitanjali.' The writings emphasized the values of spirituality and cultural interaction, reflecting a deep connection to Indian traditions while engaging with universal themes. This individual also founded the Visva-Bharati University in Santiniketan, a crucial center for the study of arts, literature, and philanthropy.
Continue ReadingWładysław Reymont
Polish novelist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 7th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1925 100 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1867, a Polish novelist emerged as a prominent figure in literature. His most significant work is the novel 'The Peasants', which vividly portrays rural life in Poland. This literary piece earned the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1924, recognizing its deep exploration of peasant life and culture. In addition to 'The Peasants', other notable works include 'The Promised Land' and 'Comedies of the People'. Reymont's writings reflect the struggles and realities of the Polish countryside and its inhabitants, illustrating a deep connection to the social and cultural landscape of Poland during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingPrincess Frederica Charlotte of Prussia
Prussian princess and royal consort
Born
May 7th, 1767 258 years ago
Died
1820 205 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1767, a German princess and a member of the House of Hohenzollern, served as the Duchess of York through marriage. Engaged in various charitable endeavors during her lifetime. Demonstrated support for the arts and education, contributing to several cultural initiatives. Had a significant influence within royal circles, cultivating relationships that furthered diplomatic ties. Passed away in 1820, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the British royal family.
Continue ReadingJosip Broz Tito
Yugoslav politician and field marshal
Born
May 7th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1980 45 years ago — 87 years old
Field marshal and politician served as the 1st President of Yugoslavia from 1945 until death in 1980. Led the country through a period of relative independence during the Cold War, maintaining a non-aligned stance. Established a federal system comprising six republics and two autonomous provinces. Played a significant role in the resistance against Axis powers during World War II and was a prominent figure in the Partisan movement.
Continue ReadingDagobert Sigmund von Wurmser
French-Austrian field marshal
Born
May 7th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1797 228 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1724, a field marshal served in the Austrian army during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Commanded troops in several important battles, achieving notable victories, especially at the Battle of Montebello in 1800. Participated in campaigns across Europe, displaying strategic military skills. Held various leadership positions within the military hierarchy, contributing to the military strategies of the time. Retired as an accomplished military leader, with a reputation for his tactical acumen during significant military engagements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
William Schallert
American actor and Screen Actors Guild president
Born
July 6th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and prominent figure in the entertainment industry, had a career spanning over six decades. Acted in film, television, and theater, and played notable roles in popular series. Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, advocating for the rights of actors during a transformative period in the industry. Participated in multiple television projects and films, establishing a recognizable presence on screen.
Continue ReadingVital Brazil
Immunologist and physician in Brazil
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1950 75 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of immunology and tropical medicine. Developed serum therapies for various snake bites, including anti-venoms for bites from the Jararaca snake. Founded the Butantan Institute in São Paulo, a leading center for biomedical research and production of vaccines and anti-serums. Conducted extensive research on infectious diseases, contributing to public health in Brazil and beyond.
Continue ReadingTore Svennberg
Swedish actor and film director
Born
February 28th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1941 84 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Sweden, a prominent figure in early cinema and theater. Worked extensively in film and stage productions, contributing to the growth of the arts in the region. Directed several films and participated in numerous theatrical performances, highlighting the evolution of Swedish entertainment. Also took part in the burgeoning movement of cinema during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing the artistic landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingSebastião José de Carvalho e Melo
1st Marquis of Pombal, Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
May 13th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1782 243 years ago — 82 years old
Held the office of Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777. Implemented significant reforms in education, economics, and administration following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Advocated for the reduction of the power of the Church and centralized royal authority, thereby modernizing the state. Initiated infrastructure projects and promoted trade, contributing to Portugal's recovery and growth in the 18th century.
Continue ReadingJohn Beresford
Irish polo player and champion
Born
December 5th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1925 100 years ago — 58 years old
A leading figure in the sport of polo, played during the late 19th century. Achievements included participation in high-profile tournaments and contributions to the development of the sport in Ireland. Competed at a time when polo gained popularity among the British aristocracy and was involved in establishing polo clubs that fostered further interest in the sport.
Continue ReadingRichard Jago
English priest and poet, rural poetry
Born
1715 310 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1781 244 years ago — 66 years old
An English priest and poet, recognized for contributions to rural poetry. Affiliated with the Church of England, held various ecclesiastical positions throughout his life. Published notable works that capture the beauty of the English countryside, including explorations of pastoral life. Emphasized the connection between nature and human experience within poetic form. His writings reflect an appreciation for the simplicity of rural existence and a critique of urban life.
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