Peggy Lee
American singer and songwriter
Peggy Lee was an American jazz and pop singer, songwriter, and actress. Active from the 1940s through the 2000s, she made significant contributions to the music industry. Lee began her career with the Benny Goodman Orchestra and gained prominence for her unique vocal style and emotive performances. Her work spanned several decades, and she recorded numerous hits, including 'Fever' and 'Is That All There Is?'. Lee also wrote songs that became standards and collaborated with notable artists throughout her career. She earned numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and an Academy Award nomination for her performance in 'Pete Kelly's Blues'.
Recorded hit songs 'Fever' and 'Is That All There Is?'
Performed with the Benny Goodman Orchestra
Nominated for an Academy Award for 'Pete Kelly's Blues'
Won multiple Grammy Awards
Other People Born on May 26th
Adolfo López Mateos
Mexican politician, 48th President
Born
May 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1969 56 years ago — 60 years old
Served as the 48th President of Mexico from 1958 to 1964. Focused on economic reform, education, and social welfare. Implemented notable land reforms and nationalization of key industries during the presidency. Established the Institute for Mexican Workers and expanded public education, promoting access to schooling across the country. His administration aimed at modernizing Mexico and improving the living standards of its citizens.
Continue ReadingFrankie Manning
Dancer and choreographer of Lindy Hop
Born
May 26th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2009 16 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent figure in the Lindy Hop dance movement, contributed significantly to the evolution of swing dance. Served as a dancer and choreographer at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem during the 1930s. Helped popularize the dance style internationally through performances and workshops. His choreography and innovative aerial moves greatly influenced future generations of dancers. Worked extensively in film and television, bringing Lindy Hop to wider audiences.
Continue ReadingAlec McCowen
English actor in film and theater
Born
May 26th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
Gained acclaim as an actor in both film and theater, particularly recognized for performances in major works. Gained prominence through roles in productions such as 'The Go-Between' and 'Equus'. Contributed to the theatrical landscape in London's West End and on Broadway.
Continue ReadingDani Samuels
Australian discus thrower and champion
Born
May 26th, 1988 37 years ago
An accomplished discus thrower, this athlete gained recognition for her achievements in international competitions. In 2009, secured the gold medal at the World Championships held in Berlin, marking a significant milestone in her career. Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and represented Australia in multiple World Championships and Commonwealth Games. Achieved personal best throws that ranked among the top in the world during her peak years. Over the course of her career, earned multiple National Championships titles.
Continue ReadingGong Myung
South Korean actor, 'My Roommate is a Gumiho'
Born
May 26th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, an actor gained recognition for roles in various television dramas and films. Gained popularity through performances in 'My Roommate is a Gumiho,' 'The Bride of Habaek,' and 'Love Revolution.' Demonstrated versatility in portraying complex characters across different genres.
Continue ReadingMicah Parsons
American football linebacker, Defensive Rookie of the Year
Born
May 26th, 1999 26 years ago
Positioned as a linebacker, a remarkable football player emerged from Penn State and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In his inaugural season, notable performances included rapid tackles and consistent pressure on quarterbacks. Parsons' unique ability to adapt and excel in various defensive roles contributed to his reputation as a dynamic player. He secured the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2021, showcasing stellar athleticism and intelligence on the field. Parsons demonstrated strong leadership qualities, becoming a vital part of the Cowboys' defense, influencing several games through key plays. In subsequent seasons, continued to exhibit outstanding performance and solidified status as one of the league's premier linebackers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 21st
Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre
French botanist and author of Paul et Virginie
Born
1737 288 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1814 211 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent French botanist and author, he contributed significantly to literature and botany in the 18th century. His most notable work, 'Paul et Virginie', published in 1788, is a romantic novel that explores themes of nature and love set on the island of Mauritius. This work combined literary artistry with botanical description, reflecting the author's deep appreciation for nature. As a member of the French Academy, he engaged with contemporary debates on natural philosophy and environmental conservation. His observations and writings were influential in shaping French literature and botanical science during this period.
Continue ReadingJames Beard
American chef and author of cookbooks
Born
May 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in American cuisine, this chef significantly contributed to the culinary arts. He authored several cookbooks that became influential in shaping modern cooking practices. In addition to writing, he taught cooking classes that helped to elevate the profession of chefs. He founded the James Beard Foundation, which supports and promotes the culinary arts in the United States. His teachings and writings greatly influenced generations of chefs and home cooks. This chef's enthusiasm for food translated into a celebrated television career, appearing on various cooking shows that introduced American audiences to fine dining.
Continue ReadingLeon Brittan
English lawyer and politician
Born
September 25th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in British politics, served as a Member of Parliament and held various government positions, including Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills. Contributed to the Conservative Party's efforts in the 1980s and 1990s, advocating for economic reforms and business initiatives. Played a significant role in the introduction of policies promoting innovation and business development. Was involved in the European Union's negotiations and discussions during his tenure.
Continue ReadingPope Paschal II
Pope and ecclesiastical leader
Born
1050 975 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1118 907 years ago — 68 years old
Served as Pope from 1099 until death in 1118. Played a significant role in the Investiture Controversy, advocating for the autonomy of the church from secular powers. Promoted the interests of the papacy and defended clerical authority. Oversaw the completion of St. Peter's Basilica and established the practice of canonization of saints.
Continue ReadingVladimir Lenin
Russian revolutionary and political leader
Born
April 22nd, 1870 155 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1924 101 years ago — 53 years old
This individual was a Russian lawyer and politician who played a pivotal role in the establishment of Soviet power following the Russian Revolution of 1917. He served as the leader of the Bolshevik Party and later as head of government of Soviet Russia and the Soviet Union. After leading the October Revolution, he implemented policies that laid the foundation for the Soviet state, including the nationalization of industry and land redistribution. His writings on Marxism and political theory influenced many around the world and continue to be studied today.
Continue ReadingMauricio Funes
Politician, 79th President of El Salvador
Born
October 18th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2025 0 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 79th President of El Salvador from 2009 to 2014. Focusing on social policies and poverty reduction, implemented programs to improve education and healthcare. His administration faced challenges, including crime rates and economic issues, but also aimed to strengthen government efforts to combat violence and promote development.
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