Peter Matthiessen
Novel Writer and Paris Review Co-founder
A prominent American novelist and short story writer, played a significant role in American literature through both creative writing and editorial work. Co-founded The Paris Review, a prestigious literary magazine that has published numerous acclaimed writers. Produced notable works blending fiction and non-fiction, often exploring nature and the human condition. Achieved recognition for both literary and environmental advocacy.
Co-founded The Paris Review
Published works such as 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord'
Won the National Book Award for 'Shadow Country'
Other People Born on May 22nd
Joel Obi
Nigerian footballer who played for Inter Milan
Born
May 22nd, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, a footballer played as a midfielder. Developed at the youth academy of Inter Milan, debuting in Serie A in 2010. Contributed to Inter's success in the 2010-11 Coppa Italia, securing the title. Additionally played for the Nigerian national team, participating in both the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Later played for various clubs, including Parma and Chievo.
Continue ReadingNovak Djokovic
Professional tennis player with 20 Grand Slam titles
Born
May 22nd, 1987 38 years ago
A Serbian tennis player achieved prominence in the professional tennis circuit. Successfully captured a total of 20 Grand Slam singles titles, including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Built a reputation for exceptional skills, mental toughness, and consistency on the court. Ascended to the world No. 1 ranking multiple times, setting a record for the most weeks at this position. Won numerous ATP Masters 1000 events throughout a highly decorated career.
Continue ReadingArturo Vidal
Chilean footballer and Copa América champion
Born
May 22nd, 1987 38 years ago
A professional footballer from Chile, played primarily as a midfielder. Began career at Colo-Colo, winning the Chilean Primera División. Later played in Europe for clubs including Bayer Leverkusen, Juventus, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona. Contributed to Juventus's dominance in Serie A, winning multiple league titles. Achieved success with Bayern Munich, securing Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League title. Played a crucial role in Chile's victory in the 2015 Copa América and the team’s runner-up finish in 2017. Renowned for his tenacity, tactical awareness, and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingPeyton Elizabeth Lee
Actress in 'Andi Mack' and 'Doogie Kameāloha'
Born
May 22nd, 2004 21 years ago
Born in 2004, this actress gained recognition for roles in Disney Channel's series 'Andi Mack', which aired from 2017 to 2019. The show centered on adolescent challenges and family dynamics, earning critical acclaim for its storytelling and representation. In 2021, she starred in 'Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.', a reboot of the 1989 medical drama 'Doogie Howser, M.D.', depicting a teenage prodigy navigating the complexities of life as a doctor and a teenager. These roles contributed to her popularity among younger audiences and established her as a prominent figure in contemporary television.
Continue ReadingHeida Reed
Icelandic-British actress, Poldark star
Born
May 22nd, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, this Icelandic-British actress began her career in the early 2010s. She gained recognition through her role as Elizabeth Poldark in the BBC series 'Poldark'. The series, which aired from 2015 to 2019, is an adaptation of the novels by Winston Graham. This actress has also appeared in other television series such as 'Landing of the Mayflower' and 'The Maniac'. Part of her career includes modeling and work in theatre.
Continue ReadingJulian Edelman
American football player, Super Bowl MVP
Born
May 22nd, 1986 39 years ago
Played as a wide receiver for the New England Patriots from 2009 to 2020. Helped the team secure three Super Bowl titles (XLIX, LI, LIII) and was awarded Super Bowl MVP for his performance in Super Bowl LIII. Noted for his exceptional catching skills and ability to perform in critical game situations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Cozy Powell
Drummer for Rainbow and Black Sabbath
Born
December 29th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1998 27 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent English drummer, contributed to the rock genre through work with several iconic bands. Co-founded the band Rainbow, which gained recognition with the album 'Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow.' Later joined Black Sabbath, recording the album 'Mob Rules.' Also performed with other notable artists including Jeff Beck and Whitesnake. Involved in various collaborative projects throughout the career, showcasing exceptional drumming skills and versatility in different musical styles. Passed away in 1998.
Continue ReadingLeabua Jonathan
Prime Minister of Lesotho
Born
October 30th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1987 38 years ago — 72 years old
Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of Lesotho from 1965 to 1986. Played a significant role in the country's early political landscape, leading the Basotho National Party. Oversaw the country's policies during a time of political instability and was instrumental in establishing the framework for Lesotho's governance. After being ousted in a 1986 coup, faced exile until returning in the early 1990s.
Continue ReadingLayne Staley
Lead vocalist of Alice in Chains
Born
August 22nd, 1967 58 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 34 years old
An American singer-songwriter gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band Alice in Chains. Originating from Seattle, the band became a prominent figure in the grunge music scene of the early 1990s. Staley's distinctive vocal style and emotive lyrics contributed significantly to the band's success. The group achieved commercial acclaim with hit albums such as 'Dirt' and 'Jar of Flies.' Staley's battle with addiction was well-documented and affected both his personal life and career. He passed away in 2002, leaving a lasting legacy within the rock genre.
Continue ReadingMaria Gripe
Swedish author and children's book writer
Born
July 25th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2007 18 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to children's literature. Authored numerous books that often featured themes of adventure and fantasy. Works included collaborations with illustrators that enhanced the storytelling experience. Gripe's narratives often dealt with complex emotions and existential questions, appealing to both children and adults. Her storytelling style blended realism with elements of myth, making stories relatable yet imaginative. Gripe received several awards recognizing her contributions to literature, including the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.
Continue ReadingSam Walton
Businessman and founder of Walmart
Born
March 29th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1992 33 years ago — 74 years old
Founded Walmart in 1962, reshaping retail by introducing a model of discount pricing and large-scale stores. Expanded the business with the creation of Sam's Club in 1983, catering to warehouse shopping. Grew Walmart into one of the largest retail chains globally, emphasizing customer service and distribution efficiency. Authored 'Made in America', reflecting on business practices and philosophy. Focused on rural markets initially, contributing to economic changes across the United States.
Continue ReadingBaruch Samuel Blumberg
Physician and geneticist, Nobel laureate
Born
July 28th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
A physician and geneticist contributed significantly to medical science. Discovered the Hepatitis B virus, leading to the development of a vaccine that has saved millions of lives. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for the discovery of the virus. Served as a professor and director at various institutions, which included the quest for new ways to combat viral diseases.
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