Preczlaw of Pogarell
Cardinal and Bishop of Wrocław
Served as the Bishop of Wrocław from 1350 until death in 1376. Played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the late medieval period and was elevated to the rank of cardinal. Held multiple ecclesiastical roles, contributing to the administration of the church and its influence in Lower Silesia. Engaged in various diplomatic missions, particularly related to church and state affairs.
Bishop of Wrocław from 1350 to 1376
Elevated to cardinal
Contributed to the church's administration
Other People Born on May 5th
Gabriel
French nobleman and courtier
Born
May 5th, 1530 495 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1574 451 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1530, a French nobleman and courtier became prominent in the court of King Henry II. He gained notoriety for his role in the turbulent political landscape of 16th-century France. Gabriel served in military campaigns and was involved in the intricate court intrigues of his time. His life intersected with historical conflicts, including the religious wars that divided France. His execution in 1574 was a significant event, leading to repercussions in the political dynamics of the era.
Continue ReadingRay Gosling
Journalist and author of 'The Gay History'
Born
May 5th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A journalist, author, and activist contributed significantly to discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and issues in the UK. Worked in various media outlets throughout the career, including television and print. Authored multiple books, with a focus on gay history and the challenges faced by the community. Developed a reputation for candid storytelling and advocacy, particularly during the 20th century when activism for LGBTQ+ rights gained momentum. Involved in various projects that highlighted societal issues and personal narratives.
Continue ReadingBrian Williams
Journalist and NBC Nightly News anchor
Born
May 5th, 1959 66 years ago
Served as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News from 2004 to 2015. Played a significant role in covering major events, including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. Faced criticism and a suspension for inaccuracies in reporting. Joined MSNBC as a breaking news anchor after leaving NBC Nightly News.
Continue ReadingEd Lee
American politician and attorney.
Born
May 5th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 43rd Mayor of San Francisco from 2011 until his death in 2017. Prior to becoming mayor, held the position of San Francisco's city administrator and director of the Department of Public Works. Focused on housing, economic growth, and education during the tenure as mayor. Advocated for the expansion of affordable housing and developed initiatives to support small businesses and the tech industry in the city.
Continue ReadingHenryk Sienkiewicz
Polish Author, Nobel Prize Winner
Born
May 5th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1916 109 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent journalist and author, produced significant literary works in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Best recognized for the historical novels 'Quo Vadis', 'The Teutonic Knights', and 'With Fire and Sword'. Achieved the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1905 for a body of work presenting the historical and cultural heritage of Poland. Works often reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Polish people during periods of partition and oppression.
Continue ReadingRupert of Germany
Count Palatine and Holy Roman King
Born
May 5th, 1352 673 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1410 615 years ago — 58 years old
Rupert held titles as the Count Palatine of the Rhine and King of Germany during the late 14th and early 15th centuries. His reign was characterized by involvement in the power struggles of the imperial succession and conflicts with rival factions. Rupert played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire. He was elected King of the Romans in 1400, a title that sought to legitimize his authority amid the complex feudal and dynastic conflicts of the time. His leadership included challenges in maintaining the loyalty of various territorial princes and dealing with external threats. Rupert's military strategies and alliances were essential in his political manoeuvring.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 6th
Ioannis Alevras
Greek politician, President of Greece
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1995 30 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the President of Greece from 1980 to 1981. Alevras had a background in banking and held various political positions throughout his career, contributing to the country’s political landscape. His presidency was marked by efforts to stabilize the political environment during a transitional period in Greek history.
Continue ReadingMatthias Corvinus
Hungarian king with a strong rule
Born
February 23rd, 1443 582 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1490 535 years ago — 47 years old
Reigned as King of Hungary from 1458 to 1490. Led military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and strengthened the kingdom's defenses. Established a well-rounded court in Buda and promoted culture, including founding the library known as the Bibliotheca Corviniana, one of the largest Renaissance libraries in Europe. Implemented reforms to improve governance and taxation, enhancing royal authority.
Continue ReadingRichard I
King of England, led during Crusades
Born
1157 868 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1199 826 years ago — 42 years old
Ruled as king of England from 1189 until death in 1199. Played a significant role in the Third Crusade, leading forces to reclaim Jerusalem from Saladin. Spent much of reign outside England, focusing on military campaigns in the Holy Land. Known for military leadership and chivalric ideals. Faced conflicts with King Philip II of France and was captured shortly after returning to England, leading to a heavy ransom being paid for release.
Continue ReadingThomas Kinkade
American painter of idyllic landscapes
Born
January 19th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 54 years old
A painter specialized in idyllic subjects, produced numerous works that capture serene landscapes and cozy cottages, often characterized by rich colors and light. Established a distinctive style that led to significant commercial success, seeing art as a means of spreading hope and joy. Founded a publishing company to distribute prints of his art, making it widely accessible. His work received various accolades and recognition, elevating the role of art in home decoration during his career.
Continue ReadingFang Lizhi
Astrophysicist and Chinese academic
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old
An astrophysicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics, particularly in the studies concerning solar dynamics and the conditions of the universe. Served as a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China. Played an important role in the pro-democracy movement in China, advocating for political reform during the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989. After the crackdown, sought asylum in the United States and continued to engage in academic pursuits while critiquing the Chinese government's policies.
Continue ReadingChuck Stone
Journalist and academic leader
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A soldier during World War II, contributed significantly to journalism and academia. Worked as an editor and columnist for notable publications such as the Philadelphia Daily News. Served as a professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where developed programs focused on journalism ethics and diversity. Actively involved in civil rights movement, advocating for racial equality through both writing and educational reforms. Received numerous awards for contributions to journalism and education.
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