Rabindranath Tagore
Indian poet and Nobel Prize winner
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.
Won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913
Authored the poetry collection 'Gitanjali'
Founded Visva-Bharati University
Other People Born on May 7th
Carl Heinrich Graun
German tenor and composer of opera
Born
May 7th, 1701 324 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1759 266 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1701, a significant tenor and composer in Germany. He studied under renowned musicians and gained prominence in the 18th century. Composed notable operas such as 'Cesare e Cleopatra' and 'Der König von Arkadien'. Worked at various courts, including that of Frederick the Great. His contributions to the opera genre were influential during his time, reflecting the transition of musical styles in the Baroque period.
Continue ReadingDavid Tomlinson
English actor in 'Mary Poppins'
Born
May 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2000 25 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1917, this actor achieved significant recognition for a career in film and theatre. Most notably, the portrayal of George Banks in 'Mary Poppins' showcased a mix of charm and humor, appealing to audiences worldwide. Other prominent roles included work in films such as 'The Love Bug' and 'Bedknobs and Broomsticks', where performances contributed to the success of the Disney brand during the 1960s and 1970s. His career spanned several decades, becoming a staple of British cinema and family entertainment.
Continue ReadingMarv Hubbard
American football player, Pro Bowl selection
Born
May 7th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old
A professional American football player, played as a fullback in the National Football League (NFL). Spent the majority of the career with the Oakland Raiders from 1969 to 1980. Contributed to the team's success during the 1976 season, which culminated in a victory in Super Bowl XI. Recognized for outstanding performance and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1975. Retired with notable statistics and a reputation as a strong team player.
Continue ReadingDick Williams
Baseball manager with multiple championships
Born
May 7th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 82 years old
A baseball player, coach, and manager, contributions spanned multiple decades in Major League Baseball. Managed the Boston Red Sox and the Oakland Athletics, leading teams to significant success. Played in the MLB as an outfielder in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Transitioned to coaching and management, where strategies and leadership translated to championship titles and recognition.
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 ReadingRuud Lubbers
Dutch Prime Minister and diplomat
Born
May 7th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2018 7 years ago — 78 years old
Held the position of Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1982 to 1994, serving as a member of the Christian Democratic Appeal party. Played a significant role in Dutch politics during a time of economic challenges, implementing various reforms aimed at improving the economy and social welfare. After his tenure as Prime Minister, served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 2001 to 2005, focusing on global refugee issues and advocating for the rights of displaced persons.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 7th
Grayson Hall
American actress in Dark Shadows
Born
September 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1985 40 years ago — 62 years old
An American actress whose career spanned from the 1950s to the 1980s. Best recognized for the role of Dr. Julia Hoffman in the gothic soap opera Dark Shadows, which became a significant cultural phenomenon during its run. The role showcased a complex character that blended elements of horror and melodrama. Hall also made appearances in films, including 1970's Night of Dark Shadows, continuing her connection to the iconic series. Her performances often highlighted her versatility within the genre.
Continue ReadingJoan of Kent
Mother of Richard II of England
Born
1328 698 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1385 640 years ago — 57 years old
Born into nobility, the individual became the mother of Richard II, who ascended the English throne as a child. The individual was the daughter of Edmund of Woodstock, 1st Earl of Kent, and Margaret Wake. Through marriage to Edward, the Black Prince, the individual connected the royal lines of England and France. The individual's life spanned significant historical contexts, contributing to the lineage that would shape future English governance.
Continue ReadingJack Gregory
Australian cricketer with Test match success
Born
August 14th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1973 52 years ago — 77 years old
Started playing cricket in the early 20th century, achieving notable success as an Australian cricketer. Represented Australia in Test matches from 1920 to 1929, playing as a fast bowler. Dominated the cricket scene with impressive performances, particularly in England. Part of the team during the famous Bodyline series in 1932-33, which introduced controversial bowling tactics. After retiring, remained influential in cricket, contributing to the sport through coaching and commentary.
Continue ReadingJohn Nelder
Mathematician and statistician, created Nelder-Mead algorithm
Born
October 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
A mathematician and statistician contributed significantly to the field of statistics and optimization. Developed the Nelder-Mead method, a widely used algorithm for nonlinear optimization. Worked extensively on statistical models and played a crucial role in the advancement of analysis of variance and experimental design. Engaged in academic positions, fostering mathematics education and research.
Continue ReadingFrances Oldham Kelsey
Pharmacologist against thalidomide
Born
July 24th, 1914 111 years ago
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August 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 101 years old
A pharmacologist and physician, contributed significantly to drug safety regulations. Conducted extensive reviews of thalidomide in the early 1960s while working at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Refused to approve the drug for use in the United States due to concerns about its safety for pregnant women. Her decision prevented thousands of potential birth defects, leading to increased scrutiny and reform in drug approval processes.
Continue ReadingJöns Jacob Berzelius
Swedish chemist and founder of modern chemistry
Born
August 20th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1848 177 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry in the early 19th century. Developed methods for chemical analysis and introduced the concept of chemical symbols and formulas. Instituted the use of the modern system of chemical notation, which simplifies the communication of chemical compositions. Held the position of professor of chemistry at the University of Uppsala and significantly advanced the study of organic compounds.
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