Raquel Blandón
Guatemalan lawyer and activist, First Lady
A prominent lawyer and activist associated with social justice initiatives, served as the First Lady of Guatemala. Engaged in advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and contributed to legal reforms aimed at improving access to justice. Focused on issues such as women's rights, education, and the rule of law during the tenure as First Lady. Played a pivotal role in various non-governmental organizations dedicated to civil rights and legal assistance.
Advocated for women's rights in Guatemala
Contributed to legal reform initiatives
Served as First Lady of Guatemala
Other People Born on May 10th
Mahmoud Mokhtar
Egyptian sculptor and educator
Born
May 10th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1934 91 years ago — 42 years old
An influential Egyptian sculptor and educator contributed significantly to modern Egyptian art. Painted a fusion of Pharaonic and modern styles, including the iconic statue 'The Lady in Mourning' which portrays a grieving woman reflecting Egyptian heritage. Established an art school that nurtured local talent and promoted cultural awareness through the arts. Worked extensively in marble and bronze, blending traditional techniques with contemporary themes.
Continue ReadingCecilia Payne-Gaposchkin
Astronomer noted for stellar atmospheres
Born
May 10th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1979 46 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American astronomer and astrophysicist, played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of stellar atmospheres. Discovered that the sun is composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, fundamentally altering the field of astrophysics. Published a groundbreaking thesis that laid the foundation for modern astrophysics. Contributed to the understanding of variable stars and the structure of the Milky Way galaxy. Served as a professor at Harvard University, leading the department of astronomy.
Continue ReadingJohn Wilkes Booth
American actor and presidential assassin
Born
May 10th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1865 160 years ago — 26 years old
An accomplished actor in the 19th century, gained fame through performances at various theaters, particularly noted for roles in Shakespearean plays. Booth was part of a well-known theatrical family and often appeared in productions such as 'Julius Caesar'. His notoriety increased following the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865, during a performance at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. After the assassination, fled and was pursued widely, leading to a standoff at a Virginia barn where he was ultimately killed by Union soldiers.
Continue ReadingAl-Aziz Billah
Fatimid Caliph, ruled from 975 to 996
Born
May 10th, 955 1070 years ago
Died
October 14th, 996 1029 years ago — 41 years old
Ruled as the Fatimid Caliph from 975 until death in 996. Established the city of Cairo as the new capital and strengthened the administrative structure of the Fatimid Caliphate. Promoted cultural and intellectual development in the region, fostering the arts and sciences. His rule marked a significant period in the history of Islamic governance in North Africa.
Continue ReadingGustav Stresemann
German Chancellor and Nobel laureate
Born
May 10th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1929 96 years ago — 51 years old
Served as Chancellor of Germany in 1923 and later as Foreign Minister. Played a significant role in the Weimar Republic and sought to stabilize Germany's economy after World War I. Advocated for the policy of reconciliation with the Allies, which included signing the Locarno Treaties in 1925. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1926 for efforts in promoting international cooperation and peace. Instrumental in Germany's admission to the League of Nations, fostering diplomatic relations.
Continue ReadingDimitri Tiomkin
Composer noted for film scores
Born
May 10th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1979 46 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Ukraine, a composer and conductor gained prominence in the film industry, particularly during the mid-20th century. Migrating to the United States, collaborated with various directors and created memorable scores that enhanced the cinematic experience. Worked with prominent films including 'High Noon,' which received an Academy Award for Best Original Song, and 'The Fall of the Roman Empire.' Additionally, contributed music to 'Lost Horizon' and 'Friendly Persuasion,' further showcasing talent in film scoring. Tiomkin's work demonstrated a blend of classical influences and contemporary elements, influencing the scoring of future films.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 21st
Bob Donham
American basketball player and coach
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1983 42 years ago — 57 years old
Played college basketball at the University of Oregon before joining the professional ranks. Played for the Boston Celtics in the NBA, winning the 1957 NBA Championship. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of young players and sharing extensive knowledge of the game.
Continue ReadingMichael Harari
Israeli intelligence officer
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old
An Israeli intelligence officer, this individual had a notable career in the intelligence community, primarily serving in the Mossad. Contributions during key operations including the pursuit of Nazi war criminals and counter-terrorism efforts in various regions are significant aspects of the career. Involvement in high-profile missions to track down individuals involved in attacks against Israeli interests marked a crucial part of the professional life. The strategic planning and operational execution in various foreign countries were integral to the objectives achieved during service.
Continue ReadingAndrew Brewin
Canadian politician and MP
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1983 42 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent politician in Canada, held the position of Member of Parliament for the NDP during the post-war period. Served as a member of the House of Commons for over 20 years. Advocated for various social justice issues and participated in debates surrounding national policies. After his retirement from politics, continued to influence public discourse through various channels until death in 1983.
Continue ReadingBernardo Houssay
Argentinian physiologist, Nobel Laureate
Born
April 10th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1971 54 years ago — 84 years old
Physiologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of the role of the pituitary gland in controlling glucose metabolism. Houssay pioneered research in endocrinology, demonstrating the influence of hormones on blood sugar levels. In 1947, received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries related to the physiology of the pancreas and its hormonal regulation. Served as a professor and director of various scientific institutions in Argentina, promoting scientific research and education.
Continue ReadingYehuda Elkana
Israeli historian and philosopher
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed to the fields of history, philosophy, and science. Focused on the philosophy of science and education, and examined the relationship between science and its societal implications. Served as the president of the Central European University from 2001 to 2004, promoting academic excellence and interdisciplinary studies. Published extensively on historical and philosophical topics, influencing both academic discourse and public understanding of complex issues.
Continue ReadingOrlando Letelier
Chilean economist and politician
Born
April 13th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1976 49 years ago — 44 years old
An economist and politician, served as the Minister of National Defense in Chile. His tenure in government was marked by his involvement in the implementation of economic policies during the presidency of Salvador Allende. After the 1973 coup, he was forced into exile and relocated to the United States, where he became an outspoken critic of the Pinochet regime. Letelier continued to advocate for democracy and human rights until his assassination in Washington, D.C. in 1976, a politically motivated act that garnered international attention.
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