René Goupil
Missionary and martyr of North America
Born in France, a Jesuit missionary traveled to Canada to engage in missionary work among Indigenous peoples. Encountered challenges during the mission, including language barriers and cultural differences. Demonstrated commitment to the Jesuit mission of spreading Christianity. Captured and martyred during efforts to evangelize in the early colonial period. Canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, recognized for the sacrifice made in the pursuit of faith.
Served as a missionary in New France
Martyred during missionary efforts
Other People Born on May 15th
Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban
French military engineer and fortification expert
Born
May 15th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1707 318 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent French military engineer, contributions centered on the development of fortified cities and modern military architecture. Served as a marshal of France under Louis XIV. Advanced the art of fortification through principles that emphasized geometric design and comprehensive defensive systems. Authored several treatises on military engineering, influencing the design of fortresses in Europe for centuries.
Continue ReadingMadhuri Dixit
Indian actress in Bollywood cinema
Born
May 15th, 1967 58 years ago
An acclaimed actress in Indian cinema, gained prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s. Starred in memorable films such as 'Dil', 'Tezaab', 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!', and 'Devdas'. Recognized for exceptional dance performances and versatility in portraying a range of characters. Earned numerous awards including Filmfare Awards and received the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors.
Continue ReadingJames Mason
English Actor in 'North by Northwest'
Born
May 15th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1984 41 years ago — 75 years old
An accomplished actor, producer, and screenwriter, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Began his career in British theater and transitioned to cinema during the 1940s. Achieved recognition for performances in films such as 'The Man in Grey', 'A Star Is Born', and 'North by Northwest'. Earned extensive acclaim for his distinct voice and commanding screen presence. Worked in both British and American film industries, appearing in a variety of genres from drama to thrillers.
Continue ReadingViktor Vasnetsov
Russian painter and illustrator
Born
May 15th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1926 99 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Russian painter and illustrator, active during the late 19th century. Specialized in historical and mythological themes, often depicting Slavic folklore and legends. His most celebrated works include 'The Knight at the Crossroads' and 'The Alenushka.' Vasnetsov also contributed to the decorative arts, including designing churches and creating mosaics. His work played a significant role in the development of the Russian national artistic style.
Continue ReadingDan Patrick
Television sportscaster and anchor
Born
May 15th, 1956 69 years ago
Television anchor and sportscaster began career in the late 1970s, hosting various sports programs. Gained prominence with the ESPN network in the 1990s as co-host of the 'SportsCenter' program. Established the 'Dan Patrick Show' in 2007, which blends sports commentary with pop culture. Has contributed to major sports events and hosted radio shows, enhancing sports media coverage. Received multiple awards for contributions to sports broadcasting and established a significant presence in both television and radio.
Continue ReadingRoy Stewart
Jamaican-English actor and stuntman
Born
May 15th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1925, this individual was an actor and stuntman with a significant career in film and television. Known for performing stunts in high-profile productions, he contributed to action sequences in a variety of genres. The actor's skills in combat and physical performance were showcased in iconic films such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'James Bond: Goldfinger.' His expertise helped bring realism to action scenes across various cinematic works.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 29th
Arthur Ochs Sulzberger
American publisher of The New York Times
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the publisher of The New York Times from 1963 to 1992. Increased the newspaper's prominence and expanded its national and international reach. Oversaw significant developments in the paper's operations, including the transition to a more modern business model and improved technologies in journalism. Inherited control of the Times amid a challenging financial period and successfully navigated the publication through turbulent times in the media industry.
Continue ReadingTony Curtis
American actor in iconic films
Born
June 3rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1925, this American actor rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved significant stardom through performances in films such as 'Some Like It Hot' and 'Spartacus'. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in 'The Defiant Ones'. Began his career in the late 1940s and became a leading man known for his charm and versatility. Transitioned to television later in life, starring in the series 'The Persuaders!'. Passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.
Continue ReadingAustin Leslie
Chef and author of Creole cuisine
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 71 years old
An accomplished chef and author, contributed to the promotion of Creole cuisine. Operated a prominent restaurant in New Orleans, which became a culinary landmark. Emphasized traditional cooking techniques and regional ingredients, inspiring many culinary enthusiasts. Authored a cookbook that highlighted the richness of Creole flavors and recipes, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Continue ReadingNawwaf bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Saudi Arabian prince and politician
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
Engaged in various governmental roles within Saudi Arabia, focusing on national security and military affairs. Held the position of Minister of Interior of Saudi Arabia from 1975 until 1982, responsible for maintaining internal security and overseeing the police forces. Served as the governor of Riyadh Province, significantly contributing to the modernization of the capital. Played a key role in managing the various societal changes in Saudi Arabia through strategic development initiatives.
Continue ReadingPatrick Caulfield
Painter known for vibrant still lifes
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 69 years old
An English painter and academic focused on still life and interior scenes. Emphasized bold colors and flat surfaces in artworks. Notable works include 'The Breakfast Table' and 'Interior with a Woman'. Among prominent figures in contemporary British art, contributed to various exhibitions, including the Hayward Gallery. Held teaching positions at institutions like the Royal College of Art, influencing future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingLouis-Albert Vachon
Canadian Cardinal and church leader
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2006 19 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a prominent figure in the Canadian Roman Catholic Church. Appointed as the Archbishop of Ottawa in 1971, overseeing various religious activities and community outreach initiatives. Elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1994, representing Canada in the Vatican. Engaged in numerous ecumenical and interfaith dialogues, contributing to the development of church relations. His leadership extended beyond the archdiocese, as he also played a key role in national church administration.
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