Robert Harley
English lawyer and politician
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
England
Links & References
Born in 1661, this figure served as Secretary of State for the Northern Department. As a prominent political leader during Queen Anne's reign, held influential roles in the government, particularly as a key advisor. Played a vital role in managing relations between England and Scotland and was instrumental in the passing of significant legislation. Elevated to the peerage as the 1st Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer, represented the Tory party during a time of political upheaval. Contributed to the British political landscape through various legislative efforts and reforms.
Served as Secretary of State for the Northern Department
Became the 1st Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer
Other People Born on December 5th
Levy Rozman
Chess International Master and YouTuber
Born
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago
An International Master in chess, contributed significantly to online chess content creation through streaming and YouTube. Focused on educating and entertaining chess enthusiasts with instructional videos and live gameplay. Engaged audiences with a blend of humor and strategic insights. Gained popularity for promoting chess through innovative digital platforms.
Continue ReadingChristina Rossetti
English poet, author of 'Goblin Market'
Born
December 5th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1894 130 years ago — 64 years old
Born in England in 1830, a prominent poet and author emerged, contributing significantly to Victorian literature. The early literary career included the publication of poems in various collections. The most renowned work, 'Goblin Market,' published in 1862, showcased imaginative narrative and themes of sacrifice and sisterhood. Additionally, published several other notable works, including 'The Prince's Progress' and 'Sing-Song: A Nursery Rhyme Book.' The engagement with spiritual themes and personal faith also characterized much of the writing, reflecting the broader pre-Raphaelite movement. Worked as a translator and involved in charitable efforts throughout life, further expanding influence within literary and social spheres.
Continue ReadingHilary Koprowski
Virologist and immunologist; developed vaccines
Born
December 5th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
This Polish-American virologist and immunologist developed the first effective oral polio vaccine, which significantly contributed to the global effort to eradicate poliomyelitis. The vaccine was tested in mass campaigns in Colombia and later used in other countries. Koprowski's research included work on vaccines for other diseases, including rabies. His contributions to the field of virology included pioneering work in the study of viruses.
Continue ReadingHelen Dettweiler
American golfer and U.S. Women's Open winner
Born
December 5th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1990 35 years ago — 75 years old
Helen Dettweiler was an American golfer who achieved significant success in women's golf during the mid-20th century. Born in December 1914, Dettweiler began competing in amateur tournaments and quickly rose to prominence. She won the 1943 U.S. Women's Open, which solidified her status in the sport. In addition to her U.S. Women’s Open victory, she was a member of the victorious American team at the Curtis Cup in 1948. Throughout her career, Dettweiler competed in numerous national and international tournaments, contributing to the growing popularity of women's golf in the United States.
Continue ReadingCharles Robberts Swart
South African lawyer and 1st State President
Born
December 5th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1982 43 years ago — 87 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the first State President of South Africa from 1960 to 1967 following the establishment of the office after the republic was declared in 1960. Swart had previously been active in the government, holding various positions, including Minister of Defence and Minister of Interior. His presidency coincided with significant political changes in South Africa, including the formalization of apartheid laws. After leaving office, Swart continued to be involved in politics and public life until his retirement.
Continue ReadingJohn Jellicoe
Admiral and Governor-General of New Zealand
Born
December 5th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1935 90 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1859, served as a distinguished admiral in the Royal Navy. Commanded the British fleet at the Battle of Jutland during World War I. Contributed to naval strategy and operations in the war. Later appointed as the 2nd Governor-General of New Zealand, overseeing important developments in the country's governance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Geoffrey de Havilland
Pilot and engineer; designed Mosquito
Born
July 27th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1965 60 years ago — 82 years old
An English pilot and engineer played a significant role in the development of military aircraft during World War II. Established the de Havilland Aircraft Company, which produced several notable aircraft designs. The most prominent of these was the de Havilland Mosquito, a twin-engine bomber known for its speed and versatility. Beyond military applications, contributions also extended into civil aviation with the design of the de Havilland Comet, the world's first commercial turbojet airliner. His engineering advancements greatly influenced aircraft performance and technology in aviation.
Continue ReadingJane Addams
Sociologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 6th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 90 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1860, a sociologist and author played a crucial role in the social reform movement in the United States. After co-founding Hull House in Chicago, focused on community service and advocacy for immigrant welfare, women's rights, and labor reforms. Delivered lectures and published numerous works, highlighting the importance of social justice and public health. In 1931, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in promoting peace and cooperation among nations. Engaged in various initiatives aimed at improving living conditions for the urban poor and advocating for social reforms.
Continue ReadingAugust Kundt
German physicist known for Kundt's tube
Born
November 18th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1894 131 years ago — 54 years old
A physicist and educator made significant contributions to experimental physics. Developed Kundt's tube, an apparatus used to measure the speed of sound in gases. Served as a professor and emphasized the importance of practical experiments in teaching physics.
Continue ReadingAnn Little
American actress in silent films
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1984 41 years ago — 93 years old
Active in the early 20th century, this actress starred in silent films. Gained attention for performances in movies such as 'The Coming of Amos' (1913) and 'The Count of Monte Cristo' (1922). Transitioned to sound films but her prominence diminished with the advent of talkies. Continued to work in various acting roles throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Continue ReadingPandolfo Petrucci
Tyrant of Siena
Born
February 14th, 1452 573 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1512 513 years ago — 60 years old
Governed Siena during the late 15th century. Achieved power through a combination of political maneuvering and military strength. Established a ruling dynasty in Siena that controlled the city for decades, influencing its affairs and politics. Oversaw significant changes in the governance and administration of the city-state. His rule marked the transition of Siena from a free comune to a more centralized authority.
Continue ReadingHidesaburō Ueno
Japanese agriculturalist and guardian of Hachikō
Born
1871 154 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1925 100 years ago — 54 years old
An agriculturalist primarily associated with agricultural education and research in Japan. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Tokyo Agricultural College. Gained recognition as the guardian of Hachikō, an Akita dog known for its remarkable loyalty. After the death of Hachikō, Ueno's relationship with the dog was highlighted in various media, contributing to Hachikō's legacy as a symbol of fidelity.
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