Ross Barnes

Baseball player and manager in 19th century

Ross Barnes - Baseball player and manager in 19th century
Born

May 8th, 1850
175 years ago

Died

February 5th, 1915
110 years ago — 64 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

An American baseball player and manager, made significant contributions to the early development of professional baseball. Played as a shortstop and was one of the first players to excel in batting, earning a reputation as a skilled hitter. Competed in the National League with the Chicago White Stockings, leading the league in batting average multiple times. Transitioned into managing, taking leadership roles with various teams, which included stints in the minor leagues. His playing career and managerial roles helped shape the strategies of the game in its formative years.

Led the National League in batting average in 1876

Played for the Chicago White Stockings

Other People Born on May 8th

J. Meade Falkner

English author, notable for novels.
Born
May 8th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1932 92 years ago — 74 years old

An English author and poet, Falkner gained recognition for contributions to literature in the late 19th century. Often associated with the adventure genre, Falkner’s most significant works include 'The Lost Stradivarius' and 'Moonfleet'. 'Moonfleet', published in 1898, is set in the early 18th century and revolves around smuggling and adventure, becoming a classic of children's literature. Falkner also contributed to poetry and was involved in the literary discussions of his time, reflecting the style and themes of the era. His writing often featured intricate plots and a deep sense of place, which appealed to a wide audience. In addition to writing, Falkner had interests in various fields including engineering. His literary legacy continued to be studied and appreciated long after his passing.

Continue Reading

Chris Frantz

Drummer and producer for Talking Heads
Born
May 8th, 1951 74 years ago

Born in 1951, this American drummer gained recognition as a founding member of the influential band Talking Heads. The group emerged from the New York City punk scene in the mid-1970s and became a prominent act in the new wave genre, merging art rock and pop. The drummer's innovative style contributed to Talking Heads' unique sound, characterized by a mix of punk rock, funk, and world music influences. Alongside the band, the drummer produced works for various artists, further showcasing talents both behind the kit and in the studio. The band released several critically acclaimed albums, achieving significant commercial success.

Continue Reading

Bad News Brown

Canadian rapper and actor
Born
May 8th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 34 years old

A Canadian rapper, harmonica player, and actor. Rose to prominence in the music scene with a unique blend of hip-hop and harmonica performances. Gained recognition for collaborations with various artists and contributed to the Canadian hip-hop landscape. Transitioned into acting, appearing in notable productions that showcased versatility in performance. Helped to elevate the profile of Canadian rap through creative expression and musical innovation.

Continue Reading

Franco Baresi

Italian footballer, AC Milan legend
Born
May 8th, 1960 65 years ago

A prominent footballer and coach, played as a central defender. Spent entire club career at AC Milan, making over 750 appearances. Helped AC Milan secure multiple Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to youth development at AC Milan.

Continue Reading

Thomas Pynchon

American novelist and Gravity's Rainbow author
Born
May 8th, 1937 88 years ago

An American novelist, known for complex narratives and intricate prose. Major works include 'Gravity's Rainbow,' which won the National Book Award in 1974. Other significant novels include 'The Crying of Lot 49' and 'V.' Pynchon often explores themes of conspiracy, technology, and the nature of reality. His writing style blends elements of postmodernism and historical fiction, making works rich with symbolism and cultural commentary. Preferred to maintain a reclusive public persona, rarely giving interviews or public appearances, which has added to the intrigue surrounding his life and work.

Continue Reading

Edward Gibbon

Historian and politician, authored 'Decline and Fall'
Born
May 8th, 1737 288 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1794 231 years ago — 56 years old

Active during the 18th century, contributed significantly to historical literature with a focus on the Roman Empire. Authored 'The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire', which detailed the rise and fall of Rome, along with issues regarding governance and society. Involved in politics, served as a Member of Parliament, where contributions included discussions on various legislative matters. Gibbon's insights provided a framework for understanding historical progress and decline.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 5th

K. N. Choksy

Sri Lankan politician and lawyer
Born
February 7th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician in Sri Lanka, served as the Minister of Finance. Played a key role in shaping financial policies during his tenure. Actively participated in various legislative initiatives and contributed to the development of the country's fiscal framework. His efforts included managing economic challenges and overseeing budget implementations in a politically dynamic environment.

Continue Reading

Jacques Ibert

Composer known for 'Concerto for Flute'
Born
August 15th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1962 63 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent composer in the 20th century, Ibert's works span numerous genres including opera, chamber music, and orchestral compositions. Ibert completed his studies at the Paris Conservatoire, where he gained recognition for his originality. His compositions often incorporate elements of French folk music and display wit and charm. Notable works include the 'Concerto for Flute and Orchestra' and the score for the film 'Les Chansons de France'. Ibert served as the director of the French Academy in Rome and was instrumental in promoting contemporary music during his tenure. He received the prestigious Prix de Rome for his contributions to music composition, reaffirming his status within the classical music community.

Continue Reading

William Collier Jr.

American actor and producer in film and TV
Born
February 12th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1987 38 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor and producer, active primarily from the 1920s to the 1950s, recognized for performances in both film and television. Played prominent roles in series such as 'The Life of Riley' and films including 'The Great Ziegfeld'. Collier contributed to the entertainment industry through both acting and production, showcasing versatility across multiple formats.

Continue Reading

Avitus of Vienne

Gallo-Roman bishop and theologian
Died
February 5th, 523 1502 years ago — None years old

Served as the Bishop of Vienne during the 5th century, contributing significantly to the early Christian Church. Played a crucial role in ecclesiastical matters and theological discussions of the time. Wrote several works, including letters and treatises addressing various religious issues. Participated in synods and church councils, advocating for church unity and responding to the challenges posed by Arianism. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen the Christian community amidst the changing political landscape of the Gallo-Roman world.

Continue Reading

Claude Autant-Lara

French film director and screenwriter
Born
August 5th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2000 25 years ago — 98 years old

Claude Autant-Lara directed and wrote numerous films in French cinema during the mid-20th century. He gained prominence with films such as 'La Traversée de Paris', which received critical acclaim and showcased the hardships of life in Paris during World War II. Autant-Lara's work often delved into themes of human relationships and social issues. His film 'Les Enfoirés' was also significant, reflecting the post-war era's challenges. Throughout his career, he collaborated with many notable actors and contributed to the evolution of French film narrative and style.

Continue Reading

Shunzhi

Emperor of the Qing Dynasty
Born
1638 387 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1661 364 years ago — 23 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1643, ruling as the first Qing Emperor of China after the fall of the Ming dynasty. His reign marked significant consolidation of Qing power, including the establishment of a streamlined centralized government. Implemented various reforms aimed at improving agricultural productivity and managing the economy. His reign experienced challenges from internal strife and external threats, but he worked to stabilize and unify the empire. Shunzhi also promoted cultural integration within the diverse populations of China, though he passed away at a young age.

Continue Reading