Ruud Lubbers
Dutch Prime Minister and diplomat
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.
Served as Prime Minister of the Netherlands
Worked as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
Other People Born on May 7th
Shawn Marion
Professional basketball player
Born
May 7th, 1978 47 years ago
A professional basketball player played primarily as a forward in the NBA. Achieved recognition for contributions to teams such as the Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Miami Heat. Helped the Mavericks secure the NBA Championship in 2011. Demonstrated versatility in skill set, including scoring, rebounding, and defensive capabilities. Played an essential role in the Phoenix Suns' 'Seven Seconds or Less' offense, which emphasized fast-paced play.
Continue ReadingStacey Jones
Rugby league player; Warriors legend
Born
May 7th, 1976 49 years ago
A rugby league player excelled in the halfback position. Played the majority of his career for the New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, contributing significantly to the team's success. Represented New Zealand in international competitions, earning recognition on the world stage. Retired with a reputation as one of the finest playmakers in the sport. After retirement, contributed to coaching and development of younger players.
Continue ReadingMichael P. Murphy
American lieutenant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
May 7th, 1976 49 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 29 years old
Served as a United States Navy SEAL. Participated in Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan, which aimed to capture a Taliban leader. Died in action while attempting a rescue of his team members during the operation. Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery and sacrifice. The Navy ship USS Michael Murphy was named in honor of his service and valor.
Continue ReadingAlexander Ludwig
Actor and musician, starred in 'The Hunger Games'
Born
May 7th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, a Canadian actor and musician gained recognition for roles in films and television series. Achieved fame for playing Cato in 'The Hunger Games' and starring as Bjorn Lothbrok in the series 'Vikings'. In addition to acting, pursued a career in music, releasing singles and albums. Participated in various entertainment projects, showcasing versatility in both acting and music.
Continue ReadingAjla Tomljanovic
Tennis player at Grand Slam tournaments
Born
May 7th, 1993 32 years ago
Ajla Tomljanovic is an Australian tennis player who achieved prominence on the WTA Tour. Born in 1993, significant milestones include participation in multiple Grand Slam tournaments. Tomljanovic reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in 2021, which marked her best performance at a major. She has competed for Australia in the Fed Cup and has been a constant presence in the international tennis circuit.
Continue ReadingMatt Helders
English drummer for Arctic Monkeys
Born
May 7th, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, a proficient drummer co-founded the band Arctic Monkeys, which rose to prominence in the early 2000s. The group's debut album, 'Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not,' released in 2006, achieved critical and commercial success, earning a Mercury Prize. During his career, contributions included dynamic performances and participation in recording multiple chart-topping albums. Helders has also collaborated with various artists and participated in side projects, showcasing versatility and talent in the music industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 14th
William Blackstone
English jurist and author of Commentaries
Born
July 10th, 1723 302 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1780 245 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent English jurist and politician, Blackstone is most recognized for his work in legal scholarship and education. The publication of 'Commentaries on the Laws of England,' completed in 1765, provided a comprehensive overview of English law and influenced legal education and practice in England and America. Blackstone served as a member of the House of Commons and was also appointed as a professor of law at Oxford University, where he contributed to the development of legal thought.
Continue ReadingRonald Dworkin
American legal philosopher and scholar
Born
December 11th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent philosopher and scholar, contributed significantly to legal and political theory. Developed influential ideas on law and morality, emphasizing the importance of individual rights. Wrote several key texts including 'Taking Rights Seriously' and 'Law's Empire', addressing the relationship between law and ethics. Engaged in public debates on various issues including abortion and assisted suicide, advocating for liberal principles based on rights and dignity.
Continue ReadingSteven Stucky
Composer and educator, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
November 7th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2016 9 years ago — 66 years old
An American composer and academic contributed extensively to contemporary music. Stucky studied at the University of California, Berkeley, and received advanced degrees from Cornell University. He served as a professor of composition at the Ithaca College School of Music and later as the composer-in-residence for major orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Stucky composed numerous orchestral, chamber, and vocal works. His most notable piece, 'Silent Woods,' won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1993.
Continue ReadingAmalie Andersen
Norwegian actress in early cinema
Born
April 19th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1924 101 years ago — 62 years old
An actress active in the early 20th century, notable contributions were made to Norwegian theater and film. Appeared in productions that showcased the cultural landscape of Norway during that period. Work included performances in several silent films, demonstrating the evolving art of early cinema. The career spanned various roles that reflected social themes and showcased dramatic storytelling, aligning with contemporary movements in performing arts.
Continue ReadingMaria Luisa of Savoy
Queen of Spain, wife of Philip V
Born
September 17th, 1688 337 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1714 311 years ago — 25 years old
Maria Luisa of Savoy served as queen consort of Spain through her marriage to King Philip V. Born into the House of Savoy, she married Philip in 1701 and played a significant role in the court. The couple had several children, contributing to the Bourbon dynasty's stability. Her tenure as queen was also marked by a focus on the arts and the development of Spanish culture. Maria Luisa's health began to decline later in life, and she died in 1714.
Continue ReadingSt. John Richardson Liddell
American general in the Civil War
Born
September 6th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1870 155 years ago — 54 years old
Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Participated in significant battles including the Battle of Shiloh and the Siege of Vicksburg. Took command of a brigade and later a division, showcasing leadership in various military engagements. Post-war, engaged in a career as a planter in Louisiana.
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