Sam Nujoma
Namibian politician, 1st President
A prominent figure in the struggle for Namibia's independence, the first president played a significant role in the country’s transition from colonial rule to autonomy. Serving as president from 1990 to 2005, efforts included establishing a constitutional democracy and promoting national unity. Prior to presidency, involvement in the liberation movement as a leader of SWAPO (South West Africa People's Organization) was crucial in gaining political recognition. Engagement in various international platforms to advocate for African solidarity further defined the political career.
Led Namibia to independence from South Africa
Served as the first president from 1990 to 2005
Other People Born on May 12th
Jesús Franco
Filmmaker and horror genre pioneer
Born
May 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
A Spanish director, screenwriter, producer, and actor, recognized for contributions to the horror genre. Directed over 200 films, spanning various styles and themes. Developed a unique style characterized by low budgets and provocative content. Collaborated with notable actors, including Christopher Lee and Soledad Miranda. Gained a cult following through films that often blended eroticism with horror. His works included titles such as 'Count Dracula', 'The Awful Dr. Orlof', and 'Vampyros Lesbos', which have garnered attention in film studies and retrospectives.
Continue ReadingEtika
YouTuber and live streamer
Born
May 12th, 1990 35 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2019 6 years ago — 29 years old
An American YouTuber and live streamer gained prominence through engaging content primarily focused on video games, particularly Nintendo franchises. Established a significant online presence with a lively personality and unique style that resonated with audiences. Created reaction videos that captured the excitement of gaming announcements and developments. Started the channel in 2012, quickly growing a large subscriber base. Faced challenges related to mental health, leading to an impactful discussion in online communities about mental well-being and support.
Continue ReadingClemens von Pirquet
Immunologist and creator of allergy testing
Born
May 12th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1929 96 years ago — 54 years old
Contributed significantly to immunology, particularly through the development of the skin test for allergies. Introduced the concept of 'allergy' as a medical term and formulated the von Pirquet test, which assessed hypersensitivity reactions. Published research on the immune response and strengthened the understanding of vaccines and infectious diseases, laying groundwork for future advancements in immunology.
Continue ReadingAbelardo L. Rodríguez
Substitute President of Mexico (1932–34)
Born
May 12th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1967 58 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the substitute president of Mexico from 1932 to 1934, stepping in during a politically turbulent time. Rodríguez's administration focused on economic recovery and social reforms. He implemented land redistribution policies and supported infrastructure projects, which aimed to modernize the nation. His tenure included efforts to address educational needs and promote public health as part of broader initiatives to enhance the quality of life for Mexican citizens.
Continue ReadingWilliam Giauque
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 12th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1982 43 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent chemist and academic, engaged in significant research in thermodynamics, particularly at low temperatures. Contributed to the understanding of the physical behavior of substances. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1949 for pioneering work in the field of chemical thermodynamics. Served as a professor and influenced numerous students and researchers in the discipline.
Continue ReadingMark Thomas
British sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
May 12th, 1965 60 years ago
A British sprinter specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, representing Great Britain. Achieved notable success in the 1990 Commonwealth Games, where earned a gold medal in the 4x100 meters relay. Also set multiple personal bests and participated in various international competitions during a career that spanned several years.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 8th
Julius Schwartz
Journalist and author of comic books
Born
June 19th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2004 21 years ago — 88 years old
Julius Schwartz significantly influenced the comic book industry, particularly during the Silver Age of Comics. As an editor, he revitalized superhero comics by introducing modern storytelling techniques and memorable characters. His editorial work at DC Comics played a pivotal role in the creation and popularization of iconic superheroes such as Green Lantern and The Flash. Schwartz also published influential works and contributed to the wider acceptance of comic books as a legitimate form of literature. His career included partnerships with legendary writers and artists, establishing a legacy that contributed to the cultural evolution of comics.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Cheli
Italian cardinal and Vatican diplomat
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old
Served as a prominent member of the Catholic Church, held the title of cardinal, and held key diplomatic roles within the Vatican. Played an influential part in various ecumenical dialogues and advocated for peace and reconciliation among different faiths. Contributed to the Church's outreach and engagement with the global community during significant events and conferences. Participated actively in the workings of the Holy See, focusing on international relations and interfaith dialogue.
Continue ReadingAlexios IV Angelos
Byzantine emperor during the Fourth Crusade
Born
1182 844 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1204 821 years ago — 22 years old
Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 1203 to 1204. Ascended to the throne after a coup that overthrew his father. The reign was marked by the call for assistance from the West, leading to an agreement with the leaders of the Fourth Crusade. This arrangement aimed to restore and reinforce the Byzantine Empire's territory and power, but it ultimately culminated in the sack of Constantinople. The reign ended with capture and execution following a revolt against his rule, which was plagued by instability and external pressures.
Continue ReadingErnst Kretschmer
German psychiatrist and author
Born
October 8th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1964 61 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent psychiatrist in Germany, contributed significantly to the understanding of psychopathy and personality disorders. Developed the body type classification system, relating physical constitution to psychological traits. Authored several influential texts on mental health, impacting the fields of psychology and psychiatry.
Continue ReadingMargaret Forster
Historian and author of acclaimed biographies
Born
May 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old
An English historian, author, and critic, contributed significantly to the literary landscape through numerous biographies and novels. Authored acclaimed works including 'Elizabeth Barrett Browning' and 'Margaret Foster's Diary'. Focused on women's lives and historical narratives, providing depth and insight into her subjects. Also served as a critic and essayist, exploring various themes in literature and culture.
Continue ReadingRobert Robinson
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 13th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1975 50 years ago — 88 years old
English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Conducted extensive research on alkaloids, leading to advancements in understanding their structure and properties. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1947 for work on the structure of certain alkaloids and their synthesis. Served as a professor at several prestigious institutions, influencing future generations of chemists through teaching and mentorship.
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