Soemu Toyoda
Japanese admiral and military leader
Born in Japan, led naval operations during World War II. Commanded the Second Fleet during significant battles in the Pacific Theater. Played a crucial role in naval strategies that influenced the course of naval warfare. After the war, contributed to post-war naval reconstruction efforts.
Commanding the Second Fleet during World War II
Influencing naval strategies in the Pacific Theater
Other People Born on May 22nd
Peter Matthiessen
Novel Writer and Paris Review Co-founder
Born
May 22nd, 1927 99 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2014 12 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American novelist and short story writer, played a significant role in American literature through both creative writing and editorial work. Co-founded The Paris Review, a prestigious literary magazine that has published numerous acclaimed writers. Produced notable works blending fiction and non-fiction, often exploring nature and the human condition. Achieved recognition for both literary and environmental advocacy.
Continue ReadingWilliam Sturgeon
Inventor of the electric motor
Born
May 22nd, 1783 243 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1850 175 years ago — 67 years old
An English physicist contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. Sturgeon invented the first practical electromagnet and devised the first electric motor, which demonstrated the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy. His work laid the groundwork for future advancements in electric machinery and engineering. Sturgeon also conducted research on the use of electromagnets in telegraphs. His innovations provided a foundation for the development of various electrical devices that became integral to modern technology.
Continue ReadingAhmed Fouad Negm
Egyptian poet and political commentator
Born
May 22nd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Egypt, a prominent poet emerged, celebrated for capturing the social and political issues of the region through poetry. Works reflected the struggles of common people, often featuring critiques of political figures and social injustices. Over a prolific career, garnered significant attention for blending colloquial language with literary expression, appealing to a wide audience. Contributed to various literary movements and was an influential voice during periods of political turmoil. His poetry not only entertained but also sparked discussions about national identity and freedom.
Continue ReadingDaniel François Malan
South African Prime Minister
Born
May 22nd, 1874 152 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1959 67 years ago — 84 years old
A South African minister and politician served as Prime Minister from 1948 to 1954. Played a significant role in the establishment of apartheid policies during his tenure. Held office during a period of intense political change and faced both domestic and international criticism regarding the system he supported. After leaving office, continued to be involved in South African politics until retirement.
Continue ReadingFrançois-Joachim de Pierre de Bernis
Cardinal and diplomat in France
Born
May 22nd, 1715 311 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1794 231 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1715, a French cleric served as both a cardinal and diplomat. Played a significant role in the foreign policy of France during the reign of King Louis XV. Worked towards improving ties with various European nations. Appointed as Ambassador to the Papal States and contributed to diplomatic negotiations, particularly in relation to the Seven Years' War.
Continue ReadingDustin Moskovitz
Tech entrepreneur, Facebook co-founder
Born
May 22nd, 1984 42 years ago
Co-founded Facebook in 2004 while attending Harvard University, contributing to its development as a major social networking platform. Later founded Asana in 2008, a web-based application designed for team collaboration and project management. Moskovitz has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Good Ventures organization.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 22nd
Fredric Jameson
Cultural critic and Marxist theorist
Born
April 14th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions focused on cultural theory, postmodernism, and Marxism. Authored influential works including 'Postmodernism, or, The Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism' and 'The Political Unconscious'. Served as a professor and wrote extensively on issues related to ideology and capitalism in contemporary culture.
Continue ReadingFrederick Soddy
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 2nd, 1877 148 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1956 69 years ago — 79 years old
A chemist and academic, contributions included pioneering work in radiochemistry and the study of isotopes. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1921 for insights into the structure of atomic nuclei and the nature of radioactive decay. Worked extensively on the concept of isotopes and their applications in various scientific fields. Held academic positions at several institutions, promoting research in physical chemistry.
Continue ReadingAltemio Sanchez
Serial Killer and Rapist
Born
January 19th, 1958 68 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2023 2 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Puerto Rico, a serial killer and rapist gained infamy for committing a series of attacks in the Buffalo, New York area during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Between 1981 and 1990, the perpetrator raped and murdered multiple women, instilling fear in the local community. Investigators worked for years to identify the suspect until DNA evidence linked Sanchez to the crimes in 2001. In 2006, he pleaded guilty to several counts of murder and sexual assault, receiving multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Continue ReadingHans E. Wallman
Film director and composer from Sweden
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Was a director, producer, and composer in the Swedish film industry. Directed several films that gained attention both nationally and internationally. Worked on the production of various television shows and theatrical productions. Held a reputation for contributions to music in film, demonstrating a blend of cinematic composition and narrative storytelling. Left a legacy through impactful work in Swedish cinema and theater.
Continue ReadingCarla Benschop
Dutch basketball player and educator
Born
1950 76 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2006 19 years ago — 56 years old
Played for the Dutch national basketball team in international competitions. Participated in multiple European Championships and contributed to the development of basketball in the Netherlands. After retiring from professional play, dedicated time to education, coaching, and mentoring young athletes within the sport.
Continue ReadingSolomon L. Spink
American lawyer and politician
Born
March 20th, 1831 195 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1881 144 years ago — 50 years old
Served in the United States Congress as a representative from Michigan. Engaged in law practice before entering politics. Contributed to various legislative efforts during tenure. Active in local governance and community initiatives throughout a distinguished career.
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