Sophie Scholl
German anti-Nazi activist and martyr
An activist against the Nazi regime, organized and distributed anti-war pamphlets as part of the White Rose group. Captured and executed for opposing the regime's oppressive policies. The White Rose group aimed to encourage civic courage and resistance within Germany during World War II.
Co-founded the White Rose group
Distributed anti-Nazi pamphlets
Executed for treason in 1943
Other People Born on May 9th
Minamoto no Yoritomo
Japanese shōgun and military leader
Born
May 9th, 1147 878 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1199 826 years ago — 51 years old
Established the Kamakura shogunate, marking the start of the feudal era in Japan. Maintained authority over military and political matters, transitioning power from the imperial court to the shōgunate. His leadership led to significant political changes and the establishment of a military government that would influence Japan for centuries.
Continue ReadingGilles Müller
Tennis player; Wimbledon quarterfinalist
Born
May 9th, 1983 42 years ago
A professional tennis player from Luxembourg, he competed on the ATP tour mainly from the early 2000s into the late 2010s. He achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 26 in 2017. Significant performances occurred at major Grand Slam tournaments, including a quarterfinal appearance at Wimbledon in 2017. Müller also had success at smaller ATP tournaments, securing two titles during his career. His playing style was characterized by a strong serve and aggressive baseline play, contributing to a successful career in the sport. He retired from professional tennis in 2018.
Continue ReadingGianni Vella
Maltese artist known for Maltese landscapes
Born
May 9th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1977 48 years ago — 92 years old
An artist from Malta, contributed significantly to the visual arts throughout the 20th century. Focused primarily on landscapes, Vella captured the essence of Maltese scenery and culture through his paintings. His works exhibit a vibrant use of color and detail, reflecting the natural beauty and unique features of the Maltese islands. Active in various exhibitions, he helped elevate the visibility of Maltese art on both local and international stages, allowing for greater appreciation of the region's artistic heritage.
Continue ReadingMarek Jankulovski
Czech footballer and UEFA Euro 2004 finalist
Born
May 9th, 1977 48 years ago
Marek Jankulovski played professional football as a left-back in Europe, primarily for AC Milan and the Czech national team. Jankulovski started his career at Baník Ostrava before moving to Italy, where he gained recognition during his time with Udinese. His tenure at AC Milan included winning multiple Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2007. Jankulovski was an integral part of the Czech national team, participating in the UEFA Euro 2004, where the team reached the final.
Continue ReadingKevin Gameiro
Footballer with La Liga and World Cup experience
Born
May 9th, 1987 38 years ago
A French footballer played as a striker for various clubs, predominantly in Ligue 1 and La Liga. Noteworthy club associations include Sevilla FC, where contributions led to winning the UEFA Europa League three consecutive times from 2014 to 2016. Gameiro also had a successful stint with Atlético Madrid, winning La Liga in 2017. Internationally, represented France at the senior level, contributing to the team's success in the 2016 UEFA European Championship, where France finished as runners-up. His playing style was characterized by speed and goal-scoring ability.
Continue ReadingDan Burn
Footballer, played for Newcastle United
Born
May 9th, 1992 33 years ago
A footballer, played as a defender, represented various clubs in the English Football League system. Began professional career at Darlington, later signed with Birmingham City and had a loan spell at various clubs. Achieved significant recognition during time with Brighton & Hove Albion, contributing to the team's performances in the Premier League. Subsequently joined Newcastle United in 2022, playing a key role in the squad's defensive lineup. Known for height and aerial ability on the pitch, became a reliable figure in the teams represented throughout career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 22nd
Felix Frankfurter
Austrian-American Supreme Court Justice
Born
November 15th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1965 60 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Austria, an influential lawyer and jurist, served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1939 to 1962. Played a significant role in shaping modern constitutional law in the United States. Advocated for civil liberties and the separation of powers. Frankfurter's opinions often emphasized the importance of judicial restraint and deference to the legislative branch.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste-Camille Corot
French painter famous for landscape painting
Born
July 16th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1875 150 years ago — 78 years old
Active during the 19th century, contributed significantly to the development of landscape painting. Established a personal style marked by a focus on natural light and color, influencing the Impressionist movement. Exhibited works at the Salon and attracted attention for innovative techniques that departed from traditional approaches. In later life, created numerous paintings that showcased the beauty of rural scenery, particularly in France and Italy. Achieved recognition as a master of plein air painting, capturing the ephemeral qualities of nature.
Continue ReadingDennis Johnson
Basketball player and coach, NBA champion
Born
September 18th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2007 18 years ago — 52 years old
A professional basketball player and coach, contributed to the game primarily in the NBA. Played for the Seattle SuperSonics, Phoenix Suns, and Boston Celtics. Achieved notable success as a player, winning three NBA championships. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching, continuing to influence the sport. Recognized for defensive prowess and ability to perform in clutch situations.
Continue ReadingFerdinand de Saussure
Linguist and author of Course in General Linguistics
Born
November 26th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1913 112 years ago — 55 years old
A Swiss linguist, contributed significantly to the understanding of language structure and meaning. Published the influential work 'Course in General Linguistics' posthumously in 1916, shaping modern linguistics and semiotics. Introduced the concept of the linguistic sign comprising the signifier and the signified, laying groundwork for structuralism. His theories emphasized the importance of language as a system of signs and have influenced various fields such as anthropology, psychology, and literary theory.
Continue ReadingChuck Jones
Animator, Producer, Screenwriter
Born
September 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 89 years old
An influential animator, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the world of animation. Developed and directed many beloved characters and cartoons throughout a career that spanned over six decades. Created iconic characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig while working with Warner Bros. Established a distinct style that combined humor with artistic innovation. Won three Academy Awards for Animated Short Film and received recognition for contributions to the field of animation.
Continue ReadingAndy Warhol
Visual Artist notable for Pop Art
Born
August 6th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1987 38 years ago — 58 years old
Andy Warhol was a leading figure in the visual art movement known as Pop Art. In the 1960s, explored the relationship between artistic expression, culture, and advertisement. Founded The Factory, a studio that became a hub for artists, musicians, and celebrities. Created iconic works featuring consumer goods and celebrities, including the famous Campbell's Soup Cans and portraits of Marilyn Monroe. Expanded artistic boundaries by incorporating photography, film, and commercial techniques into art. Produced numerous films, including 'Chelsea Girls' and 'Sleep'. His work challenged traditional notions about art, culture, and societal values.
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