Stamford Raffles
Politician, founder of Singapore
An English politician and colonial administrator played a pivotal role in the founding of Singapore during the early 19th century. This individual served as the Lieutenant-Governor of the island, shaping its early development and establishing it as a vital trading port in Southeast Asia. Raffles advocated for various reforms in the region, promoting trade and strengthening British influence. His policies contributed to Singapore's emergence as a key player in maritime commerce. Additionally, Raffles was deeply interested in local culture and biodiversity, authoring significant works on the flora and fauna of the region.
Founded Singapore in 1819
Served as Lieutenant-Governor of Java
Other People Born on July 5th
John Schoenherr
Illustrator of 'Where the Wild Things Are'
Born
July 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 75 years old
An American illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature. Illustrated the iconic book 'Where the Wild Things Are' by Maurice Sendak, enhancing its visual storytelling. Worked on various publications and projects, including illustrations for magazines and books. Noteworthy collaborations included work with other renowned authors, which helped shape the aesthetic of modern children's literature.
Continue ReadingJohn Woodruff
American middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
July 5th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old
Competed in middle-distance running, specifically the 800 meters. Won a gold medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. After his athletic career, served in the U.S. Army and achieved the rank of commander. Contributed to various community initiatives later in life. Built a legacy as both an athlete and a leader.
Continue ReadingHaydn Bunton Sr.
Australian footballer and coach
Born
July 5th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 44 years old
Competed in Australian rules football with the South Melbourne Football Club and later coached multiple teams. Achieved significant recognition in the sport during the 1930s. Won the Brownlow Medal three times in his career. Transitioned into coaching and contributed to the development of athletes in the league post-retirement.
Continue ReadingEdward Cassidy
Roman Catholic Cardinal Priest
Born
July 5th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 97 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1950, a prominent figure in the Australian Roman Catholic Church. Served as an auxiliary bishop in Sydney before becoming the Archbishop of Hobart. Contributed to various Vatican congregations and played a significant role in international Church relations. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2001, he represented Australia at several key ecclesiastical events, including the Synod of Bishops. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and was involved in the preparation for the World Youth Day events.
Continue ReadingGiorgio Borġ Olivier
Maltese politician, Prime Minister of Malta
Born
July 5th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1980 45 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Malta from 1950 to 1955. Advocated for Maltese independence and modernization of the country's infrastructure. Played a significant role in shaping Malta's political landscape during the post-war period. Held various positions within the country's government prior to premiership including Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, contributing to social reforms.
Continue ReadingSmiley Lewis
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 5th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1966 60 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1913, a significant figure in the rhythm and blues genre. Achieved popularity in the 1940s and 1950s. Recorded for Imperial Records, delivering influential tracks that shaped the music scene. The song "I Hear You Knocking" reached wide recognition and later covered by various artists. Collaborated with prominent musicians and contributed to the New Orleans sound, becoming a pivotal artist in the development of rock and roll.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 5th
Sid Luckman
American football quarterback
Born
November 21st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1998 27 years ago — 81 years old
Played quarterback for the Chicago Bears from 1939 to 1950. Led the Bears to four NFL championships during the 1940s. After serving in the military during World War II, returned to the NFL and became a key figure in popularizing the modern passing game. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965.
Continue ReadingGerrit Komrij
Dutch author and poet, acclaimed playwright
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old
An influential figure in Dutch literature, contributions included poetry, novels, and plays. Published various collections that showcased a mastery of language and form. Won multiple literary awards, including the prestigious Zilveren Griffel for children's literature. Also served as a prominent literary critic and essayist, engaging in discourse on the state of the arts and culture in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingJon Landau
Film producer, Avatar series
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent film producer, contributions included work on multiple high-grossing films. Best known for producing the blockbuster film 'Avatar' and its sequels. Collaborated closely with director James Cameron on several projects, advancing the use of technology and visual effects in cinema. Played a crucial role in the production of 'Titanic', which won multiple Academy Awards and set box office records.
Continue ReadingLambert Jackson Woodburne
South African admiral and military leader
Born
July 13th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 73 years old
Served as an admiral in the South African Navy. Played a significant role in the naval operations during the apartheid era. Oversaw various modernization efforts within the navy and contributed to military strategies during his tenure. Engaged in international maritime relations and represented South Africa in naval dialogues.
Continue ReadingJames Stockdale
Admiral and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old
A United States Navy admiral and aviator who served during the Vietnam War, received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism as a prisoner of war. Stockdale spent over seven years in captivity, enduring severe hardships and torture. After his release, Stockdale became a prominent author and educator, and served as a Vice Presidential candidate in 1992. His leadership and resilience during captivity significantly contributed to the morale of fellow prisoners.
Continue ReadingBengt I. Samuelsson
Swedish biochemist, Nobel Laureate
Born
May 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1934, contributions to biochemistry included significant discoveries related to eicosanoids, which are vital hormone-like substances in the body. Research focused on lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, enzymes involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid. These findings led to advancements in understanding inflammation and allergies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 alongside two others for work on the chemical mediators of the immune system, leading to breakthroughs in pharmacology and therapeutics. Held academic positions and played a crucial role in promoting biochemistry in Sweden.
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