Sven Thofelt
Modern pentathlete and épée fencer
Competed in modern pentathlon and fencing, excelling in épée. Achieved success in multiple international competitions, representing Sweden. Was part of the Swedish team that participated in the 1960 Rome Olympics, achieving a notable ranking. Contributed to the sport through both competition and coaching.
Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics
Represented Sweden in modern pentathlon and fencing
Other People Born on May 19th
Jim Lehrer
Journalist and News Anchor
Born
May 19th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 86 years old
An American journalist and author centered around public broadcasting and political coverage. Served as the executive editor and anchor of PBS NewsHour for over three decades. Moderated presidential debates, contributing to the discourse surrounding American politics. Authored several books, including memoirs and fiction.
Continue ReadingAndrew Johns
Rugby league player and sportscaster
Born
May 19th, 1974 51 years ago
One of the most accomplished rugby league players in Australian history. Played as a halfback primarily for the Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby League (NRL). His career spanned from 1993 to 2007, earning the title of Dally M Medallist on multiple occasions. Served as a representative for New South Wales in the State of Origin series and for Australia in international competitions. After retiring from professional play, transitioned to coaching and sports commentary, sharing insights and analysis on various media platforms.
Continue ReadingCarlos Guzmán
Mexican footballer, played for Santos Laguna
Born
May 19th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, a Mexican footballer primarily played as a defender. Developed through the youth ranks of Santos Laguna, made his professional debut in 2014 and became an integral part of the team. Contributed to the squad during the Liga MX seasons and participated in the CONCACAF Champions League. Known for his defensive skills and ability to read the game, also represented Mexico at various youth levels.
Continue ReadingDick Slater
Professional wrestler and wrestling promoter
Born
May 19th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 67 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, achieved recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in major wrestling promotions including World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Also contributed as a trainer to upcoming wrestlers throughout a long career spanning multiple decades. Gained a reputation for his technical wrestling skills and charismatic persona, influencing a generation of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingLothar Rădăceanu
Journalist and politician from Romania
Born
May 19th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 56 years old
A Romanian journalist, linguist, and politician, contributed significantly to the fields of journalism and linguistics. Actively participated in political discourse and was involved in various governmental functions. His work in journalism included editing renowned publications and engaging in political commentary. Rădăceanu's insights on language and culture shaped public perception in Romania during a critical historical period. He also held positions that connected his linguistic expertise with political responsibilities throughout his career.
Continue ReadingHo Chi Minh
Vietnamese politician, 1st President
Born
May 19th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1969 56 years ago — 79 years old
Played a crucial role in the struggle for Vietnamese independence from French colonial rule and led the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Established the Communist Party of Vietnam and fought against Japanese occupation during World War II. After the war, orchestrated the First Indochina War against French forces, leading to the Geneva Accords and the division of Vietnam. Governed North Vietnam during the Vietnam War, advocating for reunification and anti-colonialism.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 1st
Pierre François Xavier de Charlevoix
French historian, authored 'Histoire de la Nouvelle France'
Born
October 29th, 1682 343 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1761 265 years ago — 78 years old
A French priest and historian contributed significantly to the understanding of Canada during the early 18th century. Travelled extensively throughout New France and wrote account of the geography, history, and indigenous peoples of the region. The work 'Histoire de la Nouvelle France' detailed the experiences and observations made during these travels, becoming a foundational text in Canadian history. Also documented the life of figures such as Samuel de Champlain and provided valuable insights into the French colonial era. Engaged with various cultures, recorded dialogues, and produced critical analyses of the political landscape of the time. The writings influenced later historical narratives and shaped the perception of New France in Europe.
Continue ReadingMonty Oum
Animator and director of RWBY
Born
1981 45 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 34 years old
An animator and director focused on creating engaging animated works, particularly in the realm of web series. Best recognized for developing the series RWBY, which garnered a significant following and was praised for its unique art style and storytelling. Initially began as a 3D animator for Rooster Teeth Productions, contributing to projects such as Red vs. Blue. Later transitioned to direct RWBY, which premiered in 2013, showcasing innovative animation techniques and a captivating narrative set in a fantasy world. Contributed significantly to the growth of online animation as a popular entertainment medium.
Continue ReadingMaurice Prendergast
American painter of watercolors
Born
October 10th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1924 102 years ago — 65 years old
An American painter active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focused primarily on watercolor and oil paintings. Played a significant role in the development of American Impressionism. His work is characterized by vibrant colors and capturing everyday scenes, often depicting landscapes and leisure activities in urban settings. Influenced by French artists and known for a unique style that merged Impressionist techniques with American themes. Exhibited extensively in various art venues, contributing to the rise of modern art in America.
Continue ReadingJames Boucaut
Politician and 11th Premier of South Australia
Born
October 29th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1916 110 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 11th Premier of South Australia. Held office during two non-consecutive terms, first from 1875 to 1876 and again from 1887 to 1890. Focused on infrastructure development and education reform during tenure. Also contributed to legal reforms and the establishment of institutions in South Australia.
Continue ReadingLuis Aragonés
Football manager and player, Euro 2008 coach
Born
July 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2014 12 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish football, played as a forward and later transitioned to coaching. Played for clubs such as Atlético Madrid and Sevilla FC during a career that spanned from the late 1950s to the 1970s. Transitioned to management, where he achieved notable success, notably coaching the Spanish national team to victory in the UEFA Euro 2008 tournament, marking Spain's first major international trophy in 44 years. His tactical acumen and leadership helped shape a new era for Spanish football, characterized by a focus on possession and attacking play.
Continue ReadingWisława Szymborska
Polish poet, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2012 14 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent poet and translator, contributed significantly to contemporary poetry. Achieved international acclaim with a distinct style characterized by clarity and irony. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1996. Developed a unique approach to philosophical and existential themes through poetry. Works often reflect on the nature of human existence, history, and memory, revealing the intricacies of everyday life. Their poetry was widely translated and remains influential.
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