Tadeusz Ślusarski
Pole vaulter and Olympic medalist
Born in 1950, a Polish pole vaulter achieved significant success in athletics, particularly in the 1970s. Competed in multiple international competitions, securing a place as one of the top athletes in this field. Represented Poland in the 1976 Summer Olympics, winning a bronze medal in pole vaulting. Achieved notable performances in European championships and was a qualified participant in world championships.
Won a bronze medal at the 1976 Olympics
Competed in multiple European Championships
Other People Born on May 19th
Ho 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 ReadingEugene Genovese
Historian and author of 'Roll, Jordan, Roll'
Born
May 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
An American historian focused on the study of American slavery and the antebellum South. Authored the influential work 'Roll, Jordan, Roll: The World the Slaves Made', which explored the lives and cultures of enslaved people. His scholarship contributed to discussions around social class, race, and power dynamics in American history. Held academic positions at several universities, including Rutgers University and Emory University, and engaged in political activism throughout his career.
Continue ReadingFelise Kaufusi
Rugby league player, Melbourne Storm
Born
May 19th, 1992 33 years ago
A rugby league player, originally from New Zealand and of Tongan descent, participated in the National Rugby League (NRL). Played for Melbourne Storm and represented the New Zealand national team. Contributed to the team's successful campaigns, including the NRL Grand Final victories. Played a key role in the 2017 and 2020 NRL Premierships, establishing a reputation as a talented forward.
Continue ReadingVictoria Wood
British comedian and actress
Born
May 19th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent comedian, actress, and writer, gained recognition for her unique blend of comedy and musical talent. Created and starred in the award-winning television series "Dinnerladies." Her stage performances and television specials showcased a distinct wit and charm, contributing significantly to British comedy. Wrote and performed memorable songs that became staples in her acts, presenting relatable themes with humor and insight. Continued to influence the comedy landscape until her passing in 2016.
Continue ReadingJames Reyne
Singer-songwriter with Australian Crawl
Born
May 19th, 1957 68 years ago
A singer-songwriter emerged in the Australian music scene in the 1980s. Formed the band Australian Crawl, which enjoyed significant success with hits like 'Reckless' and 'Beautiful People'. Launched a solo career following the band's breakup, releasing multiple albums and receiving acclaim for both rock and country music. Continues to perform and is recognized for contributions to the Australian music industry.
Continue ReadingHerbie Flowers
English musician and studio bassist
Born
May 19th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
September 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent English musician, recognized primarily as a session bassist and composer. Flowers contributed to a range of music genres, performing with various artists and bands throughout his career. His work on tracks such as David Bowie's 'Space Oddity' and 'The Jean Genie' garnered significant attention. Flowers was a member of the band Blue Mink, which achieved commercial success in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Additionally, he played on albums for many well-known artists, showcasing versatility and technical skill in his performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Sophie Masloff
Civil servant and Mayor of Pittsburgh
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the 56th Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1988 to 1994. Held various positions in municipal government, including City Council President. Focused on community development and local governance during time in office. Involved in numerous civic and community organizations and worked to enhance the city's infrastructure and quality of life for residents.
Continue ReadingFranklin Delano Roosevelt Jr.
American lawyer and politician
Born
August 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a lawyer and politician in the United States. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from New York in 1955, serving until 1959. During tenure, focused on issues related to civil rights, education, and labor. Worked in various legal capacities, including as an attorney for the New York City Transit Authority. Engaged in numerous philanthropic efforts and was active in several civic organizations throughout his life.
Continue ReadingLuigi Chinetti
Race car driver and Ferrari team manager
Born
July 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 93 years old
An Italian-American race car driver, achieved success in sports car racing during the mid-20th century. Won the 1949 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving a Ferrari 166MM. Played a significant role in popularizing Ferrari in the United States, serving as the first official Ferrari importer. Established the North American Racing Team (NART), which contributed to Ferrari's success in North America during the 1960s.
Continue ReadingHusein Gradaščević
Ottoman general and military leader
Born
August 31st, 1802 223 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1834 191 years ago — 31 years old
A military leader held in significant regard during the early 19th century, played a prominent role in the Ottoman Empire's campaigns in the Balkans. Achieved the rank of general, leading Bosnian forces in various battles during the Herzegovina uprising against Ottoman authority. Worked toward the modernization and reform of the military, advocating for the autonomy of Bosnia within the Empire. Led efforts to rally support among local populations against external threats and internal challenges, ultimately rising to prominence amid the struggle for Bosnian independence.
Continue ReadingLászló Paskai
Hungarian cardinal and church leader
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, holding significant positions within the Hungarian ecclesiastical hierarchy. Paskai attended several synods and played a vital role in church administration and reforms. His tenure included efforts to modernize church practices and strengthen community ties during a time of significant change in Hungary following the end of communism. He also represented the Hungarian bishops at various international events, fostering dialogue and collaboration within the global church.
Continue ReadingMiodrag Pavlović
Serbian poet and literary critic
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
A Serbian poet and literary critic, contributions to literature included poetry collections and critical essays that explored themes of identity, culture, and language. His works have been significant in the context of Serbian literature, reflecting on both personal and societal issues. Pavlović's engagement with literary criticism provided insights into the evolution of Serbian poetry and its connections to broader cultural movements. His poetry often drew from rich symbolic language and personal reflections, resonating with readers and scholars alike. The literary impact and recognition of Pavlović's work extended beyond national boundaries, influencing a range of contemporary poets and critics.
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