Tao Okamoto
Model and actress, 'The Wolverine'
Born in Japan in 1985, a career in modeling began at a young age leading to significant work in fashion weeks around the world. Transitioned into acting with a notable role as Yashida's assistant in 'The Wolverine'. Featured in advertisements for high-end brands including Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana. Also portrayed a lead character in the series 'Westworld', contributing to the contemporary television landscape.
Model for Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana
Acted in 'The Wolverine' and 'Westworld'
Other People Born on May 22nd
Lauri Markkanen
Basketball player, NBA All-Star 2023
Born
May 22nd, 1997 28 years ago
A basketball player emerged as a prominent player in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Drafted 7th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2017 NBA Draft, traded to the Chicago Bulls where contributions included averaging 15.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game in his first season. In 2021, joined the Cleveland Cavaliers and later signed with the Utah Jazz. Played a critical role in leading the Jazz during the 2022-2023 season, earning selections for the NBA All-Star Game. Internationally, represented Finland in various competitions, including the FIBA EuroBasket.
Continue ReadingDaniel François Malan
South African Prime Minister
Born
May 22nd, 1874 151 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 ReadingNovak Djokovic
Professional tennis player with 20 Grand Slam titles
Born
May 22nd, 1987 38 years ago
A Serbian tennis player achieved prominence in the professional tennis circuit. Successfully captured a total of 20 Grand Slam singles titles, including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Built a reputation for exceptional skills, mental toughness, and consistency on the court. Ascended to the world No. 1 ranking multiple times, setting a record for the most weeks at this position. Won numerous ATP Masters 1000 events throughout a highly decorated career.
Continue ReadingGeorge H. Heilmeier
Engineer and LCD technology pioneer
Born
May 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
April 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 77 years old
An engineer contributed significantly to liquid crystal display (LCD) technology. Served as director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) from 1975 to 1977, influencing defense research and technology development. Played a pivotal role in commercializing LCDs through work at RCA and later as a founder of several technology companies. His research helped lead to the development of various display technologies that are widely used in electronic devices today.
Continue ReadingChen Jingrun
Chinese mathematician and academic
Born
May 22nd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed significantly to number theory and prime number research. Achieved notable progress in Goldbach's conjecture, proving that every sufficiently large even integer can be expressed as the sum of a prime and a number with at most two prime factors. Worked at various educational institutions and published numerous papers in mathematics. Actively received recognition for advancements in analytical number theory.
Continue ReadingWorthington Whittredge
American painter known for landscapes
Born
May 22nd, 1820 205 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1910 115 years ago — 89 years old
An American painter and educator noted for contributions to the Hudson River School of landscape painting. Whittredge studied under several prominent artists and honed his skills in depicting nature's beauty through light and color. His works often reflected serene landscapes, showcasing the American wilderness. Whittredge participated in various exhibitions, gaining recognition for his detailed and evocative portrayals of forests, rivers, and mountains. He also played a significant role in the art community as an educator, influencing a generation of artists. His legacy includes a focus on naturalism and the importance of capturing the essence of the American landscape in art.
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