Theofanis Gekas
Footballer and Greece national team striker
Played primarily as a forward throughout a career that spanned many clubs. Gekas began professional play with Ionikos and later moved to other teams like AEK Athens, Panathinaikos, and Bayer Leverkusen. Achieved notable success with the Greece national team, contributing to their victory in the UEFA Euro 2004. Gekas was known for his goal-scoring ability and won the Super League Greece Golden Boot. Retired from international football after earning over 60 caps.
Contributed to Greece's victory in UEFA Euro 2004
Won the Super League Greece Golden Boot
Other People Born on May 23rd
Paul Augustin Mayer
Cardinal and prominent church leader
Born
May 23rd, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 99 years old
Mayer served as a German cardinal in the Catholic Church, contributing significantly to the hierarchy and administration of the Church. His ecclesiastical career included various positions, culminating in his role as Archbishop of Munich and Freising. Mayer participated in the Second Vatican Council, which addressed important changes within the Church, aiming to modernize its practices and outreach. Throughout his life, he worked on several key initiatives, enhancing the Church's engagement with contemporary issues. His influence extended beyond Germany as he was involved in various international ecclesiastical matters.
Continue ReadingAlicia de Larrocha
Catalan pianist, concerto performer
Born
May 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Barcelona, a noted pianist gained international recognition for performances of Spanish classical music and interpretations of composers such as Granados and Albéniz. Debuted at the age of five and performed with major orchestras worldwide including the London Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. Collaborated with prominent conductors and musicians, receiving accolades for exceptional artistry and technique. Active in teaching and inspiring future generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingBetty Garrett
Actress and singer in Broadway musicals
Born
May 23rd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent American actress, singer, and dancer, performed in Broadway musicals and films. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'On the Town' and featured in the film adaptation. Notably appeared in the television series 'Laverne & Shirley' as Edna Babish. Her career spanned several decades, captivating audiences with her talent in both musical theater and television.
Continue ReadingS. Donald Stookey
American physicist and inventor of CorningWare
Born
May 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old
Born in 1915, this physicist and chemist contributed significantly to materials science. The invention of CorningWare revolutionized cooking and kitchenware, combining unique properties of glass and ceramic. This product gained widespread usage in homes and food service. Additionally, work on photo-sensitive glass led to advancements in imaging technology. The influence of these inventions extended into both culinary and industrial applications.
Continue ReadingNikolai Vekšin
Sailor and Captain of Estonian origin
Born
May 23rd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1951 74 years ago — 63 years old
Started sailing at an early age, Vekšin became a prominent figure in maritime navigation and exploration. Participated in various sea expeditions and contributed to the development of sailing techniques. Served as a captain, leading numerous voyages across challenging waters, demonstrating skill and resilience. His experiences at sea contributed to his esteemed reputation within the sailing community. Vekšin's legacy includes a focus on maritime safety and navigation, influencing future generations of sailors until his death in 1951.
Continue ReadingRobert Moog
Pioneer of electronic music synthesis
Born
May 23rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in the development of electronic music, this individual founded Moog Music in 1953, which became essential in the creation of synthesizers. The invention of the Moog synthesizer revolutionized music production and performance. Throughout the 1960s and beyond, the synthesizer became a vital instrument in various music genres, particularly in progressive rock, pop, and experimental music. Collaborations included working with prominent artists and bands, influencing the sound of an era. This individual's contributions to music technology earned a prominent place in the history of modern music.
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