Thomas MacDonagh

Irish poet and 1916 Easter Rising leader

Thomas MacDonagh - Activists & Humanitarians born 1878
Born

1878
148 years ago

Died
Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Ireland

Links & References

An Irish poet and revolutionary, contributed significantly to the literary culture of Ireland. Worked as an educator and became involved in the nationalist movement. Played a key role in the 1916 Easter Rising against British rule in Ireland. Participated in the uprising as a commander and was executed shortly afterward. Wrote poetry reflecting themes of nationalism and identity, with works that are celebrated in Irish literature.

Wrote 'The Dead' and 'The Songs of the Old Country'

Commanded during the 1916 Easter Rising

Executed for his role in the uprising

Other People Who Died on May 3rd

Jerzy Kosiński

Novelist and screenwriter; 'The Painted Bird'
Born
June 14th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1991 34 years ago — 57 years old

Born in Poland, a notable figure in literature, focusing on themes of identity and survival. Emigrated to the United States post-World War II. Gained recognition with the novel 'The Painted Bird', a harrowing tale of a young boy's experiences during the Holocaust. Also authored 'Being There', which was adapted into a successful film starring Peter Sellers. Wrote several other novels and screenplays, exploring complex characters and societal issues. Received various accolades for literary contributions.

Continue Reading

Uaxaclajuun Ub'aah K'awiil

Mayan ruler and ajaw
Died
May 3rd, 738 1287 years ago — None years old

Ruled the city of Calakmul during the Late Classic period of the Maya civilization. Initiated significant building projects and participated in military campaigns to expand territory and influence. Also engaged in complex ritual activities, which were central to the Mayan belief system. The reign contributed to the political landscape of the region during a time of significant cultural development.

Continue Reading

Emil Breitkreutz

American runner and coach, Olympic athlete
Born
November 16th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1972 53 years ago — 88 years old

Achieved success as a middle-distance runner, competing in the 1908 Olympics in London. Also served as a coach for various running programs, fostering athletic talent and contributing to the development of track and field in the United States. His coaching efforts focused on training techniques and strategies that helped athletes excel in competitive events.

Continue Reading

Bill Downs

American journalist and WWII correspondent
Born
August 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1978 47 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significant coverage of World War II as a war correspondent for the CBS network. Reported from various battlefronts, providing firsthand accounts of major events such as the liberation of Paris and the Normandy invasion. Played a pivotal role in the development of radio journalism during wartime, showcasing the power of live reporting. Continued to work in broadcasting post-war, influencing the field of journalism for decades.

Continue Reading

Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber

Violinist and composer of the Rosary Sonatas
Born
August 12th, 1644 381 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1704 321 years ago — 59 years old

Biber served as a composer and violinist in the 17th century. Born in Bohemia, he spent a significant portion of his career in Austria. Biber developed a unique style that combined elements of the Baroque with folk influences. His work included sacred music and instrumental compositions. The Rosary Sonatas, a set of fifteen sonatas for violin and continuo, remain one of his most significant contributions to classical music, showcasing innovative violin techniques and rich harmonic structures. Biber held the position of court composer for several influential archbishops during his time in Salzburg.

Continue Reading

Ernst Tandefelt

Finnish assassin of Heikki Ritavuori
Born
1876 150 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1948 77 years ago — 72 years old

Assassinated a prominent figure in Finland, leading to significant controversy. Involved in political intrigue during a tumultuous period in Finnish history. Faced legal consequences for actions taken, which sparked debates about the ethics of political violence.

Continue Reading