Umaru Musa Yar'Adua
Politician and 13th President of Nigeria
Served as the 13th President of Nigeria from 2007 until 2010. Prior to presidency, held the position of Governor of Katsina State. Played a key role in initiating reforms in the energy sector and promoted the rule of law while in office. Health issues led to his eventual death while serving, which resulted in significant political ramifications in Nigeria.
Served as President of Nigeria from 2007 to 2010
Implemented reforms in the energy sector
Promoted rule of law during presidency
Other People Born on August 16th
Ryan Kerrigan
American football linebacker, Pro Bowl selection
Born
August 16th, 1988 37 years ago
Played as an outside linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Washington Football Team and the Philadelphia Eagles. Achieved a standout collegiate career at Purdue University, where set the school record for career sacks. Drafted in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft by Washington. Selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times during tenure with the team, recognized for consistent performance and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Retired after the 2021 NFL season.
Continue ReadingGreyson Chance
American musician with viral hit 'Paparazzi'
Born
August 16th, 1997 28 years ago
Launched music career at a young age with a viral performance of Lady Gaga's 'Paparazzi' on YouTube, which garnered significant attention. Released debut EP 'Hold On 'Til The Night' in 2011, which featured the successful single 'Waiting Outside the Lines.' Continued to produce music and evolve stylistically, embracing various genres. Achieved recognition for vocal talent and engaging live performances.
Continue ReadingCedric Alexander
Professional wrestler, WWE star
Born
August 16th, 1989 36 years ago
Started professional wrestling training in 2008 and debuted in various independent circuits. Gained recognition in Ring of Honor, where showcased talent as a dynamic in-ring performer and participated in significant storylines. Joined WWE in 2016 and quickly became part of the Cruiserweight division, competing in the Cruiserweight Classic tournament. Captured the WWE Cruiserweight Championship in 2016, marking a career highlight. Known for agility, charisma, and technical skills, making a lasting impact within the wrestling community.
Continue ReadingEvanna Lynch
Irish actress and Luna Lovegood
Born
August 16th, 1991 34 years ago
Started acting at a young age and gained widespread attention for portraying Luna Lovegood in the Harry Potter film series. The character appeared in four of the eight films, bringing a unique perspective to the story. In addition to acting, involvement in animal rights activism and support for various charitable causes has been notable.
Continue ReadingPierre Méchain
French astronomer and geodesist
Born
August 16th, 1744 281 years ago
Died
1804 222 years ago — 60 years old
Contributions to astronomy and geodesy included the surveying of the meridian arc between Dunkirk and Barcelona, which helped define the metric system. Méchain collaborated with François Arago and contributed to the establishment of the first definitive measurement of the meter based on the meridian. His work aided in the'standardization of measurements across France. Méchain's involvement in cartography significantly influenced map-making techniques in the late 18th century. He participated in various scientific missions and was a member of the French Academy of Sciences.
Continue ReadingCaeleb Dressel
American swimmer, Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 16th, 1996 29 years ago
A competitive swimmer with exceptional speed and versatility. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, achieved a remarkable performance winning five gold medals in individual events. Specialized in freestyle and butterfly strokes, securing multiple world records throughout the career. Competed for the University of Florida, contributing to national championships in collegiate swimming. Known for impressive wins at the FINA World Championships, earning numerous titles in various events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 5th
Michael Otedola
Nigerian politician, 9th Governor of Lagos
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2014 12 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 9th Governor of Lagos State from 1992 to 1993. Prior to becoming governor, engaged in a career in journalism and contributed to various publications. Focused on infrastructure development and public service during the gubernatorial term. His administration was characterized by efforts to enhance education and health services within the state. After his term ended, remained involved in multiple philanthropic activities and business ventures.
Continue ReadingClaude Choules
English-Australian soldier and veteran
Born
March 3rd, 1901 125 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2011 15 years ago — 110 years old
Born in England, a soldier served in the British Army during World War I. Emigrated to Australia in 1926 and enlisted in the Royal Australian Navy during World War II. Choules witnessed significant naval events, including the sinking of the German ship SMS Emden and the final surrender of German troops. Became the last known military veteran of World War I, passing away in 2011 at the age of 110.
Continue ReadingLeopold Löwenheim
Mathematician and logician
Born
June 26th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1957 69 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and model theory. Developed the Löwenheim-Skolem theorem, which establishes a relationship between formal languages and their models. Engaged in the foundations of mathematics and worked on a range of topics within mathematical logic throughout his career. His work helped to shape the understanding of the consistency and completeness of logical systems.
Continue ReadingHenry Moret
French painter of landscapes
Born
1856 170 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1913 113 years ago — 57 years old
A painter specialized in landscapes, known for contributions to the Impressionist movement. Developed a signature style characterized by the vibrant use of color and light. Focused on capturing the natural beauty of coastal scenes in Brittany. Worked alongside artists such as Paul Gauguin and participated in various exhibitions throughout France.
Continue ReadingJeannie Epper
Stuntwoman in Hollywood action films
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2024 2 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished stuntwoman and actress, contributions spanned several decades in the film industry. Gained recognition for work in various action films including ‘The Terminator’ and ‘Die Hard’. Participated in high-profile productions, showcasing expertise in stunts and fight choreography. Worked alongside notable actors and filmmakers, establishing a reputation in Hollywood. Achievements included performing stunts for prominent lead actors, making a significant mark in the stunt community. In addition to stunts, also acted in various television shows, further diversifying contributions to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingYosef Merimovich
Footballer and manager, led Hapoel Tel Aviv
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2011 15 years ago — 87 years old
A footballer and manager from Israel, played for Hapoel Tel Aviv and was part of the team that won the Israel State Cup in 1975. Transitioned to coaching, taking charge of several teams including Hapoel Tel Aviv and Maccabi Petah Tikva. Contributed to the development of Israeli football and trained younger players to achieve career success.
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