Văn Tiến Dũng
Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Served as the sixth Minister of Defence of Vietnam from 1974 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding the North Vietnamese Army during key offensives. Participated in various military strategies leading to the reunification of Vietnam. After the war, contributed to the military reform policies within the country until retirement. Influenced defense policies during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history.
Commanded the North Vietnamese Army during the Fall of Saigon in 1975
Served as Minister of Defence from 1974 to 1987
Other People Born on May 2nd
Tokugawa Hidetada
Japanese shōgun during Edo period
Born
May 2nd, 1579 447 years ago
Died
1632 394 years ago — 53 years old
Served as the second shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate from 1605 to 1623. Oversaw the consolidation of power for the Tokugawa regime following the leadership of his father, Tokugawa Ieyasu. Maintained stability in Japan during the early Edo period and enforced policies that strengthened the shōgunate's control over the daimyos. Promoted the establishment of a centralized feudal system.
Continue ReadingRobert Buckley
Actor in One Tree Hill and iZombie
Born
May 2nd, 1981 45 years ago
Born on May 2, 1981, an American actor gained recognition for roles in television series. Gained prominence through the character Clay Evans in the series One Tree Hill. Later portrayed Major Lilywhite in the series iZombie. Additionally, appeared in various other television roles and films throughout a career spanning over a decade.
Continue ReadingPaul George
Basketball player with the Indiana Pacers
Born
May 2nd, 1990 36 years ago
A professional basketball player, born in 1990, played primarily as a small forward. Achieved recognition for outstanding performances in the National Basketball Association (NBA) during tenures with the Indiana Pacers and Los Angeles Clippers. Secured multiple All-Star selections and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Team. Gained acclaim for contributions to the Pacers' playoff runs, including reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2013. Represented the United States in international competitions, winning gold medals in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Continue ReadingRobert G. W. Anderson
Chemist and curator of chemical history
Born
May 2nd, 1944 82 years ago
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry as both a chemist and a historian. Served as a curator, preserving and promoting the history of chemical science. Focused on the intersection of chemistry and historical context, helping to document and interpret the development of chemical knowledge over time.
Continue ReadingPinky Lee
Television host and entertainer
Born
May 2nd, 1907 119 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1993 33 years ago — 85 years old
A television host and entertainer, known for the children's television show launched in the early 1950s. The show featured lively antics, catchy music, and engaging storytelling that captivated young audiences. Lee developed a distinctive style marked by energetic performances and playful interactions with viewers. The program became a staple of children's programming during its run and contributed to the landscape of entertainment designed specifically for children. After the show's conclusion, Lee continued to work in various capacities within the entertainment industry, including occasional television guest appearances and work in live performances.
Continue ReadingYongle Emperor of China
Chinese Emperor and Ming Dynasty ruler
Born
May 2nd, 1360 666 years ago
Died
1424 602 years ago — 64 years old
Ruled from 1402 to 1424 and was the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Launched the Yongle Encyclopedia, one of the largest works of its kind in history. Oversaw the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing, which became the imperial palace. Expanded maritime exploration, commissioning voyages led by Zheng He to establish trade and diplomatic relations. Revamped the military and administrative structures of the empire, contributing to a period of stability and consolidation.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 17th
Robert Chambers
Scottish geologist and publisher
Born
July 10th, 1802 224 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1871 155 years ago — 68 years old
A Scottish geologist and publisher co-founded Chambers Harrap, a notable publishing house which published works in geology and other sciences. Chambers authored 'Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation' in 1844, a controversial work that provided early arguments for evolutionary theory and garnered significant attention during its time. His contributions to geology were influential in the Victorian era, fostering public interest in scientific inquiry. Chambers also published a range of reference works and encyclopedias, impacting education in various fields.
Continue ReadingGertrude of Nivelles
Frankish abbess of Nivelles
Died
March 17th, 659 1367 years ago — None years old
An influential Frankish abbess, established the Abbey of Nivelles. Devoted life to monasticism, focusing on religious life and community welfare. Played a significant role in shaping the early Christian church in the region. Known for leadership qualities and fostering a deep spirituality among the nuns at the abbey.
Continue ReadingDinkar G. Kelkar
Indian art collector and curator
Born
January 10th, 1896 130 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1990 36 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed significantly to the promotion of Indian art through collection and curation. Focused on artwork that represents India's cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional art forms. Established a prominent art museum that houses a vast collection of Indian artifacts and paintings. Actively engaged in art advocacy and played a vital role in encouraging contemporary artists in India.
Continue ReadingPhan Văn Khải
Vietnamese Prime Minister, 2001-2006
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2018 8 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the fifth Prime Minister of Vietnam from 2001 to 2006. Played a key role in the country's economic reforms and integration into the global economy. Oversaw significant events such as Vietnam's entry into the World Trade Organization and hosted the 2006 APEC Summit in Hanoi. His leadership focused on advancements in trade and investment.
Continue ReadingA.B.C. Whipple
Journalist and historian
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 95 years old
A.B.C. Whipple worked extensively in the field of journalism and history. Focused on issues of social justice and civil rights, Whipple contributed to several prominent publications. Authored works that explored the dynamics of American society and history, providing insights into significant events and movements. Whipple also engaged in public speaking and lectures, sharing knowledge on historical topics.
Continue ReadingLouisa E. Rhine
Botanist and parapsychologist, researched ESP
Born
November 9th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1983 43 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed to the field of parapsychology and conducted extensive research on extrasensory perception (ESP). Worked alongside husband, Joseph B. Rhine, at Duke University. Established the Foundation for Research on the Nature of Man. Significant publications include studies on psychic phenomena and investigatory works in botanical sciences. Focused on experimental approaches to parapsychological phenomena, setting foundations for future research in the field. Active in discussions surrounding the scientific study of paranormal activity.
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