Vasilis Kikilias
Greek basketball player and politician
A basketball player and politician from Greece. Played professional basketball for several teams, including Olympiacos BC and AEK Athens. Transitioned to a political career, serving in various capacities, including as Minister of Tourism in Greece. Pursued initiatives aimed at promoting tourism and enhancing the country's global image.
Played for Olympiacos BC
Served as Minister of Tourism
Other People Born on May 15th
Abraham Zapruder
Businessman and filmmaker of historic footage
Born
May 15th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 65 years old
An American businessman and amateur photographer filmed the Zapruder film, which captured the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. This film became one of the most studied pieces of evidence in American history, providing key visual evidence regarding the events of that day. Zapruder was present at Dealey Plaza with a Bell & Howell 8mm camera when the events unfolded. The film was later used in various investigations and has influenced discussions on the topic of presidential security and the media's role in political events.
Continue ReadingDennis Frederiksen
American singer-songwriter and performer
Born
May 15th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 62 years old
A singer-songwriter and performer, contributed significantly to the rock music scene. Gained recognition as frontman for the band Trillions and later as a lead vocalist for the rock group Survivor. Participated in the recording of the album 'Vital Signs' which featured the hit single 'I Can't Hold Back.' His musical style incorporated elements of rock and pop, blending melodic hooks with powerful vocals. Continued to perform and write music throughout his career, influencing subsequent artists in the genre.
Continue ReadingPierre Curie
French physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1906 119 years ago — 46 years old
A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Worked alongside Marie Curie in the early 20th century. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 for joint research on radiation phenomena. Made foundational contributions to piezoelectricity and magnetism, advancing understanding in these fields. His work laid the groundwork for future research in radioactivity and its applications.
Continue ReadingJanne Seurujärvi
Sami politician, first Sami MP in Finland
Born
May 15th, 1975 50 years ago
A Finnish Sami politician served as the first Sami ever elected to the Finnish Parliament. As a member of parliament, focused on issues affecting the Sami community and indigenous rights. Advocated for the preservation of Sami language and culture within political spheres. Emphasized the importance of sustainable development and environmental protection in the context of Arctic governance.
Continue ReadingSébastien Le Prestre de Vauban
French military engineer and fortification expert
Born
May 15th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1707 318 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent French military engineer, contributions centered on the development of fortified cities and modern military architecture. Served as a marshal of France under Louis XIV. Advanced the art of fortification through principles that emphasized geometric design and comprehensive defensive systems. Authored several treatises on military engineering, influencing the design of fortresses in Europe for centuries.
Continue ReadingHilda Bernstein
Author and activist for social justice
Born
May 15th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old
Born in England and later residing in South Africa, an author and activist focused on anti-apartheid efforts and human rights. Contributed to various publications, bringing attention to social injustices. Engaged in activism for the South African Congress of Democrats, which aimed to fight for equality. Authored 'The World That Was' and 'In the Name of the People,' emphasizing the struggles against oppressive regimes. Involved in the South African Liberation Movement and spent time in exile due to political activities.
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