Victor Matfield
Rugby player and coach, World Cup winner
A prominent rugby player and coach, achieved significant success in international rugby. Played as a lock for the South African national team, earning over 120 caps from 2000 to 2015. Captained the Springboks to victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, contributing to the team's strength in both defense and lineouts. After retiring from playing, transitioned to coaching and sportscasting, sharing insights and analysis on the sport.
Captained South Africa to 2007 Rugby World Cup victory
Played over 120 matches for the Springboks
Coached at the highest level in rugby
Other People Born on May 11th
Bobi
Portuguese dog with longest lifespan
Born
May 11th, 1992 33 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2023 2 years ago — 31 years old
Bobi was a domestic dog recognized for achieving the longest verified lifespan of any dog. Born in 1992 in Portugal, Bobi lived for over 31 years, surpassing the previous record for oldest dog. Bobi's life spanned multiple decades, witnessing significant changes in the world and becoming a beloved figure in his community and beyond.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich Blumenbach
Physician and anthropologist
Born
May 11th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1840 185 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent German physician, physiologist, and anthropologist. Blumenbach significantly contributed to the fields of anthropology and physiology in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He established a classification system that categorized human races based on skull shape, which played a foundational role in biological anthropology. A key figure in the development of comparative anatomy, he studied various physical characteristics of human populations. His work on the variation of human skulls led to the understanding of racial diversity and human classification. Blumenbach also authored several influential texts that addressed topics in medicine and biology, alongside his contributions to the understanding of human variation and species.
Continue ReadingRose Ausländer
Ukrainian-German poet and author
Born
May 11th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1988 37 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1901 in Ukraine, this poet faced significant challenges during her life, including the impact of war and displacement. Relocating to Germany in the 1920s, she became a prominent figure in the literary scene. Her poetry often dealt with themes of exile, identity, and the human condition. Her works were influenced by her experiences during World War II and the Holocaust. After the war, she returned to Germany, where she continued to write and publish, gaining recognition in German literature until her death in 1988.
Continue ReadingEdward J. King
American politician, Governor of Massachusetts
Born
May 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 66th Governor of Massachusetts from 1979 to 1981. King was the first Democratic governor of Massachusetts in 20 years. His administration focused on issues such as education reform, fiscal policy, and urban development. King faced challenges dealing with a struggling economy and rising unemployment during his tenure. After leaving office, he continued to be active in politics and public service.
Continue ReadingKonsta Helenius
Finnish ice hockey player
Born
May 11th, 2006 19 years ago
A professional ice hockey player from Finland, played as a forward. Won a gold medal with the Finnish national team at the 2023 IIHF World U18 Championships. Known for contributions to HIFK in the Finnish Liiga. Developed skills in various youth teams before advancing to the professional level.
Continue ReadingLouis Farrakhan
Religious leader and Nation of Islam figure
Born
May 11th, 1933 92 years ago
A religious leader became the prominent figure of the Nation of Islam, advocating for Black empowerment and religious education. Founded the original Million Man March in 1995, which aimed to promote unity and self-improvement among African American men. Involved in various social and political issues, addressing topics such as social justice, racism, and economic development within the African American community. Sustained leadership over multiple decades, influencing the direction of the Nation of Islam and engaging in controversial discussions.
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