Wayne Smith

Jamaican singer and reggae musician

Wayne Smith - Performers & Entertainers born December 5th, 1965
Born
Died
Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

Jamaica

Links & References

A prominent figure in the reggae genre, known for contributions to Jamaican music during the late 20th century. Gained recognition with the 1985 hit 'Under Mi Sleng Teng', which popularized the digital rhythm style in reggae music. This track marked a significant shift in the sound of reggae, influencing many artists in the genre. Smith's work extended to performances across Jamaica and internationally, showcasing the vibrancy of reggae culture.

Released the hit song 'Under Mi Sleng Teng'

Pioneered digital reggae music

Other People Born on December 5th

Raquel Argandoña

Chilean model, actress, politician
Born
December 5th, 1957 68 years ago

Born in Chile, a multifaceted career included work as a model, actress, and politician. Worked in television and gained popularity through roles in telenovelas, notably in 'Ángel Malo'. Additionally, served as a member of the Chamber of Deputies, contributing to the political landscape in Chile. Engaged in various social initiatives.

Continue Reading

Clinton Hart Merriam

Zoologist and ornithologist; conducted studies
Born
December 5th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1942 84 years ago — 86 years old

An American zoologist, ornithologist, and entomologist made significant contributions to the understanding of North American wildlife. Played a pivotal role in establishing wildlife conservation efforts. Developed the concept of the 'life zone,' which categorizes environments based on elevation and climate. Served as the chief of the U.S. Biological Survey and contributed to the founding of the American Ornithologists' Union. Authored numerous scientific papers and books on bird behavior and ecology.

Continue Reading

Elbert Frank Cox

Mathematician, first African American PhD
Born
December 5th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1969 57 years ago — 74 years old

A mathematician and academic, he earned the first PhD in Mathematics awarded to an African American in 1925 from Cornell University. A long career in academia included positions at various institutions, focusing on teaching and research in mathematics. Active in promoting education and opportunities for African Americans in higher education, he contributed to the development of mathematics as a field during the mid-20th century. His legacy includes mentoring countless students and advocating for diversity in mathematics.

Continue Reading

Nikolai Uglanov

Soviet politician and party leader
Born
December 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1937 89 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1886, Uglanov became a prominent figure in Soviet politics. Involved in the Bolshevik movement, he participated in the October Revolution of 1917. Uglanov held various important positions within the Communist Party, including leadership roles in several regional administrations. His political career spanned critical decades in Soviet history, particularly during the early years of the USSR. Uglanov's work focused on governance and the implementation of party policies in Moscow, where he served as the party's Secretary. He contributed to significant political decisions and the restructuring of the party's organization during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Yi-Fu Tuan

Geographer and author of 'Topophilia'
Born
December 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 92 years old

Born in China, a prominent geographer contributed significantly to human geography and spatial awareness. Wrote extensively on the relationship between people and their environments, exploring concepts such as topophilia, which represents the emotional connections people have to places. Tuan's academic career included teaching at various institutions in the United States, where he influenced the field of geography through his innovative ideas and writings.

Continue Reading

Fausto Sozzini

Italian theologian and educator
Born
December 5th, 1539 486 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1604 422 years ago — 64 years old

Sozzini contributed significantly to theological discourse, focusing on anti-Trinitarianism. Engaged in debates regarding the nature of God and Christ, he advanced rationalist thought. His works laid foundational ideas for later theological developments, influencing various groups including the Socinians. Sozzini also emphasized the importance of reason and morality in faith, advocating for a more rational approach to religious belief. His educational efforts were notable in shaping the understanding of Protestant theology in the late 16th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 17th

Tony Phillips

Baseball player and coach
Born
April 25th, 1959 67 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2016 10 years ago — 56 years old

Career spanned from 1982 to 1999 as a versatile utility player in Major League Baseball. Played for several teams including the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, and Detroit Tigers. Contributed significantly during the Athletics' 1989 World Series championship run. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, focusing on developing young talent.

Continue Reading

Sophie Kurys

Professional Baseball Player, All-American Girls
Born
May 14th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 87 years old

A professional baseball player who played as a shortstop in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Notable for her speed and agility on the field, contributed significantly to her team's performance. Played for the Racine Belles and the Fort Wayne Daisies during the league's operation. Excelled as a base stealer and set records for stolen bases, showcasing exceptional athleticism and skill during games. The league was featured in the film 'A League of Their Own', highlighting the contributions of women in baseball.

Continue Reading

Heinrich Heine

German journalist and poet, wrote 'Buch der Lieder'
Born
December 13th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1856 170 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1797, a prominent figure in German literature. His poetry collection 'Buch der Lieder' gained significant acclaim, contributing to the Romantic movement. He lived in exile for much of his life due to political persecution, producing notable works while in Paris. His writings often included themes of love, politics, and social critique, marking him as a critical voice of his time. He died in 1856.

Continue Reading

Otto

Duke of Austria
Born
July 23rd, 1301 724 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1339 687 years ago — 37 years old

Ruled as Duke of Austria during the early 14th century. Expanded the territories of the duchy and strengthened its influence in the region. Engaged in political alliances and conflicts that shaped the future of Austria. Death occurred in 1339, concluding a significant leadership period.

Continue Reading

Jean-Marc Boivin

Mountaineer and extreme sports pioneer
Born
April 6th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1990 36 years ago — 38 years old

A French mountaineer, skier, and pilot, contributed significantly to the world of extreme sports. Excelled in various disciplines including ski mountaineering, and became the first person to ski down the north face of the Annapurna in Nepal. Developed a reputation as an innovator in aerial sports, especially through the use of paragliding and various skiing techniques. Traveled around the globe to participate in challenging expeditions, showcasing remarkable skills in extreme environments. Passed away during an expedition in 1990, leaving behind a legacy in the mountaineering community.

Continue Reading

Andrzej Żuławski

Polish film director and screenwriter
Born
November 22nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2016 10 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Polish film director and screenwriter, directed a number of influential films characterized by their surrealism and emotional intensity. Gained recognition for creating works that often challenged societal norms and explored complex human relationships. The film 'On the Silver Globe' became a significant piece in the history of Polish cinema, though it faced numerous production hurdles and was largely completed later in his career. Contributed to the revival of Polish cinema in the 1980s and remained active within European film circuits until his passing.

Continue Reading