Wilbur Wright

Aviation pioneer and inventor

Wilbur Wright - Aviation pioneer and inventor
Born

April 16th, 1867
158 years ago

Died

May 30th, 1912
113 years ago — 45 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

An American inventor and aviation pioneer contributed significantly to the development of the airplane. Along with his brother, designed and built the first successful powered aircraft. The Wright Flyer achieved the first powered flight on December 17, 1903, in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in aviation history and paved the way for the future of air travel. Established the Wright Company to manufacture airplanes after the early success.

Achieved the first powered flight

Co-founded the Wright Company

Other People Born on April 16th

R. Carlos Nakai

Flute player and composer
Born
April 16th, 1946 79 years ago

An accomplished Native American flute player and composer, this artist has contributed significantly to the world of music through both traditional and contemporary styles. Born in 1946, the musician began mastering the Native American flute and incorporates elements of jazz and world music into performances. In the 1980s, he gained recognition with albums that highlighted the beauty of Native American music. Collaborations with various artists further expanded the reach and appreciation of this genre. Concerts and recordings showcase a deep connection to cultural heritage and natural landscapes.

Continue Reading

Frans van Mieris the Elder

Dutch painter of genre scenes
Born
April 16th, 1635 390 years ago
Died
1681 344 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent painter in the Dutch Golden Age, specialized in genre scenes depicting daily life. Worked primarily in a detailed and realistic style, often using warm colors and intricate details to enhance the narrative of the artwork. His paintings feature rich textures and an elegant portrayal of domestic interiors. Active during the 17th century, developed a reputation within the art community for meticulous craftsmanship and compositional strength. Engaged with both artists and patrons, influencing the stylistic development of genre painting. Established a successful career in Leiden and contributed to the artistic heritage of the Netherlands.

Continue Reading

Saleem Malik

Pakistani cricketer and captain
Born
April 16th, 1963 62 years ago

A prominent cricketer, also served as captain of the Pakistan national cricket team. Made significant contributions as a middle-order batsman over a career spanning from 1982 to 1999. Played a crucial role in leading Pakistan to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup. Involved in various formats of the game, including Test and One Day Internationals (ODIs). After retirement, transitioned into sports administration.

Continue Reading

Gerry Rafferty

Scottish singer-songwriter with hits
Born
April 16th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 63 years old

Gerry Rafferty was a Scottish singer-songwriter who gained fame in the 1970s. Rafferty's music combined elements of rock, folk, and pop, and he became well-recognized for his heartfelt lyrics and melodies. The album 'City to City' released in 1978 included the hit single 'Baker Street,' which showcased his signature sound and became a staple of classic rock radio. He was also a member of the band Stealers Wheel, contributing to the song 'Stuck in the Middle with You,' which gained renewed popularity after appearing in the film 'Reservoir Dogs.' Rafferty's career evolved over the decades, with continued musical contributions until his passing in 2011.

Continue Reading

George Bingham

Field Marshal and 3rd Earl of Lucan
Born
April 16th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
1888 137 years ago — 88 years old

Served as a British army officer and politician during the 19th century. Bingham commanded the Light Brigade during the Charge of the Light Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava in 1854, a significant event during the Crimean War. He held the position of Governor of the Royal Hospital Chelsea and was a member of the House of Lords. His military career included various campaigns, and he was notable for his role in the planning and execution of military strategies.

Continue Reading

Ford Madox Brown

Painter and Pre-Raphaelite artist
Born
April 16th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
1893 132 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1821, a significant figure in the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, noted for contributions to Victorian art. A prominent painter, focused on narrative works that depicted social themes and historical subjects. Key paintings include 'Work', which showcases the plight of the working class, and 'The Last of England', reflecting emigration. Served as a tutor to future artists and contributed to the establishment of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, alongside contemporaries like Dante Gabriel Rossetti and John Everett Millais.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 30th

Georg von Trapp

Austrian naval captain and family patriarch
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1947 78 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a naval captain in the Austro-Hungarian Navy during World War I. After the war, became the head of the von Trapp family, which gained international fame through their musical talent. The family toured Europe and the United States, performing folk songs. Later, the story of the family was adapted into the popular musical 'The Sound of Music', which immortalized their experiences escaping Austria during World War II.

Continue Reading

Voltaire

French writer and philosopher
Born
November 21st, 1694 330 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1778 247 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure of the Enlightenment, this individual gained recognition for sharp wit and advocacy of civil liberties. Works include 'Candide' and 'Letters on England.' Contributions to philosophy emphasized freedom of expression and religious tolerance. Spent significant time in exile due to controversial writings. Influenced modern liberal thought through essays and plays. Engaged in correspondence with many Enlightenment thinkers.

Continue Reading

Tex Beneke

American singer and bandleader
Born
February 12th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2000 25 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1914, a prominent American singer, saxophonist, and bandleader, contributed significantly to the big band era. Joined the Glenn Miller Orchestra in the early 1940s and was instrumental in its success. After Miller's disappearance in 1944, continued to lead the band, bringing it to commercial success with hits such as 'Chattanooga Choo Choo'. Also known for a successful solo career, recording many popular songs during the 1940s and 1950s. His style combined elements of jazz and swing, appealing to wide audiences across the nation.

Continue Reading

Ziaur Rahman

Bangladeshi politician and president
Born
January 19th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1981 44 years ago — 45 years old

Served as a general in the Bangladesh Army and became the seventh President of Bangladesh. Assumed office in 1977 following a military coup. Played a key role in founding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1978, which became a major political force in the country. Focused on economic development and stabilization during his presidency, implementing various policies to boost the economy. Assassinated in 1981, leaving a significant legacy in Bangladeshi politics.

Continue Reading

Charles IX of France

French King during the Wars of Religion
Born
1550 475 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1574 451 years ago — 24 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1560 at the age of ten, leading to a regency period. His reign was marked by the French Wars of Religion, conflicts between Catholics and Huguenots. Charles IX ordered the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre in 1572, a pivotal event that significantly influenced the course of these wars. Charles IX's health deteriorated due to the stresses of rule, leading to a lonely death in 1574. The challenges faced during his reign highlighted the fragility of the French monarchy amid rising religious tensions.

Continue Reading

Tom Lysiak

Ice hockey player, NHL All-Star
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2016 9 years ago — 63 years old

A professional ice hockey player played for the Atlanta Flames and the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League (NHL). Achieved significant success in the 1970s and 1980s, recognized for offensive skills and playmaking abilities. Selected as an NHL All-Star in 1975, participated in the NHL All-Star Game multiple times, solidifying a reputation as a prominent forward. After retirement from professional play, contributed to the hockey community through coaching and mentorship programs.

Continue Reading