William Buell Richards

Canadian Chief Justice and lawyer

William Buell Richards - Canadian Chief Justice and lawyer
Born

May 2nd, 1815
209 years ago

Died

1889
136 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Canada

Links & References

Served as the first Chief Justice of Canada from 1875 to 1876. Had a prominent legal career in Ontario, becoming a significant figure in the establishment of Canadian law. Contributed to the development and interpretation of legal principles that shaped Canada's judicial system. Appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada shortly after its establishment, played a crucial role in defining the powers and responsibilities of the judiciary in Canada.

Served as the first Chief Justice of Canada

Contributed to the establishment of the Supreme Court of Canada

Other People Born on May 2nd

Ray Barrett

Actor and singer in Australian cinema
Born
May 2nd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

An Australian actor and singer achieved prominence in both television and film during a career spanning several decades. Early work included performances in television series such as 'Homicide' and 'A Country Practice.' Barrett also appeared in feature films, including 'The Devil's Playground' and 'The Last of the Knuckleheads.' His contributions to the arts earned recognition within the Australian entertainment industry. In addition to acting, Barrett showcased musical talent, often incorporating song into performances. He received accolades for work on stage and screen, establishing a legacy within the Australian performing arts landscape.

Continue Reading

Catherine the Great

Empress of Russia, Westernization advocate
Born
May 2nd, 1729 295 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1796 228 years ago — 67 years old

Catherine the Great ascended to the throne of Russia in 1762 after a coup d'état against her husband, Emperor Peter III. During her reign, she expanded the Russian Empire significantly, establishing a powerful and influential state. She implemented a series of reforms aimed at modernizing Russia's administration and economy, inspired by Enlightenment ideas. Patron of the arts, she founded the Smolny Institute for Noble Maidens, the first state-financed higher education institution for women. Catherine also engaged in foreign affairs, promoting territorial expansion through successful military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and Poland.

Continue Reading

Giuseppe Morello

Italian-American mobster and crime boss
Born
May 2nd, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 63 years old

Born in Italy, became an influential figure in organized crime in the United States. Led the Morello crime family, one of the earliest Mafia families in New York City. Played a significant role in the development of the American Mafia during the early 20th century. Engaged in various illicit activities including extortion, bootlegging, and racketeering. Arrested multiple times throughout his career and convicted on charges related to criminal conspiracy. His reign established foundations for future Mafia operations in the region.

Continue Reading

Désiré Charnay

Archaeologist and photographer in Mexico
Born
May 2nd, 1828 196 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1915 109 years ago — 87 years old

An archaeologist and photographer, this individual conducted extensive explorations in Mexico during the 19th century. Documented ancient ruins and indigenous cultures, contributing valuable insights to the understanding of Mesoamerican history. Undertook expeditions in the Yucatán Peninsula and Oaxaca, capturing photographs that became crucial for later archaeological studies. Published works, including detailed accounts of findings and photographic documentation, reflected the regions explored.

Continue Reading

Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck

German director; Oscar winner for 'The Lives of Others'
Born
May 2nd, 1973 51 years ago

Born in 1973, the individual is a German film director and screenwriter. The works include acclaimed films that explore themes of morality and human experience. The debut feature film, 'The Lives of Others', released in 2006, received widespread critical acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Other notable works include 'The Tourist' and 'Never Look Away', which showcases the pursuit of artistic freedom amidst oppressive regimes. Filmmaking career is characterized by a focus on strong narratives and character-driven stories.

Continue Reading

Saulius Mikoliūnas

Lithuanian footballer and midfielder
Born
May 2nd, 1984 40 years ago

A Lithuanian footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Spent significant time with FC Vilnius and later joined FC Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona in Israel. Earned recognition for contributions to the Lithuanian national team, including participation in UEFA Euro 2008. Made a notable impact in club football, achieving various domestic honors in both Lithuania and Israel.

Continue Reading