William Collins Whitney
American financier and politician
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as the 31st United States Secretary of the Navy from 1885 to 1889. Played a significant role in modernizing the U.S. Navy during a pivotal time of naval expansion. Worked as a financier and investor, contributing to various enterprises, and engaged in Democratic Party politics. Actively involved in the establishment of several important city institutions, significantly impacting urban development in New York City. Influenced policies affecting naval strategy and shipbuilding.
Served as 31st Secretary of the Navy
Modernized the U.S. Navy
Contributed to New York urban development
Other People Born on July 5th
Michael Blake
American author and screenwriter, Dances with Wolves
Born
July 5th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 11 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1945, this American author and screenwriter gained prominence through his work in literature and film. The most notable accomplishment is the screenplay for 'Dances with Wolves', which earned an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film, directed by Kevin Costner, received critical acclaim and several Oscars, including Best Picture. In addition to the screenplay, the author wrote the original novel upon which the film is based. Other contributions include screenwriting for projects like 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood' and 'The Last of the Dogmen'. His content often explored themes of Native American culture and the human experience.
Continue ReadingDavid Rozehnal
Czech footballer and defender
Born
July 5th, 1980 45 years ago
A professional footballer born in the Czech Republic, played primarily as a defender. His career included stints at several clubs, most notably with PSV Eindhoven and Newcastle United. Rozehnal was part of the national team that qualified for the UEFA European Championship in 2008. He also played for teams such as Lille OSC and 1. FC Slovácko, showcasing his skills in leagues across Europe.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Grivas
Cypriot general and guerrilla leader
Born
July 5th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1974 52 years ago — 75 years old
Grivas served as a key military figure in the Greek Cypriot struggle for union with Greece. He founded the paramilitary organization EOKA in 1955, which aimed to end British colonial rule in Cyprus and achieve enosis, or union with Greece. Grivas led EOKA during the armed struggle against British authorities, becoming a prominent nationalist figure. Following the 1960 independence of Cyprus, Grivas remained involved in political and military activities, focusing on the Greek Cypriot community. He returned to Cyprus in 1971 following years in exile, but his later years were marked by controversy regarding his political alignments. Grivas passed away in 1974 shortly before the invasion of Cyprus by Turkey.
Continue ReadingPrince John Konstantinovich of Russia
Russian Prince, Grand Duke of Russia
Born
July 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 32 years old
Born into Russian royalty, played a significant role in the imperial family during the early 20th century. Held the title of Grand Duke of Russia and was part of intense political and social changes in Russia. Experienced the upheaval of the Russian Revolution, leading to drastic changes in governance and society. Ultimately became a casualty of the revolution, executed in 1919, marking the end of an era for the Russian monarchy.
Continue ReadingAlexander Radulov
Ice Hockey Player, KHL Champion
Born
July 5th, 1986 39 years ago
Russian ice hockey player played as a forward. Successful career spanned the NHL and KHL. Initially selected 15th overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft by the Nashville Predators. Achieved notable success in the KHL while playing for Ak Bars Kazan and CSKA Moscow, winning championships. Contributed to team dynamics with strong scoring and playmaking abilities.
Continue ReadingPauly D
Television personality and DJ
Born
July 5th, 1980 45 years ago
Gained fame as a cast member of the reality television series 'Jersey Shore,' which aired on MTV. Developed a significant following through the show's portrayal of a group of friends living together in a beach house. Following the show's success, achieved recognition as a DJ, headlining various events and touring extensively. Released a number of singles, tapping into the electronic dance music genre. Participated in various spin-offs and reality shows, further extending presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 2nd
Max Schmeling
German heavyweight boxing champion
Born
September 28th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2005 21 years ago — 99 years old
A renowned heavyweight boxer, achieved prominence in the 1930s. Became the World Heavyweight Champion in 1930 after defeating Jack Sharkey. Participated in two significant bouts against Joe Louis, winning the first in 1936 and losing the rematch in 1938. His career spanned over a decade, and he was known for his exceptional skills and powerful punches. After retiring from boxing, engaged in various business endeavors and remained a prominent public figure in Germany.
Continue ReadingBoris Karloff
Actor most famous for horror films
Born
November 23rd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1969 57 years ago — 81 years old
An English actor who gained prominence in the horror genre through iconic roles. Achieved critical acclaim for portraying the Frankenstein Monster in the classic film 'Frankenstein' (1931) and continued to be associated with horror films throughout his career. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for the film 'The Old Dark House' (1932). Worked extensively in film, television, and theater, becoming a defining figure in horror cinema during the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingLou Harrison
Composer and educator, created 'Pacific Symphony'
Born
May 14th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2003 23 years ago — 85 years old
This American composer and educator was influential in the 20th-century music scene. Initiated interest in alternative tunings and non-Western music, integrating these elements into compositions. Became prominent for works incorporating Eastern musical influences, showcasing a blend of Western and Asian styles. Advocated for composing music using unconventional instruments, often employing gamelan ensembles. Contributed to the development of contemporary classical music through teaching and writing, impacting numerous students and musicians. In later years, gained recognition for collaborative projects, expanding the audience for new music forms.
Continue ReadingVladimir Sukhomlinov
Russian general and politician
Born
August 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1926 100 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a general in the Imperial Russian Army and held the position of Minister of War. Contributed to military reforms and modernization efforts in the early 20th century. Involved in the planning and execution of military strategies during World War I, facing significant challenges. Captured during the war and later held accountable for various military failures. Engaged in political activities post-war before his death.
Continue ReadingBilly Henderson
Singer and member of The Spinners
Born
August 9th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2007 19 years ago — 67 years old
Became part of The Spinners in the mid-1960s, a vocal group that achieved significant success in the music industry. The Spinners were influential in the genre of soul and R&B, earning multiple hits throughout the 1970s. Several of their songs reached the top of the charts, and the group received Grammy nominations. Henderson's contributions helped the group gain an enduring legacy in American music, marked by their harmonious vocal arrangements and engaging performances. The group toured extensively and delighted audiences with their charismatic stage presence before Henderson's passing in 2007.
Continue ReadingDorothy Gilman
American author of mystery novels
Born
June 25th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2012 14 years ago — 88 years old
An American author became recognized for writing mystery novels, particularly in the genre of cozy mysteries. One of the most notable works includes 'The Tightrope Walkers.' The character Mrs. Pollifax, featured in the 'Mrs. Pollifax' series, gained significant popularity. The author's writing often blended elements of suspense, humor, and thoughtfulness, appealing to a wide range of readers. Contributions to the literary world included both adult and children's literature, reflecting a versatility in storytelling.
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