William Kidd
Scottish pirate hunter and privateer
Born in 1645 in Scotland, served as a sailor and privateer. Gained notoriety during the late 17th century while undertaking missions to combat piracy. Commanded the adventure ship 'Lauretta' and was granted a privateering commission by the British government. Later faced charges of piracy himself. Captured in 1699, tried, and hanged in 1701. His story contributed to legends surrounding piracy and privateering in the Caribbean.
Commanded the pirate-hunting ship 'Adventure'
Convicted of piracy and hanged in 1701
Other People Born on January 22nd
Fabricio Coloccini
Argentine footballer and defender
Born
January 22nd, 1982 44 years ago
A professional footballer, primarily played as a central defender. Began career at Boca Juniors before moving to Italy, where stints included clubs like San Lorenzo and Deportivo La Coruña. Achieved considerable success in England with Newcastle United, contributing to the club's promotion to the Premier League in 2010. Represented Argentina in international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingMimis Domazos
Greek footballer and Panathinaikos captain
Born
January 22nd, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2025 1 years ago — 83 years old
Played for Panathinaikos from 1957 to 1974, contributing to the team's success during a golden era. Achieved significant victories, including winning multiple Greek championships and the Greek Cup. Also represented the national team, participating in the 1966 FIFA World Cup and earning numerous caps throughout the 1960s and early 1970s.
Continue ReadingWilla Ford
Singer-songwriter and actress with hits
Born
January 22nd, 1981 45 years ago
A singer-songwriter and actress emerged in the late 1990s. Released debut album, 'Willa Was Here', in 2001, featuring the hit single 'I Wanna Be Bad.' Also gained attention for acting roles in television, including a part in the reality series 'The Surreal Life.' Produced music as well, contributing to various projects throughout the career. Engaged in philanthropic efforts related to cancer awareness and prevention.
Continue ReadingFrank Leboeuf
Footballer, World Cup Champion
Born
January 22nd, 1968 58 years ago
A professional footballer played as a central defender. Achieved prominence in the 1990s and was part of the French national team that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup. After retiring, transitioned into sportscasting and pursued a career in acting, appearing in various French films and television shows. Also contributed to football analysis and commentary.
Continue ReadingLeon Powe
American basketball player and champion
Born
January 22nd, 1984 42 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of California, Berkeley. Selected by the Boston Celtics in the 2006 NBA Draft. Contributed to the Celtics' championship victory in the 2007-2008 season. Played for several teams during an NBA career, including the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Memphis Grizzlies. Known for strong performance in key playoff games.
Continue ReadingGreg Oden
Basketball player, NBA champion
Born
January 22nd, 1988 38 years ago
A professional basketball player played center, starting his career with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2007. Struggled with injuries throughout his career, limiting playing time. Joined the Miami Heat in 2013, contributing to the team's victory in the 2013 NBA Championship. Retired in 2014, ending a career affected by significant physical challenges but highlighted by moments of standout performance during his limited playtime.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 23rd
August Jakobson
Estonian author and politician
Born
September 2nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1963 63 years ago — 58 years old
An author and politician from Estonia, contributed significantly to literature and political life in the 20th century. Played a vital role in the Estonian independence movement and was involved in post-war government efforts. Focused on issues pertaining to Estonian culture and language. Published various works that explored themes of identity and nationalism, leaving a lasting influence on Estonian literature.
Continue ReadingLouis Coatalen
Engineer associated with Talbot and Sunbeam.
Born
September 11th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1962 64 years ago — 82 years old
An engineer contributed significantly to automotive engineering in the early 20th century. Developed several innovative designs, notably for Talbot and Sunbeam cars. Served as a chief engineer for Sunbeam Motor Car Company and led the development of groundbreaking racing vehicles. Participation in various motorsport events, particularly renowned for achievements in the 1920s. Worked on advances in engine performance and vehicle design.
Continue ReadingUrban I
Pope of the Catholic Church
Died
May 23rd, 230 1796 years ago — None years old
Served as pope in the early 3rd century. Focused on spiritual leadership and consolidation of the Church's authority during a period of persecution. Advocated for Christian communities amid external challenges. Played a significant role in establishing early Church doctrine, promoting unity among believers.
Continue ReadingAntipope Benedict XIII
Antipope and Avignon Papacy leader
Born
1328 698 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1423 603 years ago — 95 years old
Served as antipope from 1394 to 1423 during the Western Schism, refusing to accept the legitimacy of the Roman popes. His pontificate was marked by attempts to consolidate power and maintain the influence of the Avignon papacy. Benedict XIII faced challenges from rival factions and was eventually confined to Avignon. He continued to claim authority until death in 1423, leaving a legacy of political and religious division within the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingLloyd Bentsen
U.S. Secretary of the Treasury during Clinton
Born
February 11th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2006 20 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 69th Secretary of the Treasury from 1993 to 1994. Played a significant role in implementing economic policies during the early years of the Clinton Administration. Earlier, served as a U.S. Senator from Texas from 1971 to 1993, where efforts were focused on tax reform and trade legislation. Also held the position of Democratic nominee for Vice President in 1988, alongside Michael Dukakis. Engaged in World War II service in the Army Air Corps as a pilot.
Continue ReadingFranz Ernst Neumann
Mineralogist and physicist, Neumann's Law
Born
September 11th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1895 131 years ago — 96 years old
A German mineralogist and physicist, contributed significantly to the field of mineralogy and theoretical physics. Developed Neumann's Law, which describes the symmetry of crystal growth. Made advancements in the study of geometric and physical properties of crystals. Worked as a professor at the University of Berlin, where engaged in scientific discourse and education. Published numerous papers and textbooks that influenced future studies in mineralogy and physics.
Continue Reading