William P. Sprague
American banker and politician
Born
Died
1899
127 years ago — 72 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Elected as a U.S. Senator from Rhode Island, served from 1863 to 1869. Held the position of Governor of Rhode Island, contributing to state governance during a period of economic change and post-Civil War recovery. Founded and operated banks in the state, influencing local financial practices. Participated in various civic initiatives aimed at economic development.
Served as U.S. Senator from Rhode Island
Held office as Governor of Rhode Island
Other People Born on May 21st
Dorothy Hewett
Australian feminist poet and playwright
Born
May 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2002 23 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1923, this individual contributed significantly to Australian literature as a feminist poet, novelist, and playwright. Engaging with themes of social justice and empowerment, they authored several acclaimed works. The poetry collection 'The Invisible Thread' and the play 'In Celebration' reflect personal and political struggles, promoting discourse around women's rights and identity. This individual's literary legacy continues to influence Australian culture and feminist thought.
Continue ReadingWilliam Babington
Anglo-Irish physician and mineralogist
Born
May 21st, 1756 269 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1833 192 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed to the field of mineralogy and medicine during the early 19th century. Worked as a physician and was involved in scientific research. Published significant findings in the field of mineralogy and is credited with enhancing the understanding of various minerals and their applications. Engaged in the study of geological formations and their properties. Involved with the Royal Society, influencing the scientific community of the time.
Continue ReadingJanet Dailey
Author of romance novels
Born
May 21st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 69 years old
An American author and entrepreneur, one of the first authors to successfully publish a series of contemporary romance novels. Began writing early in life and published the first book in the Cedar Cove series, which became a bestseller. Contributed significantly to the romance literature genre and inspired many writers. Expanded her brand with unique storylines and characters that resonated with readers. Authored over 100 novels with international sales reaching millions.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Fry
Prison reformer and philanthropist
Born
May 21st, 1780 245 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1845 180 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent English prison reformer and philanthropist, focused on improving conditions for female prisoners. Actively worked in the early 19th century to advocate for humane treatment and rehabilitation strategies. Documented the appalling conditions within prisons through reports and founded initiatives to provide education and employment opportunities for incarcerated women. Played a significant role in the establishment of nursing and aid programs within the penal system.
Continue ReadingMarcel Breuer
Architect, designed Ameritrust Tower
Born
May 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1981 45 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Hungary, an architect and academic became a significant figure in modern architecture. Breuer studied at the Bauhaus and later taught there before emigrating to the United States. He gained recognition for innovative furniture designs, particularly the Wassily Chair, which highlighted modernist aesthetics. Breuer designed several notable structures, including the UNESCO building in Paris and the St. John's Abbey in Minnesota. The Ameritrust Tower in Cleveland stands as a testament to his architectural vision.
Continue ReadingPrincess Stéphanie of Belgium
Belgian Royal Family member
Born
May 21st, 1864 161 years ago
Died
1945 81 years ago — 81 years old
Born into Belgian royalty, Stéphanie became the daughter of King Leopold II and Queen Marie-Henriette. In 1881, she married Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria, the only son of Emperor Franz Joseph I. The marriage was tumultuous and ended with Rudolf's death in 1889 under tragic circumstances. After this event, she lived in Belgium and later returned to Austria. Stéphanie was involved in various social initiatives, particularly focusing on welfare and education, reflecting her royal duties.
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