William R. Tolbert Jr.
Liberian politician and president
Served as the 20th President of Liberia from 1971 until his assassination in 1980. Focused on agricultural reform and education during presidency. Attempted to improve relations with the United States and sought to attract foreign investment to Liberia. His administration faced criticisms regarding human rights and freedom of expression, eventually leading to political unrest. Overthrown in a military coup, which marked a significant turning point in Liberian history.
Presidency from 1971 to 1980
Promotion of agricultural reforms
Efforts to improve U.S.-Liberia relations
Other People Born on May 13th
Nandor Fodor
Psychologist and Parapsychologist
Born
May 13th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1964 61 years ago — 69 years old
Born in Hungary, a psychologist and parapsychologist advanced the field of psychical research. Relocated to the United States, authored several influential texts on paranormal phenomena. Explored various cases of paranormal activity, emphasizing scientific analysis in investigations. Contributed to the establishment of the American Society for Psychical Research. His work laid the foundation for future inquiries into parapsychology and related fields.
Continue ReadingHarry Schwarz
Anti-apartheid diplomat and lawyer
Born
May 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2010 16 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent lawyer and anti-apartheid leader, played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Served as the 13th South African Ambassador to the United States, contributing to diplomatic efforts during a pivotal period in South African history. Engaged in legal practices and advocacy aimed at dismantling apartheid legislation and promoting human rights. Also involved in various civil society organizations that worked toward equality and justice.
Continue ReadingJim Jones
Cult leader, founded Peoples Temple
Born
May 13th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1978 47 years ago — 47 years old
Founded the Peoples Temple in the 1950s, promoting a mix of socialism and religion. Jones gained a following in California before moving the congregation to Guyana, establishing Jonestown. The settlement became infamous for the mass murder-suicide that occurred on November 18, 1978, leading to the deaths of over 900 people, including children. Prior to the tragedy, Jones was involved in various political activities and claimed to advocate for civil rights.
Continue ReadingOtl Aicher
Graphic designer, typographer, and entrepreneur
Born
May 13th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent graphic designer and typographer, made significant contributions to visual communication and design. Co-founded the renowned design agency, Hochschule für Gestaltung, in Ulm, which became a key institution in post-war design education. Developed the iconic visual identity for the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, establishing a modern aesthetic in sports branding. Aicher emphasized clarity and functionality in design, influencing numerous projects in both corporate and public sectors. His work encompassed corporate identities, typefaces, and signage systems, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of graphic design.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Papanikolaou
Pathologist, invented the Pap smear
Born
May 13th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1962 63 years ago — 78 years old
A Greek-American pathologist contributed significantly to cancer screening techniques through the invention of the Pap smear, a revolutionary method for detecting cervical cancer. After receiving his medical degree from the University of Athens, Papanikolaou emigrated to the United States, where he started working at New York Hospital. The Pap smear was introduced in 1943 and became a standard procedure in gynecological examinations, significantly reducing cervical cancer mortality rates. Throughout his career, he conducted extensive research on reproductive biology and the cellular changes associated with cancer.
Continue ReadingMike Gravel
American politician and activist
Born
May 13th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent figure in U.S. politics, this individual served as a U.S. Senator from Alaska from 1969 to 1981. During the Vietnam War, conducted a famous filibuster against the war and was instrumental in the release of the Pentagon Papers. His advocacy for direct democracy and controversial positions set him apart in the political landscape. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2008 and 2020, emphasizing issues such as nuclear disarmament and environmental sustainability. His tenure in the Senate was marked by efforts to improve the lives of Alaskans, promoting civil liberties and ethical governance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 12th
Marie Alfred Cornu
French physicist and academic
Born
1842 184 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1902 123 years ago — 60 years old
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of optics. Worked extensively on the diffraction of light and the study of optical instruments. Held a prominent position at the École Polytechnique, influencing the education of future scientists. Engaged in research that advanced understanding of light and optics.
Continue ReadingValentin Kataev
Author and playwright, wrote 'The Suicide'
Born
January 28th, 1897 129 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1986 39 years ago — 89 years old
A significant literary figure, contributed to Russian literature through novels and plays. Gained recognition for the novel 'The Suicide', which reflects the social and political landscape of the time. Worked as a playwright, creating works that were performed in theaters. Engaged in journalism and wrote essays, reflecting on contemporary issues during the 20th century. Served in the Red Army during World War II, documenting experiences through writings.
Continue ReadingAdelbert Ames
American general and Mississippi governor
Born
October 31st, 1835 190 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1933 92 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a general in the Union Army during the Civil War, achieving the rank of brevet major general. Became the 30th Governor of Mississippi from 1874 to 1876. His tenure focused on reconstruction efforts in the South after the Civil War. After serving as governor, held various political roles including a U.S. Senator. Advocated for civil rights and was involved in the Republican Party during his political career.
Continue ReadingViktor Puskar
Estonian colonel and military leader
Born
May 7th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1943 82 years ago — 53 years old
Served as a colonel in the Estonian Army during the period of Estonia's independence. Participated in the Estonian War of Independence, which established Estonia's autonomy after World War I. Engaged in military reforms and played a pivotal role in modernizing the army structure. His leadership was evident during significant military engagements against Soviet forces. Contributed to the formation of a national defense strategy during a time of geopolitical instability in the region.
Continue ReadingPhilip K. Wrigley
American businessman and sports team owner
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1977 48 years ago — 83 years old
Co-founded Lincoln Park Gun Club and served as president of Wrigley Company, a major chewing gum manufacturer. Acquired the Chicago Cubs in 1938, overseeing the team for several decades. Wrigley promoted the development of a successful baseball organization and was involved in various enhancements to Wrigley Field during ownership, which contributed to its lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingAlan Paton
South African author and activist
Born
January 11th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1988 37 years ago — 85 years old
An influential author and political activist, contributed significantly to anti-apartheid movements in South Africa. Wrote the acclaimed novel "Cry, the Beloved Country," which highlighted the struggles of apartheid. Engaged in various social and political issues throughout his life, working to promote human rights and social justice. Served as the first president of the South African Liberal Party from its founding in 1953 until 1968.
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