May 5th captures moments of cultural pride and technological prowess. Celebrated as Cinco de Mayo, this day commemorates the Mexican victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, emphasizing Mexican heritage, unity, and resilience in overcoming adversity. In a stride towards cosmic exploration, 1961 saw Alan Shepard become the first American in space aboard Freedom 7, marking an important milestone in the space race.
This date also marks the birth of renowned journalist and broadcast pioneer Nellie Bly in 1864, whose daring undercover work and investigative journalism broke new ground for women in media. May 5th is further celebrated as International Midwives' Day, acknowledging midwives' crucial role in maternal care and emphasizing access to quality healthcare worldwide. Weaving vibrant cultural celebration with extraordinary endeavors in exploration and advocacy, May 5th reflects themes of triumph, discovery, and dedication to care.
36 Years Old
A talented artist who rose to fame with catchy R&B hits and impressive dance moves, known for his chart-topping albums and controversial personal life.
42 Years Old
A dashing leading man starring in blockbuster films and TV shows, particularly iconic superhero roles like Superman and Geralt of Rivia.
82 Years Old
A beloved comedian and travel documentarian, best known for his humorous travelogues and as a member of the iconic Monty Python comedy troupe.
45 Years Old
Creator of educational YouTube channels like Crash Course and SciShow, making complex topics engaging and accessible to a wide audience.
26 Years Old
American figure skater who has won numerous Olympic and World Championship titles, known for his record-breaking technical proficiency and artistic expression.
44 Years Old
A British artist who rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s with his smooth, soulful voice and catchy R&B-infused pop songs, blending hip-hop and electronic elements. He's ...
Died in 1998, aged 55
Country music icon known for heart-wrenching ballads and iconic hits like "Stand by Your Man," symbolizing the struggles and triumphs of American women.
Died in 1985, aged 81
Renowned chef and food writer who revolutionized American cuisine with his cookbooks and emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients, earning him the "Dean of American Cookery" title.
81 Years Old
A renowned actor and screenwriter, best known for his iconic roles in fantasy films and television series, including Gimli in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
44 Years Old
Star of the popular 1990s sitcom "Boy Meets World," playing the lovable and quirky Topanga Lawrence, and later reprising the role in the spin-off series "Girl Meets World."
Died in 1883, aged 64
A 19th-century philosopher who developed the theory of communism, arguing that capitalism would eventually be replaced by a socialist society. He's known for his critique of capita...
66 Years Old
A renowned news anchor who has reported on major global events, including wars and natural disasters, and has been a household name in American television journalism for decades.
79 Years Old
A legendary athlete and martial artist who starred in iconic films like "Enter the Dragon" and popularized martial arts in the Western world.
43 Years Old
Widow of Kobe Bryant, advocating for women's sports and cancer research, while also being a devoted mother of four daughters.
Died in 1958, aged 44
A dashing leading man of Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in swashbuckling adventures and romantic dramas, earning a lasting screen legend status.
Died in 1999, aged 77
Developed the concept of lasers and made groundbreaking contributions to the field of spectroscopy, earning a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1981.
Died in 1855, aged 42
A Danish philosopher and author who is considered the father of existentialism, known for his philosophical and theological writings that emphasized individualism and subjective ex...
Died in 2022, aged 95
An Emmy-winning actress and comedian, best known for her iconic voice role as Ursula in Disney's "The Little Mermaid" and her extensive work in television and film.
88 Years Old
A pioneering electronic music composer and arranger who transformed the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, creating iconic soundscapes for Doctor Who and beyond.
85 Years Old
Noted for his iconic roles in sci-fi and horror films, particularly as the android Bishop in the Alien franchise and Frank Black in the TV series Millennium.
Died in 1998, aged 83
A glamorous leading lady of 1930s and 1940s Hollywood, starring in musicals and dramas, with a signature sultry voice and striking beauty.
68 Years Old
A talented actor, director, and screenwriter, known for his iconic roles in films like "Withnail and I" and "Can You Ever Forgive Me?", earning him an Academy Award nomination.
Died in 2017, aged 65
The first Asian-American mayor of San Francisco, serving from 2011 to 2017, known for his progressive policies and revitalization of the city's economy.
46 Years Old
Star of the hit TV series Mad Men, playing the role of Pete Campbell, and known for his portrayal of complex, nuanced characters.
Died in 2015, aged 71
A Tony Award-winning actor and director, known for his iconic roles in TV shows like "Cheers" and "The West Wing", as well as his work on Broadway.
Died in 2013, aged 48
Screenwriter and producer behind several successful TV shows and films, including "The Simpsons" and "Thor," known for his witty humor and clever storytelling.
80 Years Old
A renowned music journalist and critic, known for his in-depth interviews and insightful reviews, particularly during his tenure at Rolling Stone magazine.
62 Years Old
A renowned young adult fiction author and composer, best known for the Uglies and Leviathan series, which have captivated readers worldwide with their unique blend of science ficti...
28 Years Old
Elite right-winger and alternate captain for the Toronto Maple Leafs, known for his exceptional playmaking skills and consistent point production.
Died in 1960, aged 78
A pioneering figure in the fight for women's right to vote, leading protests, hunger strikes, and advocating for workers' rights and socialism. Her artwork also helped raise awaren...
77 Years Old
The original drummer and songwriter for Black Sabbath, credited with creating the iconic heavy metal sound and penning lyrics that explored the darker side of life.
Died in 1922, aged 57
Pioneering journalist and author who went undercover to expose social injustices, famously feigning insanity to reveal deplorable conditions in mental institutions.
66 Years Old
Lead vocalist and guitarist of the iconic 1980s post-punk band Echo & the Bunnymen, known for his poetic lyrics and soaring vocals.
40 Years Old
A tough-nosed defender and versatile forward who has played for several NBA teams, known for his tenacious rebounding and three-point shooting ability.
Died in 1901, aged 28
The anarchist who assassinated President William McKinley at the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York, sparking widespread outrage and calls for stricter security meas...
Died in 2010, aged 81
Voice of Cinderella in Disney's 1950 animated film, singing iconic songs like "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" and "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo".
54 Years Old
A former NBA shooting guard known for his explosive scoring ability and winning two NBA Slam Dunk Contests in the 1990s. He was nicknamed "Baby Jordan" due to his similar playing s...
22 Years Old
Youngest tennis player to reach number one in the ATP rankings, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and dominating the sport with his aggressive playing style.
53 Years Old
Double Olympic gold medalist and six-time World Champion in rowing, known for his exceptional endurance and dedication to the sport.
49 Years Old
Australian soap opera star who played Shane Parrish on Home and Away, winning several awards for his portrayal. He was a household name in Australia during the 1990s.
43 Years Old
Australian rugby league footballer who played for the Brisbane Broncos and represented Queensland and Australia, known for his skillful playing style and numerous accolades.
27 Years Old
Belarusian tennis sensation who has won multiple Grand Slam titles and has been ranked as the world's number one in doubles, known for her powerful serves and aggressive playing st...
Died in 1982, aged 83
Creator of the groundbreaking radio show "Amos 'n' Andy," which revolutionized American entertainment with its witty dialogue and lovable characters, becoming a cultural phenomenon...
49 Years Old
A skilled left-back who won numerous titles with Juventus and Barcelona, and later became a popular sportscaster in Argentina.
Died in 1986, aged 81
Creator of Mickey Mouse's comic strip adventures, bringing the beloved character to life in print for decades.
67 Years Old
A legendary Aussie Rules footballer turned sportscaster, known for his rugged playing style and charismatic commentary. He's a beloved figure in Australian sports media.
Born in 1830
Founded the iconic hat company that bears his name, revolutionizing the cowboy hat industry with high-quality, durable designs that became synonymous with the American West.
89 Years Old
A comedian and actor who appeared in numerous TV shows and films, including "Seinfeld" and "Twins," known for his dry wit and sarcastic humor.
62 Years Old
Lead vocalist of progressive metal band Dream Theater, known for his powerful and wide-ranging vocals.
58 Years Old
Creator of iconic comic book characters and illustrator of DC Comics' Wonder Woman, known for his dynamic and detailed artwork.
Died in 2014, aged 82
An American illustrator renowned for his iconic comic book artwork, particularly in the Archie Comics series, bringing beloved characters to life with his vibrant and expressive st...
59 Years Old
Creator of iconic animated TV shows, including Dr. Katz and Home Movies, known for witty humor and relatable characters.
31 Years Old
A British singer-songwriter known for her soulful, jazzy voice and introspective lyrics, blending genres like R&B, pop, and electronic music. Her music often explores themes of lov...
Born in 1922
A Polish nurse who risked her life to save Jews during the Holocaust, hiding them in her nursing home and providing them with food and medical care. She was recognized as Righteous...
Died in 2024, aged 89
A renowned French journalist, talk show host, and producer, known for his iconic TV shows that showcased in-depth interviews with celebrities and intellectuals. He's a household na...
62 Years Old
Celebrity chef and cookbook author, known for his appearances on British TV shows and his vegetarian and vegan recipes.
58 Years Old
A right-handed pitcher who played 13 seasons in the MLB, winning 129 games and earning three All-Star selections. Known for his consistency and durability on the mound.
87 Years Old
A prolific character actor with a career spanning over 50 years, he's recognizable for his distinctive voice and authoritative presence in numerous film and television roles.
66 Years Old
Lead vocalist and bassist of the thrash metal band Overkill, known for his aggressive stage presence and distinctive vocal style.
64 Years Old
Australian comedic actress and writer, best known for her work on TV shows and films, particularly as a member of the comedy troupe "The D-Generation" and creating the character "K...
53 Years Old
A skilled winger who played in the NHL and won Olympic gold with Sweden in 1994, known for his speed and goal-scoring ability.
Born in 1826
The last Empress of France, known for her fashion sense and lavish lifestyle, which influenced European aristocracy and high society. She was a patron of the arts and a trendsetter...
Born in 1923
Developed innovative mathematical techniques to study the behavior of shock waves, making significant contributions to the field of fluid dynamics. Her work has far-reaching implic...
48 Years Old
An American soccer player who has played for the United States women's national team and won Olympic gold and World Cup championships. Known for her speed and agility on the field.
37 Years Old
Soulful, heart-wrenching ballads and chart-topping albums that capture the essence of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Died in 1999, aged 89
Creator of whimsical, colorful children's books that explore complex themes like identity, community, and empathy through simple yet powerful storytelling. His works have become be...
50 Years Old
Won the 2014 Boston Marathon, becoming the first American to do so in over 30 years, and is a silver medalist in the 2004 Olympic Games.
40 Years Old
Italian midfielder who played for Juventus and Sunderland, scoring a crucial goal in the 2014 World Cup. Known for his energetic and versatile playing style.
34 Years Old
Mexican striker who plays for Wolverhampton Wanderers and the Mexico national team, known for his clinical finishing and aerial ability.
Died in 1916, aged 70
A Polish journalist and author who wrote epic historical novels, including "Quo Vadis", which won him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1905. His works are known for their vivid sto...
Died in 1950, aged 67
A British military leader and statesman who served as Governor-General of India during a tumultuous period, implementing significant reforms and playing a key role in Indian indepe...
Died in 1954, aged 70
A Hall of Fame pitcher and coach who won 212 games and led the Philadelphia Athletics to three World Series titles, known for his exceptional curveball and strategic pitching mind.
69 Years Old
A renowned middle- and long-distance runner, holding multiple American records, and later a successful coach, guiding athletes to Olympic and World Championship medals.
59 Years Old
A Canadian drummer known for his work with heavy metal bands Megadeth and Act of Defiance, delivering powerful beats and technical precision.
Born in 1883
Pioneering mathematician who made significant contributions to the field of differential equations and was one of the first women to achieve prominence in mathematics. Her work pav...
Died in 1410, aged 58
A powerful noble who ruled the Palatinate region in the 18th century, known for his military prowess and cultural achievements, including founding the University of Heidelberg.
Died in 1978, aged 53
American soldier, educator, and politician who served in the US House of Representatives and was assassinated while investigating human rights abuses at the Peoples Temple in Jones...
Died in 1996, aged 59
A dominant force in women's cycling, winning numerous national and world championships, and setting multiple records that stood for decades.
45 Years Old
Israeli attacking midfielder who played for Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal, known for his pace, skill, and versatility on the pitch.
29 Years Old
American tennis player known for his powerful serve and volley game, winning several ATP titles and competing in Grand Slam tournaments.
26 Years Old
Dutch winger who plays for Roma and the Netherlands national team, known for his pace, skill, and goalscoring ability.
Born in 1898
A pioneering blues musician, known for his distinctive vocal style and intricate fingerpicking guitar technique, which influenced many later blues and rock artists. His music remai...
28 Years Old
A rising star in Major League Baseball, this right-handed pitcher is known for his impressive fastball and promising rookie season with the Seattle Mariners.
Born in 1913
A pioneering open-wheel racing driver who won the 1953 Indianapolis 500 and was a four-time IndyCar champion. Known for his fearless driving style and innovative car designs.
Born in 1858
Pioneering physician who championed water chlorination, revolutionizing public health by making clean drinking water accessible to millions.
Died in 2013, aged 90
American golfer who won 1964 Masters Tournament and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Known for his impressive golf career and contributions to the sport.
61 Years Old
A German athlete who won the 1992 Olympic gold medal in the high jump, setting a world record of 2.05 meters that still stands today.
61 Years Old
A talented Japanese voice actress and singer, known for bringing anime characters to life with her iconic voice and catchy songs. She's a beloved figure in the anime industry, espe...
38 Years Old
Scottish midfielder who played for clubs like West Bromwich Albion and Rangers, known for his set-piece expertise and goal-scoring ability from midfield .
Born in 1832
Pioneering ethnologist and historian who documented and preserved the cultures of Native American and Spanish-American communities, producing a vast collection of manuscripts and p...
75 Years Old
A Dutch singer who represented the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 and 1980, known for her catchy pop songs and distinctive vocals.
65 Years Old
Australian Rules footballer and commentator, known for his playing career with the Footscray Football Club and later as a popular TV and radio personality.
Born in 1885
A South African-Australian scholar and politician who founded the Fairbridge Farm School in Western Australia, providing education and training to disadvantaged children. He's know...
Born in 1890
Prolific writer and humorist, best known for novels like "Parnassus on Wheels" and "Kitty Foyle", which captured the American spirit and wit of the early 20th century.
64 Years Old
A Japanese professional wrestler turned politician, known for his successful wrestling career and later becoming a member of the Japanese Diet. He's a rare example of a wrestler tu...
59 Years Old
The 46th Prime Minister of Bulgaria, who served from 2005 to 2009 and is known for his efforts to reform the country's economy and bring it closer to the European Union. He is also...
Died in 1812, aged 47
A British Army general who led the Light Division during the Peninsular War, known for his bravery and tactical genius. He was also a Member of Parliament for several constituencie...
Born in 1869
A late Romantic composer and conductor, known for his operas and symphonic works that blended traditional and modern elements. His music is characterized by its lyricism and rich o...
Died in 1941, aged 67
The 24th Premier of New South Wales, serving from 1927 to 1930, known for his conservative policies and efforts to stabilize the economy during the Great Depression.
Died in 1279, aged 68
King of Portugal from 1248 to 1279, known for his military campaigns and territorial expansions, particularly the conquest of the Algarve region. He also established a new nobility...
Born in 1911
A Bengali educator and activist who played a key role in the Indian independence movement, known for her bravery and sacrifice in fighting against British colonial rule.
82 Years Old
A renowned Spanish journalist and author, known for his critical views on globalization and neoliberalism, and his role as editor-in-chief of Le Monde Diplomatique.
21 Years Old
Scottish freestyle skier who won a bronze medal at the 2017 World Championships and became the first British woman to land a double cork in competition. Known for her fearless and ...
Born in 1833
A renowned geographer and academic who pioneered the field of geomorphology, mapping and describing the Earth's landforms and landscapes. He's credited with coining the term "Silk ...
Born in 1911
A Russian-Hungarian chess grandmaster who won numerous international tournaments and was a candidate for the World Chess Championship. He was known for his creative and attacking p...
Died in 1999, aged 80
A Greek military officer who led a coup in 1967 and ruled Greece as a dictator until 1974, known for his authoritarian regime and human rights abuses.
36 Years Old
Swedish curler who won Olympic silver and bronze medals, as well as multiple World Championship titles, dominating the sport in the 2010s.
Died in 1864, aged 64
A pioneering French publisher who revolutionized the book industry by making quality literature accessible to the masses through affordable and stylish editions.
Died in 1873, aged 39
A Russian painter and architect who designed sets and costumes for the Imperial Russian Opera and Ballet, and inspired Modest Mussorgsky's famous composition "Pictures at an Exhibi...
83 Years Old
A pioneering lawyer and politician who championed women's rights and prison reform, particularly through her groundbreaking 2007 report on vulnerable women in the criminal justice ...
61 Years Old
French Minister of Budget who served from 2005 to 2007 and was the President of the Union for a Popular Movement party from 2010 to 2012. He's known for his efforts to reduce Franc...
Died in 2013, aged 74
A pioneering BBC broadcaster and gay rights activist, known for his fearless and provocative documentaries that tackled taboo subjects.
70 Years Old
A singer-songwriter and guitarist known for blending blues, rock, and folk styles, creating a unique sound that resonates with fans of 80s and 90s music.
Died in 1994, aged 78
The first Sikh to hold the office, he served as President of India from 1982 to 1987, playing a crucial role in maintaining national stability during a tumultuous period. He's also...
29 Years Old
Egypt's first tennis player to qualify for the main draw of a Grand Slam tournament, known for breaking barriers for women's tennis in the Middle East.
91 Years Old
The second President of Côte d'Ivoire, serving from 1960 to 1993, known for maintaining stability and economic growth in the country during his tenure. He also played a key role in...
81 Years Old
A Swedish footballer who played as a striker and is best known for his speed and goal-scoring ability, earning him the nickname "Napoleon" .
Born in 1859
A renowned American Shakespearean actor, celebrated for his powerful stage presence and iconic performances in classic plays, particularly in the role of Hamlet.
40 Years Old
Japanese actress and singer known for her anime and video game-themed music, as well as her enthusiastic personality and cosplay appearances.
Died in 1792, aged 44
The last Habsburg ruler to hold the title of Holy Roman Emperor, he oversaw the dissolution of the empire and played a key role in European politics during the French Revolution.
Born in 1887
American captain who received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor, sacrificing his life to save his crew. He is remembered for his bravery a...
Born in 1898
Pioneering female engineer who broke gender barriers, working on iconic infrastructure projects like the New York City subway system and contributing to the development of the Amer...
92 Years Old
A talented Jamaican cricketer who played for the West Indies team in the 1950s, known for his impressive bowling skills and tragic death at a young age.
Born in 1889
A South African cricketer and soldier who played 42 Test matches and fought in both World Wars, earning him a reputation as a brave and skilled sportsman and soldier.
Died in 1348, aged 66
A 14th-century Spanish nobleman and writer, known for his literary works, particularly "El Conde Lucanor", a collection of tales and fables that showcase his storytelling skills an...
Died in 1579, aged 75
A 16th-century Polish cardinal who played a key role in the Counter-Reformation, helping to shape Catholic Church doctrine and policy during a tumultuous period. He was a skilled d...
Born in 1892
Pioneering excavations in the Middle East and Europe uncovered crucial evidence of early human migrations and cultural developments, shedding light on our ancient ancestors' lives.
Born in 1843
A dentist and patriot who advocated for Canadian autonomy and unity, and is credited with inventing modern lacrosse.
Died in 1938, aged 72
Danish entrepreneur who founded Thrige-Titan, a leading textile machinery manufacturer, and was a pioneer in the industrialization of Denmark.
Died in 1623, aged 80
A prominent military leader and politician who served as Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, known for his role in the English Civil War and his influence on local governance.
Died in 1982, aged 75
A Ukrainian journalist and author who wrote about women's rights and social issues in the early 20th century, leaving a lasting impact on Ukrainian literature and feminism.
Died in 1376, aged 65
A 16th-century Polish bishop and cardinal who played a key role in the Counter-Reformation, reforming the Catholic Church and promoting education. He founded several schools and un...
Born in 1582
A 16th-century German duke who ruled Württemberg and played a key role in the Protestant Reformation, leading to significant religious and political changes in Europe.
Born in 1684
A French aristocrat and wife of a prominent duke, she was a patron of the arts and a salonnière, hosting intellectual gatherings that shaped 17th-century French culture.
Born in 1900
Pioneering geneticist who discovered the first genetic linkage in humans, mapping the location of genes on chromosomes. Known for her groundbreaking work in human genetics and its ...
Died in 1574, aged 44
A French nobleman who accidentally killed the third king of France, Henry II, during a jousting tournament, leading to a significant shift in power dynamics in 16th-century France....
Died in 1943, aged 78
American litterateur and poet, known for her lyrical and introspective poetry that explores themes of love, nature, and the human experience. Her work is characterized by its music...
Died in 2023, aged 88
A Scottish poet and magazine editor who championed working-class voices and published numerous notable writers, earning a reputation as a literary champion of the marginalized.
Born in 1479
The third Sikh Guru, a key figure in Sikhism, is known for establishing the Sikh holy city of Amritsar and introducing the concept of langar, a communal kitchen where people of all...
Born in 1749
A French pianist and composer, known for his expressive and technically impressive performances, particularly in the Classical and Romantic periods. He was also a prolific composer...
Died in 1937, aged 68
A pioneering Filipino painter and educator who introduced Western-style art to the Philippines and trained many prominent artists, leaving a lasting impact on the country's art sce...
91 Years Old
Australian Minister for Veterans' Affairs who served from 1983 to 1993, overseeing policies and services for war veterans. He's most known for his efforts to recognize and support ...
58 Years Old
A Burundian journalist and politician who founded a popular radio station and ran for president, known for promoting democracy and human rights in a tumultuous region.
53 Years Old
Slovakian ice hockey player who competed in the 1948 Winter Olympics and won several national championships, known for his speed and agility on the ice.