Famous people born on May 19th
May 19 gathers an unusually wide-ranging set of innovators, agitators, and storytellers. The date links revolutionary politics with modern journalism, bold theatrical voices, and culture-shaping music. It also features influential thinkers in philosophy, psychology, mathematics, and science, alongside standout figures in sport and entertainment.
Notable highlights
- Malcolm X (1925) - A central voice of the U.S. civil rights era whose speeches and autobiography reshaped global conversations about race, self-determination, and power.
- Ho Chi Minh (1890) - Leader of Vietnamese independence whose political strategy and symbolism became foundational to 20th-century anti-colonial movements.
- Kemal Ataturk (1881) - Founder of modern Turkey, remembered for sweeping reforms that reoriented institutions, law, and public life.
- Nora Ephron (1941) - Writer-director who translated sharp personal observation into enduring romantic comedies and cultural commentary.
- Lorraine Hansberry (1930) - Playwright whose "A Raisin in the Sun" brought groundbreaking realism about Black family life to Broadway.
- Pete Townshend (1945) - The Who guitarist and primary songwriter, credited with ambitious rock narratives and boundary-pushing stage sound.
- Grace Jones (1948) - Genre-blending performer and style icon known for a striking visual persona and fearless reinvention.
- Kevin Garnett (1976) - NBA champion and elite defender whose intensity and versatility helped define the modern power forward.
- Edward de Bono (1933) - Popularized "lateral thinking" and practical creativity tools used in business and education worldwide.
- Johann Gottlieb Fichte (1762) - Key figure in German Idealism whose work helped shape debates on selfhood, ethics, and nationalism.
On this day
- 1536 - Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII, is executed at the Tower of London.
- 1897 - The first Boston Marathon is held, launching one of the world's most famous annual road races.
- 1962 - Marilyn Monroe sings "Happy Birthday" to U.S. President John F. Kennedy at Madison Square Garden.
- 1991 - Croatia votes for independence in a referendum, a major step in the breakup of Yugoslavia.