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May


May 16


Events

  • In 2014, two devastating explosions rocked the Gikomba market area in Nairobi, Kenya, resulting in the tragic deaths of twelve individuals. This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by urban communities.

  • STS-134, the final mission of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, launched from Kennedy Space Center on May 16, 2011. This historic flight marked a pivotal moment in International Space Station (ISS) assembly, specifically ULF6, contributing to the ongoing advancements in space exploration.

  • In 2005, Kuwait made a historic decision by granting women the right to vote, following a decisive 35-23 vote in the National Assembly. This pivotal moment marked a significant advancement in women's rights in the region.

  • In 2003, the Casablanca terrorist attacks shook Morocco, resulting in the tragic deaths of 33 civilians and leaving over 100 individuals injured. This devastating event remains a significant moment in the country’s history, highlighting the impact of terrorism on innocent lives.

  • In 1997, Mobutu Sese Seko, the long-time President of Zaire, made a dramatic escape from the country amidst rising political turmoil.

  • In 1991, Queen Elizabeth II made history by becoming the first British monarch to address a joint session of the United States Congress. This landmark event showcased the strong ties between the UK and the US, marking a significant moment in diplomatic relations.

  • In 1988, Surgeon General C. Everett Koop released a groundbreaking report highlighting the addictive nature of nicotine, likening it to the addictive properties of heroin and cocaine. This pivotal finding raised public awareness about smoking and its health implications, emphasizing the critical need for tobacco control programs.

  • In 1975, Junko Tabei from Japan made history by becoming the first woman to conquer the summit of Mount Everest. Her groundbreaking achievement continues to inspire adventurers and climbers around the globe.

  • In 1974, Josip Broz Tito was elected as the president for life of Yugoslavia, marking a significant moment in the nation's political history. Discover more about Tito's leadership and its impact on Yugoslavia's development.

  • In 1969, the Venera program achieved a significant milestone as the Soviet space probe Venera 5 successfully landed on Venus, marking a historic moment in space exploration.


Births

  • Ryan Gravenberch

    2002 – Ryan Gravenberch, Dutch footballer

  • Louisa Chirico

    1996 – Louisa Chirico, American tennis player

  • Kathinka von Deichmann

    1994 – Kathinka von Deichmann, Liechtenstein tennis player

  • Karol Mets

    1993 – Karol Mets, Estonian footballer

  • Johannes Thingnes Bø

    1993 – Johannes Thingnes Bø, Norwegian biathlete

  • Kirstin Maldonado

    1992 – Kirstin Maldonado, American singer and songwriter

  • Jeff Skinner

    1992 – Jeff Skinner, Canadian ice hockey player

  • Ashley Wagner

    1991 – Ashley Wagner, American figure skater

  • Grigor Dimitrov

    1991 – Grigor Dimitrov, Bulgarian tennis player

  • Behati Prinsloo

    1989 – Behati Prinsloo, Namibian model

Deaths

  • Dabney Coleman

    2024 – Dabney Coleman, American actor (b. 1932)

  • Bruno Covas

    2021 – Bruno Covas, Brazilian lawyer, politician (b. 1980)

  • Bob Hawke

    2019 – Bob Hawke, Australian politician, 23rd Prime Minister of Australia (b. 1929)

  • Piet Blauw

    2019 – Piet Blauw, Dutch politician (b. 1937)

  • Moshe Levinger

    2015 – Moshe Levinger, Israeli rabbi and author (b. 1935)

  • Heinrich Rohrer

    2013 – Heinrich Rohrer, Swiss physicist and academic, Nobel Prize laureate (b. 1933)

  • Edward Hardwicke

    2011 – Edward Hardwicke, English actor (b. 1932)

  • Ronnie James Dio

    2010 – Ronnie James Dio, American singer-songwriter and producer (b. 1942)

  • Modibo Keïta

    1977 – Modibo Keïta, Malian politician, 1st President of Mali (b. 1915)

  • Frederick Gowland Hopkins

    1947 – Frederick Gowland Hopkins, English biochemist and academic, Nobel Prize laureate (b. 1861)