Famous people and celebrities born in May 1900

Welcome to our dedicated page for celebrating the notable individuals born in May 1900! This month and year saw the birth of many influential figures who have made significant contributions to various fields, including entertainment, sports, politics, and more. Explore the biographies and achievements of these famous personalities and see how their talents have shaped the world. Join us in honoring the stars born in this memorable time.

• May 1 Ignazio Silone

  Prominent Italian novelist and political activist known for his powerful works critiquing fascism and social injustice, including the famous novels 'Fontamara' and 'Bread and Wine'.

• May 3 Jean Carlu

  French graphic designer and artist known for his innovative Art Deco style, who continued his creative career after losing his arm in a tramway accident. He gained significant recognition with his iconic 'Electric Kitchen' poster in 1935, showcasing his mastery of cubist design principles.

• May 5 Charles Jewtraw

  American speed skater who won a gold medal in the 500m event at the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix, France.

• May 7 Ralph Truman

  British character actor known for supporting roles in classic films like Henry V and Treasure Island, with a career spanning several decades of mid-20th century cinema.

• May 10 Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin

  A pioneering astronomer who revolutionized our understanding of stellar composition, revealing that stars are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium. She was the first woman to become a professor at Harvard's astronomy department and made groundbreaking contributions to astrophysics.

• May 12 Helene Weigel

  Prominent German-Austrian actress known for her theatrical work, particularly in Bertolt Brecht's plays like 'Mother Courage'. She was a key figure in 20th-century avant-garde theater.

• May 12 Joseph Rochefort

  Crucial American naval intelligence officer who played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, particularly in breaking Japanese naval codes.

• May 13 Karl Wolff

  High-ranking Nazi SS officer who served as Himmler's personal staff chief and SS liaison to Hitler. He was the supreme commander of SS forces in Italy by the end of World War II.

• May 13 Pierre Chaillet

  French Jesuit priest who founded Cahiers du Témoignage Chrétien and actively participated in the French Resistance, helping save Jewish lives during World War II.

• May 14 Cesare Polacco

  Italian actor who began his career in commercials at age 19, later transitioning to television and stage. He was known for his Jewish heritage and anti-fascist stance, and was married twice.

• May 17 Ayatullah Ruhollah Khomeini

  Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was a prominent Iranian Shia Muslim religious and political leader who led the Iranian Revolution in 1979, overthrowing the Shah and establishing an Islamic Republic. He served as the Supreme Leader of Iran from 1979 until his death in 1989, fundamentally transforming Iran's political and social landscape.

• May 18 Ruhollah Khomeini

  Ruhollah Khomeini was the Supreme Leader of Iran who led the Iranian Revolution in 1979, fundamentally transforming the country's political and religious landscape.

• May 20 Sumitranandan Pant

  Sumitranandan Pant was a distinguished Hindi poet, writer, and one of the most prominent figures of the Chhayavad literary movement in modern Indian poetry. He was a recipient of the Jnanpith Award, India's highest literary honor, and significantly influenced 20th-century Hindi literature. His poetry is known for its romantic and philosophical depth.

• May 20 Lydia Cabrera

  Lydia Cabrera was a prominent Cuban ethnographer, writer, and anthropologist who made significant contributions to understanding Afro-Cuban culture and folklore. She is renowned for her extensive research and documentation of Santería religious practices and traditions. Her work is considered foundational in preserving and interpreting Afro-Cuban cultural heritage.

• May 22 Yvonne de Gaulle

  Wife of Charles de Gaulle, a prominent French political leader. She was a significant figure in French political and social circles during mid-20th century.

• May 22 Vina Bovy

  Renowned Belgian soprano and opera singer who made significant contributions to classical music performance and direction.

• May 23 Hans Frank

  Hans Frank was a prominent Nazi lawyer who served as Governor-General of occupied Poland during World War II. He was a key figure in implementing Nazi racial policies and was responsible for numerous war crimes. At the Nuremberg Trials, he was found guilty and executed in 1946.

• May 24 Edoardo De Filippo

  Renowned Italian theater actor, playwright, and director who was a key figure in 20th-century Italian performing arts. He was part of the famous De Filippo theatrical family and significantly influenced Italian comedy and drama.

• May 24 Lionel Conacher

  Legendary Canadian multi-sport athlete who excelled in hockey, football, and baseball. He was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame and is considered one of Canada's greatest athletes.