Born on This Day: May 1

English essayist and statesman whose periodical writing helped shape modern journalism, literary criticism, and public discussion.

British military commander and prime minister whose defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo reshaped European history.

Irish-American labor organizer known as Mother Jones, whose activism advanced miners’ and workers’ rights.

American singer whose radio and recording career made her an influential voice in twentieth-century popular culture.

Canadian-American actor whose understated performances became a major part of classical Hollywood cinema.

American novelist whose Catch-22 transformed modern satire and the language used to describe bureaucratic absurdity.

American singer and songwriter whose interpretations and advocacy have influenced folk music and public culture.

American filmmaker whose distinctive visual composition and storytelling have influenced contemporary cinema.