Born on This Day: May 25

English novelist and politician whose historical fiction and phrases had a lasting influence on popular literature.

American essayist and philosopher whose Transcendentalist writings shaped literature, individualism, and social reform.

American dancer whose tap technique and stage career influenced musical theater and Black performance history.

English actor and playwright whose work contributed to modern British theater and cinema.

Russian-American engineer whose helicopters and large aircraft transformed aviation.

American soprano and arts administrator whose career expanded opera’s audience and strengthened major cultural institutions.

English actor and activist whose Shakespearean and screen performances have shaped modern acting and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

American actor whose varied performances and public life contributed to film, television, and discussions of identity.