Top 10 February 5 Birthdays
Honorable Mention: February 5, 1725: James Otis Jr. The Cape Cod native was part of one of the most influential families in the American Revolution. He coined the slogan, "Taxation without representation is tyranny." He was also one of the earliest white Americans to advocate for the rights of black Americans. Somewhat Honorable Mention: February 5, 1788: Robert Peel. Prime Minister of Britain briefly in 1834 and '35, and again from 1841 to 1846, he created the modern police force, leading to British policemen, to this day, being known as "Bobbies" and "Peelers." Unfortunately, his many reforms are shadowed by being the man who presided over the start of the Irish Potato Famine. Even if it wasn't his fault, he still bears some responsibility. Somewhat Honorable Mention: February 5, 1840: Hiram Maxim. He held patents on hair-curling irons, a mousetrap, and steam pumps. He claimed to have invented the light bulb before Thomas Edison. But he is bes...