Adam Yauch
Rapper and director of Beastie Boys
A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed significantly to the genre as a member of the Beastie Boys. The group released seminal albums including 'Licensed to Ill' and 'Paul's Boutique'. Yauch directed several of their music videos and established a film production company. In 1994, founded the Tibetan Freedom Concert, raising awareness and funds for Tibetan independence. Battled cancer for several years, having a profound influence on music and activism before passing in 2012.
Co-founded the Beastie Boys
Directed music videos for the group
Launched the Tibetan Freedom Concert
Other People Born on August 5th
Pete Burns
English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 5th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2016 9 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1959, a prominent figure in the English music scene, particularly during the 1980s. Achieved success as the lead singer of the band Dead or Alive, which gained popularity with the hit single 'You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)'. Contributed to the genre of synth-pop and was known for distinctive vocal style and theatrical performances. Apart from music, engaged in a variety of media appearances that showcased personal style and opinions.
Continue ReadingNeil Armstrong
Aerospace engineer and astronaut
Born
August 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
Born on August 5, 1930, an American pilot and engineer joined NASA and became the first person to set foot on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission. After achieving a Bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering, flew as a naval aviator before transitioning to test pilot. Participated in several significant aerospace missions, including Gemini 8 and Apollo 11. The Moon landing on July 20, 1969, marked a historic achievement in space exploration, and the phrase 'That's one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind' became iconic.
Continue ReadingVitus Bering
Russian explorer of the North Pacific
Born
August 5th, 1681 344 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1741 284 years ago — 60 years old
Born in Denmark, this explorer became a significant figure in Russian exploration during the 18th century. Bering commanded the First and Second Kamchatka Expeditions, which aimed to explore the North Pacific and the coasts of Russia and Alaska. The expeditions provided crucial knowledge about the geography and indigenous peoples of these areas. The Bering Strait, separating Russia and Alaska, is named in his honor, highlighting his contributions to mapping and understanding the region.
Continue ReadingBetty Oliphant
Ballerina, co-founder of National Ballet School
Born
August 5th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2004 21 years ago — 85 years old
An influential ballerina, contributed significantly to the ballet community in Canada. Co-founded Canada's National Ballet School in 1959, providing a platform for ballet education and nurturing talent. Served as the director of the school for many years, helping to establish rigorous training programs and fostering a new generation of dancers. Contributed to the growth of ballet in Canada through teaching and choreography, shaping the nation's dance landscape.
Continue ReadingRory Morrison
English journalist and broadcaster
Born
August 5th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 48 years old
A journalist and broadcaster with extensive experience in media. Contributions included work for several prominent news outlets, focusing on political and social issues. Gained recognition for coverage of significant events in English current affairs. Engaged audiences through both written and audio-visual formats, providing insights and analysis on pressing topics.
Continue ReadingEdmund of Woodstock
1st Earl of Kent, Lord Warden of Ports
Born
August 5th, 1301 724 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1330 695 years ago — 28 years old
Served as the 1st Earl of Kent and held the title of Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Engaged in the politics of England during the early 14th century, participating in the conflicts and intrigues of the court. Played a significant role in supporting various factions, including the opposition against Edward II. His political career was marked by involvement in key events of the time, reflecting the tumultuous nature of English noble life.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 4th
E. Nesbit
English author and children's writer
Born
August 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1924 101 years ago — 65 years old
Became a significant figure in children's literature. Authored a variety of stories that captivated young readers. Major works include 'The Railway Children' and the 'Psammead' series. Pioneered the use of fantasy in children's stories, blending everyday life with magical elements. Contributed extensively to literary magazines and was active in social issues.
Continue ReadingDavid Reimer
Subject of the John/Joan case
Born
August 22nd, 1965 60 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2004 21 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1965 in Canada, underwent gender reassignment following a botched circumcision. Raised as a girl named Brenda, the case attracted significant media attention and sparked debates on gender identity and psychological outcomes of gender assignment. Eventually, transitioned back to living as male in adulthood, adopting the name David. Struggled with personal identity and mental health issues. The case is often referenced in discussions of gender reassignment and human rights.
Continue ReadingSebastián Kindelán y O'Regan
Colonial Governor of East Florida
Born
December 30th, 1757 267 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1826 199 years ago — 68 years old
Held the position of colonial governor in East Florida, Santo Domingo, and Cuba during the late 18th century. His tenure included efforts to manage colonial governance and military affairs in these regions. Infrastructure and settlement expansions were part of administrative responsibilities. The period was marked by the challenges of colonial rule amid growing tensions and conflicts in the Caribbean.
Continue ReadingEdward of Westminster
Prince of Wales, son of Henry VI
Born
1453 572 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1471 554 years ago — 18 years old
Born into the royal family, this figure served as Prince of Wales during the tumultuous times of the War of the Roses. As the only son of Henry VI, anticipated as the future king, played a significant role in the conflict between the houses of Lancaster and York. Participated in the decisive Battle of Tewkesbury, which occurred in 1471. The defeat at this battle marked a turning point for the Lancastrian cause and ultimately led to his death the same year. His passing was seen as a loss for the Lancastrians.
Continue ReadingEustace Budgell
Journalist and politician in England
Born
August 19th, 1686 339 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1737 288 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1686, a journalist and politician contributed significantly to the political landscape of early 18th century England. Budgell served as a member of Parliament and was a prominent figure in the political discourse of his time. He was associated with the Whig party and engaged in various literary endeavors, writing extensively in periodicals. His work often focused on issues of the day and he was involved in political controversies that shaped public opinion. Budgell also played a role in the development of political journalism in England. His efforts in print media helped in advocating for political thoughts and ideologies of the period.
Continue ReadingGeorge Enescu
Romanian composer and violinist
Born
August 19th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1955 70 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Romania, a prominent violinist, pianist, composer, and conductor. Known for contributions to classical music as a composer deeply influenced by Romanian folk themes. Studied at the Paris Conservatory and composed significant works including 'Romanian Rhapsody No. 1'. Conducted orchestras and performed internationally. Enescu's influence extends through his dedication to promoting Romanian music and culture.
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