Alan Seeger

American soldier and poet

Alan Seeger - American soldier and poet
Born

1888
137 years ago

Died

July 4th, 1916
109 years ago — 28 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Wrote significant poetry during the early 20th century. Seeger volunteered for the French Foreign Legion during World War I. His poem 'I Have a Rendezvous with Death' gained recognition for its poignant reflection on bravery and mortality. The poem, published posthumously, captures the experiences of soldiers in wartime.

Wrote 'I Have a Rendezvous with Death'

Served in the French Foreign Legion during WWI

Other People Who Died on July 4th

Suzanne Lenglen

French tennis champion and pioneer
Born
May 24th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1938 87 years ago — 39 years old

One of the first female tennis stars, made significant contributions to women's tennis during the early 20th century. Achieved remarkable success at the French Championships and Wimbledon, where her powerful serve and net play transformed the sport. Captured numerous Grand Slam titles, establishing a legacy as a trailblazer for women in athletics.

Continue Reading

John Frith

English priest and martyr, writer
Born
1503 522 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1533 492 years ago — 30 years old

A prominent English priest and writer, contributed significantly to religious discourse during the Reformation. Advocated for reform in the Catholic Church and opposed certain doctrines. Imprisoned for his beliefs and writings, facing trial for heresy. Executed in 1533, becoming a martyr for his faith. His works included pamphlets and treatises promoting Protestant ideology, significantly influencing reformist thought in England.

Continue Reading

Taejo of Goryeo

Korean king and founder of Goryeo
Died
July 4th, 943 1082 years ago — None years old

Became the first king of Goryeo and established the Goryeo Dynasty in 918. Unified various tribes in the Korean Peninsula and created a centralized government. Implemented Confucian principles to strengthen state administration and promote education. Consolidated power by suppressing rebellions and expanding territory. The era saw advancements in culture, arts, and a stronger national identity.

Continue Reading

Thomas Jefferson

American politician, 3rd President
Born
April 13th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1826 199 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809. Drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776, articulating the principles of individual liberty and government by consent. Played a pivotal role in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which expanded U.S. territory significantly. Oversaw the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the western territories. Jefferson was a member of the Continental Congress and the first Secretary of State.

Continue Reading

William Byrd

English composer of sacred music
Died
July 4th, 1623 402 years ago — None years old

Active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, this composer contributed significantly to the development of English choral music. His works encompassed both sacred and secular music, including motets and anthems. A prominent figure in the Elizabethan musical scene, he became one of the first composers to write music for the Anglican Church. Byrd published several influential collections, which played a critical role in the evolution of polyphonic music in England.

Continue Reading

Pier Giorgio Frassati

Italian activist and beatified figure
Born
April 6th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1926 99 years ago — 25 years old

Born in Italy, dedicated life to social justice and youth engagement. Involved with the Catholic Action movement, emphasizing the need for spiritual growth alongside social responsibility. Actively served the marginalized and the poor in society. His compassion and commitment led to significant outreach efforts among the underprivileged. Passed away at a young age, but left a lasting legacy. Beatified by the Catholic Church in 1990, recognized for his deep faith and service to others.

Continue Reading