Alfred Mosher Butts
Game designer, inventor of Scrabble
A game designer developed the popular word game Scrabble in the early 1930s. This game combined elements of crossword puzzles and word games, utilizing letter tiles with varying point values to create words on a grid. Butts created the game while he was seeking a way to combine his interests in architecture and word play. It was initially called 'Lexiko' before being renamed Scrabble. The game gained popularity after its commercial launch in 1948, leading to a successful partnership with game manufacturer Selchow and Righter. The game's enduring appeal has resulted in numerous editions and variations, establishing a lasting legacy in the realm of board games.
Invented Scrabble in the 1930s
Created the game to combine word play and architecture
Secured a commercial launch in 1948
Other People Born on April 13th
Isaac Low
American merchant and politician
Born
April 13th, 1735 290 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1791 234 years ago — 56 years old
Served as a prominent merchant and politician in New York during the late 18th century. Participated in the Continental Congress representing New York and actively supported colonial resistance against British rule. His business acumen contributed to the development of trade practices in the region. Played a significant role in the establishment of civic governance in post-Revolutionary America, advocating for various reforms.
Continue ReadingCharles Christie
Businessman, co-founder of Christie Film Company
Born
April 13th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1955 70 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Christie Film Company, which became a significant player in the early film industry. The company produced and distributed motion pictures, contributing to the growth of cinema. The organization standardized the production processes of films and introduced various technological innovations in the film industry. Enabled the transition of movie making from literal representation to narrative storytelling. Involved in the production of many notable early films that showcased the potential of cinema as an art form.
Continue ReadingPeter Faber
French Jesuit theologian and co-founder
Born
April 13th, 1506 519 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1546 479 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent figure in the early Jesuit movement, contributed significantly to the formation of the Society of Jesus alongside Ignatius of Loyola. Focused on education and spiritual guidance, served as a key theologian and established principles that would govern Jesuit spirituality. Played a crucial role in promoting the Catholic Reformation through his preaching and writings. Engaged in various ecclesiastical missions across Europe, emphasizing the importance of education in the faith.
Continue ReadingMarguerite Henry
Author of children's horse books
Born
April 13th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1982 43 years ago — 80 years old
An American author specialized in children's literature, particularly focusing on horse stories. Significant works include 'Misty of Chincoteague' and 'King of the Wind', both of which have become classics in children's literature. Over a career spanning several decades, produced more than 50 books, drawing inspiration from real-life events and historical figures. Writings often featured themes of adventure and a deep connection to horses, resonating with young audiences and inspiring a love for the equine world. Won the Newbery Medal in 1949 for 'King of the Wind', cementing a legacy in literary history.
Continue ReadingMuwenda Mutebi II
King of Buganda Kingdom
Born
April 13th, 1955 70 years ago
Born in 1955, the current king of Buganda Kingdom has held the throne since 1993, after a long period of political turmoil in Uganda. Having studied in both Uganda and the United States, he returned to promote the cultural and social interests of the Baganda people. The king emphasizes education, cultural revival, and charitable initiatives throughout the kingdom. Under his leadership, Buganda has focused on reforming local governance and heritage preservation.
Continue ReadingFrank Winfield Woolworth
Businessman who founded Woolworth's
Born
April 13th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent American businessman founded the F. W. Woolworth Company, pioneering the concept of the five-and-dime store. Established the first self-service retail store model that influenced modern retail shopping. The first store opened in Utica, New York in 1879, leading to the rapid expansion of numerous locations across the United States and internationally. His business approach emphasized affordability and accessibility, creating a new shopping experience for consumers. Contributions to retail set the stage for future discount retailers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 4th
André Michelin
Businessman, co-founder of Michelin Tyres
Born
January 16th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1931 94 years ago — 78 years old
Co-founded the Michelin Tyre Company, which became a leading manufacturer of tires. Under his leadership, Michelin introduced the first detachable tire, revolutionizing the automobile industry. Extended the business's reach with the strategic introduction of guides that promoted travel and hospitality, contributing to the growth of road tourism in France. Pioneered efforts in tire technology and safety, establishing Michelin as a prominent name in the automotive world.
Continue ReadingThomas Gumbleton
Roman Catholic prelate and social justice advocate
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent American Roman Catholic prelate, dedicated to advocating for peace and social justice. Served as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Detroit. Participated in various missions to promote reconciliation and address issues such as poverty and war. Engaged in activism against nuclear weapons and supported the movement for immigrants' rights. Worked extensively on behalf of marginalized communities within the Church, focusing on inclusivity and outreach efforts.
Continue ReadingEmmanouil Argyropoulos
Pioneer aviator in Greece
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1913 112 years ago — 24 years old
A significant figure in aviation history, contributed to early aviation efforts in Greece. Engaged in various flying exhibitions and tested early aircraft designs. Established a reputation through numerous flights and advocated for aviation in the region. Died during a flight demonstration, marking a tragic end to a pioneering career in aviation.
Continue ReadingDaniel Neal
Historian and author of English history
Born
December 14th, 1678 347 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1743 282 years ago — 64 years old
An English historian and author, this individual specialized in works detailing English history. His most prominent work includes 'The History of New England,' which offered a comprehensive look at the region's historical development. Active in the early 18th century, contributed to historical scholarship and understanding of early American history. Engaged in writing during a period of growing interest in both national and colonial histories, the individual focused on both political and social contexts of the time.
Continue ReadingHarry Nyquist
Engineer known for Nyquist theorem
Born
February 7th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of telecommunication and electrical engineering. Developed the Nyquist theorem, which describes the maximum data rate of a channel. His research paved the way for advancements in signal processing and communication theory. Authored several important papers and held numerous patents throughout his career, influencing the development of modern electronics and information theory. Worked at Bell Laboratories, contributing to the design of electronic circuits and systems that remain foundational in the industry.
Continue ReadingKumba Ialá
Bissau-Guinean politician and soldier
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the President of Guinea-Bissau from 2000 to 2003. Led the Party of Social Renewal and was involved in the military during a coup. His presidency was marked by political unrest and attempts to stabilize the country after years of conflict. After being removed from office, returned to politics and maintained influence until passing in 2014.
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