Bettina von Arnim

German author and composer

Bettina von Arnim - German author and composer
Born

April 4th, 1785
240 years ago

Died

January 20th, 1859
166 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

An author, illustrator, and composer active in the 19th century. Authored the notable work ‘Goethe's Correspondence with a Child’, which highlights correspondence with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Contributed to the field of music through compositions and published works that showcased her talent as both a writer and a musician. Worked closely with prominent literary figures of the time and advocated for various intellectual causes, particularly in the realm of women's rights.

Authored 'Goethe's Correspondence with a Child'

Composed various musical pieces

Other People Born on April 4th

Dale Hawerchuk

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
April 4th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 57 years old

Achieved prominence in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a center, primarily with the Winnipeg Jets. Debuted in the NHL in 1981 and quickly distinguished himself as one of the top scorers in the league. Secured the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year in 1982. Concluded an 18-season NHL career with over 1,400 points. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading teams in various leagues, including the Ontario Hockey League.

Continue Reading

Richard Coogan

Actor known for 'The Naked City'
Born
April 4th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 100 years old

Coogan began his career in the 1940s and gained recognition for work on stage and television. Major television role included starring in the police drama series 'The Naked City', which aired from 1958 to 1963. Additionally, appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to various productions in the entertainment industry until the early 1970s.

Continue Reading

Frank Truitt

Basketball player and coach
Born
April 4th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 89 years old

Played college basketball at the University of Virginia. Compiled a successful coaching career in high school and college basketball. Led the basketball program at the University of Richmond, achieving significant success during tenure. Contributed to the development of young athletes through coaching.

Continue Reading

Thaddeus Stevens

American lawyer and politician
Born
April 4th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
1868 157 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1792, this individual was a prominent lawyer and congressman during the American Civil War era. Serving as a representative from Pennsylvania, this person was a leading figure in the House of Representatives and played a significant role in the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery. A member of the Radical Republicans, this individual advocated for civil rights for freed slaves and was a supporter of Reconstruction policies. This person's legacy includes efforts to redistribute land to former slaves and promote equality.

Continue Reading

Gene Reynolds

Actor and director of M*A*S*H
Born
April 4th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 97 years old

In television and film, significant contributions were made as an actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Achievements included directing multiple episodes of the acclaimed television series M*A*S*H, which provided a comedic yet poignant portrayal of life during the Korean War. As a producer, involvement in the series 'Lou Grant' showcased an insightful look into the life of a newspaper editor. Additionally, an active role in theatre production highlighted dedication to the arts, contributing to various stage projects throughout a lengthy career.

Continue Reading

Thobias Fredriksson

Swedish skier and World Cup champion
Born
April 4th, 1975 50 years ago

Played a significant role in cross-country skiing, particularly excelling in sprint events. Competed internationally and represented Sweden in various championships. Achieved multiple podium finishes during the FIS Cross-Country World Cup. Retired from competitive skiing after a successful career, contributing to the sport as both an athlete and mentor.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 20th

Shi Zong

Chinese Emperor of Jin Dynasty
Born
1123 902 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1189 836 years ago — 66 years old

Ruled over the Jin Dynasty during a period of significant political and military activity. Ascended to the throne amidst ongoing conflicts with the Song Dynasty. Engaged in military campaigns to expand territory and solidify power. Administration focused on governance and management of newly acquired lands, facilitating outreach to diverse populations within the empire. Known for attempts to strengthen the state and manage internal strife. Death occurred in 1189, marking the end of his reign and a pivotal moment in the Jin Dynasty's history.

Continue Reading

Benjamin Chew

American lawyer and judge
Born
November 19th, 1722 302 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1810 215 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent lawyer and judge in colonial America, played a significant role in the legal system of Pennsylvania. Served as the Chief Justice of Pennsylvania's Supreme Court from 1774 to 1777. Worked on establishing legal foundations during the early years of American governance. Played a part in the implementation of the judiciary after the American Revolution and contributed to important legal decisions of the time.

Continue Reading

T. Nadaraja

Sri Lankan lawyer and academic
Born
December 27th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 86 years old

Practiced law and contributed to academia in Sri Lanka. Served in various capacities within the legal community and committed to advancing legal education. Engaged in scholarly work that addressed legal issues pertinent to Sri Lanka, influencing both practitioners and students. Involved in initiatives aimed at improving the legal system and fostering a better understanding of law among the populace.

Continue Reading

Mira Furlan

Croatian actress in Babylon 5
Born
September 7th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1955 in Zagreb, this actress gained recognition for roles in television and film. Most notably starred as Delenn in the science fiction series 'Babylon 5', which aired from 1994 to 1998. Furlan also appeared in the series 'Lost', contributing to its popularity. Besides acting, she had a career as a singer. Furlan's work spanned several decades and included performances in both Croatian and international productions. She remained active until her passing in January 2021.

Continue Reading

Alan Freed

American radio host popularized rock 'n' roll
Born
December 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1965 60 years ago — 43 years old

A radio host contributed significantly to the promotion of rock 'n' roll music during the 1950s. Pioneered the genre through hosting programs that introduced the music to a broader audience, famously coining the term 'rock and roll' in the process. Established the Moondog Coronation Ball, widely recognized as the first major rock concert, which took place in 1952. Freely influenced multiple generations of artists and music listeners, showcasing a variety of artists on air.

Continue Reading

Andrew Volstead

U.S. Congressman and 18th Amendment architect
Born
October 31st, 1860 165 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1947 78 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Minnesota from 1903 to 1923. Played a significant role in the passage of the Volstead Act, which defined the legal parameters of Prohibition. Held the position of Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. Authored the Volstead Act to support the enactment of Prohibition under the 18th Amendment, implementing nationwide alcohol prohibition from 1920 until its repeal in 1933.

Continue Reading