Caleb Blood Smith
U.S. Secretary of the Interior

Born
April 16th, 1808
217 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1864
161 years ago — 55 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as the 6th U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 1861 to 1862. Participated in the early stages of the Civil War as part of President Abraham Lincoln's cabinet. Engaged in policy-making that impacted the management of public lands and resources. Prior to the cabinet position, held a significant role in journalism and contributed to the establishment of various public policies.
Served as U.S. Secretary of the Interior
Contributed to public land management policies
Other People Born on April 16th
Edie Adams
An American actress and singer gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved recognition for performances in musicals, television shows, and films. Starred in the Broadway production of "Bells Are Ringing" and appeared in the television series "The Ed Sullivan Show" multiple times. Also received acclaim for her appearances in films such as "The Apartment," which won an Academy Award for Best Picture. Worked alongside numerous notable figures in the entertainment industry and showcased vocal talents through various recordings. Later in career, engaged in philanthropy and active support of educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingJohn Bowe
Born in 1954, this individual entered the world of motorsport in the late 1970s and competed in various racing categories. Primarily known for success in touring car racing, significant achievements include multiple championships and victories in prestigious events. Achievements in the Australian Touring Car Championship, including several well-regarded wins, showcased talent in high-stakes racing. The celebrated Bathurst 1000 served as a key highlight in the racing career, with a notable victory further solidifying the individual’s reputation in the sport. Throughout the driving career, strong performances were marked by consistency and competitiveness, especially during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Continue ReadingRobert Henry Best
A significant journalist, contributed to news coverage during World War II, particularly focusing on the European theater. Worked for various publications, including a notable tenure with the Chicago Times. Reported on key events and battles, providing detailed accounts that informed the public about the war's progress and implications. Best's career included coverage of significant political and military developments, gaining recognition for in-depth analysis and firsthand reporting from conflict zones.
Continue ReadingFred Root
Root played for Northamptonshire from 1919 to 1939, contributing significantly to the team's success in county cricket. Transitioning to umpiring after his playing career, he became a first-class umpire from 1948 until his death. His expertise in the game was recognized during his tenure as an umpire, where he officiated in various important matches. Root's influence on the sport extended through both playing and officiating.
Continue ReadingNolan Arenado
A professional baseball player primarily at third base, played for the Colorado Rockies and St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved multiple Gold Glove Awards and was recognized for outstanding offensive and defensive performance throughout the career. Notable for significant contributions to the Rockies, including participation in postseason games and consistent high batting averages.
Continue ReadingLars Börgeling
Competed in pole vaulting, achieving notable success. Secured a medal at the European Athletics Championships. Represented Germany in international competitions, showcasing exceptional athletic ability and contributing to the sport's prominence in the country.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 7th
France Gall
A prominent figure in French pop music, began career in the early 1960s. Gained popularity with the song 'Poupée de cire, poupée de son,' which won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1965 representing Luxembourg. Collaborated with notable songwriters including Serge Gainsbourg and Michel Berger, producing a series of successful albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Continued to perform and release music until the late 1990s, remaining a cherished icon in the French music scene until passing in 2018.
Continue ReadingVladimir Prelog
A chemist and academic with contributions to organic chemistry. His research focused on stereochemistry and the understanding of chemical reactions. Prelog received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1975 for his work on the stereochemistry of molecules, particularly in the realm of natural products. He spent significant portions of his career in both Croatia and Switzerland, where he was influential in the academic community and contributed to scientific education and research. His legacy continues to influence the field of chemistry.
Continue ReadingLucian of Antioch
A prominent theologian and martyr, contributed significantly to early Christian thought. Established a theological school in Antioch that became a center for Biblical studies. Opposed the Arian controversy and emphasized the humanity of Jesus Christ. Became a martyr for the faith during the reign of Emperor Maximinus Daia, illustrating commitment to Christian beliefs. Recognized as a saint in various Christian traditions, influencing subsequent theological debates.
Continue ReadingSophia Jex-Blake
Pioneered the entry of women into medicine in the UK. Advocated for women's education and the right to practice medicine. Founded the London School of Medicine for Women in 1874, which became a significant institution for training women doctors. Contributed to the establishment of the Edinburgh School of Medicine for Women.
Continue ReadingMário Soares
A significant political figure in Portugal, held the office of Prime Minister twice before becoming the 16th President from 1996 to 2006. Played a crucial role in the Portuguese transition to democracy after the Carnation Revolution in 1974. Advocated for European integration and modernization of Portuguese society. Contributed to Portugal's return to democracy and played an instrumental role in the country's accession to the European Economic Community.
Continue ReadingMagnus Magnusson
A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to Icelandic literature and media. Served as a television presenter for the quiz show 'Mastermind,' which became a defining feature of televised trivia in the UK. Authored numerous books on Icelandic history, culture, and travel, enhancing the global understanding of the country's heritage. Worked extensively in journalism, notably as a reporter and editor, shaping public discourse through articles and broadcasts.
Continue Reading