Caleb Blood Smith
U.S. Secretary of the Interior
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
Merce Cunningham
Choreographer and dancer, postmodern dance
Born
April 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent figure in the development of modern dance, contributed significantly to the art form through innovative choreography. Founded the Merce Cunningham Dance Company in 1953, which toured extensively and influenced generations of dancers and choreographers. Collaborated with various artists, including composer John Cage, creating a unique integration of music and dance. Utilized chance procedures in choreography, which revolutionized traditional approaches to movement. Explored technology in performance, incorporating film and multimedia elements to enhance the dance experience.
Continue ReadingArch A. Moore Jr.
Governor of West Virginia
Born
April 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1923, this individual served as the 28th Governor of West Virginia, holding office from 1969 to 1971 and again from 1985 to 1989. A member of the Republican Party, advocacy for state development and infrastructure characterized his tenure. He pursued a legal career as well, serving as a prominent lawyer prior to his governorship. The political career included addressing various social and economic issues pertinent to West Virginia, shaping several policies during his governance.
Continue ReadingJohn Hadley
Mathematician and inventor of the octant
Born
April 16th, 1682 343 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1744 281 years ago — 61 years old
Contributions to mathematics and navigation included the invention of the octant, an important navigational instrument used at sea. The octant allowed sailors to measure angles up to 90 degrees and later influenced the development of more advanced tools. Hadley published works detailing the principles of the octant and its applications in navigation, contributing to the field of celestial navigation. His innovations aided explorers and navigators in more accurately determining their positions at sea, proving crucial during the Age of Discovery.
Continue ReadingRonald Barnes
English cricketer and politician
Born
April 16th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1963 62 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 3rd Baron Gorell and contributed to cricket as a player. Played first-class cricket for Sussex County Cricket Club. Engaged in journalism and contributed to political discourse as a member of the House of Lords. Involved in various charitable and social causes throughout the career.
Continue ReadingCharlie Chaplin
Silent film actor and filmmaker
Born
April 16th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1977 47 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in the film industry, created beloved characters and pioneered slapstick comedy. Achieved success during the silent film era with the iconic character of the Tramp, characterized by his bowler hat and cane. Founded United Artists, allowing greater creative control. Directed and starred in classic films such as 'The Kid', 'City Lights', and 'Modern Times'. Received an Honorary Academy Award in 1972 for his contributions to film.
Continue ReadingT Lavitz
Keyboard player for Dixie Dregs
Born
April 16th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2010 15 years ago — 54 years old
Renowned American keyboard player, composer, and producer. Contributed significantly to the progressive rock genre as a member of the band Dixie Dregs. Also worked as a solo artist and collaborated with various artists in the music industry. Known for the unique blend of rock, jazz, and classical influences in compositions. His innovative keyboard techniques and creative arrangements were hallmarks of his style, thus earning recognition within the music community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 7th
Gary Albright
Wrestler, notable amateur competitor
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2000 25 years ago — 37 years old
Contributed significantly to amateur wrestling, achieving recognition for performances at various championships. Competed in the United States and gained fame in the wrestling community throughout the 1990s. Heavyweight wrestler achieved notable success in both national and international competitions. Transitioned to professional wrestling, competing for several promotions and earning respect within the industry.
Continue ReadingJudith Kaye
American lawyer and jurist, Chief Judge
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 78 years old
Served as Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals from 1993 to 2008, becoming the first woman to hold this position. Prior to this role, served as an associate judge on the court starting in 1983. Contributed significantly to the reform of the legal system in New York. Worked as the first female judge on New York's highest court and earned respect for various rulings, particularly in areas regarding civil rights and family law. Advocated for the enhancement of the state's judicial system.
Continue ReadingJohn Johnson
American basketball player, NBA champion
Born
October 18th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old
A basketball player played for teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers and the Seattle SuperSonics. Achieved significant success in the NBA, including winning the championship. Additionally, contributed to the sport in various roles after retirement, including coaching and mentorship within basketball programs.
Continue ReadingJim Anderton
Former New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2018 7 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a member of the New Zealand Parliament for many years. Held various cabinet positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Played a significant role in the Labour Party and was instrumental in its leadership. Founded the Progressive Party, advocating for social justice and economic reform. Contributed to significant policy changes in New Zealand's economic landscape.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Wurtzel
Author and feminist with notable memoir
Born
1967 58 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 53 years old
An author and feminist, contributed significantly to literature through personal narratives. Gained prominence with the publication of a memoir that explored struggles with mental health and addiction. This work resonated with many and sparked discussions on feminist issues and mental illness. Additionally engaged in journalism, writing for various publications and providing insightful commentary on societal topics. Continued to write and speak publicly about issues related to mental health and feminism until passing in January 2020.
Continue ReadingEdmund Barton
Australian politician and judge
Born
January 18th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1920 105 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the first Prime Minister of Australia from 1901 to 1903. Played a pivotal role in the federation of Australia, advocating for the unification of the six colonies into a single nation. Prior to his political career, served as a judge on the High Court of Australia. Also contributed to the establishment of the Australian Constitution.
Continue Reading