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
Vera Krepkina
Russian long jumper Olympic medalist
Born
April 16th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 90 years old
Competed in long jump during the mid-20th century, achieving significant recognition in athletics. Secured a bronze medal at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Also won gold at the 1958 European Athletics Championships and set multiple national records during her career.
Continue ReadingRobert Stigwood
Film and music producer and manager
Born
April 16th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 82 years old
Started a career in theater production before transitioning to music and film. Founded the Management Company and managed notable artists, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s. Produced iconic films and musicals, including 'Saturday Night Fever' and 'Grease'. Established a reputation for bringing successful Broadway shows to the screen and for his significant contributions to the disco era in music.
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 ReadingDusty Springfield
English singer and 'Son of a Preacher Man'
Born
April 16th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 59 years old
An influential English singer, noted for a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Gained prominence in the 1960s, becoming one of the era's leading female vocalists. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'Son of a Preacher Man' and 'I Only Want to Be with You'. Springfield's career spanned several decades, during which she transitioned from pop to blue-eyed soul, amassing a dedicated fan base. Alongside a successful music career, she had a significant impact on the development of female artists in popular music. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, solidifying her legacy within the music industry.
Continue ReadingLawrence N. Guarino
American colonel in the military
Born
April 16th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Army. Played a significant role during the Vietnam War, leading military operations and strategy. Contributed to training programs for troops and held various command positions. After retirement, continued to engage in military-related affairs and veteran support initiatives.
Continue ReadingPedro Ramírez Vázquez
Mexican architect and urban planner
Born
April 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
An architect and urban planner, this individual made significant contributions to modern Mexican architecture. Designed notable constructions such as the Azteca Stadium, which hosted the FIFA World Cup twice, in 1970 and 1986. Also contributed to the development of the National Museum of Anthropology, a centerpiece for Mexican culture. Designed important public works that improved urban infrastructure and cultural engagement in Mexico City and beyond, showcasing a blend of functionality and aesthetic vision.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 7th
Denis of Portugal
King of Portugal, poet, and diplomat
Born
October 9th, 1261 764 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1325 701 years ago — 63 years old
Ruled as king of Portugal from 1279 until death in 1325. Established the Portuguese University in Lisbon in 1290, which played a vital role in the development of education in the country. His reign was marked by efforts to enhance agriculture and promote peace, earning the title 'o Lavrador' (the Farmer). Contributed significantly to the establishment of royal policies and governance structures that would shape the future of Portugal. Also known for his poetry, especially in the Portuguese language, which included themes of love and nature.
Continue ReadingDavid Goodis
American author, wrote 'Dark Passage'
Born
March 2nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1967 59 years ago — 49 years old
An American author and screenwriter primarily active in the mid-20th century. Focused on noir fiction, captured the essence of post-war disillusionment through compelling narratives. Wrote several novels that were adapted into films, establishing a lasting presence in the literary and cinematic worlds. Explored themes of alienation, despair, and the darker sides of human nature. His work continues to influence the crime genre both in literature and film.
Continue ReadingNikolaos Kalogeropoulos
Greek politician and Prime Minister
Born
1851 175 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1927 99 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 99th Prime Minister of Greece during a turbulent period marked by political instability. His tenure was characterized by efforts to stabilize the government and address the challenges posed by economic difficulties and social unrest. Leadership included navigating complex relationships with various political factions and seeking to implement necessary reforms. Contributed to discussions around Greece's political framework and governance.
Continue ReadingEdward Channing
Historian known for American History
Born
1856 170 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1931 95 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent American historian and author, significant contributions to the study of American history were made through a comprehensive handbook. This work became an essential reference for scholars and students alike. In addition to authoring several textbooks, also edited a key historical journal. Engaged in academia for many years, held a teaching position at Harvard University, influencing generations of historians. Focused on early American history, particularly the Revolutionary War and the formation of the United States. Widely respected in the field for rigorous scholarship.
Continue ReadingThomas Lawrence
English painter; portrait of the Duke of Wellington
Born
April 13th, 1769 256 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1830 196 years ago — 60 years old
An English painter and educator, recognized for contributions to portrait painting during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Served as the president of the Royal Academy from 1820 until death in 1830. Notable works include portraits of prominent figures of the time, such as the Duke of Wellington and Lord Byron. Played a pivotal role in the development of academic art training in England. Established a studio that attracted many talented artists, influencing generations in the discipline.
Continue ReadingCanute Lavard
Danish prince and saint
Born
1096 930 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1131 895 years ago — 35 years old
Born as a prince of Denmark, he played a crucial role in the early formation of the Danish state during the 11th century. He engaged in military campaigns to expand and defend his territories. After his death in 1131, he was venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, with his canonization occurring in the 12th century. His legacy was further cemented through the establishment of the Lund Cathedral, which became a significant ecclesiastical center in Scandinavia.
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