Carl Perkins
American singer-songwriter, 'Blue Suede Shoes'
A prominent figure in the rockabilly genre, this singer-songwriter and guitarist achieved fame in the 1950s and 1960s. Early musical influences included country and blues, leading to a distinctive sound that blended these styles. The song 'Blue Suede Shoes' became a significant hit, establishing a strong foothold in American popular music. Perkins' work greatly influenced future generations of musicians, contributing to the emergence of rock and roll. His career included tours and performances alongside other seminal artists, cementing his status in music history. He continued to write and perform throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy upon his passing in 1998.
Wrote and recorded 'Blue Suede Shoes'
Influenced the development of rockabilly music
Other People Born on April 9th
Ward Bond
Film and television actor, The John Wayne Gang
Born
April 9th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1960 65 years ago — 57 years old
Bond appeared in numerous films and television shows during a career spanning over three decades. A notable presence in westerns and war films, significant roles included participation in classics such as 'It's a Wonderful Life' and 'The Grapes of Wrath'. Bond starred as the captain in the influential television series 'Wagon Train', which aired from 1957 to 1965. His collaborations with prominent directors and actors established him as a recognizable figure in American cinema.
Continue ReadingCharles Baudelaire
French poet and critic; 'Les Fleurs du mal'
Born
April 9th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1867 158 years ago — 46 years old
A significant figure in French literature, contributed to theSymbolist movement. Published 'Les Fleurs du mal,' a collection of poems that explored themes of beauty, decadence, and modernity. Critically examined art and literature in essays, introducing new perspectives on aesthetics. Influenced various 20th-century writers and poets, establishing groundwork for modern poetry.
Continue ReadingJim Roberts
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
April 9th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
A Canadian-American ice hockey player and coach, played as a defenseman in the NHL. Began his professional career with the Chicago Black Hawks and later played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, and others. Transitioned to coaching, leading teams in both the NHL and the minor leagues. Developed players and strategies, contributing to the sport at various levels throughout a substantial career.
Continue ReadingFrank King
Cartoonist and creator of Gasoline Alley
Born
April 9th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American cartoonist, associated with the comic strip 'Gasoline Alley', which debuted in 1918. The strip focused on the lives and adventures of a group of characters, with an emphasis on realism and character development. His work was influential during the golden age of comics, contributing to the evolution of the daily and Sunday comic formats. King also explored themes of family and community in his storytelling. He worked for various newspapers and played a significant role in the establishment of comic strips as a respected art form. The strip continued long after his death, showcasing the lasting legacy of his creativity.
Continue ReadingErich Ludendorff
German military leader and political figure
Born
April 9th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1937 88 years ago — 72 years old
Became a prominent German general during World War I, serving as the chief of staff of the German Army. Implemented significant military strategies that influenced the course of the war. After the war, served in various political roles and was involved in post-war German politics, including participation in nationalist movements and opposition to the Weimar Republic. Authored several works that outlined his military strategies and theories.
Continue ReadingAllen Jenkins
American actor and singer in film musicals
Born
April 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1974 51 years ago — 74 years old
An actor and singer with a career spanning several decades, became recognized for roles in film and stage productions. Gained prominence through performances in musicals and comedies, especially in the 1930s and 1940s. Worked extensively with Warner Bros. and appeared in numerous films including the 'The Roaring Twenties' and 'The East Side Kid' series. Also lent vocal talents to various musical films, contributing to the popularity of the genre during that era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 19th
Michel Guimond
Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2015 11 years ago — 62 years old
A lawyer and politician from Canada, played a significant role in the Canadian Parliament as a member of the Bloc Québécois. Represented the riding of Montarville from 2000 until 2004. Was involved in various parliamentary committees and contributed to discussions surrounding Canadian legislation. Served at the provincial level in Quebec as a member of the National Assembly prior to his federal career. The political career ended after losing in the 2004 election, but continued to engage in legal practices and consulting until passing in 2015.
Continue ReadingFrank P. Ramsey
Mathematician and economist; Ramsey's theorem
Born
February 22nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1930 96 years ago — 26 years old
Contributions spanned mathematics, philosophy, and economics. Developed Ramsey theory, essential in combinatorial mathematics. Published influential papers on subjective probability and decision theory. Served as a lecturer at the University of Cambridge, where work in mathematical logic and philosophy garnered attention. In economics, introduced ideas that would later influence modern economic theories.
Continue ReadingEttore Scola
Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
May 10th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2016 10 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent film director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Italian cinema. Created a unique style that blended drama and comedy, often exploring themes of Italian society. Directed acclaimed films such as "We All Loved Each Other So Much" and "A Special Day," reflecting the cultural landscape of the time. Received numerous accolades for work, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film for "The Family" in 1987. His storytelling resonates with audiences, capturing the essence of human relationships.
Continue ReadingStan Musial
Baseball player; 3-time MVP
Born
November 21st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2013 13 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent baseball player and manager, this individual played 22 seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals in Major League Baseball. Achievements included three Most Valuable Player awards and 24 All-Star selections. He was recognized as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, finishing his career with a .331 batting average. After retiring as a player, he enjoyed a brief managerial stint and remained involved with the Cardinals as an ambassador.
Continue ReadingRudi van Dantzig
Ballet choreographer and dancer.
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2012 14 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent ballet dancer and choreographer, contributed significantly to the Dutch ballet scene. Worked extensively with the Dutch National Ballet, rising to the position of principal dancer. As a choreographer, created several original works that became central to the company's repertoire. Notably, choreographed adaptations of classic ballets and introduced innovative contemporary pieces. Received multiple awards for contributions to the art form, including the prestigious Theo d'Or.
Continue ReadingJames Dickey
American poet and novelist
Born
February 2nd, 1923 103 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1997 29 years ago — 73 years old
A significant poet and novelist, contributions include the exploration of themes such as nature, war, and the South. Authored the celebrated novel 'Deliverance', which garnered attention for its portrayal of survival and human instinct. Served as the Poet Laureate of the United States from 1966 to 1968, reflecting a dedicated engagement with poetry and literature.
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