Carlos Castillo Armas
Guatemalan authoritarian ruler
Born in 1914, served as the military officer and president of Guatemala from 1954 until his assassination in 1957. Came to power following a CIA-backed coup that overthrew democratically elected President Jacobo Árbenz, which marked a significant shift in Guatemalan politics. Implemented policies that favored land reform and reestablished the power of the elite, leading to political repression and human rights violations. His regime was characterized by authoritarian practices and suppression of dissent, which had lasting effects on the sociopolitical landscape of Guatemala.
Led a coup against Jacobo Árbenz in 1954
Served as President of Guatemala
Other People Born on November 4th
Nik Powell
Businessman & co-founder of Virgin Group
Born
November 4th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 69 years old
Co-founded Virgin Group, a global conglomerate that began as a record label. Established a reputation in the music industry with Virgin Records, which signed major artists and released numerous successful albums. Expanded the brand into various sectors including travel, telecommunications, and space tourism. Instrumental in developing Virgin Atlantic Airways, which became a significant player in the airline industry. Launched multiple ventures that contributed to the growth of the Virgin brand worldwide.
Continue ReadingPatricia Bath
Ophthalmologist and inventor of laser cataract surgery
Born
November 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 77 years old
An ophthalmologist and academic specialized in eye surgery. Pioneered the development of laser cataract surgery, significantly advancing techniques for treating cataracts. Established the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness, focusing on preventing blindness through awareness and education. Had a distinguished academic career, serving on the faculty of several institutions and contributing to research in ophthalmology. Bath's significant contributions to medical practice and research have influenced contemporary approaches to eye care.
Continue ReadingLudmila Velikova
Figure skater and coach, Olympic competitor
Born
November 4th, 1947 78 years ago
A prominent figure skater and coach, achieved significant success in pair skating. Competed in the 1964 Winter Olympics and won multiple national championships. Transitioned into coaching, shaping the careers of numerous athletes in the sport. Contributed to the development of figure skating techniques and training methods.
Continue ReadingIvonne Coll
Puerto Rican actress, plays Elena on 'Jane the Virgin'
Born
November 4th, 1947 78 years ago
An actress, known for her role as Elena on the television series 'Jane the Virgin'. Her career spans various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility in performances. Other notable works include appearances in films such as 'The Last Dragon' and a recurring role in 'The Bold and the Beautiful'. She has contributed to both English and Spanish-language productions, which showcases a wide range in performance and storytelling.
Continue ReadingAlexis Hunter
Painter and photographer with key exhibitions
Born
November 4th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
Originally from New Zealand, contributed to the art scene in both New Zealand and England. Explored themes of feminism and sexuality through various media, impacting contemporary visual arts. Held significant exhibitions, including one at the Auckland Art Gallery, showcasing a variety of works that combined painting and photography. Engaged with different artistic movements, allowing for a unique perspective in her work.
Continue ReadingC. K. Williams
American poet and translator, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
November 4th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1936, a prominent American poet, critic, and translator. Authored several collections of poetry, highlighting the complexities of personal and societal issues. Some works include 'The Singing' and 'Flesh and Blood,' which explore themes of human experience and emotion. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1988 for the collection 'The Singing.' Held various teaching positions at universities, influencing a generation of writers and poets through workshops and lectures.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 26th
Nikolaos Plastiras
General and Prime Minister of Greece
Born
November 4th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1953 72 years ago — 69 years old
A Greek general and politician served as the 135th Prime Minister of Greece. He participated in the Greco-Italian War and was a key figure in the Greek Civil War. Plastiras led significant political reforms during his tenure and worked towards resolving national issues, including land reform and agricultural improvements. Throughout his career, he was involved in various political movements and struggled with the complexities of post-war Greece, seeking a stable governance framework.
Continue ReadingGeorge P. Mitchell
Businessman and philanthropist in energy
Born
May 21st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
A businessman and philanthropist significantly influenced the energy sector in the United States. Founded Mitchell Energy and Development Corporation, pioneering hydraulic fracturing techniques in the Barnett Shale, which revolutionized natural gas production. Contributed to various community and educational initiatives through philanthropic efforts, establishing a legacy in environmental sustainability and community development. Played a key role in supporting research and education related to renewable energy and environmental preservation.
Continue ReadingFlora MacDonald
Canadian banker and politician
Born
June 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 10th Minister of Communications in Canada from 1979 to 1980. Represented the Kingston and the Islands constituency as a member of the Progressive Conservative Party from 1972 to 1980. Had a long career in banking prior to entering politics, bringing financial expertise to her role in government. Played a crucial part in various policy initiatives during her time in office.
Continue ReadingW. Averell Harriman
American politician and diplomat
Born
November 15th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1986 39 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent American businessman and politician, served as the 11th United States Secretary of Commerce under President Harry S. Truman from 1945 to 1946. Involved in international relations, played a key role in post-World War II diplomacy, particularly in the establishment of the Marshall Plan to aid in the reconstruction of Europe. Held multiple significant leadership roles including Governor of New York from 1955 to 1958. Contributed to various philanthropic causes and was influential in the fields of transportation and infrastructure development throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAntonio Ascari
Italian race car driver and champion
Born
September 15th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1925 100 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1888, played a crucial role in the early years of motor racing. Achieved significant success in the 1920s, racing for Alfa Romeo. Victorious at the 1925 Targa Florio, a prestigious endurance race. Contributed to the development of racing techniques and vehicle performance, influencing future generations of drivers.
Continue ReadingJames Luther Adams
American minister and theologian
Born
November 12th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1994 31 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to Unitarian Universalism as a minister and theologian. Helped shape modern theological thought and social ethics through various writings and teachings. Advocated for social justice, emphasizing the importance of community and individual rights. Engaged in numerous academic endeavors, focusing on the role of religion in society and promoting democratic ideals within the church.
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