Charles Biro
American author and illustrator of comics
A prominent comic book author and illustrator, this individual significantly contributed to the American comic book industry during the mid-20th century. Best recognized for co-creating the iconic comic book character Dick Tracy, worked with various publishers, including Lev Gleason Publications. Also played a vital role in the development of crime and horror comics, influencing the genre's evolution. Continued to create popular characters and stories throughout a prolific career, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of comics.
Co-created Dick Tracy
Pioneered crime and horror comics
Other People Born on May 12th
Henry Cabot Lodge
American historian and politician.
Born
May 12th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1924 101 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a prominent U.S. Senator from Massachusetts and played a significant role in the formulation of foreign policy during the early 20th century. As a historian, authored several works on American history, focusing on the colonial period and the American Revolution. Advocated for the United States' involvement in World War I and opposed the Treaty of Versailles. His significant political career included serving as the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Continue ReadingJulius Rosenberg
American spy and nuclear espionage figure
Born
May 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1953 72 years ago — 35 years old
Engaged in espionage activities during the Cold War, which included passing atomic secrets to the Soviet Union. Arrested in 1950 alongside his wife for conspiracy to commit espionage. Their trial garnered significant media attention and raised debates about loyalty and security in the United States. Convicted in 1951 and executed in 1953, marking one of the most controversial espionage cases in American history. The case has continued to spark discussions about the ethics of espionage and the complexities of the Cold War.
Continue ReadingWilfrid Hyde-White
English actor in film and television
Born
May 12th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old
An accomplished English actor, a prominent figure in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in film adaptations such as 'My Fair Lady' and 'The Ladykillers'. Demonstrated versatility in character roles across various genres including drama and comedy. Made notable appearances in television series, including the role of Colonel Pickering in the acclaimed adaptation of 'Pygmalion'.
Continue ReadingLouis de Buade de Frontenac
Governor General of New France
Born
May 12th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1698 327 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the third Governor General of New France, overseeing the colony during a significant period of conflict and expansion. Played a crucial role in defending the territory against British incursions and strengthened relations with Indigenous nations. Initiated numerous military campaigns and encouraged the growth of settlements. His terms in office were marked by significant development in trade and exploration in the region, contributing to the strengthening of French presence in North America.
Continue ReadingKatharine Hepburn
American actress in classic films
Born
May 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2003 22 years ago — 96 years old
One of the leading actresses of the 20th century, celebrated for a career that spanned over six decades. Achievements include an Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner' and 'On Golden Pond.' Hepburn starred in numerous films including 'The Philadelphia Story' and 'Bringing Up Baby,' often portraying strong-willed characters. Her work challenged societal norms around gender and roles for women in cinema. With a distinct voice and lively spirit, Hepburn's performances continue to resonate in film history.
Continue ReadingErnst A. Lehmann
German captain and pilot of the Hindenburg
Born
May 12th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1937 88 years ago — 50 years old
A captain and pilot, served as commander of the Hindenburg airship. Participated in transatlantic flights and played a significant role in the air transport operations during the time of commercial airships. The Hindenburg, the largest airship ever built, tragically caught fire and was destroyed during landing in 1937, marking the end of the airship era. Prior to this disaster, Lehmann commanded several successful flights, contributing to the operational history of airships in the 1930s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 4th
Leonard Rosenman
American composer known for film scores
Born
September 7th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished composer and conductor, he gained recognition for score compositions in film. Major works include music for "East of Eden" and "The Searchers." His work earned two Academy Awards, and contributions to television included music for the miniseries "The Thorn Birds." Collaborations with directors resulted in notable scores that enhanced narrative storytelling in cinema.
Continue ReadingJack Kinzler
Engineer and NASA Flight Director
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old
An American engineer worked on multiple space missions for NASA. Served as a Flight Director during the Apollo program, contributing to lunar exploration. Played a significant role in the design and implementation of control systems for spacecraft. Participated in the development of the Space Shuttle program and managed various missions throughout his career. His guidance and expertise were critical in the success of numerous spaceflights.
Continue ReadingEdgar Valter
Estonian author and illustrator of children's books
Born
September 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2006 19 years ago — 76 years old
An Estonian author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Valter created a remarkable body of work that included both writing and illustrating numerous children's books. These works often featured whimsical themes and colorful illustrations, appealing to young readers. Valter's contributions to literature helped shape Estonian children's storytelling and creativity. His artistic style and narratives left a lasting impression on the genre, making literature engaging and accessible for children.
Continue ReadingClarence Kingsbury
English cyclist and cycling champion
Born
1882 144 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1949 76 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent figure in early 20th-century cycling, excelled in road racing events. Competed in various prestigious races and earned a reputation for speed and skill. Contributed to the sport's growth in England and inspired future generations of cyclists. His achievements were documented during a period when competitive cycling began gaining popularity across the country.
Continue ReadingDavide Astori
Italian footballer and defender
Born
January 7th, 1987 39 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2018 7 years ago — 31 years old
A professional footballer who played as a defender predominantly for Fiorentina and Cagliari. He achieved significant success in Serie A and was recognized for his leadership on the field. Astori also represented the Italian national team, earning caps in various international competitions. Tragically, his life was cut short in 2018, but his contributions to football remain remembered.
Continue ReadingRobert H. Dicke
American physicist and astronomer
Born
May 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1997 28 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics and cosmology. Developed the Dicke radiometer, which provided a method for measuring faint microwave radiation. Played a key role in the discovery of cosmic microwave background radiation in 1965. His work laid foundational concepts for understanding the early universe's conditions and the Big Bang theory.
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