Chögyam Trungpa

Tibetan guru and founder of Shambhala

Chögyam Trungpa - Tibetan guru and founder of Shambhala
Born

1939
86 years ago

Died

April 4th, 1987
38 years ago — 48 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in Buddhism, established a lineage of Tibetan teachings in the West. Founded the Naropa Institute in Colorado, a Buddhist-inspired university that emphasizes contemplative education. Authored several influential books on Buddhism and meditation, contributing to the spread of Tibetan Buddhism outside Asia. Introduced the concept of Shambhala, which emphasizes the importance of creating a compassionate society. His teachings integrated Western philosophy and psychology with traditional Buddhist practices.

Founded the Naropa Institute in 1974

Authored 'Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism'

Developed the Shambhala vision

Other People Who Died on April 4th

Ed Roth

American illustrator and custom car designer
Born
March 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2001 24 years ago — 69 years old

An influential illustrator and designer, primarily active from the late 1940s through the 1970s. Contributed to the custom car culture with unique artwork on hot rods and kustoms. Created the iconic character Rat Fink, representing the car enthusiast community and counterculture of the time. Roth's work combined a distinct artistic style with automotive innovation, gaining recognition in magazines such as 'Car Craft' and 'Hot Rod'. Established a significant impact on the automotive art movement through his creative designs and merchandise.

Continue Reading

Solomon Sibley

American lawyer, 1st Mayor of Detroit
Born
October 7th, 1769 255 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1846 179 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in early Detroit, significant contributions included serving as the first Mayor of Detroit from 1824 to 1826. Active in legal and political spheres, also played a role in the establishment of local government and civic infrastructure. Involved with the Michigan territorial legislature, helping shape laws and policies during a formative period for the state. His work in law and governance laid the groundwork for future leaders in the region.

Continue Reading

Carol II of Romania

King of Romania and regent.
Born
October 15th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1953 72 years ago — 59 years old

Reigned as King of Romania from 1930 until abdication in 1940 and returned briefly in 1944. Initiated the royal dictatorship in Romania, centralizing power and dismissing democratic institutions. Priorities included modernizing the military and establishing social welfare programs. Faced significant opposition from political parties and the rise of fascism in Romania. Abdicated in favor of his son, becoming a controversial figure in Romanian history. Lived in exile after his abdication, returning briefly to Romania after World War II before dying in exile.

Continue Reading

Isidore of Seville

Spanish archbishop and saint
Died
April 4th, 636 1389 years ago — None years old

Served as the archbishop of Seville from 601 until death in 636. Contributed to the establishment of Christian education and the preservation of classical knowledge. Authored the 'Etymologiae', an encyclopedic work that compiled knowledge from various disciplines, influencing medieval scholarship. Played a significant role in the Christianization of the Iberian Peninsula and served as a major theological figure during the early Middle Ages.

Continue Reading

Alparslan Türkeş

Turkish politician and military leader
Born
November 25th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1997 28 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a colonel in the Turkish Army and became prominent in Turkish politics. Held the position of Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey in 1974. Founded the Nationalist Action Party, which played a significant role in Turkish political life during the late 20th century. Advocated for nationalist policies and was involved in several political movements that shaped Turkey's modern history.

Continue Reading

Gloria Swanson

American actress and producer from silent era
Born
March 27th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1983 42 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent actress and producer, this individual gained fame in the silent film era and transitioned into sound films. Best remembered for roles in 'Queen Kelly' and 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans,' the career spanned several decades. In 'Sunset Boulevard,' earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, solidifying status as a significant figure in American cinema. Beyond acting, engaged in producing and was one of the first women to own a film production company, showcasing contributions to the industry.

Continue Reading