David Oyelowo
English Actor in Selma and The Butler
An English actor, recognized for performances on stage and screen. Achieved prominence through roles in film and television, showcasing versatility and depth. Key roles include Martin Luther King Jr. in 'Selma' and Cecil Gaines in 'The Butler'. Oyelowo's work has earned critical acclaim and commercial success, contributing to conversations around social justice and representation in media.
Portrayed Martin Luther King Jr. in 'Selma'
Played Cecil Gaines in 'The Butler'
Other People Born on April 1st
Loris Kessel
Swiss racing driver and team owner
Born
April 1st, 1950 75 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2010 15 years ago — 60 years old
A significant figure in motorsport, contributed to both driving and team ownership. Competed in Formula One during the 1970s, participating in various Grand Prix events. Transitioned into team management, founding Kessel Racing which participated in endurance racing and sports car events. Notable for achievements in both driving and managing within the racing community.
Continue ReadingMelville Shavelson
American director and screenwriter, The Seven Little Foys
Born
April 1st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2007 18 years ago — 90 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter contributed to the American film and television industry from the 1940s to the 1990s. Shavelson initially began as a writer and gained recognition for creating stories that blended comedy and drama. He directed and co-wrote the screenplay for 'The Seven Little Foys,' which featured Bob Hope. The film showcases the life of a clown in the early 20th century and became a notable work in Shavelson's career. In addition to his work in film, he was involved in the creation of various television series, exemplifying his versatility in multiple formats. His storytelling often reflected societal themes and incorporated humor.
Continue ReadingÈve Lavallière
French actress and stage performer
Born
April 1st, 1866 159 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1929 96 years ago — 63 years old
Born in France in 1866, Lavallière gained prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a stage actress. Initially trained in Paris, she became a celebrated figure in the French theater scene. Key performances took place at venues such as the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin and the Théâtre de la Renaissance. Lavallière's ability to captivate audiences through her dramatic range and nuanced portrayals solidified her as a leading figure in French theatrical arts. Her career flourished during a time when the theater was rapidly evolving, and she contributed to significant productions that drew critical acclaim.
Continue ReadingAbdul Qadeer Khan
Nuclear scientist and metallurgist
Born
April 1st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old
This individual played a pivotal role in Pakistan's nuclear program, establishing the country as a significant nuclear power. Education included specialized training in metallurgical engineering and physics in Europe. In 1976, returned to Pakistan and contributed to the development of metallurgy and uranium enrichment processes. Key figure in the Khan Research Laboratories, which helped Pakistan conduct its first successful nuclear tests in 1998. Played a prominent role in the proliferation of nuclear technology, and faced international scrutiny for alleged activities.
Continue ReadingWilliam James Sidis
Mathematician and historian
Born
April 1st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1944 81 years ago — 46 years old
Born in Ukraine and raised in the United States, an early child prodigy exhibited extraordinary mathematical abilities and achieved admission to Harvard University at age 11. He studied mathematics, linguistics, and history, earning a reputation for his intellect. Sidis wrote extensively on various topics, including a comprehensive work on the foundations of mathematics. His life included periods of intense public interest and eventual retreat from fame, leading to a more private existence. Despite the challenges faced, contributions to multiple fields were notable, particularly in mathematics and the study of the history of languages.
Continue ReadingWilliam Manchester
Historian and author of 'The Death of a President'
Born
April 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2004 21 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent American historian and author, contributed significantly to historical literature. Provided a detailed account of the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 'The Death of a President'. Held a long career in academia, teaching at institutions such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology and other universities. Authored several biographies and historical works that garnered widespread attention and critical acclaim.
Continue Reading