David Wilber
American politician and public servant
Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing New York. Held office during the Nineteenth Congress from 1825 to 1827. Contributed to legislative discussions affecting the state and national issues of the time. Involved in local politics and various public service roles throughout a lengthy career.
Served in the U.S. House of Representatives
Represented New York during the Nineteenth Congress
Other People Born on October 5th
Francesco Guardi
Italian painter of Venetian landscapes
Born
October 5th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1793 233 years ago — 80 years old
Active during the 18th century, this painter specialized in capriccios, and vedutas, focusing on the Venetian landscape. His work captured the vibrancy and architectural beauty of Venice, contributing significantly to the development of the landscape genre. As a teacher, he influenced future generations of artists. Although associated with the Rococo style, his compositions reflect a unique interpretation that merged realism with artistry. His later works evolved towards a more impressionistic style, demonstrating an innovative approach to color and light.
Continue ReadingFrancis William Reitz
South African lawyer and politician
Born
October 5th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1934 91 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 5th State President of the Orange Free State from 1889 to 1895. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen the administration and legal systems within the republic. Advocated for the rights of the Boer community during British colonial expansion in Southern Africa. Later became involved in the formation of the South African Republic and contributed to the constitutional development of the region.
Continue ReadingJonathan Edwards
Minister and theologian
Born
October 5th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1758 267 years ago — 54 years old
An influential English minister and theologian, played a key role in the First Great Awakening. Focused on themes of revival and religious fervor, wrote numerous works that explored the nature of sin and grace. Produced the famous sermon 'Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God', which underscored the necessity of personal redemption. Held a prominent position at the Congregational Church in Northampton, Massachusetts, and later became president of Princeton University. His philosophical writings also contributed to American Enlightenment thought.
Continue ReadingFrancis Peyton Rous
Pathologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1970 56 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of virology and pathology. Rous conducted pioneering research that demonstrated the transmissibility of cancer in chickens through viruses. This groundbreaking work laid the foundation for modern cancer research and virology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1966 for these contributions. Rous's studies on the Rous sarcoma virus informed future investigations into the viral origins of cancer in various species, including humans.
Continue ReadingRobert H. Goddard
Rocket pioneer and inventor
Born
October 5th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1945 80 years ago — 62 years old
An American physicist and engineer, made significant contributions to modern rocketry. Earned a Ph.D. in physics from Clark University. Conducted early experiments with liquid-fueled rockets in 1914, leading to the development of the first successful rocket flight using liquid fuel on March 16, 1926, in Auburn, Massachusetts. Authored seminal papers that laid the groundwork for future advancements in space exploration and missile technology. Established a research facility in Roswell, New Mexico, where further rocket tests were conducted, cementing a legacy of innovation in the field of astronautics.
Continue ReadingChester A. Arthur
21st President of the United States
Born
October 5th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1886 139 years ago — 57 years old
Served as the 21st President of the United States from 1881 to 1885. Became president following the assassination of James A. Garfield. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Collector of the Port of New York. Advocated for civil service reform and the Pendleton Act, which established a merit-based system for federal employment. Implemented modernization of the U.S. Navy and supported legislation to improve infrastructure in the country.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 1st
Sami Michael
Iraqi-Israeli writer and activist
Born
August 15th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2024 1 years ago — 97 years old
Born in Iraq, this individual immigrated to Israel in 1949. They became a notable writer, contributing significantly to Hebrew literature with a focus on the experiences of immigrant communities. The writings often reflected on identity, culture, and the struggles of marginalized groups. Active in human rights advocacy, efforts were directed towards the promotion of social justice and freedom of expression. This individual received recognition for both literary contributions and humanitarian work.
Continue ReadingYevgeny Yevtushenko
Soviet and Russian Poet, 'Babi Yar'
Born
July 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Soviet and Russian poet and writer, Yevtushenko gained recognition for powerful poetry that often criticized the government and addressed social issues. His poem 'Babi Yar' memorialized the Jewish victims of a massacre during World War II and protested against anti-Semitism. The poet's work included contributions to literature and film, leading to a significant cultural legacy. Yevtushenko was also a director of the Poetry Theater in Moscow, promoting poetic expression through performance. He published numerous collections and engaged with political commentary throughout his career, becoming a voice for his generation.
Continue ReadingCarrie Snodgress
American actress from 'Alice Doesn't Live Here'
Born
October 27th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2004 21 years ago — 58 years old
An American actress gained recognition for her performances in film and television. Achieved acclaim with a starring role in the film 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore,' earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Worked in various other films and television series throughout her career. Contributed to the industry with captivating performances in both drama and comedy, showcasing a range of acting skills. Maintained a consistent presence in television, appearing in shows like 'Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman' and 'The Twilight Zone.'
Continue ReadingRube Waddell
Baseball player, 1905 World Series champion
Born
October 13th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1914 111 years ago — 37 years old
A celebrated baseball pitcher, excelled in Major League Baseball during the early 1900s. Played primarily for the Philadelphia Athletics, achieving significant success on the mound. Recognized for remarkable strikeout ability and charismatic personality. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1953, reflecting remarkable talent and contributions to the sport. Most noted for performances during the 1905 World Series, leading the Athletics to victory. His career was characterized by both extraordinary skill and an unconventional lifestyle.
Continue ReadingRozz Williams
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 6th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1998 27 years ago — 34 years old
A prominent figure in the American music scene, contributed significantly to the genre of darkwave and gothic rock. Led the band Christian Death, which gained a cult following in the 1980s. Released solo albums that showcased a blend of poetry and music. Explored themes of death, sexuality, and existentialism in artistic works. Struggled with personal challenges, which influenced later music.
Continue ReadingMiguel de la Madrid
52nd President of Mexico
Born
December 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old
Served as President of Mexico from 1982 to 1988. Implemented economic reforms aimed at addressing the country's financial crisis during the 1980s. Focused on modernizing the economy and reducing the state's role in various sectors. Faced challenges such as the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, which prompted significant reconstruction efforts and emergency measures. After leaving office, engaged in academic and banking roles, contributing to public discussions on governance and economic policy.
Continue Reading