Denis Davydov
Russian general and poet
Born in 1784, a military officer and poet served in the Napoleonic Wars. Established a reputation as a skilled cavalry commander within the Russian army. Authored poems that celebrated patriotism and the spirit of the Russian people, often reflecting military experiences. Contributed to Russian literature and was associated with the Decembrists, influencing literary circles of the time. Passed away in 1839.
Served as a cavalry general in the Napoleonic Wars
Wrote poetry that emphasized Russian patriotism
Other People Born on July 27th
Ernst May
Architect and urban planner in Germany
Born
July 27th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Germany, an architect and urban planner specialized in modernist architecture. Played a key role in urban planning during the Weimar Republic. Instrumental in the development of the Frankfurt Kitchen, which revolutionized kitchen design. Overseen numerous housing projects aimed at addressing the post-World War I housing crisis in Germany. Advocated for the principles of functionalism in architecture. His work during the 1920s significantly influenced residential building design in Germany.
Continue ReadingMark Stanway
Keyboard player for a rock band
Born
July 27th, 1954 71 years ago
Born in England, the keyboard player gained recognition as a member of the rock band Magnum. The band achieved prominence in the 1980s with a series of successful albums. The player's contributions to the band's sound were integral to their style, particularly in the realm of progressive rock. Magnum became well-known for hits such as 'When the World Comes Down' and 'Start Talking Love'. During his tenure, the band released multiple albums and toured extensively across Europe.
Continue ReadingNeil Harbisson
Painter, composer, and activist
Born
July 27th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, this English-Catalan individual pioneered the field of cyborg art. Through the use of a device called the Eyeborg, sound frequencies translate into colors for this artist, breaking traditional boundaries between sight and sound. This innovation led to collaboration on various art projects, performances, and exhibitions across the globe. With a focus on color perception, contributions extend into the realms of music and technology, exploring the intersection of these disciplines. Advocacy efforts center on the recognition of cyborg rights and fostering conversations around identity in the digital age.
Continue ReadingGeorge L. Street III
American Medal of Honor recipient
Born
July 27th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2000 25 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a captain in the United States Army during World War II. Displayed exceptional bravery in combat during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944. After leading troops through intense enemy fire, facilitated the successful withdrawal of wounded soldiers. Received the Medal of Honor for valor displayed in action.
Continue ReadingDiane Webber
Model and actress from 'The Naked City'
Born
July 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in modeling, dancing, and acting from the mid-20th century. Featured as a pin-up and appeared in several publications. Gained recognition for the role in the television series 'The Naked City'. Worked with various filmmakers and contributed to the entertainment industry during her career.
Continue ReadingMax Scherzer
Professional Baseball Player - Three-time Cy Young Award Winner
Born
July 27th, 1984 41 years ago
A distinguished pitcher in Major League Baseball, achieved recognition for exceptional performance on the mound. Drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 1st round of the 2006 MLB Draft, debuted in 2008. Played for teams including the Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, and New York Mets. Secured three Cy Young Awards in 2013, 2016, and 2017, establishing a reputation as one of the leading pitchers in the league. Won the World Series in 2019 with the Washington Nationals, contributing significantly to the team's success during the postseason.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 4th
Ulisse Aldrovandi
Italian ornithologist and botanist
Born
September 11th, 1522 503 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1605 420 years ago — 82 years old
Active during the Renaissance, contributions included extensive studies in ornithology and botany. Established one of the first natural history museums in Bologna. Published numerous works on plants and animals, influencing future generations of naturalists. His systematic approach to studying and cataloging species laid groundwork for modern taxonomy and natural history.
Continue ReadingJohn Jones Ross
Canadian politician, 7th Premier of Quebec
Born
August 16th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1901 124 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 7th Premier of Quebec from 1896 to 1897. Represented the Liberal Party and focused on issues pertinent to the province during his tenure. Played a significant role in provincial politics in the late 19th century. Engaged in various legal and political initiatives throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAdam Yauch
Rapper and director of Beastie Boys
Born
August 5th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed significantly to the genre as a member of the Beastie Boys. The group released seminal albums including 'Licensed to Ill' and 'Paul's Boutique'. Yauch directed several of their music videos and established a film production company. In 1994, founded the Tibetan Freedom Concert, raising awareness and funds for Tibetan independence. Battled cancer for several years, having a profound influence on music and activism before passing in 2012.
Continue ReadingJoseph Diaz Gergonne
French mathematician and philosopher
Born
June 19th, 1771 254 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1859 166 years ago — 87 years old
Gergonne contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and philosophy. His work focused on projective geometry and combinatorial analysis. He established mathematical terminology and notation that are still used today. Gergonne also engaged in the promotion and teaching of mathematics in various educational institutions.
Continue ReadingEdgar Cortright
American scientist and engineer
Born
July 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed to the development of various space programs and technologies. Played a significant role in NASA's Project Apollo, which successfully landed humans on the Moon. Also worked on the Skylab space station and the development of scientific instruments for satellite missions. Held a prominent position at the Goddard Space Flight Center, focusing on aerospace engineering and satellite technology.
Continue ReadingFrank Stella
American painter and sculptor
Born
May 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1936, this artist is recognized for pioneering geometric abstraction. Early works feature shaped canvases and vibrant colors, contributing to the development of Minimalism and post-painterly abstraction. Major series include the 'Black Paintings', which utilized industrial materials and techniques. The artist also created significant sculptures that explore form and space, often engaging with architectural elements. Throughout his career, exhibitions have showcased the evolution of artistic expression and the relationship between painting and sculpture.
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