Don Shula
NFL Coach with most career wins
Played for the Baltimore Colts before transitioning to coaching. Served as head coach for the Miami Dolphins, leading the team to an undefeated season in 1972, which culminated in a Super Bowl victory. Established a record for most career wins by a head coach, with 347 wins. Contributed significantly to the development of players and strategies in the NFL.
Coached Miami Dolphins to Super Bowl victories
Achieved NFL's only perfect season in 1972
Holds record for most career wins as a coach
Other People Born on January 4th
John A. McCone
6th Director of Central Intelligence
Born
January 4th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 6th Director of Central Intelligence from 1961 to 1965 during a critical period of the Cold War. Prior to this role, held positions such as chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and president of the Bechtel Corporation. Contributed to significant intelligence operations and policy developments affecting national security. Played a notable role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, overseeing intelligence assessments that shaped U.S. responses to the Soviet Union's actions.
Continue ReadingAdam Webster
English footballer with Brighton & Hove Albion
Born
January 4th, 1995 31 years ago
Born in 1995, a professional footballer focused on the center-back position. Began a career in youth football with Portsmouth, later moved to the senior team where debut took place. Transferred to Oxford United and subsequently earned a move to Ipswich Town. Gained recognition for strong defensive skills and leadership attributes. In 2019, transferred to Brighton & Hove Albion, competing in the Premier League. Noted for contributing to the team's defensive lineup, playing key roles in various matches.
Continue ReadingJohn McLaughlin
Guitarist and songwriter, Mahavishnu Orchestra
Born
January 4th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz fusion genre, this English guitarist and songwriter helped bridge the gap between rock and jazz music. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, formed the Mahavishnu Orchestra, a pioneering band known for its complex time signatures and virtuosic players. The band's debut album, 'The Inner Mounting Flame,' received critical acclaim and solidified its place in music history. Over the years, collaborated with various notable artists, contributing significantly to the development of fusion music. Continued to perform and record, maintaining a lasting influence on guitarists and musicians across genres.
Continue ReadingJames Ussher
Irish Archbishop and biblical scholar
Born
January 4th, 1581 445 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1656 370 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1581, served as Archbishop of Armagh in Ireland and was a prominent historian and theologian. Ussher is particularly recognized for his work on biblical chronology, culminating in the publication of 'Annales veteris testamenti, a prima mundi origine', which proposed a timeline for the creation of the world. His calculations suggested that the creation occurred in 4004 BC. Ussher also engaged in debates regarding the nature of the Biblical canon and the authority of scripture. His scholarly pursuits contributed significantly to the understanding of early church history and biblical interpretation during the 17th century.
Continue ReadingTommy Corcoran
Baseball player and umpire, Hall of Famer
Born
January 4th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1960 65 years ago — 91 years old
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball from 1890 to 1903. His career included significant stints with the New York Giants and the Cincinnati Reds. Later transitioned to umpiring in the National League. Recognized for contributions to the game both as a player and an official. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1945 for a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingKatsura Tarō
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 4th, 1848 178 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1913 112 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1848, this individual served as the 6th Prime Minister of Japan during a period of significant political change. The political career included multiple terms as Prime Minister, notably from 1901 to 1906 and 1912 to 1914. The leadership focused on modernizing Japan in the wake of the Meiji Restoration and navigating international relations during a time of great upheaval. This figure also held various military positions, contributing to the establishment of Japan's military infrastructure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 4th
Paul Butterfield
Harmonica player and singer, Butterfield Blues Band
Born
December 17th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1987 38 years ago — 44 years old
An influential singer and harmonica player, contributed significantly to the blues genre. Formed the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 1965, which blended electric blues with rock elements. The band's self-titled debut album featured notable tracks that played a role in popularizing blues music during the mid-1960s. Collaborated with other prominent musicians, enhancing the blues scene. Continued to perform and record music throughout the 1970s and 1980s, maintaining a longstanding presence in the industry until passing in 1987.
Continue ReadingDavid Reimer
Subject of the John/Joan case
Born
August 22nd, 1965 60 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2004 21 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1965 in Canada, underwent gender reassignment following a botched circumcision. Raised as a girl named Brenda, the case attracted significant media attention and sparked debates on gender identity and psychological outcomes of gender assignment. Eventually, transitioned back to living as male in adulthood, adopting the name David. Struggled with personal identity and mental health issues. The case is often referenced in discussions of gender reassignment and human rights.
Continue ReadingEllen Albertini Dow
Actress in 'The Wedding Singer'
Born
November 16th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 101 years old
An American actress, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Made appearances in various television shows and films, with standout performances in 'The Wedding Singer' and 'The Golden Girls'. An accomplished performer, she garnered attention for her distinctive voice and comedic timing. Continued to act well into her later years, demonstrating a passion for the craft.
Continue ReadingEustace Budgell
Journalist and politician in England
Born
August 19th, 1686 339 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1737 288 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1686, a journalist and politician contributed significantly to the political landscape of early 18th century England. Budgell served as a member of Parliament and was a prominent figure in the political discourse of his time. He was associated with the Whig party and engaged in various literary endeavors, writing extensively in periodicals. His work often focused on issues of the day and he was involved in political controversies that shaped public opinion. Budgell also played a role in the development of political journalism in England. His efforts in print media helped in advocating for political thoughts and ideologies of the period.
Continue ReadingE. Nesbit
English author and children's writer
Born
August 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1924 101 years ago — 65 years old
Became a significant figure in children's literature. Authored a variety of stories that captivated young readers. Major works include 'The Railway Children' and the 'Psammead' series. Pioneered the use of fantasy in children's stories, blending everyday life with magical elements. Contributed extensively to literary magazines and was active in social issues.
Continue ReadingDenis Davydov
Russian general and poet
Born
July 27th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1839 186 years ago — 54 years old
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.
Continue Reading