Ed Roth
American illustrator and custom car designer
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.
Created the character Rat Fink
Contributed art to 'Car Craft' magazine
Designed unique custom cars
Other People Born on March 4th
August Johann Gottfried Bielenstein
Linguist and theologian, translated texts
Born
March 4th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1907 118 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of linguistics and ethnography. Focused on interpreting and translating ancient texts. Engaged in theological studies, linking linguistic analysis with religious context. Authored several works that explored the relationships between language, culture, and religion. Held various academic positions during a career dedicated to advancing understanding in these fields.
Continue ReadingLauritz de Thurah
Danish architect, designed Hermitage Lodge
Born
March 4th, 1706 319 years ago
Died
1759 266 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1706, a prominent Danish architect contributed significantly to 18th-century architecture. His most notable works include the Hermitage Hunting Lodge, built near Copenhagen, and Gammel Holtegård, reflecting the architectural styles of the time. De Thurah's designs often incorporated elements of the Rococo style, which was gaining popularity across Europe, and demonstrated a keen sense of aesthetics and functionality. His work played an essential role in the development of Danish architecture during this period, leaving a lasting mark on the landscape.
Continue ReadingTheodore Judah
American engineer of the Central Pacific
Born
March 4th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1863 162 years ago — 37 years old
An engineer played a pivotal role in the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad, a key segment of the First Transcontinental Railroad in the United States. Judah proposed the route over the Sierra Nevada mountains, overcoming significant geographical challenges. His efforts to secure funding and governmental support were crucial for the project’s initiation. Judah's work faced numerous difficulties, including political and financial hurdles. Tragically, he passed away before the railroad was completed, but his vision and engineering expertise laid the groundwork for one of the most significant infrastructure achievements in American history.
Continue ReadingWilbur R. Franks
Canadian inventor of the g-suit
Born
March 4th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 85 years old
A Canadian scientist developed the g-suit, which is designed to counteract the effects of gravitational forces on pilots and astronauts. This innovative suit became essential for high-speed flight and space travel. Research and experimentation led to the prototype, which gained recognition during World War II. The contribution significantly improved pilot safety and performance in extreme conditions.
Continue ReadingPascual Pérez
Argentinian Boxer and Flyweight Champion
Born
March 4th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Argentina, a significant figure in boxing history, achieved notable success in the flyweight division. Secured the inaugural World Flyweight Championship title in 1950. Competed in various matches, showcasing skills and technique. Retired with an impressive record, contributing to the sport's popularity during the era.
Continue ReadingGeorge
Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach
Born
March 4th, 1484 541 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1539 486 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1484, this Margrave ruled Brandenburg-Ansbach during the early 16th century. His reign was characterized by efforts to strengthen the territory's economy and governance. Engaged in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire, he played a role in local and imperial affairs. His rule also saw interactions with the Protestant Reformation, reflecting the changing religious landscape of the time. The Margrave's legacy included the promotion of local culture and the development of administrative frameworks that influenced subsequent leadership in the region.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 4th
Carol II of Romania
King of Romania and regent.
Born
October 15th, 1893 132 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 ReadingMaxine Cooper
Actress in 'The Hitcher' and activist
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2009 16 years ago — 85 years old
An American actress, activist, and photographer. Gained prominence for roles in films and television, particularly noted for the role in 'The Hitcher' (1986). Involved in various social and humanitarian causes throughout life. Also explored photography as a means of artistic expression, capturing moments that reflected personal and societal themes. Continued to advocate for rights and awareness in different communities until the end of life.
Continue ReadingGloria 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 ReadingMartin Luther King Jr.
Civil Rights Leader and Nobel Laureate
Born
January 15th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1968 57 years ago — 39 years old
A prominent minister and civil rights activist played a central role in the American civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968. Advocated for nonviolent protest against racial segregation and discrimination. Delivered the iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. His leadership was instrumental in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for efforts to combat racial inequality through nonviolent resistance.
Continue ReadingDaniel Neal
Historian and author of English history
Born
December 14th, 1678 347 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1743 282 years ago — 64 years old
An English historian and author, this individual specialized in works detailing English history. His most prominent work includes 'The History of New England,' which offered a comprehensive look at the region's historical development. Active in the early 18th century, contributed to historical scholarship and understanding of early American history. Engaged in writing during a period of growing interest in both national and colonial histories, the individual focused on both political and social contexts of the time.
Continue ReadingHarry Nyquist
Engineer known for Nyquist theorem
Born
February 7th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of telecommunication and electrical engineering. Developed the Nyquist theorem, which describes the maximum data rate of a channel. His research paved the way for advancements in signal processing and communication theory. Authored several important papers and held numerous patents throughout his career, influencing the development of modern electronics and information theory. Worked at Bell Laboratories, contributing to the design of electronic circuits and systems that remain foundational in the industry.
Continue Reading