Eduard Wirths
German physician and SS officer
Graduated from medical school and became a physician. Joined the SS and served as a medical officer at Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II. Conducted medical experiments on inmates and was involved in the selection process for life and death. After the war, faced trial for war crimes. Sentenced to death and executed in 1948.
Served as a physician at Auschwitz
Conducted inhumane medical experiments
Other People Born on September 4th
Mickey Cohen
American mob boss with organized crime influence
Born
September 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1976 49 years ago — 62 years old
Mickey Cohen became a prominent figure in organized crime in Los Angeles during the mid-20th century. Involved in various illegal activities, he played a significant role in the nightclub and gambling scene. His operations included bootlegging, loan sharking, and racketeering. Cohen's association with the Chicago Outfit and other crime families helped him expand his influence in the region. Throughout his criminal career, he faced numerous legal challenges and was incarcerated multiple times. His life was characterized by notable conflicts with law enforcement and rival gangs, solidifying his reputation as a key player in the mafia landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingEdward Dmytryk
Film director of 'Crossfire'
Born
September 4th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old
Career spanned more than five decades in the film industry. Directed a range of films including the acclaimed 'Crossfire' which tackled social issues of the time. Worked with major studios and actors, contributing to both film and television projects. Involved in the Hollywood blacklist controversy but continued producing work. Received the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement.
Continue ReadingKenzō Tange
Japanese architect; Hiroshima Peace Memorial
Born
September 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2005 21 years ago — 91 years old
Pioneered a modernist style in architecture, integrating traditional Japanese elements with modernism. Significant works include the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, completed in 1955, commemorating the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. Tange's design philosophy focused on harmony between the environment and human structures. He received the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1987, highlighting his contributions and innovation in architecture. Throughout his career, Tange influenced many architects globally and left a lasting legacy through his iconic buildings and urban planning.
Continue ReadingOskar Schlemmer
German painter and choreographer
Born
September 4th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1943 83 years ago — 55 years old
Contributed significantly to the Bauhaus movement as a painter, sculptor, and designer. Developed innovative theatrical productions that integrated visual art and performance, particularly in the 'Triadic Ballet'. Worked to explore the relationship between bodies and space through dance and visual art, which involved the design of costumes and sets. Authored several influential texts on theatre and the significance of movement in art, impacting both contemporary dance and visual arts.
Continue ReadingMary Renault
Author of historical novels set in Greece
Born
September 4th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1983 43 years ago — 78 years old
Born in England, Renault moved to South Africa where she became a prominent author. Her works often focused on ancient Greece, exploring themes of love and heroism. Several novels gained significant attention, particularly the series featuring Alexander the Great. This series includes 'Fire from Heaven', 'The Persian Boy', and 'Funeral Games', establishing her reputation in historical fiction. Renault's writing is characterized by rich detail and complex character development.
Continue ReadingMax Delbrück
German-American biophysicist, Nobel laureate
Born
September 4th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1981 45 years ago — 75 years old
Contributed to the field of molecular biology and genetics. Studied the genetics of bacteria and established key principles in the understanding of DNA. Worked at the California Institute of Technology and collaborated with notable scientists, shaping the foundations of modern biology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1969 for work on the genetics of viruses.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 20th
Oscar Handlin
American historian and academic writer
Born
September 29th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 95 years old
An influential historian and academic who specialized in American social history. Played a significant role in promoting the study of American immigration and ethnicity. Authored several notable works, including 'The Americans: A History', which contributed to the understanding of demographic changes in the United States. Worked as a professor at Harvard University, where teaching and research focused on the immigrant experience and the development of urban America. Edited scholarly journals and contributed to various historical publications.
Continue ReadingJantina Tammes
Biologist and geneticist specializing in genetics
Born
1871 155 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1947 78 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions to the field of genetics included research on the inheritance of traits and the geographical distribution of genetic diversity in plants. Worked at the University of Amsterdam and published significant findings related to plant genetics. Pioneered studies on the correlation between genetic traits and environmental factors. Actively participated in academic societies and contributed to the training of future scientists in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingEduardo Xol
American designer and author of design books
Born
February 19th, 1966 60 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 58 years old
A designer and author, involved in the field of landscape design, contributed significantly to residential and commercial spaces. Authored various books focusing on design aesthetics and outdoor living. Provided practical advice through design consultations and workshops. Appeared on television programs discussing innovative landscaping and design techniques.
Continue ReadingAugusto Tasso Fragoso
Brazilian politician, President of Brazil
Born
1869 157 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1945 80 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the President of Brazil between 1945 and 1946. Held various governmental positions and played a significant role in Brazilian politics during the early 20th century. Contributed to military and government reforms and was involved in the post-World War II political landscape. Fragoso's leadership period was marked by efforts to stabilize Brazil following the war and align it with contemporary international standards.
Continue ReadingFiorello H. La Guardia
American mayor, led NYC during WWII
Born
December 11th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1947 78 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the 99th Mayor of New York City from 1934 to 1945. Focused on reforming the city’s administration and improving public services. Implemented programs that assisted the poor during the Great Depression and promoted public works projects that helped modernize the city’s infrastructure. Held a strong stance against corruption and worked to improve relations between the city and federal government. Additionally, advocated for civil rights and opposition to fascism during World War II.
Continue ReadingSven Nykvist
Cinematographer of 'The Seventh Seal'
Born
December 3rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
A Swedish cinematographer gained recognition for work in film, particularly in collaboration with director Ingmar Bergman. Mastery of light and shadow characterized the visual style. Significant contributions to cinema included films such as 'The Seventh Seal', 'Wild Strawberries', and 'Cries and Whispers'. Won two Academy Awards for Best Cinematography in 1972 for 'Cries and Whispers' and in 1983 for 'Fanny and Alexander'. Continued to influence cinematography techniques and education throughout a lengthy career.
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