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
Yanka Dyagileva
Singer-songwriter and poet
Born
September 4th, 1966 60 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 25 years old
A prominent figure in the Russian rock scene, a singer-songwriter and poet emerged in the late 1980s. Often associated with the underground music movement in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), the individual developed a distinctive style blending folk, punk, and rock influences. Lyrics often reflected personal and social themes, resonating with a generation. The debut album released in 1989 showcased poetic lyricism and unique melodies. Tragically, a sudden passing in 1991 cut a promising career short, yet the music continued to influence subsequent artists and remains celebrated in Russian music culture.
Continue ReadingSabina Sharipova
Uzbekistan Tennis Player
Born
September 4th, 1994 32 years ago
Competed in professional tennis, representing Uzbekistan in various tournaments. Achieved significant rankings in singles and doubles events on the WTA Tour. Played in major competitions, including the Australian Open and Wimbledon. Contributed to the growth of tennis in Uzbekistan through participation in international matches.
Continue ReadingShinya Yamanaka
Physician known for stem cell research
Born
September 4th, 1962 64 years ago
A physician and biologist specializing in regenerative medicine, contributed significantly to the field of stem cell research. Developed a groundbreaking technique for creating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from adult cells in 2006. This innovation opened new avenues for research in medicine and therapy. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012 for this work.
Continue ReadingRichard Speight Jr.
Actor and director of Supernatural
Born
September 4th, 1969 57 years ago
An American actor and director recognized for roles in television series and theater. Played the character Gabriel in the series Supernatural and appeared in other shows such as Jericho and The Simpsons. Worked as a director for several episodes of different series, showcasing versatility in creative roles.
Continue ReadingJeff Tremaine
Film director and producer of Jackass
Born
September 4th, 1966 60 years ago
A director, producer, and screenwriter focused on reality television and film. Gained recognition through the creation of the Jackass franchise, which began as a television series before expanding into a successful series of films. Collaborated with various stunt performers and comedians, showcasing outrageous stunts and pranks that challenged safety norms. Also produced other notable projects in similar genres, emphasizing a blend of humor and discomfort.
Continue ReadingMike Piazza
Baseball Hall of Famer and catcher
Born
September 4th, 1968 58 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a catcher from 1992 to 2007. Spent most of his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets. Achieved 12 All-Star selections and won the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 1993. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016. Accumulated over 2,200 hits, 427 home runs, and a career batting average of .308.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 20th
Jack Larson
American actor and writer
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
An American actor and writer, active in the mid-20th century. Played the role of Jimmy Olsen in the television series 'Adventures of Superman' from 1952 to 1958. Extended involvement in the theater community and also contributed as a writer. Worked closely with renowned playwright Tennessee Williams and had various accomplishments in both acting and writing throughout his career.
Continue ReadingLeopold Fitzinger
Austrian zoologist and herpetologist
Born
April 13th, 1802 224 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1884 142 years ago — 82 years old
An Austrian zoologist and herpetologist, this individual made significant contributions to the study of reptiles and amphibians. Fitzinger specialized in taxonomy, describing numerous species and providing important classifications within the field. Engaged in extensive research, he published several works that helped to advance knowledge in herpetology. His legacy includes significant contributions to the scientific understanding of reptilian and amphibian diversity.
Continue ReadingErich Hartmann
German fighter pilot and colonel
Born
April 19th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1993 33 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a fighter pilot in the Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved the highest number of aerial victories, totaling 352 downed enemy aircraft. Completed combat missions on the Eastern Front. After the war, sentenced to imprisonment by the Allies but later returned to service in the newly formed German Air Force.
Continue ReadingJim Croce
Singer-songwriter, lyricist, guitarist
Born
January 10th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1973 53 years ago — 30 years old
Born in 1943, this American singer-songwriter gained fame in the early 1970s. His music combined folk, rock, and pop elements, resonating with a wide audience. The artist's career was marked by the release of several successful albums and hits, including 'You Don’t Mess Around with Jim' and 'Time in a Bottle'. Tragically, a plane crash in 1973 cut short a promising career.
Continue ReadingJosé Trinidad Reyes
Honduran philosopher and theorist
Born
June 11th, 1797 229 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1855 171 years ago — 58 years old
Significant contributions to philosophical thought in Central America occurred. Emphasis on education and civic responsibility formed the foundation of various educational reforms. Established several educational institutions in Honduras, promoting widespread learning. Engagement in political discourse influenced the shaping of early Honduran society.
Continue ReadingPablo de Sarasate
Spanish violinist and composer
Born
March 10th, 1844 182 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1908 118 years ago — 64 years old
A Spanish violinist and composer rose to prominence in the 19th century. Sarasate studied under the guidance of notable instructors in Spain and later in Paris. He became a significant figure in the classical music scene, celebrated for virtuoso performances across Europe. Sarasate composed several important works for the violin, blending Spanish folk motifs with classical forms. His compositions, such as 'Zigeunerweisen' and 'Carmen Fantasy', remain essential repertoire for violinists today. He also influenced the development of violin technique through his innovative style and interpretations.
Continue Reading