Edwin T. Layton
Admiral and intelligence officer
Born on April 7, 1903, an American admiral and intelligence officer served in the United States Navy during World War II. This individual provided critical intelligence analysis during the Pacific Theatre, particularly noted for insights leading to the success at the Battle of Midway. Career spanned various naval command positions and culminated in serving as the director of the Office of Naval Intelligence. Retired after a distinguished service, established a reputation for strategic and analytic capabilities.
Analysis leading to victory at the Battle of Midway
Director of the Office of Naval Intelligence
Other People Born on April 7th
Erich Löwenhardt
Lieutenant and pilot in World War I
Born
April 7th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1918 107 years ago — 21 years old
Served as a fighter pilot during World War I, achieving significant success in aerial combat. Löwenhardt was known for flying with Jasta 11 and later Jasta 10, where he accumulated numerous victories against enemy aircraft. He demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery in the skies over Europe, earning recognition for his contributions to aerial warfare. His career was cut short during a dogfight, resulting in his death in 1916, which solidified his legacy as one of the prominent pilots of his time.
Continue ReadingRavi Shankar
Sitar player and composer, influential musician
Born
April 7th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
An influential sitar player and composer, shaped the global perception of Indian classical music. Collaborated with various artists across genres, introducing the sitar to Western audiences. Played a significant role in the 1960s music scene, often associated with the Beatles. Founded the Ravi Shankar Foundation to promote Indian music and foster cultural exchange. His work included performances at notable festivals and concerts worldwide.
Continue ReadingBillie Holiday
Jazz Singer with 'Strange Fruit'
Born
April 7th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1959 66 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and actress, celebrated for a unique vocal style and emotive delivery. Rose to fame in the 1930s, often performing in jazz clubs and on radio. Best recognized for the song 'Strange Fruit', which addressed the horrors of racism and lynching. Collaborated with notable musicians such as Lester Young and Count Basie, leaving an indelible mark on jazz music. Her work continues to influence contemporary artists and remains a pivotal figure in the genre's history.
Continue ReadingBobby Doerr
Baseball player and coach with Red Sox
Born
April 7th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2017 8 years ago — 99 years old
Played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball for the Boston Red Sox from 1937 to 1951. Participated in 9 All-Star Games during a 14-year playing career. Later became a coach for the Red Sox and contributed to the team's development. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1986.
Continue ReadingKurt von Schleicher
German general and 23rd Chancellor
Born
April 7th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1934 91 years ago — 52 years old
A German general and politician served as the 23rd Chancellor of Germany for a brief period in 1932-1933. Involved in military planning during World War I, later engaged in political maneuvers within the Weimar Republic. Worked to stabilize the government but faced challenges from various political factions. Dismissed from office by President Paul von Hindenburg. Played a role in the rise of the Nazi Party through his political activities.
Continue ReadingM. Balasundaram
Sri Lankan lawyer and politician
Born
April 7th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1965 60 years ago — 62 years old
Contributed significantly to Sri Lanka's political landscape and legal framework during the mid-20th century. Engaged in various political movements advocating for civil rights and legal reform. Played a prominent role in the country's legislative processes and served in key political positions. Actively participated in the struggle for governance and representation in Sri Lankan society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 12th
Sydney Allard
Racing Driver and Automotive Entrepreneur
Born
June 19th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1966 59 years ago — 55 years old
An English racing driver and automotive entrepreneur, founded Allard Motor Company. Competed in various racing events during the mid-20th century, showcasing significant driving talent. Developed high-performance vehicles, leveraging innovative engineering. The Allard brand became synonymous with sports cars, especially known for its distinctive models.
Continue ReadingMichel Chartrand
Canadian trade union leader
Born
December 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent trade union leader in Canada, this individual advocated for workers' rights and labor reform throughout the latter half of the 20th century. He played a crucial role in the formation of influential labor organizations and represented various labor interests across the nation. Engaging in numerous strikes and negotiations, this leader significantly influenced Canadian labor policies and the movement's growth overall. His work contributed to the establishment of better working conditions and fair labor practices.
Continue ReadingFeodor Chaliapin
Opera singer and theatrical performer
Born
February 13th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1938 87 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Russia, a prominent opera singer achieved acclaim for remarkable vocal abilities. Gained fame in the early 20th century, performing leading roles in operas like 'Boris Godunov' and 'Don Giovanni'. Worked with renowned orchestras and staged productions across Europe and America, earning a significant place in operatic history.
Continue ReadingGilbert Gottfried
Comedian and voice actor of 'Aladdin'
Born
February 28th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2022 3 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1955, a comedian and actor, gained recognition for distinct voice work and stand-up comedy. First gained major fame as a cast member on 'Saturday Night Live' and later featured in films and television shows. Voiced the character Iago in Disney's animated film 'Aladdin', contributing to the film's comedic elements. Hosted various television programs, including 'America's Funniest People'. Maintained a career in comedy that spanned several decades, noted for a distinctive delivery and controversial humor.
Continue ReadingWilliam M. Tweed
Political leader and Tammany Hall head
Born
April 3rd, 1823 202 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1878 147 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1823, a prominent political figure in New York City, affiliated with the Democratic Party. Led Tammany Hall, a powerful political organization, during the mid-19th century. Served as a member of the New York City Board of Supervisors and later as a state senator. His tenure was marked by significant political control over the city's government. Instrumental in various public works projects that facilitated the city's growth.
Continue ReadingWerner Schroeter
German director and screenwriter
Born
April 7th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in German cinema, this director and screenwriter specialized in the avant-garde genre. His body of work includes various films that received critical acclaim. Notable works include 'The Death of My Mother' and 'Martha'. He explored themes of identity and emotion through his unique stylistic approaches, which often combined opera and cinema. His contributions significantly advanced the understanding of narrative form and aesthetic in contemporary film.
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