Geoffrey Palmer
New Zealand Prime Minister, legal reformer
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
New Zealand
Links & References
A notable figure in New Zealand's political landscape, served as the 33rd Prime Minister from 1989 to 1990. Prior to the premiership, held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Justice and Deputy Prime Minister. Instrumental in implementing constitutional reforms and modernizing legal frameworks. After leaving politics, contributed to academia and legal scholarship, focusing on constitutional law and governance.
Served as 33rd Prime Minister of New Zealand
Implemented significant constitutional reforms
Held positions as Minister of Justice and Deputy Prime Minister
Other People Born on April 21st
Pat Brown
American politician, 32nd Governor of California
Born
April 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 32nd Governor of California from 1959 to 1967. Implemented significant policy reforms in education and water management. Advocated for the construction of the California State Water Project, which aimed to improve water supply and distribution across the state. His administration focused on civil rights and economic growth. Before his governorship, practiced law and served as the District Attorney of San Francisco.
Continue ReadingWilhelmine Amalia of Brunswick-Lüneburg
Duchess of Saxe-Eisenach and patron
Born
April 21st, 1673 352 years ago
Died
1742 284 years ago — 69 years old
Born into the House of Brunswick-Lüneburg, served as the Duchess of Saxe-Eisenach. Played a significant role in the cultural enrichment of her court, promoting arts and education. Married Johann Georg I, Duke of Saxe-Eisenach, and was involved in the political and social life of the duchy. Notably, her patronage supported various artistic endeavors, contributing to the cultural heritage of the region. Through her descendants, her influence extended beyond her own reign.
Continue ReadingJarrett Allen
NBA basketball player, All-Star
Born
April 21st, 1998 27 years ago
A professional basketball player from America, played as a center in the NBA. Drafted by the Brooklyn Nets in 2017 as the 22nd overall pick. Achieved notable excellence while with the Cleveland Cavaliers, earning an All-Star selection in 2022. Contributed significantly to teams' defensive strategies and rebound statistics throughout his career. Played college basketball at the University of Texas before transitioning to the NBA.
Continue ReadingJoe McCarthy
Baseball manager with Yankees championship
Born
April 21st, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1978 48 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent baseball manager and player, led the New York Yankees to seven World Series titles during the 1930s and 1940s. Managed teams including the Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox. Served as a player and manager in the Major Leagues, contributing significantly to the sport's development.
Continue ReadingEdwin Stanton Porter
Film director of 'The Great Train Robbery'
Born
April 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 71 years old
A pivotal figure in early cinema, directed and produced several influential silent films. Gained recognition primarily for 'The Great Train Robbery' in 1903, which is considered one of the first narrative films in history. Worked with Thomas Edison’s studio, contributing to the production of various early short films and leveraging innovative techniques that laid groundwork for modern filmmaking. Later established his own production company and continued to shape the industry.
Continue ReadingJan van Riebeeck
Dutch politician, founder of Cape Town
Born
April 21st, 1619 406 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1677 349 years ago — 57 years old
A Dutch politician established a refreshment station for the Dutch East India Company at Cape of Good Hope in 1652, which later evolved into Cape Town. The settlement aimed to provide support for ships en route to the East Indies. Van Riebeeck served as the company's first commander, overseeing the initial development of the colony, including agriculture and trade routes. He played a critical role in the interactions between European settlers and local indigenous populations during the early stages of colonial expansion in Southern Africa.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 5th
Shirley Verrett
Soprano and actress with opera accolades
Born
May 31st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 79 years old
An accomplished American soprano and actress, contributions included performances in leading roles at renowned opera houses. Significant works included roles in operas such as "Carmen" and "Aida". Achievements also spanned the concert stage and Broadway, showcasing versatility in both operatic and musical theater forms. A graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, initial career developments occurred with the New York City Opera and performance at the Metropolitan Opera.
Continue ReadingRené Goscinny
French author of the Asterix comics
Born
August 14th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 51 years old
An influential French author and illustrator, contributed significantly to the world of comics, particularly through the creation of the iconic Asterix series. Collaborated with illustrator Albert Uderzo to bring to life the adventures of a small Gaulish village resisting Roman occupation. The series debuted in 1959 and quickly gained international popularity, translated into numerous languages. Goscinny's unique storytelling and humor set a new standard for comic books, influencing generations of writers and illustrators.
Continue ReadingBülent Ecevit
Turkish politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 28th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 16th Prime Minister of Turkey, leading the country during critical periods. Ecevit was involved in Turkish politics for several decades, navigating various roles including those of opposition leader and party leader. His leadership during the Cyprus crisis in 1974 and emphasis on social democracy shaped his political career. Ecevit also contributed to journalism and academia, focusing on issues of social justice and democracy.
Continue ReadingCzesław Kiszczak
Polish politician and military leader
Born
October 19th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1925, a Polish general and politician served as the 11th Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Poland. Held significant power during the 1980s, particularly amid the political turmoil associated with the Solidarity movement. Played a pivotal role during the imposition of martial law in 1981, aimed at suppressing dissent and maintaining governmental control. Continued to influence political events in Poland during the transition from communism to a parliamentary democracy in the early 1990s. His legacy includes shaping military and political strategies of Poland during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingRoy Boulting
Film director and producer, 'The Family Way'
Born
November 21st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old
A film director and producer, contributed significantly to British cinema during the 20th century. Started in the industry with the film 'Brighton Rock' in 1947. Collaborated frequently with brother John Boulting on several notable films. Directed 'The Family Way', which featured high-profile actors and was a commercial success. Also produced numerous films that showcased British society and culture.
Continue ReadingAdolf Brudes
Polish-German racing driver
Born
October 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1986 39 years ago — 87 years old
Competed in various European racing events during the early 20th century. Achieved notable success in the European Championship for Drivers. Participated in multiple races, showcasing driving talent and technical skill.
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