Gregory Peck
Academy Award-winning American actor
Born in 1916, this actor gained acclaim for his performances on stage and screen. Starred in notable films such as 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' which earned an Academy Award for Best Actor. Also appeared in 'Roman Holiday' and 'The Omen.' A prominent political activist, he advocated for civil rights and opposed the Vietnam War, using public platforms to voice opposition against injustices. As a producer, he contributed to various film projects throughout his career, remaining influential in Hollywood until his passing.
Won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1963
Starred in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'
Appeared in 'Roman Holiday'
Played a lead role in 'The Omen'
Other People Born on April 5th
Franz Pforr
German painter of Romanticism
Born
April 5th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1812 214 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1788, a prominent figure in the German Romantic painting movement. Worked in the early 19th century, contributing significantly to the Nazarenes group, which sought to revive the artistic values of the Renaissance. Pforr's artwork often featured themes of mythology and nature, reflecting the ideals of Romanticism. His career was marked by a strong inclination towards symbolic and spiritual representation, distinguishing his work from his contemporaries. Died at a young age, yet left a lasting legacy in the field of German art.
Continue ReadingLeo Stern
English cellist and conductor
Born
April 5th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1904 122 years ago — 42 years old
An English cellist, recognized for significant contributions to the classical music scene. Stern served as a principal cellist with various orchestras and had a prominent role in chamber music. He was involved with leading ensembles and symphonic works, showcasing his expertise in both performance and interpretation. His collaboration with esteemed composers and fellow musicians resulted in memorable performances throughout his career. Stern's work helped shape the appreciation of cello music in the early 20th century, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingAndrius Velička
Lithuanian footballer, Euro 2008 participant
Born
April 5th, 1979 46 years ago
A Lithuanian footballer played as a forward. Career spanned multiple clubs including FK Žalgiris and FC Stumbras. Participated in UEFA Euro 2008 with the national team, making significant contributions during the tournament. Had a notable club career, achieving success in domestic leagues and competing in European competitions. Played in various countries, including England and Poland, contributing to team successes. Retired from professional football, leaving a legacy in Lithuanian football.
Continue ReadingBlaise de Vigenère
French cryptographer and diplomat
Born
April 5th, 1523 502 years ago
Died
1596 430 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1523, a French diplomat and cryptographer contributed significantly to the field of cryptography. Vigenère developed the Vigenère cipher, a polygraphic substitution cipher that improved upon earlier encryption methods. This cipher became widely used for secure communication. Alongside his work in cryptography, Vigenère held various diplomatic positions. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern cryptographic techniques and practices.
Continue ReadingPaula Cole
Singer-songwriter and pianist, 'I Don't Wanna Wait'
Born
April 5th, 1968 57 years ago
An American singer-songwriter and pianist, significant works include the hit single 'I Don't Wanna Wait', which served as the theme song for the television series 'Dawson's Creek'. The musician's album 'This Fire' received a Grammy Award nomination for Best New Artist. Cole's career began in the mid-1990s and she gained recognition for her soulful voice and introspective lyrics. She collaborated with artists like Peter Gabriel and participated in various music festivals.
Continue ReadingDave Swarbrick
Singer-songwriter and fiddler
Born
April 5th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in the British folk music scene, contributed significantly to the revival of traditional folk music during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated extensively with various artists, particularly in the band Fairport Convention. Became recognized for innovative fiddling techniques and the integration of folk elements into rock music. Released several solo albums and participated in numerous recordings with other musicians.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Jimmy Dorsey
American bandleader and composer
Born
February 29th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1957 68 years ago — 53 years old
Born on February 29, 1904, a prominent saxophonist and bandleader in the jazz genre. Rose to fame during the swing era, leading bands that became influential in popular music. Authored numerous arrangements and compositions, becoming a key figure in American big band music. The Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, co-led with brother Tommy Dorsey, gained major popularity. The band featured hit songs such as 'Amapola' and 'Tangerine'. In the late 1930s and 1940s, hosted radio shows that furthered the reach of swing music. Continued to perform and lead various bands into the 1950s.
Continue ReadingTeresa Carreño
Venezuelan-American pianist and composer
Born
December 22nd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1917 108 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Venezuela, a prominent pianist and composer emerged as a major figure in the world of classical music. Carreño began performing at a young age, showcasing exceptional talent in piano and composition. The musician toured extensively in Europe and the United States, earning acclaim for performances with orchestras and recitals. Carreño's repertoire included works by classical composers, as well as her own compositions. Throughout her career, multiple musical societies and institutions recognized her contributions to music education and performance. The musician's legacy continues through the preservation of her works and influence on future generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingFrédéric Passy
Economist and Nobel laureate
Born
May 20th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1912 113 years ago — 90 years old
An economist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of economics and peace studies. Initiated work on the development of the concept of international arbitration. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, an organization fostering international cooperation. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901 for longstanding dedication to peace and conflict resolution efforts.
Continue ReadingAleksandr Deyneka
Russian painter and sculptor, wartime art
Born
May 20th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1969 56 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1899, this artist contributed significantly to Soviet art. Deyneka's career spanned various forms of painting and sculpture, focusing on themes of labor and heroism. His work during World War II included propaganda art that celebrated the Soviet military effort. He was associated with the artistic movement known as Socialist Realism, which aimed to depict the ideals of communism and promote Soviet values. Deyneka taught at various institutions and participated in numerous exhibitions throughout his career, leaving a lasting legacy in Russian visual arts.
Continue ReadingJon Hiseman
English drummer with Colosseum fame
Born
June 21st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2018 7 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent drummer in the British progressive rock and jazz genres, contributions included founding the band Colosseum, which formed in 1968. The band released several notable albums, with 'Valentyne Suite' being a significant work that showcased innovative jazz-rock fusion. Hiseman also played with other influential musicians and bands throughout his career, including the groups Tempest and the band’s latter incarnation, Colosseum II. His style influenced many drummers in the jazz and rock scenes during the late twentieth century.
Continue ReadingNeil Goldschmidt
American politician and former governor
Born
June 16th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 33rd Governor of Oregon from 1987 to 1991. During the governorship, implemented significant education reform and economic development initiatives. Previously held the position of Mayor of Portland and served in the Oregon House of Representatives. After the governorship, worked as a consultant and in other business ventures, including significant roles in real estate and transportation.
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