Hans Conried
American actor and voice artist
An actor and voice artist who contributed significantly to both live-action and animated productions. Achieved widespread recognition for portraying Captain Hook in Disney's animated classic 'Peter Pan' and voiced various characters in the TV series 'The Grinch'. Had a prolific career in radio, television, and film, showcasing versatility across multiple genres.
Portrayed Captain Hook in 'Peter Pan'
Voiced the Grinch in 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas'
Appeared in the TV series 'Make Room for Daddy'
Other People Born on April 15th
Stanley Bruce
Australian Prime Minister and politician
Born
April 15th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1967 58 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 8th Prime Minister of Australia from 1923 to 1929. Focused on economic development and infrastructural improvements during tenure. Advocated for closer ties between Australia and Great Britain. Contributed to the establishment of the National Health and Medical Research Council and played a role in various social reforms. Served in the Australian Senate after his prime ministerial term, representing the United Australia Party.
Continue ReadingA. Philip Randolph
Labor leader and civil rights activist
Born
April 15th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1979 46 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent labor leader and civil rights activist, contributions included organizing the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first predominantly African American labor union. Played a significant role in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, rallying support for civil rights and economic justice. Advocated for the rights of workers and promoted racial equality throughout a lengthy career in social justice activism. Helped to foster alliances between labor unions and civil rights organizations, enhancing cooperation in the fight for equality.
Continue ReadingWilliam Champ
English-Australian politician, 1st Premier of Tasmania
Born
April 15th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1892 133 years ago — 84 years old
Born in England in 1808, significant contributions to Tasmanian politics occurred after migrating to Australia. Champ served as the first Premier of Tasmania from 1856 to 1857, leading the state during its formative years. Champ focused on establishing a stable government and was involved in developing the local economy. His work laid the foundation for future political developments in the region.
Continue ReadingRobert W. Gore
Engineer, co-inventor of Gore-Tex
Born
April 15th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2020 5 years ago — 83 years old
An American engineer and businessman, contributed significantly to materials science. Co-invented Gore-Tex, a waterproof and breathable fabric, in 1969, which revolutionized the outdoor apparel industry. The innovation led to the establishment of W. L. Gore & Associates, a company focused on advanced materials and technology. Under leadership, the company expanded its product offerings and became a major player in various fields, including medical devices and electronics. The work in polymer technology extended beyond textiles to applications in industrial and consumer products.
Continue ReadingJoseph E. Seagram
Canadian businessman and politician
Born
April 15th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1919 106 years ago — 78 years old
Founded Seagram Company Ltd, a major producer of alcoholic beverages. Served as a politician in Canada during the late 19th century. Expanded the company into one of the largest distillers worldwide. Involved in various civic activities and held significant influence in local business.
Continue ReadingKenneth Lay
Businessman and Enron CEO
Born
April 15th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1942, a prominent American businessman served as the CEO and chairman of Enron Corporation, an energy company based in Houston, Texas. Lay played a crucial role in the company's rapid growth in the 1990s, promoting innovative energy trading and deregulation. Under his leadership, Enron's stock skyrocketed, making it one of the largest companies in the United States. However, amid accounting scandals, Enron filed for bankruptcy in 2001, marking one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history. Lay faced criminal charges related to securities fraud and conspiracy, though he died before the trial concluded.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 5th
Kumar Ponnambalam
Sri Lankan Tamil lawyer and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2000 25 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent lawyer and political figure in Sri Lanka, focused on the rights of the Tamil community. Served as a Member of Parliament and played a pivotal role in legal advocacy for minority rights. Engaged in various political activities aimed at addressing grievances faced by Tamils in Sri Lanka. Actively participated in discussions and negotiations regarding the political situation in the country during the ethnic conflict period.
Continue ReadingFrederica Sagor Maas
American author and screenwriter
Born
July 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 111 years old
An influential author and screenwriter, contributions include works for both stage and screen. Wrote for silent films and transitioned into sound films, demonstrating versatility throughout a long career. Authored multiple novels and memoirs, reflecting on experiences in Hollywood's earlier years. The career spanned several decades, capturing the evolution of the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingHarold Urey
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 29th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1981 44 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent American chemist and astronomer, contributions focused on isotopic chemistry and nuclear physics. Developed methods for separating isotopes and played a significant role in the Manhattan Project. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934 for the discovery of deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen. Served as a professor at several universities, including Columbia University and the University of California, Berkeley.
Continue ReadingArthur Kennedy
American actor in film and theater
Born
February 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1990 35 years ago — 75 years old
An American actor had a prolific career spanning several decades in both film and theater. Achieved critical acclaim for performances in various genres, particularly in dramatic roles. Appeared in celebrated productions on Broadway, showcasing remarkable acting skills that earned several accolades. Featured prominently in films such as 'The Best Years of Our Lives', gaining recognition for exceptional artistry. Worked alongside numerous prominent filmmakers and actors, leaving a lasting impression in the industry.
Continue ReadingRobert L. Surtees
Cinematographer for 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1985 40 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent American cinematographer, recognized for work on several acclaimed films during the mid-20th century. Started career photographing documentaries before transitioning to feature films. Contributed to the visual style of major productions with a focus on lighting and composition. Collaborated with noted directors and earned critical praise for cinematic techniques. The reputation solidified through multiple Academy Award nominations.
Continue ReadingIsaac Díaz Pardo
Spanish painter and sculptor
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed to the Galician artistic movement, focusing on themes of culture and identity. Established and directed a contemporary art studio, promoting traditional crafts and artistic creation. Engaged in various exhibitions throughout Spain and abroad, showcasing works that highlight the importance of Galician heritage and craftsmanship.
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