Harold Osborn
American high jumper and decathlete
Competed in track and field events, specializing in high jump and decathlon. Achieved significant success in the 1920s, winning multiple national titles. Secured a gold medal in the high jump at the 1924 Paris Olympics, setting an Olympic record with a jump of 2.03 meters. Dominated collegiate competitions, representing the University of Michigan.
Won gold medal in high jump at 1924 Olympics
Set an Olympic record in high jump
Secured multiple national titles in decathlon
Other People Born on April 13th
Max Mosley
Racing executive and engineer
Born
April 13th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 81 years old
Born in England, a prominent figure in motorsport engineering and administration. Co-founded March Engineering, which became a successful race car manufacturer in the 1970s and 1980s. Served as president of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) from 1993 to 2009, overseeing significant regulatory and safety developments in Formula One and other motorsport disciplines. Instrumental in implementing safety measures following high-profile accidents in the sport. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the FIA's Formula E championship focused on electric racing.
Continue ReadingThomas Jefferson
American politician, 3rd President
Born
April 13th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1826 199 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809. Drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776, articulating the principles of individual liberty and government by consent. Played a pivotal role in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which expanded U.S. territory significantly. Oversaw the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the western territories. Jefferson was a member of the Continental Congress and the first Secretary of State.
Continue ReadingMuwenda Mutebi II
King of Buganda Kingdom
Born
April 13th, 1955 70 years ago
Born in 1955, the current king of Buganda Kingdom has held the throne since 1993, after a long period of political turmoil in Uganda. Having studied in both Uganda and the United States, he returned to promote the cultural and social interests of the Baganda people. The king emphasizes education, cultural revival, and charitable initiatives throughout the kingdom. Under his leadership, Buganda has focused on reforming local governance and heritage preservation.
Continue ReadingClaude Cheysson
French politician and Foreign Minister
Born
April 13th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a French lieutenant and later entered politics, holding the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs. Played a significant role in shaping French foreign policy during the 1980s. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts and represented France in key international discussions.
Continue ReadingAlfred Mosher Butts
Game designer, inventor of Scrabble
Born
April 13th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1993 32 years ago — 93 years old
A game designer developed the popular word game Scrabble in the early 1930s. This game combined elements of crossword puzzles and word games, utilizing letter tiles with varying point values to create words on a grid. Butts created the game while he was seeking a way to combine his interests in architecture and word play. It was initially called 'Lexiko' before being renamed Scrabble. The game gained popularity after its commercial launch in 1948, leading to a successful partnership with game manufacturer Selchow and Righter. The game's enduring appeal has resulted in numerous editions and variations, establishing a lasting legacy in the realm of board games.
Continue ReadingMaurice Buckley
Australian sergeant in World War I
Born
April 13th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1921 105 years ago — 29 years old
Served as a sergeant in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I. Participated in significant battles, including the Battle of the Somme. Demonstrated leadership and bravery in combat situations. Wounded in action, contributing to the war efforts through service in the trenches. His tenure ended with his death in 1921, marking a significant period in Australian military history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Aloïse Corbaz
Swiss Outsider Artist and Painter
Born
1886 140 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1964 61 years ago — 78 years old
Developed a unique artistic style characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details. Began painting in a psychiatric institution, where artistic expression became a crucial part of her life. Works often reflected personal experiences and visions, depicting elaborate scenes and narratives.
Continue ReadingAtanase Sciotnic
Sprint Canoeist Olympic Medalist
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 75 years old
A sprint canoeist from Romania excelled in canoe sprint competitions during the late 20th century. Competed in the 1980 Summer Olympics, winning a bronze medal in the men's K-2 1000 meters event. Secured numerous national titles and medals in international competitions, contributing to Romania's reputation in the sport.
Continue ReadingBingu wa Mutharika
Malawian politician and economist
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
Held the position of the third President of Malawi from 2004 until 2012. Served as the Minister of Economic Planning and Development prior to presidency. Promoted agricultural policies and infrastructure development. Advocated for economic growth and modernization efforts during the tenure as president. Focused on food security initiatives to combat poverty.
Continue ReadingPedro Bartolomé Benoit
Dominican politician and military officer
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent political figure and military officer in the Dominican Republic, this individual served in various governmental roles throughout a lengthy career. Played a critical role during the political upheavals of the 20th century and was involved in military operations and governance. Actively participated in shaping the military and political landscape of the Dominican Republic during a time of significant change. Security and military strategy were key areas of influence, leading to lasting implications on the country's political dynamics.
Continue ReadingLeabua Jonathan
Prime Minister of Lesotho
Born
October 30th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1987 38 years ago — 72 years old
Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of Lesotho from 1965 to 1986. Played a significant role in the country's early political landscape, leading the Basotho National Party. Oversaw the country's policies during a time of political instability and was instrumental in establishing the framework for Lesotho's governance. After being ousted in a 1986 coup, faced exile until returning in the early 1990s.
Continue ReadingFabre d'Églantine
French actor and dramatist, politician
Born
July 28th, 1750 275 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1794 231 years ago — 43 years old
An actor, dramatist, poet, and politician, contributed to the French theatrical scene during the late 18th century. Active in revolutionary politics, aligned with the Jacobins and served as a member of the National Convention. His play 'Le Philosophe sans le savoir' gained recognition in the theatrical community. He also played a role in the establishment of the revolutionary calendar. Arrested during a political purge, execution occurred in April 1794.
Continue Reading