Harold Stassen
Political figure, 25th Governor of Minnesota
Served as the 25th Governor of Minnesota from 1943 to 1947. Later, ran for the Republican presidential nomination nine times between 1944 and 1992. Worked in various roles in law and education, including as a law professor. Contributed to civic and educational organizations throughout his career, focusing on public service and governance.
Served as Minnesota's Governor from 1943 to 1947
Ran for the Republican presidential nomination nine times
Other People Born on April 13th
Arthur Fadden
Australian politician and Prime Minister
Born
April 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1973 52 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 13th Prime Minister of Australia from August to November 1941. Led the Country Party and held the position of Treasurer. Guided economic policy during World War II and was involved in wartime finance discussions. Played a key role in the establishment of the national health program. Managed fiscal challenges and promoted post-war recovery plans.
Continue ReadingCharles Christie
Businessman, co-founder of Christie Film Company
Born
April 13th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1955 70 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Christie Film Company, which became a significant player in the early film industry. The company produced and distributed motion pictures, contributing to the growth of cinema. The organization standardized the production processes of films and introduced various technological innovations in the film industry. Enabled the transition of movie making from literal representation to narrative storytelling. Involved in the production of many notable early films that showcased the potential of cinema as an art form.
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 ReadingPeter Faber
French Jesuit theologian and co-founder
Born
April 13th, 1506 519 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1546 479 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent figure in the early Jesuit movement, contributed significantly to the formation of the Society of Jesus alongside Ignatius of Loyola. Focused on education and spiritual guidance, served as a key theologian and established principles that would govern Jesuit spirituality. Played a crucial role in promoting the Catholic Reformation through his preaching and writings. Engaged in various ecclesiastical missions across Europe, emphasizing the importance of education in the faith.
Continue ReadingMadalyn Murray O'Hair
American atheist activist and founder
Born
April 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old
An activist and founder of the American Atheists organization. Championed the separation of church and state and was a notable voice in the fight for atheistic rights. Gained national attention for legal battles against school-sponsored prayer, resulting in the landmark Supreme Court case Engel v. Vitale. Her activism contributed significantly to the visibility of the atheistic movement in the United States.
Continue ReadingFrank Winfield Woolworth
Businessman who founded Woolworth's
Born
April 13th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent American businessman founded the F. W. Woolworth Company, pioneering the concept of the five-and-dime store. Established the first self-service retail store model that influenced modern retail shopping. The first store opened in Utica, New York in 1879, leading to the rapid expansion of numerous locations across the United States and internationally. His business approach emphasized affordability and accessibility, creating a new shopping experience for consumers. Contributions to retail set the stage for future discount retailers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 4th
George McAfee
American football player, NFL star
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old
Played as a halfback and safety in the National Football League (NFL) during the 1940s and early 1950s. Primarily represented the Chicago Bears. Contributed to the Bears' victory in the 1943 NFL Championship. Recognized as a dynamic player, earning Pro Bowl selections for multiple seasons.
Continue ReadingTadeusz Nalepa
Polish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2007 18 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in Polish music, this singer-songwriter and guitarist contributed significantly to the blues-rock genre in Poland. He began his career in the 1960s, gaining fame with the band Blackout, and later formed the group Apetyty. Notable for his original compositions and unique guitar style, his music often featured themes of love and social commentary. Over the years, he released numerous albums, with a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. His career spanned several decades, during which he became a respected and influential artist in the Polish music scene until his passing in 2007.
Continue ReadingMinnie Pearl
American comedian and country singer
Born
October 25th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An American entertainer, gained fame through performances on the Grand Ole Opry for more than 50 years. Became a beloved figure with a distinctive style that included a hat adorned with price tags. Appeared in television programs such as 'Hee Haw' and made several film appearances. Also involved in charitable work, supporting various causes throughout her career.
Continue ReadingJohn Marvin Jones
American judge and politician
Born
1882 144 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a state district judge in Texas for several years, applying the law in various significant cases. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, represented Texas from 1935 until 1943. Played a role in establishing legal precedents impacting state politics and judicial practices. Contributed to legislation during his tenure in Congress. His legal and political career influenced the development of judiciary procedures in Texas.
Continue ReadingJames Ward
Psychologist and philosopher
Born
1843 183 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1925 100 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to psychology and philosophy included work on the theory of perception and the nature of consciousness. Served as the first president of the British Psychological Society. Published significant texts addressing psychological issues, focusing on the relationship between mind and body.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Smart
Canadian poet and author of 'By Grand Central Station I Sat Down and Wept'
Born
December 27th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1986 39 years ago — 72 years old
A Canadian poet and author, she gained recognition for her lyrical and often autobiographical writing. Her most significant work, 'By Grand Central Station I Sat Down and Wept', published in 1945, has been praised for its emotional depth and exploration of themes such as love and despair. Beyond poetry, contributions included criticism and essays that illuminated her literary perspective. She was also involved in various literary circles, influencing other writers and artists throughout her life. Smart's work often drew upon personal experiences, capturing the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
Continue Reading