Harold Washington
Politician, 51st Mayor of Chicago
Served as the 51st Mayor of Chicago from 1983 until death in 1987. First African American to hold the office. Prior to mayorship, held various roles in the Illinois legislature and served in the U.S. House of Representatives. Implemented significant changes in city government and promoted inclusive policies. Became a prominent figure in Chicago politics, particularly in the context of civil rights and community empowerment.
First African American Mayor of Chicago
Served in the U.S. House of Representatives
Implemented inclusive city policies
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 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 ReadingMichael Ansara
Actor known for 'Outer Limits' and 'Star Trek'
Born
April 15th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Syria, became an American actor. Gained prominence after roles in prominent television series during the 1960s. Portrayed Kang in the 'Star Trek' franchise, making a significant mark in science fiction television. Appeared in the series 'Broken Arrow' as well as numerous roles in film and television throughout a career spanning several decades. Contributed voice work to various animated series and video games, showcasing versatility in different mediums.
Continue ReadingArshile Gorky
Painter and illustrator of abstract art
Born
April 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1948 77 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1904, this Armenian-American painter became a prominent figure in the abstract expressionist movement. Moving to the United States in the 1920s, developed a style that fused elements of surrealism and personal symbolism. Worked in various media, including painting and drawing, drawing inspiration from the work of Picasso and the European avant-garde. Produced significant works like 'The Artist and His Mother', reflecting personal themes and early life experiences. Died in 1948, leaving behind a legacy in modern art.
Continue ReadingAngelo DiGeorge
American endocrinologist and physician
Born
April 15th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 88 years old
An American physician and endocrinologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of genetic disorders related to the immune system. Focused on the DiGeorge syndrome, a condition characterized by a range of birth defects, including heart defects, poor immune function, and specific facial features. Worked on developing treatment protocols for affected individuals, enhancing the quality of life for patients. Conducted research that paved the way for a better understanding of genetic influences on health.
Continue ReadingArturo Gatti
Boxer and three-time world champion
Born
April 15th, 1972 53 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 37 years old
Born in Italy and later moving to Canada, a professional boxer competed primarily in the junior welterweight and welterweight divisions. Gatti held the WBC, IBF, and WBA titles during the career, which spanned from 1991 to 2007. Famed for his exceptional fighting skills, grit, and tenacity inside the ring, each bout further solidified his reputation as an exciting competitor in the sport. Gatti's notable fights included memorable bouts against Micky Ward, creating a legendary trilogy that showcased their intense rivalry and Gatti's remarkable perseverance. After retiring, he also contributed to boxing through coaching and mentoring future fighters.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 25th
Earl Holliman
American actor in 'Have Gun – Will Travel'
Born
September 11th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2024 1 years ago — 96 years old
Acted in various films and television shows during a prominent career. Gained recognition for a leading role in the television series 'Have Gun – Will Travel', which aired from 1957 to 1963. Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Rainmaker' and 'The Bridges at Toko-Ri'. Earned an Emmy Award for his performance in the 1964 television film 'The Hurricane'. Participated in guest appearances across numerous TV series, contributing to the entertainment industry for decades.
Continue ReadingRon Glass
American Actor, 'Firefly' and 'Barney Miller'
Born
July 10th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2016 9 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor, celebrated for performances in television and film. Became widely recognized for the role of Ron Harris in the sitcom 'Barney Miller', which aired from 1975 to 1982. Later gained prominence for portraying Shepherd Derrial Book in the science fiction series 'Firefly' and the subsequent film 'Serenity'. His work spanned several decades and included appearances in various television shows and movies, earning respect among peers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingPetr Hapka
Czech composer and conductor of film scores
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent Czech composer and conductor has made significant contributions to film music, theater, and popular songs. Worked extensively in Czech cinema, creating memorable scores for numerous films and collaborating with notable lyricists, including Michal Horáček. His compositions captured the essence of stories through music, establishing a lasting legacy in Czech culture. Received recognition for his contributions to arts and music throughout his career, and remained an influential figure until death in 2014.
Continue ReadingMerab Mamardashvili
Georgian philosopher and academic
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1990 35 years ago — 60 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of philosophy and critical theory. Focused on the relationship between language and thought, exploring the nature of consciousness and reality. Engaged in discussions on the significance of human existence and cultural identity. Wrote extensively, influencing both academic and public discourse in Georgia and beyond.
Continue ReadingRichard Burns
Race car driver, 2000 World Rally Champion
Born
January 17th, 1971 55 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 34 years old
A prominent figure in rally racing, achieved significant recognition on the international stage. Competed in the World Rally Championship from 1990 to 2003, winning the World Rally Championship title in 2000. Raced for teams such as Subaru and Peugeot, demonstrating exceptional skill and determination. His career was marked by numerous victories and podium finishes in various prestigious rallies. Despite a battle with brain cancer that led to an untimely passing in 2005, remains a revered personality in the rally racing community.
Continue ReadingValentín Campa
Union leader and politician
Born
1904 122 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent union leader and politician in Mexico, significantly influenced labor movements during the mid-20th century. Served as the general secretary of the Mexican Electricians' Union. Actively participated in the Mexican labor movement, advocating for workers' rights and improving conditions. Held a seat in the Chamber of Deputies and was a member of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). His efforts contributed to the establishment of various labor rights legislation in Mexico.
Continue Reading