Harris Wofford
American civil rights activist and senator
Served as a United States Senator from Pennsylvania from 1991 to 1995. Worked alongside Martin Luther King Jr. in the Civil Rights Movement and played a significant role in advancing social justice legislation. Authored several books, including 'Of Kennedys and Kings', which outlined his experiences and insights on political and social issues. Advocated for healthcare reform and education initiatives throughout his career. Continued to influence public policy and civic engagement until his passing.
Served as U.S. Senator for Pennsylvania
Worked with Martin Luther King Jr.
Authored 'Of Kennedys and Kings'
Other People Born on April 9th
Johann Matthias Gesner
German academic and scholar
Born
April 9th, 1691 334 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1761 264 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1691, this scholar contributed significantly to classical scholarship and education in Germany. He held academic positions at various universities, eventually becoming the rector of the University of Göttingen. His work included the editing of classical texts and the promotion of Latin education. Additionally, he published a notable series of lectures on rhetoric and poetics, which became a reference in the field. This academic's influence extended to the standardization of Latin studies and the education system of the time.
Continue ReadingAllen Jenkins
American actor and singer in film musicals
Born
April 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1974 51 years ago — 74 years old
An actor and singer with a career spanning several decades, became recognized for roles in film and stage productions. Gained prominence through performances in musicals and comedies, especially in the 1930s and 1940s. Worked extensively with Warner Bros. and appeared in numerous films including the 'The Roaring Twenties' and 'The East Side Kid' series. Also lent vocal talents to various musical films, contributing to the popularity of the genre during that era.
Continue ReadingFrank King
Cartoonist and creator of Gasoline Alley
Born
April 9th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American cartoonist, associated with the comic strip 'Gasoline Alley', which debuted in 1918. The strip focused on the lives and adventures of a group of characters, with an emphasis on realism and character development. His work was influential during the golden age of comics, contributing to the evolution of the daily and Sunday comic formats. King also explored themes of family and community in his storytelling. He worked for various newspapers and played a significant role in the establishment of comic strips as a respected art form. The strip continued long after his death, showcasing the lasting legacy of his creativity.
Continue ReadingCharles Baudelaire
French poet and critic; 'Les Fleurs du mal'
Born
April 9th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1867 158 years ago — 46 years old
A significant figure in French literature, contributed to theSymbolist movement. Published 'Les Fleurs du mal,' a collection of poems that explored themes of beauty, decadence, and modernity. Critically examined art and literature in essays, introducing new perspectives on aesthetics. Influenced various 20th-century writers and poets, establishing groundwork for modern poetry.
Continue ReadingStephen Paddock
Mass murderer in Las Vegas shooting
Born
April 9th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1953, engaged in various occupations and activities throughout life. Became widely recognized for involvement in the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, which resulted in the deaths of 58 individuals and injuries to hundreds more. The attack occurred during a music festival, making it one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history. Investigations revealed a premeditated plan, and law enforcement found a stockpile of firearms in the perpetrator's hotel room.
Continue ReadingJohann Crüger
Composer of Protestant church music
Born
April 9th, 1598 427 years ago
Died
1662 363 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Sorbia, a musician and composer became prominent for contributions to Protestant choral music during the 17th century. Crüger served as a cantor and composed numerous hymns, significantly influencing the repertoire of church music in Lutheran services. He edited and published several important hymnals, including 'Etlich Christliche Lieder,' which compiled many of his works and the works of other contemporary composers. His compositions often blended traditional hymnody with contemporary styles, making them accessible to congregations. The quality and depth of his music ensured a lasting legacy in the hymnody of Lutheran worship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 21st
George Moore
Irish author and poet
Born
February 24th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1933 92 years ago — 80 years old
An influential figure in Irish literature, contributed to the development of the modern novel. Worked as a novelist, poet, and critic, advocating for realism in writing. Authored several significant novels including 'Esther Waters' and 'The Brook Kerith'. His poetry and essays assisted in shaping contemporary Irish literary discourse.
Continue ReadingYemelyan Pugachev
Russian rebel leader of 1773-1774 uprising
Born
1742 283 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1775 250 years ago — 33 years old
Led a major uprising against the Russian monarchy from 1773 to 1775. Started the rebellion claiming to be the deceased Tsar Peter III. Gained the support of peasants and Cossacks, establishing an extensive, albeit short-lived, control over parts of Russia. The rebellion was marked by several key battles and the capture of the city of Kazan. Eventually defeated by government forces, he was captured in 1775 and executed.
Continue ReadingGarth Hudson
Keyboard player for The Band
Born
August 2nd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2025 0 years ago — 87 years old
A Canadian keyboard player, songwriter, and producer, contributed significantly to the rock music scene, particularly as a member of The Band. The Band gained prominence for their unique blend of rock, folk, and Americana music. Hudson's work with The Band included key performances and significant songwriting, leading to the creation of critically acclaimed albums. He participated in the legendary Martin Scorsese film 'The Last Waltz', capturing the final concert of The Band, which showcased his musical talents on a grand scale.
Continue ReadingBassel al-Assad
Syrian politician and heir apparent
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1994 31 years ago — 32 years old
Bassel al-Assad was the designated successor to the presidency of Syria. As the son of Hafez al-Assad, he was groomed for leadership within the Syrian government. Bassel held the position of a prominent military officer and was heavily involved in the country's political dynamics. He focused on modernizing the Syrian military and was involved in various civil enterprises aimed at fostering technological advancement in the region. Unfortunately, his life was cut short in a car accident in 1994, which altered the political landscape of Syria as it transitioned to his younger brother's leadership.
Continue ReadingJan Drozdowski
Polish pianist and music educator
Born
February 2nd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1918 107 years ago — 60 years old
Worked as a pianist and music teacher in Poland. Contributed to music education and influenced a generation of musicians through teaching. Participated in concerts and performances, showcasing classical piano repertoire. Engaged in the promotion of Polish music and culture during a time of national struggle.
Continue ReadingLouie Anderson
Comedian and actor, frequent TV host
Born
March 24th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2022 3 years ago — 68 years old
An American actor and comedian gained prominence through a distinctive comedy style and engaging presence. Anderson served as the host of the comedic game show 'Family Feud' from 1999 to 2002. He starred in the acclaimed animated series 'Life with Louie', which earned multiple Daytime Emmy Awards. In addition to television, Anderson appeared in films including 'Coming to America' and 'The Wrong Missy'. His comedic talent also extended to stand-up performances, earning recognition in the realm of live comedy.
Continue Reading