Hilda Hilst
Brazilian poet and playwright
A significant figure in Brazilian literature, the individual created a unique blend of poetry, novels, and plays, often exploring themes of existentialism, sexuality, and spirituality. The literary career spanned several decades, with works that challenged conventional forms and narratives. Key contributions to literature include a rich body of poetry and prose, characterized by experimental language and profound philosophical insights. Additionally, a life lived in solitude in a rural estate provided inspiration for much of the creative output.
Published the poetry collection 'Jardim de Inverno'
Authored the novel 'A Inscrição do Outro'
Wrote the play 'O Retrato de Dorian Gray'
Other People Born on April 21st
Pat Brown
American politician, 32nd Governor of California
Born
April 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 32nd Governor of California from 1959 to 1967. Implemented significant policy reforms in education and water management. Advocated for the construction of the California State Water Project, which aimed to improve water supply and distribution across the state. His administration focused on civil rights and economic growth. Before his governorship, practiced law and served as the District Attorney of San Francisco.
Continue ReadingJohn Muir
Environmentalist and author of 'Our National Parks'
Born
April 21st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1914 111 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Scotland and later moving to the United States, contributions to conservation and environmental activism began in the late 19th century. Established the Sierra Club in 1892, advocating for the preservation of wilderness areas in the United States. Writings included 'The Mountains of California' and 'Our National Parks', emphasizing the importance of natural landscapes. Instrumental in the creation of several national parks, including Yosemite and Sequoia. Efforts significantly influenced public opinion on environmental preservation.
Continue ReadingJan van Riebeeck
Dutch politician, founder of Cape Town
Born
April 21st, 1619 406 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1677 348 years ago — 57 years old
A Dutch politician established a refreshment station for the Dutch East India Company at Cape of Good Hope in 1652, which later evolved into Cape Town. The settlement aimed to provide support for ships en route to the East Indies. Van Riebeeck served as the company's first commander, overseeing the initial development of the colony, including agriculture and trade routes. He played a critical role in the interactions between European settlers and local indigenous populations during the early stages of colonial expansion in Southern Africa.
Continue ReadingIgnatius Zakka I Iwas
Iraqi patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church
Born
April 21st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church from 1980 until death in 2014. Oversaw a significant period of growth within the church and participated in interfaith dialogue efforts, promoting cooperation among different Christian denominations and between religions. Actively engaged in humanitarian work, focusing on the rights and welfare of Christians in the Middle East. His leadership spanned major events affecting the church and its followers in Iraq and beyond.
Continue ReadingRoger Doucet
Canadian Tenor known for operatic performances
Born
April 21st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1981 44 years ago — 62 years old
A tenor from Canada, contributed significantly to the operatic and music scene in the country. Gained recognition during the 1960s and 1970s through performances on various stages, including the Canadian Opera Company. Collaborated with numerous orchestras and received acclaim for interpretations of classical and operatic arias. Also recognized for nationalistic songs that celebrated Canadian heritage.
Continue ReadingMichel Rolle
French mathematician and academic
Born
April 21st, 1652 373 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1719 306 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics during the 17th century. Played a crucial role in the development of algebra and calculus. Authored notable works, including 'La Geometrie' which provided methods for solving equations. Developed the concept of Rolle's Theorem, an essential result in calculus regarding differentiable functions. Involved in academic circles and contributed to the establishment of mathematical practices in France.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 4th
Hendrik Lorentz
Dutch physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 18th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1928 97 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to theoretical physics. Developed the Lorentz transformations, which describe how measurements of time and space change for observers in different inertial frames. Played a crucial role in the development of the theory of electromagnetism and made significant contributions to the understanding of the electron's behavior. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1902 alongside Pieter Zeeman for their studies of the radiation phenomena associated with magnetic fields.
Continue ReadingCarl Albert
American politician, 54th Speaker of House
Born
May 10th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2000 25 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent American lawyer and politician, served as the 54th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1971 to 1977. Albert represented Oklahoma's 3rd congressional district and played a significant role in legislative matters during a transformative era in American politics. His tenure included important issues such as consumer protection and civil rights. He focused on rural development and education and was an influential figure in transition discussions concerning the leadership of the House. Albert was particularly involved in the Watergate scandal and its aftermath, ensuring accountability in government. He retired from Congress in 1977 after 30 years of service.
Continue ReadingWhipper Billy Watson
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
June 25th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in professional wrestling, gained fame primarily in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed in various organizations including the National Wrestling Alliance and the World Wrestling Federation. Held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship and was a star attraction in wrestling venues across Canada and the United States. Transitioned to a training role, mentoring numerous aspiring wrestlers and contributing to the sport's development. His legacy includes a strong influence on wrestling techniques and promotion of the sport's popularity.
Continue ReadingAga Khan IV
49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community
Born
December 13th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2025 0 years ago — 88 years old
Assumed leadership as the 49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community in 1957. Focused on the development and education of the Isma'ili community worldwide. Established institutions such as the Aga Khan Development Network to improve health, education, and infrastructure in various countries. Engaged in philanthropic efforts across multiple sectors, including health care, education, and rural development. Advocated for pluralism and the importance of dialogue within various cultures and faiths.
Continue ReadingLouis-Ernest Barrias
French sculptor and academic
Born
April 13th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1905 120 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed significantly to French sculpture during the late 19th century. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and became a prominent figure in the artistic community. Created notable works that reflect classical themes and intricacies of human form. His piece 'La France' was awarded the Grand Prix de Rome in 1876, symbolizing national pride. Held a position as a member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts, influencing future generations of artists through both creation and education.
Continue ReadingFrank Calder
Ice hockey player and journalist
Born
November 17th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1943 82 years ago — 65 years old
An English-Canadian ice hockey player and journalist, played a significant role in the development of the National Hockey League (NHL) and served as its first president from 1917 to 1943. Participated in the early amateur leagues before transitioning to professional play with the Montreal Canadiens. Worked to promote and stabilize the league during its formative years and was actively involved in the establishment of various policies that shaped the NHL. Authored numerous articles and reports that contributed to hockey literature and discourse.
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