Howard Morris
Actor and director of 'The Dick Van Dyke Show'
An American actor, director, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to television and film. Best remembered for roles in 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' as Ernest T. Bass and directing episodes of 'The Andy Griffith Show'. Also lent voice to several characters in animation, including the humorous portrayal of Gopher in 'Winnie the Pooh' features. Started career in radio and transitioned to television in the 1950s, gaining recognition for comedic timing and distinct character portrayals. Continued working in the industry until the early 2000s, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and direction.
Portrayed Ernest T. Bass in 'The Dick Van Dyke Show'
Directed episodes of 'The Andy Griffith Show'
Voiced characters in 'The Monsters' and 'Winnie the Pooh' series
Other People Born on September 4th
Robert Arneson
American sculptor and academic pioneer
Born
September 4th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 62 years old
A significant figure in contemporary sculpture, contributed to the development of ceramic art as a legitimate form of artistic expression. Served as a professor at the University of California, Davis, where influenced many emerging artists. Gained recognition for work that often incorporated humor and social commentary. Utilized a distinctive approach with materials and techniques, leading to new interpretations of traditional forms. His sculptures, often featuring caricatures and self-portraits, explored themes of identity and culture.
Continue ReadingJohn DiMaggio
Voice actor, notably Bender in Futurama
Born
September 4th, 1968 57 years ago
Born in 1968, a voice actor recognized for contributions to animated television and film. Gained prominence through the character Bender in the animated series Futurama. Also voiced Jake the Dog in Adventure Time, showing versatility in character portrayal. Involved in various video game projects, including the popular franchise, Gears of War. Collaborated with numerous production companies, influencing the voice acting industry.
Continue ReadingHenry Ford II
American businessman and automotive executive
Born
September 4th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1987 38 years ago — 70 years old
An influential figure in the automotive industry, played a significant role in Ford Motor Company's modernization and revitalization during the mid-20th century. Oversaw the introduction of innovative manufacturing techniques and the expansion of Ford’s product line. Served as president and chairman of the company, guiding it through challenging economic times and competitive pressures. Focused on building a global presence for the Ford brand, introducing models that would become staples in the automotive market. His leadership helped the company navigate through the 1970s oil crisis and reposition itself for future growth.
Continue ReadingDarius Milhaud
French composer and educator
Born
September 4th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1974 51 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent composer of the 20th century, contributed extensively to the development of modern music. Studied under Gabriel Fauré and became a part of the group of composers known as Les Six. Migrated to the United States during World War II, where he continued to compose and teach. Notable works include 'La Création du Monde' and 'Le Boeuf sur le Toit'. His compositions often incorporated elements of jazz and drew from a variety of cultural influences.
Continue ReadingSarah Childress Polk
First Lady of the United States
Born
September 4th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1891 134 years ago — 87 years old
As First Lady, she served from 1845 to 1849 during the presidency of her husband. She actively supported her husband's political career and took on the role of hostess in the White House, where she managed social functions and championed educational initiatives. Additionally, she contributed to the writing of numerous letters and correspondence throughout her time in the White House, reflecting the era's social and political issues. Her involvement in the administration enhanced the public role of the First Lady, setting precedents for future occupants of the position.
Continue ReadingMitzi Gaynor
Actress and dancer from 'South Pacific'
Born
September 4th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer, gained prominence during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in the Broadway musical 'South Pacific' and the film adaptation of the same name in 1958. Appeared in several other musicals including 'Anything Goes' and 'There’s No Business Like Show Business'. Hosted numerous television specials and earned acclaim for live performances. Received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of contributions to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Wang Anshi
Chinese economist and chancellor
Born
December 8th, 1021 1004 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1086 939 years ago — 64 years old
An influential Chinese economist and chancellor, focused on reforming the Sung dynasty's economic policies. Implemented the New Policies, which aimed to stabilize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand state control over tax collection. These reforms included the promotion of state-sponsored loans and the establishment of a better government procurement system for grain. Writings on economic theory, governance, and philosophy contributed extensively to intellectual discourse during his time and afterward.
Continue ReadingAugust Kundt
German physicist known for Kundt's tube
Born
November 18th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1894 131 years ago — 54 years old
A physicist and educator made significant contributions to experimental physics. Developed Kundt's tube, an apparatus used to measure the speed of sound in gases. Served as a professor and emphasized the importance of practical experiments in teaching physics.
Continue ReadingNiccolò Zucchi
Italian astronomer and physicist
Born
December 6th, 1586 439 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1670 355 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed to the fields of astronomy and physics during the 17th century. Conducted extensive studies on the nature of light and optics, proposing theories on the composition of sunlight. Developed one of the early telescopes and observed Jupiter's moons. Authored several works, including writings on the atmosphere of the moon.
Continue ReadingHugo de Vries
Botanist and geneticist, mutation theory
Born
February 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 90 years ago — 87 years old
Contributions to genetics included the formulation of the mutation theory, which proposed that new species arise from sudden changes in traits. Conducted hybridization experiments on plants, particularly evening primroses, leading to significant findings in heredity and variation. Published works advanced the understanding of Mendelian inheritance, which laid foundational principles for modern genetics. De Vries also played a role in the revival of interest in Mendel's laws in the early 20th century, influencing future research in the field.
Continue ReadingPandolfo Petrucci
Tyrant of Siena
Born
February 14th, 1452 573 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1512 513 years ago — 60 years old
Governed Siena during the late 15th century. Achieved power through a combination of political maneuvering and military strength. Established a ruling dynasty in Siena that controlled the city for decades, influencing its affairs and politics. Oversaw significant changes in the governance and administration of the city-state. His rule marked the transition of Siena from a free comune to a more centralized authority.
Continue ReadingRaymond McCreesh
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 25th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 44 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.
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