Ian Richardson
Scottish actor in 'House of Cards'
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
A distinguished Scottish actor, primarily associated with the stage and screen. Gained prominence for performances in British television and film during the late 20th century. Notably portrayed Francis Urquhart in the original UK version of 'House of Cards,' a political thriller series based on the novels by Michael Dobbs. Earned acclaim for his theatrical work, particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company, contributing significantly to the British arts scene. Had a successful career in both television and cinema, showcasing a wide range of characters that demonstrated depth and versatility.
Portrayed Francis Urquhart in 'House of Cards'
Acted in 'The Last Hurrah' theatre production
Featured in the film 'The Killing Season'
Other People Born on April 7th
François de Neufville
French general and duc de Villeroy
Born
April 7th, 1644 381 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1730 295 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1644, a prominent general in the French army during the late 17th century and early 18th century. Achieved the rank of duc de Villeroy and was involved in several key military engagements during the War of the Spanish Succession. Worked under King Louis XIV, participated in notable battles, and held significant command positions. Known for leading French forces and managing military strategies. Later served as governor of various territories, highlighting a career devoted to military leadership and governance.
Continue ReadingR. G. Armstrong
American actor and playwright
Born
April 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in American theatre and film, this actor had a significant presence on both stage and screen. Work included roles in films such as 'The Great White Hope' and 'The Longest Yard', along with television appearances in series like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Gunsmoke'. In addition to acting, also contributed as a playwright, showcasing talents in crafting narratives. Spanning a career that included performances across multiple genres, became recognized for versatility as an actor. Active in the industry for several decades, left a lasting imprint on both contemporary and classic theatrical productions.
Continue ReadingBobby Doerr
Baseball player and coach with Red Sox
Born
April 7th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2017 8 years ago — 99 years old
Played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball for the Boston Red Sox from 1937 to 1951. Participated in 9 All-Star Games during a 14-year playing career. Later became a coach for the Red Sox and contributed to the team's development. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1986.
Continue ReadingCharles Vanik
American politician and judge
Born
April 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman for Ohio from 1965 to 1981. Played a significant role in foreign policy, particularly concerning bipartisan support for the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, which sought to address trade restrictions with the Soviet Union while championing human rights. Prior to his political career, served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later became a judge in the Ohio state judiciary. Engaged in various civic activities throughout his career, reflecting a commitment to public service and the legal profession.
Continue ReadingRandall Davidson
Scottish Archbishop, 1st Archbishop of Canterbury
Born
April 7th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1930 95 years ago — 82 years old
Ordained as a bishop in 1880, served as the Bishop of Rochester before becoming the first Archbishop of Canterbury in 1903. Held a prominent role in the Church of England during a time of social change and events leading up to World War I. Oversaw church administration and contributed to theological discussions, including issues of church unity.
Continue ReadingKurt von Schleicher
German general and 23rd Chancellor
Born
April 7th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1934 91 years ago — 52 years old
A German general and politician served as the 23rd Chancellor of Germany for a brief period in 1932-1933. Involved in military planning during World War I, later engaged in political maneuvers within the Weimar Republic. Worked to stabilize the government but faced challenges from various political factions. Dismissed from office by President Paul von Hindenburg. Played a role in the rise of the Nazi Party through his political activities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 9th
Robert Kearns
Engineer, inventor of windscreen wiper
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2005 20 years ago — 78 years old
An American engineer invented the intermittent windscreen wiper, a device that allows windshield wipers to pause between wipes. This invention made driving in rain safer and more convenient. Kearns demonstrated the prototype in the early 1960s and patented the invention in 1964. His prolonged legal battles against major automotive companies for patent infringement garnered national attention and highlighted issues of intellectual property rights. Kearns's story was later depicted in the 2008 film 'Flash of Genius.'
Continue ReadingMiklós Horthy
Hungarian admiral and Regent of Hungary
Born
June 18th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1957 68 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the Regent of Hungary from 1920 to 1944. Horthy was an admiral in the Austro-Hungarian Navy during World War I and played a significant role in the establishment of the interwar period in Hungary. His leadership was marked by the restoration of the monarchy without a king, as well as economic and political instability. Horthy aligned Hungary with the Axis Powers during World War II, which included the implementation of anti-Jewish laws. Following the war, he was captured by the Allies and exiled, living in Portugal until his death in 1957.
Continue ReadingLiu Han
Businessman and philanthropist in China
Born
1965 60 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 50 years old
A Chinese businessman and philanthropist, contributed significantly to the mining industry as the founder of Hanlong Group. Established various ventures in mining and real estate, helping to grow the economic landscape of China. Engaged in philanthropic activities that focused on education and health initiatives. Involved in significant international business deals, expanding the reach of Chinese companies into global markets.
Continue ReadingJóhann Jóhannsson
Icelandic composer of film scores
Born
1969 56 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2018 7 years ago — 49 years old
An Icelandic composer gained recognition for composing film scores. Notable works include scores for 'Sicario' and 'Arrival.' The composer utilized a combination of orchestral and electronic elements to create atmospheric soundscapes. Achieved critical acclaim and received nominations for various awards, including two Academy Awards. Additionally, won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score for 'The Theory of Everything.'
Continue ReadingAndré Salvat
French Army Colonel
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2017 8 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a colonel in the French Army, with notable contributions during significant military engagements. Participated in the Algerian War, where strategic leadership and military operations were crucial. Later held a prominent role in the French military community, contributing to discussions and initiatives regarding military structure and operations. Became an integral figure in the development of military tactics.
Continue ReadingHerbert A. Simon
Political Scientist, Economist, Nobel Laureate
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2001 24 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed to the fields of political science and economics with significant research on decision-making processes within organizations. Developed the concept of bounded rationality and was a pioneer in information processing theory. Served as a professor at Carnegie Mellon University and published a wide range of academic works, influencing both economics and cognitive psychology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1978 for work on decision-making in economic organizations.
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