Janis Joplin
Singer-songwriter with iconic voice
Born in Port Arthur, Texas, a prominent figure in the 1960s music scene emerged with a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Rose to fame as the lead singer of Big Brother and the Holding Company, especially with the hit 'Piece of My Heart.' Pursued a solo career, releasing acclaimed albums including 'Cheap Thrills' and 'Pearl.' An influential performer, often associated with the counterculture movement, played an integral role in the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Joplin's life was marked by struggles with substance abuse, and she tragically died at a young age, leaving a lasting legacy in rock music.
Led Big Brother and the Holding Company
Released the album 'Pearl'
Performed at the Woodstock Festival
Other People Born on January 19th
Javier Pérez de Cuéllar
Peruvian diplomat and Prime Minister
Born
January 19th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2020 5 years ago — 100 years old
A prominent Peruvian diplomat and politician, served as the 135th Prime Minister of Peru from 1980 to 1985. Held the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1981 to 1991, where significant initiatives included conflict resolution efforts in various regions. Played a crucial role in peace negotiations related to the Iran-Iraq War and the Namibia conflict. Also served as ambassador to France and has been involved in various international diplomatic efforts throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingZiaur Rahman
Bangladeshi politician and president
Born
January 19th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1981 44 years ago — 45 years old
Served as a general in the Bangladesh Army and became the seventh President of Bangladesh. Assumed office in 1977 following a military coup. Played a key role in founding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1978, which became a major political force in the country. Focused on economic development and stabilization during his presidency, implementing various policies to boost the economy. Assassinated in 1981, leaving a significant legacy in Bangladeshi politics.
Continue ReadingFritz Weaver
American actor in stage and film
Born
January 19th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
An actor extensively involved in theater, television, and film. Achieved acclaim for performances across several mediums, particularly in stage productions and television dramas. Gained recognition for roles in productions such as 'The Owl and the Pussycat' and 'The Andersonville Trial'. Worked with notable companies including the American Shakespeare Festival and the New York Shakespeare Festival. Also contributed to various films and television series during a career that spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingJean-Philippe Baratier
German scholar and author of 'Historia Naturalis'
Born
January 19th, 1721 305 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1740 285 years ago — 19 years old
Contributed significantly to natural history through scholarly writing. Published 'Historia Naturalis', which focused on various aspects of nature and the environment. Engaged in academic study and discourse, providing insights and knowledge relevant to the natural sciences during the 18th century. Involved in the intellectual circles of the time, fostering discussions aimed at understanding natural phenomena and their implications.
Continue ReadingHitachiyama Taniemon
Japanese sumo wrestler, 19th Yokozuna
Born
January 19th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1922 103 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent sumo wrestler, achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in the sport. Competing at the turn of the 20th century, gained recognition for exceptional skill and technique, establishing a legacy within the sumo community. Contributed to the popularization of sumo wrestling throughout Japan, leaving a significant mark on the history of the sport. Helped to enhance the standard of competition during his era.
Continue ReadingArthur Morris
Cricketer and journalist, Ashes series star
Born
January 19th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
An accomplished cricketer and journalist, played for Australia as an opening batsman. Debuted for the national team in 1946 and secured his place as a key player during the 1948 Ashes series. Achieved a batting average of 46.48 in Test cricket, contributing significantly to the team's success. Post-retirement, transitioned to journalism, covering the sport and sharing expertise through writing. Recognized for contributions to both cricket and sports journalism.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 4th
Sergey Muromtsev
Russian lawyer and politician
Born
October 5th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1910 115 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent Russian lawyer and politician, served as a member of the Russian State Duma. Contributed to legal reforms and advocated for civil rights during a time of significant political change in Russia. Worked diligently on issues related to justice and legality, influencing the legal landscape in the early 20th century. Actively participated in legislative discussions and promoted the establishment of a more equitable judicial system.
Continue ReadingOtto Weininger
Austrian philosopher and author
Born
April 3rd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1903 122 years ago — 23 years old
Born in 1880 in Vienna, contributed to philosophy with a focus on gender and sexuality. Published a significant work titled 'Sex and Character' in 1903, which explored the relationship between sex and personality. His ideas stirred considerable controversy and discussion in both philosophical and psychological circles. Weininger's writings often reflected deep engagement with the socio-cultural issues of his time. He ended his life in 1903, leaving a profound impact on various fields of thought.
Continue ReadingSarel Cilliers
South African preacher and activist
Born
September 7th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1871 154 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1801, this figure was a prominent preacher and activist in South Africa during the 19th century. An influential leader in the Boer community, he played a significant role in the establishment of the Voortrekker movement. Cilliers was a key figure in the Great Trek, where he advocated for the migration of Afrikaans-speaking settlers into the interior of South Africa, seeking to escape British rule. His sermons and writings often inspired the pioneers and provided a sense of purpose and direction during a tumultuous period in South African history. His legacy includes contributions to the cultural and religious identity of Afrikaners.
Continue ReadingMichael Smith
Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 26th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2000 25 years ago — 68 years old
An English-Canadian biochemist and geneticist contributed significantly to the field of molecular biology. Worked primarily at the University of British Columbia, focusing on site-directed mutagenesis, a groundbreaking technique that allowed for precise modifications of DNA. This method provided insights into the function of genes and proteins, influencing genetic research widely. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1993 for advancements in the understanding of DNA, making major strides in genetic engineering and biotechnology.
Continue ReadingAndré Delvaux
Belgian film director and screenwriter
Born
March 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2002 23 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Belgian director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the film industry from the 1960s onward. Established a reputation through both feature films and television. Initially gained recognition with the film 'The Man of My Life,' which was a critical success. Directed other notable films, including 'The Eye of the Octopus' and 'The Song of the Dusk.' His work often explored themes of memory and identity, making a lasting impact on Belgian cinema. Received numerous accolades, including the André Cavens Award for Best Film from the Belgian Film Critics Association.
Continue ReadingAnne Sexton
Poet and author of 'Live or Die'
Born
November 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1974 51 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1928 in Newton, Massachusetts, this American poet became a central figure in confessional poetry. Notably, the work 'Live or Die' received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1967. Her poetry often explored themes of mental illness and personal experience, providing insight into the struggles of women during her time. As an academic, she taught at several institutions and contributed to the literary community through her teaching and mentorship. Sexton’s candid approach revolutionized the way poetry tackled personal and societal issues.
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