Jean-Baptiste Greuze
French painter of genre scenes
Born in France, a prominent painter created works characterized by their emotional depth and attention to detail. Greuze specialized in genre scenes and portraiture, achieving fame during the 18th century. The artist's paintings often conveyed moral and sentimental themes, appealing to the tastes of the time. Greuze received acclaim for his ability to capture the human experience in a relatable manner, resulting in numerous commissions from patrons and collectors. His style influenced many artists of the period.
Produced influential genre paintings
Created notable portraits of everyday life
Other People Born on August 21st
William IV of the United Kingdom
King of the United Kingdom (1830-1837)
Born
August 21st, 1765 260 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1837 188 years ago — 71 years old
Ascended to the throne as the third son of George III. His reign saw the passage of the Reform Act 1832, which reformed the electoral system and expanded voting rights. The king supported the abolition of slavery and the establishment of the Naval Discipline Act. A keen sailor, he had a strong interest in naval matters and advocated for the Royal Navy's modernization. The period also experienced significant social and economic changes, with the Industrial Revolution transforming Britain.
Continue ReadingKim Cattrall
Actress known for 'Sex and the City'
Born
August 21st, 1956 69 years ago
An English-Canadian actress, prominent for a career spanning several decades, gained widespread recognition for the role of Samantha Jones in the HBO series 'Sex and the City.' This series, which aired from 1998 to 2004, showcased the lives of four women navigating love and friendship in New York City. Following the series, the character was reprised in two feature films, 'Sex and the City' (2008) and 'Sex and the City 2' (2010), further solidifying her status in popular culture. Prior to this landmark role, participated in various film and television projects, including 'Big Trouble in Little China' and 'Mannequin.'
Continue ReadingPatrick Demarchelier
Fashion photographer, worked with Vogue
Born
August 21st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 78 years old
French fashion photographer gained prominence in the fashion industry, capturing iconic images for magazines. Received acclaim for a distinctive style that blended fine art and commercial photography. Collaborated with numerous celebrities and brands, creating memorable campaigns that influenced fashion trends. Photographed notable fashion editorials and campaigns for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and other prestigious publications, establishing a significant presence in the world of fashion photography.
Continue ReadingWout Brama
Professional footballer with FC Twente
Born
August 21st, 1986 39 years ago
Played as a midfielder, primarily associated with FC Twente. Made significant contributions during the 2009–2010 season when the team won the Eredivisie title. Also represented the Netherlands at various youth levels, showcasing skills in competitive matches throughout his career.
Continue ReadingEmiliano Mercado del Toro
Puerto Rican-American soldier
Born
August 21st, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2007 18 years ago — 115 years old
Served in the United States Army during World War II. Participated in significant battles such as the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Achieved the rank of sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. Later served in the Puerto Rican National Guard and continued to advocate for veterans' rights.
Continue ReadingGustavo Noboa
Ecuadorian politician, 42nd President
Born
August 21st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 42nd President of Ecuador from 2000 to 2003. His administration focused on implementing economic reforms and negotiating Free Trade Agreements. Oversaw a period of relative stability in Ecuador while addressing internal conflicts. Contributed to the promotion of foreign investment and worked on social programs aimed at improving education and healthcare.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 4th
Charles Scott Sherrington
Neurophysiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 27th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1952 73 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent neurophysiologist and pathologist, contributions included significant research on the functions of the nervous system. Sherrington's work provided foundational insights into reflexes and synaptic transmission, including the identification of the concept of the synapse. His studies on the spinal cord and brain helped elucidate how signals are transmitted within the nervous system. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1932 for discoveries in the physiology of the nervous system, which remain influential in neuroscience. Leadership roles included serving as a professor and head of the Department of Physiology at the University of Oxford.
Continue ReadingHamlin Garland
American novelist and short story writer
Born
September 14th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1940 85 years ago — 79 years old
Garland achieved recognition as a significant voice of the American Midwest through his literary works. He wrote extensively, producing novels, short stories, and essays that often depicted rural life and the struggles of ordinary people. His most notable work, 'Main-Travelled Roads,' released in 1891, illustrated the lives of farmers and rural communities. In addition to fiction, Garland contributed to literary criticism and briefly served as a historian for the state of Wisconsin. His writings often reflected realist themes, emphasizing the harsh realities faced by settlers in the Midwest.
Continue ReadingAmos Bronson Alcott
Philosopher and educator; Transcendentalist
Born
November 29th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1888 137 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent philosopher and educator, focused on innovative education methods and the Transcendentalist movement. Established the Fruitlands community as a utopian experiment in 1843, emphasizing agrarian fairness and self-sufficiency. Developed progressive teaching techniques that fostered creativity and intellectual freedom, which influenced later educational systems. Authored several works, including "Concord Days" and "Table Talk," which discussed philosophical concepts and educational theories. Alcott's thoughts contributed significantly to the development of progressive education in America.
Continue ReadingShane Warne
Cricketer, coach, and sportscaster
Born
September 13th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2022 3 years ago — 52 years old
An Australian cricketer and coach, played primarily as a leg-spin bowler. Warne represented Australia in Test and One Day International cricket from 1992 to 2007, earning a reputation as one of the greatest bowlers in the sport. He was instrumental in bringing cricket to a wider audience and popularizing the art of spin bowling. After retiring from playing, Warne transitioned into coaching and sportscasting, contributing to cricket coverage and analyses. His charismatic personality made him a distinctive figure in the sports media landscape.
Continue ReadingLuke Perry
Television actor, Beverly Hills, 90210
Born
October 11th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2019 6 years ago — 52 years old
An American actor, gained popularity for playing Dylan McKay on the television series Beverly Hills, 90210 from 1990 to 2000. The role became iconic and defined a generation's portrayal of youth culture in the 1990s. Later, starred as Fred Andrews in the television series Riverdale, which aired from 2017 until his passing in 2019. The work in both series established a significant legacy in the television industry.
Continue ReadingHarold Barrowclough
New Zealand Chief Justice and politician
Born
June 23rd, 1894 131 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1972 53 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent legal figure, served as the 8th Chief Justice of New Zealand. Held significant roles in both the judiciary and politics, contributing to the development of legal frameworks in the country. In addition to judicial responsibilities, engaged in legal practices as a lawyer, advocating for justice and legal reform. Throughout the tenure, established precedents in various cases that shaped New Zealand's legal landscape. Participated actively in the political arena, influencing legislative measures during the mid-20th century.
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