Jeanne Sauvé
Governor General of Canada
A prominent Canadian journalist and politician, served as the 23rd Governor General of Canada from 1984 to 1990. Prior to that role, had a notable career in journalism with Radio-Canada and later entered politics. Elected as the first female Speaker of the House of Commons in 1970, contributed significantly to Canadian political discourse. Advocated for various social issues throughout her career.
Served as the first female Governor General of Canada
Elected as the first female Speaker of the House of Commons
Other People Born on April 26th
Harry Gallatin
Basketball player and coach, All-Star
Born
April 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
A basketball player and coach, he played for the New York Knicks in the NBA. Achieved NBA All-Star status in 1953. Transitioned to coaching after his playing career, leading the St. Louis University Billikens and later serving as head coach for the New York Knicks. His coaching career included stints in the ABA and college basketball, contributing to the development of players and teams.
Continue ReadingJoey Jordison
Drummer for the band Slipknot
Born
April 26th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2021 4 years ago — 46 years old
Gained recognition as the drummer and one of the founding members of the heavy metal band Slipknot. The band achieved worldwide fame with the release of their self-titled album in 1999, which led to significant success and multiple award nominations. Apart from Slipknot, contributed to other projects such as Murderdolls and Scar the Martyr. Provided influential work in the heavy metal genre and was widely regarded for technical skill and creativity in drumming.
Continue ReadingJet Li
Martial artist and action film star
Born
April 26th, 1963 62 years ago
Born in 1963, a martial artist achieved early success in Chinese wushu competitions, winning multiple national championships. Transitioned to film, gaining recognition in martial arts cinema. Starred in successful films such as 'Shaolin Temple,' 'Once Upon a Time in China,' and 'Fearless.' Worked in Hollywood on films like 'Romeo Must Die' and 'The Expendables.' Established a reputation for impressive martial arts choreography and action sequences. Acted in a variety of genres, showcasing skills and versatility over decades. Involved in philanthropy and founded the One Foundation.
Continue ReadingPaul-Émile Léger
Canadian cardinal and church leader
Born
April 26th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old
Served as a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, contributing significantly to religious life in Canada. Appointed as the Archbishop of Montréal in 1950, held the position until retirement in 1974. Participated in the Second Vatican Council from 1962 to 1965, which aimed to address relations between the Church and the modern world. Adopted progressive approaches towards social issues and advocated for the rights of indigenous peoples.
Continue ReadingJack Douglas
English actor in comedic films
Born
April 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 81 years old
An English actor, active primarily in the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for roles in the 'Carry On' film series, a popular British comedy franchise. Appeared in several notable films, contributing to the comedic landscape of British cinema. Frequent collaborations with various directors and actors solidified a place in the genre during that era.
Continue ReadingHack Wilson
Baseball player, Chicago Cubs star
Born
April 26th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 48 years old
A professional baseball player, Wilson played as an outfielder primarily for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball. He gained recognition for his powerful hitting and exceptional performance during the 1930 season, where he set a National League record for runs batted in, achieving 191 RBIs in a single season. Wilson contributed significantly to the Cubs' success in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Throughout a career that spanned over a decade, Wilson was known for his ability to hit home runs and maintain a high batting average, leading to several All-Star selections. After retiring from playing, Wilson remained involved in baseball, contributing to the sport in various capacities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 26th
Adolph IX
Count of Holstein-Kiel
Died
January 26th, 1390 635 years ago — None years old
Served as Count of Holstein-Kiel during the 14th century. His tenure was marked by conflicts over territorial claims and the consolidation of power in the region. Engaged in military and diplomatic efforts to secure his rule and expand influence over neighboring territories. Took part in various feudal alliances, shaping the political landscape of northern Germany.
Continue ReadingCleven "Goodie" Goudeau
Art director and cartoonist, Goofus & Gallant
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
An art director and cartoonist contributed to various publications including highlights for children. Created the comic strip Goofus and Gallant, which educated young readers about appropriate behavior. Worked extensively in the field of visual storytelling and his style influenced a generation of cartoonists. Established a reputation for engaging illustrations that combined humor and life lessons.
Continue ReadingJohn Altobelli
College baseball coach at Orange Coast College
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 57 years old
Coached the baseball team at Orange Coast College for over 27 years. Led the team to four state championships during his tenure. Developed numerous players who advanced to professional baseball, contributing significantly to the sport at the collegiate level.
Continue ReadingKhan Abdul Wali Khan
Pakistani politician and activist
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2006 19 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent political figure in Pakistan, served as the leader of the Awami National Party. Played a significant role in advocating for the rights of Pashto people and promoting ethnic nationalism. Held various political positions, including member of the National Assembly, and was active in opposition against military regimes. Engaged in social and cultural initiatives aimed at fostering education and political awareness among marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingShōtarō Yasuoka
Japanese author and literary figure
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 93 years old
An influential Japanese author, recognized for contributions to contemporary literature. Authored notable works exploring complex themes of identity and existentialism. Gained significant attention with the novel 'The Group', which delves into the lives of a group of university students in post-war Japan. Explored societal issues through fiction, blending personal experiences with broader cultural reflections. Active in the literary community until the later years of life, he influenced a generation of writers.
Continue ReadingHarold Brodkey
American author and academic
Born
October 25th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 65 years old
An influential author and academic, contributed to literature through essays, novels, and short stories. Published works include 'This Wild Darkness' and 'The Runaway Soul'. Worked as a lecturer at several universities, shaping the perspectives of students in creative writing and literature. Brodkey was also recognized for his unique narrative style and exploration of complex human emotions.
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