John Ballance
Journalist and Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born in Ireland in 1839, a journalist and politician served as the 14th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1891 until 1893. His tenure included significant legislation in areas such as social reform and land rights, contributing to the development of the country's welfare state. Before his premiership, held various political roles and founded the New Zealand Times. Advocated for the interests of farmers, aligning agricultural reforms with National party principles. Death occurred in 1893 while in office, resulting in a significant shift in political leadership.
Served as 14th Prime Minister of New Zealand
Advocated for social reforms and land rights
Other People Born on March 27th
Elsie MacGill
Canadian-American engineer and author
Born
March 27th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1980 45 years ago — 75 years old
Significant contributions in engineering and literature were made. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Hawker Hurricane aircraft during World War II. Authored works that focused on women's roles in engineering and advocated for women's rights. Actively participated in the engineering community, promoting the involvement of women in technical fields.
Continue ReadingCarl Barks
Illustrator and screenwriter for Disney
Born
March 27th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2000 25 years ago — 99 years old
An American illustrator and screenwriter created comic book stories featuring Donald Duck and other Disney characters. Worked for Western Publishing from the 1940s to the 1960s, contributing significantly to the genre of comic books. Developed many beloved characters and tales, with a sharp focus on storytelling and humor. His work has influenced generations of artists and writers, shaping the Miami Disney comic universe. Authored the comic book series 'DuckTales' and various Donald Duck comics, making lasting contributions to children's literature.
Continue ReadingTheodor Dannecker
German captain, World War II officer
Born
March 27th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1945 80 years ago — 32 years old
Served as a captain in the German military during World War II. Participated in various military campaigns. After the war, held in captivity and later faced judgment for actions during the conflict. Died in December 1945.
Continue ReadingStephen Fox
English politician and landowner
Born
March 27th, 1627 398 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1716 309 years ago — 89 years old
A politician and landowner in England during the 17th century, this individual served as a Member of Parliament and was active in local governance. His career included representation for constituencies in the House of Commons. He held significant influence in the political landscape of his time, particularly during the tumultuous periods of the English Civil War and the Commonwealth.
Continue ReadingFranz Xaver von Baader
German philosopher and theologian
Born
March 27th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1841 184 years ago — 76 years old
This individual contributed to German philosophy and theology during the 19th century. He engaged with the ideas of German idealism, particularly influencing the development of the philosophy of religion. Teaching and published works reflected a synthesis of his theological beliefs with speculative philosophy. Key works included discussions on the relationship between religion and philosophy, drawing from various sources including mysticism. His thought incorporated elements from Schopenhauer and Hegel, positioning him as a notable figure in the transmission of philosophical ideas in Germany.
Continue ReadingGeorge Giffen
Australian cricketer and footballer
Born
March 27th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1927 98 years ago — 68 years old
Played as a prominent all-rounder in cricket and represented South Australia. Giffen was a key figure in the inaugural Test matches for Australia, making significant contributions both with bat and ball. In addition to cricket, also played Australian rules football. Featured in the first match of the Test series against England in 1882.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 27th
Red Horner
Ice Hockey Player, Toronto Maple Leafs Captain
Born
May 28th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2005 20 years ago — 95 years old
A Canadian ice hockey player, played as a defenceman primarily for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL). His professional career spanned from 1925 to 1937. Served as team captain for the Maple Leafs and contributed to the team's multiple championships during his tenure. Horner was selected for the NHL All-Star Game and later inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1965.
Continue ReadingGene Fullmer
Professional boxer, middleweight champion
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent middleweight boxer, achieved acclaim through a successful career spanning from the late 1950s to the mid-1960s. Claimed the world middleweight title in 1957, defended it multiple times. Notable for the rivalry with Sugar Ray Robinson, which included two major bouts. Retired from professional boxing in 1963, achieving a significant record. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991, recognizing contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingPope Leo XI
Papal leadership and brief papacy
Born
June 2nd, 1535 490 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1605 420 years ago — 69 years old
Elected as Pope in 1605, led the Catholic Church for a brief period of only 27 days. His papacy was marked by efforts to address the issues facing the church during a time of religious conflict. Prior to elevation to the papacy, held various positions within the church, including Cardinal. His election was part of the ongoing struggle between different factions within the church and reflected the political dynamics of the time.
Continue ReadingCyril Washbrook
English cricketer and Test player for England
Born
December 6th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old
Played international cricket for England from 1947 to 1959. A right-handed opening batsman, contributed significantly to the team during his career. Guildford-born cricketer made 48 Test appearances, scoring more than 2,600 runs. Notably part of the team that won the Ashes series against Australia in 1953. Close association with Lancashire County Cricket Club, where he also made substantial contributions.
Continue ReadingKonosuke Matsushita
Japanese businessman and Panasonic founder
Born
November 27th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1989 36 years ago — 94 years old
Founded Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. in 1918, later branded as Panasonic. Developed numerous innovative electrical appliances, including the first electric fan in Japan. Expanded the company into a global electronics powerhouse, producing a wide range of consumer electronics. Emphasized quality management and corporate philosophy focused on employee welfare. Led the company through significant growth during the post-war economic boom in Japan, promoting both technological advancement and social responsibility.
Continue ReadingWilliam Colby
Intelligence officer, CIA Director
Born
January 4th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1996 29 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1920, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Joined the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor to the CIA, and participated in intelligence operations. Became a key figure in the CIA during the Cold War. Appointed as the 10th Director of Central Intelligence in 1973, leading the agency during a turbulent period marked by the Watergate scandal. Oversaw controversial programs, such as the Phoenix Program in Vietnam. Resigned in 1975 following the Church Committee investigations into CIA activities.
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