John Le Mesurier
English actor, television and film star
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
A prominent English actor, significant contributions to British television and film were made. Appeared in numerous productions across a career spanning several decades. Most recognized for roles in the sitcoms 'Dad's Army' and 'The Army Game'. Worked extensively in theatre before transitioning to screen acting, gaining acclaim for versatile performances.
Starred in 'Dad's Army' as Sergeant Wilson
Appeared in 'The Army Game' as Captain
Acted in films such as 'The Day the Earth Caught Fire'
Other People Born on April 5th
Bianca Maria Sforza
Holy Roman Empress
Born
April 5th, 1472 553 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1510 514 years ago — 38 years old
Born into the Sforza family, she became Holy Roman Empress through marriage to Maximilian I. This union connected powerful dynasties in Europe. Her life spanned the Renaissance, a time of cultural and political change. She experienced significant events including court intrigues and familial alliances. Despite challenges in her marriage and health, she contributed to the Habsburg legacy through her offspring, cementing ties between influential families in Europe.
Continue ReadingAlbert R. Broccoli
Film Producer of James Bond Series
Born
April 5th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1996 29 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent film producer, introduced millions to the character of James Bond through the successful film franchise. Oversaw production of several notable films starting from 'Dr. No' in 1962. Involved in the adaptation of Ian Fleming's novels, shaping the formula that defines the series. Collaborated closely with directors and writers to maintain the franchise's popularity over decades.
Continue ReadingAl-Nuwayri
Egyptian Muslim historian and scholar
Born
April 5th, 1279 746 years ago
Died
1333 692 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent historian and scholar active during the 14th century in Egypt. Authored the comprehensive work 'Nihayat al-Arab fi Funun al-Adab', which encompasses various topics including history, geography, and literature. This encyclopedic writing synthesized knowledge of many earlier scholars and contributed significantly to the fields of historiography and Arabic literature. Al-Nuwayri's work captured a wealth of information on the cultural, political, and social aspects of his time, reflecting the rich intellectual tradition of the period.
Continue ReadingSergey Chaplygin
Physicist and mathematician in fluid mechanics
Born
April 5th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1942 83 years ago — 73 years old
Specialized in theoretical fluid mechanics and gas dynamics, made significant contributions to the mathematical description of airflows and fluid behavior. Developed the Chaplygin gas model, which is integral to cosmology and the understanding of dark energy. Worked as a professor at several universities, influencing future generations of engineers and physicists. Contributed to the field of aerodynamics through research and publication, particularly during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingWonjong of Goryeo
24th ruler of Goryeo dynasty
Born
April 5th, 1219 806 years ago
Died
1274 751 years ago — 55 years old
Ruled as the 24th king of the Goryeo dynasty, serving from 1259 to 1274. His reign was marked by significant military challenges, particularly from the Mongol invasions. Focused on stabilizing the kingdom during turbulent times, efforts included strengthening defenses and managing diplomatic relations. Adapted administrative practices to cope with the realities of Mongol suzerainty, often balancing the interests of various factions within Goryeo. His reign witnessed the introduction of certain cultural elements influenced by Mongol contact, impacting the societal fabric of the kingdom.
Continue ReadingNigel Hawthorne
Actor acclaimed for 'The Madness of King George'
Born
April 5th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2001 23 years ago — 72 years old
An English actor and producer, gained prominence for performances in theater and film. Achieved success with roles in various productions, particularly in the film 'The Madness of King George' as King George III. Also starred in the television series 'Yes Minister' and its sequel 'Yes, Prime Minister'. His career spanned several decades during which he received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including two BAFTA Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Contributed significantly to both stage and screen, leaving a lasting legacy in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 15th
Frank Chapman
Ornithologist and author of key texts
Born
June 12th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1945 80 years ago — 81 years old
An American ornithologist, photographer, and author contributed significantly to the study of birds and their habitats. Efforts involved extensive field research and the promotion of bird conservation. Chapman served as curator of birds at the American Museum of Natural History. Publications include significant works such as 'The Bird-Lore' magazine and 'The Handbook of Birds of Eastern North America', providing comprehensive guides for bird identification. Chapman was a founding member of the Audubon Society, advocating for the protection of birds and their environments.
Continue ReadingGlafcos Clerides
Cypriot politician and lawyer, 4th President
Born
April 24th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
Served as the 4th President of Cyprus from 1993 to 2003. Previously held various political roles, including President of the House of Representatives. Played a significant role in the peace process regarding the division of Cyprus. Participated in negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus conflict, striving for reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities. Authored several works on law and politics, contributing to legal discourse in Cyprus.
Continue ReadingAlger Hiss
American lawyer and espionage figure
Born
November 11th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 92 years old
Worked as a lawyer and served in prominent positions within the U.S. government during the New Deal era. Involved with the State Department and participated in the founding of the United Nations. Convicted of perjury related to espionage charges during the Cold War, specifically for allegedly passing classified documents to the Soviet Union. The case gained significant attention and became a symbol of the Red Scare and the fear of communism in America.
Continue ReadingMike McCormack
Football player, coach, and Hall of Famer
Born
June 21st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
A professional American football player and coach, primarily recognized for a successful tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles and later as head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. Played as an offensive tackle, contributing to the team's performance during the 1950s and early 1960s. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, leading teams through various seasons in the NFL. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984, reflecting contributions to the sport both on and off the field.
Continue ReadingMose Allison
American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
November 11th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz and blues music genres, this artist blended elements of both styles throughout a prolific career. The distinctive vocal style and sharp lyrics drew inspiration from experiences and societal observations. Albums such as 'Back Country Suite' and 'Mose Allison Sings' showcased a unique fusion of jazz and blues, earning critical acclaim. The artist contributed significantly to the music scene from the 1950s onward, influencing countless musicians.
Continue ReadingFritz Reiner
Conductor and music director
Born
December 19th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1963 62 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Hungary, a prominent conductor established a successful career in the United States. Conducted the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, where significant contributions to orchestral music were made. Renowned for interpretations of classical repertoire, particularly works by composers such as Mahler and Strauss. Also served as music director for the New York Philharmonic and had a notable career in opera, leading productions at the Metropolitan Opera. Recorded extensively, leaving a legacy of distinguished performances.
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