Joseph Plunkett

Irish rebel and writer of 1916 Proclamation

Joseph Plunkett - Activists & Humanitarians born 1887
Born

1887
139 years ago

Died
Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Ireland

Links & References

An influential figure in the Easter Rising of 1916, played a key role in shaping the revolutionary narrative for Irish independence. A founding member of the Irish Volunteers, contributed significantly to the planning of the uprising. Wrote various poems and articles that expressed nationalist sentiments and critiques of British rule. Captured during the uprising, executed shortly after, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish freedom.

Co-authored the 1916 Proclamation

Executed for his role in the Easter Rising

Other People Who Died on May 4th

Paul Butterfield

Harmonica player and singer, Butterfield Blues Band
Born
December 17th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1987 39 years ago — 44 years old

An influential singer and harmonica player, contributed significantly to the blues genre. Formed the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 1965, which blended electric blues with rock elements. The band's self-titled debut album featured notable tracks that played a role in popularizing blues music during the mid-1960s. Collaborated with other prominent musicians, enhancing the blues scene. Continued to perform and record music throughout the 1970s and 1980s, maintaining a longstanding presence in the industry until passing in 1987.

Continue Reading

Adam Yauch

Rapper and director of Beastie Boys
Born
August 5th, 1964 62 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2012 14 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed significantly to the genre as a member of the Beastie Boys. The group released seminal albums including 'Licensed to Ill' and 'Paul's Boutique'. Yauch directed several of their music videos and established a film production company. In 1994, founded the Tibetan Freedom Concert, raising awareness and funds for Tibetan independence. Battled cancer for several years, having a profound influence on music and activism before passing in 2012.

Continue Reading

Elena Baltacha

Ukrainian-Scottish tennis player and coach
Born
August 14th, 1983 43 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2014 12 years ago — 30 years old

Born in 1983, this athlete competed in professional tennis, representing Great Britain. She achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 49. Throughout her career, numerous tournaments were contested, including Wimbledon and the US Open. Post-retirement, a focus shifted to coaching and promoting tennis among young players after battling illness. A foundation was established to support aspiring athletes.

Continue Reading

Ulisse Aldrovandi

Italian ornithologist and botanist
Born
September 11th, 1522 504 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1605 421 years ago — 82 years old

Active during the Renaissance, contributions included extensive studies in ornithology and botany. Established one of the first natural history museums in Bologna. Published numerous works on plants and animals, influencing future generations of naturalists. His systematic approach to studying and cataloging species laid groundwork for modern taxonomy and natural history.

Continue Reading

Edgar Cortright

American scientist and engineer
Born
July 29th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2014 12 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed to the development of various space programs and technologies. Played a significant role in NASA's Project Apollo, which successfully landed humans on the Moon. Also worked on the Skylab space station and the development of scientific instruments for satellite missions. Held a prominent position at the Goddard Space Flight Center, focusing on aerospace engineering and satellite technology.

Continue Reading

Denis Davydov

Russian general and poet
Born
July 27th, 1784 242 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1839 187 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1784, a military officer and poet served in the Napoleonic Wars. Established a reputation as a skilled cavalry commander within the Russian army. Authored poems that celebrated patriotism and the spirit of the Russian people, often reflecting military experiences. Contributed to Russian literature and was associated with the Decembrists, influencing literary circles of the time. Passed away in 1839.

Continue Reading