Josephine Baker

Activist and entertainer known for 'Zou'Zou'

Josephine Baker - Activist and entertainer known for 'Zou'Zou'
Born

June 3rd, 1906
119 years ago

Died

April 12th, 1975
50 years ago — 68 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

France

Links & References

Born in the United States, later became a prominent figure in France. Achieved fame as a performer in revues and musicals during the Roaring Twenties. Gained popularity for sensational performances in productions such as 'La Revue Nègre' and 'Zou'Zou'. Actively participated in the Civil Rights Movement, advocating for racial equality and fighting against discrimination. Served as a World War II spy for the French Resistance. Received numerous accolades for humanitarian efforts, including being honored by the French government for contributions during the war. Remained a significant cultural icon until death in 1975.

Performed in 'La Revue Nègre'

Served as a spy for the French Resistance

Advocated for civil rights

Other People Born on June 3rd

Tomáš Verner

Czech figure skater and national champion
Born
June 3rd, 1986 39 years ago

Born in 1986, an accomplished figure skater represented the Czech Republic in multiple international competitions. Achievements include competing in the World Championships and European Championships. In 2008, secured the title of European Champion. Continued to contribute to the sport through coaching and mentoring young athletes.

Continue Reading

Larry Probst

Businessman and former EA CEO
Born
June 3rd, 1950 75 years ago

Served as CEO of Electronic Arts from 1991 to 2007, leading the company through significant growth during the rise of video gaming. Oversaw the launch of popular franchises such as Madden NFL, FIFA, and The Sims, which contributed to the company's establishment as one of the largest video game publishers in the world. Held the position of executive chairman from 2012 to 2018, continuing to influence the company's strategic direction. Played a pivotal role in expanding EA's global footprint and adapting to the digital gaming landscape.

Continue Reading

Michael Moore

Scottish politician and accountant
Born
June 3rd, 1965 60 years ago

An accountant and politician, served as Secretary of State for Scotland. Held several key positions in the Scottish Parliament, focusing on economic development and accountability in government. Worked to represent Scottish interests at a national level, engaging in debates on various legislative matters. Contributed to policy discussions regarding education and health care within Scotland's devolved government structure. Promoted transparency and fiscal responsibility during tenure.

Continue Reading

Paul Rotha

Film director and producer
Born
June 3rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 77 years old

Born in England in 1907, a significant figure in the documentary film movement and recognized for contributions to British cinema. Focused on social realism, produced and directed various influential films throughout the mid-20th century. Credited with pioneering documentary techniques that combined political commentary with artistic expression. Worked extensively in television in later years, continuing to influence the medium. Authored several texts that explored the theory and practice of film.

Continue Reading

Otto Loewi

Pharmacologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 3rd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1961 63 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Germany, a significant figure in pharmacology and psychobiology, contributed to the understanding of neurotransmission. Conducted pioneering experiments that demonstrated the chemical nature of nerve impulses. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s, becoming a prominent researcher in the field of neurobiology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1936 alongside Sir Henry Dale for discovering the role of acetylcholine in transmitting nerve impulses.

Continue Reading

Garret Hobart

24th Vice President of the United States
Born
June 3rd, 1844 181 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1899 125 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1844, served as the 24th Vice President of the United States from 1897 until 1899. Prior to this role, practiced law and held various political positions in New Jersey, including serving as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly and as a president of the State Senate. Associated with the Republican Party, contributed to the rise of the party during the late 19th century and was a close ally of President William McKinley. Died in office in 1899, leading to a vacancy in the vice presidency.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 12th

Mohammad Al Gaz

Emirati politician & diplomat
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent Emirati politician and diplomat, held key positions within the United Arab Emirates government. Served as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and contributed to international diplomacy efforts, shaping UAE's foreign policy. Played a significant role in enhancing diplomatic relations with various countries and participated in numerous high-level meetings and initiatives. Engaged in discussions on regional security and development issues, further solidifying the UAE's presence on the global stage.

Continue Reading

Hal Smith

Baseball player and coach, All-Star
Born
December 7th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1956 to 1965, representing teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Kansas City Athletics. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1963 while with the Pirates. Transitioned to coaching after an active playing career, contributing to the development of players in minor league systems.

Continue Reading

William Sloane Coffin

American minister and peace activist
Born
June 1st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent clergyman and social activist focused on civil rights and anti-war efforts. Served as senior minister at the Riverside Church in New York City. Advocated for nuclear disarmament and racial equality. Played a significant role in various social movements during the 20th century, addressing issues from civil rights to environmental concerns.

Continue Reading

Robert Byrne

Chess player and author
Born
April 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

A chess player and author, contributions included participation in multiple U.S. Championship tournaments and authorship of instructional books on chess. Achieved the title of International Grandmaster and became a two-time U.S. Chess Champion. Involved in promoting chess through writing and playing, with published works that focused on strategy and tactics in the game. Contributed to chess literature, enhancing understanding and appreciation of chess.

Continue Reading

Viktor Puskar

Estonian colonel and military leader
Born
May 7th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1943 82 years ago — 53 years old

Served as a colonel in the Estonian Army during the period of Estonia's independence. Participated in the Estonian War of Independence, which established Estonia's autonomy after World War I. Engaged in military reforms and played a pivotal role in modernizing the army structure. His leadership was evident during significant military engagements against Soviet forces. Contributed to the formation of a national defense strategy during a time of geopolitical instability in the region.

Continue Reading

Eudokia Baïana

Byzantine Empress and Spouse of Leo VI
Died
April 12th, 901 1124 years ago — None years old

Eudokia Baïana served as empress consort of the Byzantine Empire through her marriage to Emperor Leo VI. The union occurred around 900 AD, during a time of significant political and religious pressures within the empire. Eudokia was involved in the complexities of court life and contributed to the political landscape of her time. Her reign was marked by her alignment with her husband's policies. After the death of Leo VI in 912 AD, Eudokia's influence within the court diminished as the political dynamics shifted.

Continue Reading