Kane Tanaka
Japanese Supercentenarian, Oldest Person
Born in Japan, lived to the age of 119, becoming the oldest verified living person in the world. Held the title of the oldest verified Japanese person ever. Resided in Fukuoka, Japan, and enjoyed playing board games and solving arithmetic. Contributed to various discussions about longevity and health.
Reached the age of 119 years
Recognized by Guinness World Records
Other People Born on January 2nd
Nathaniel Bacon
Colonial American rebel leader
Born
January 2nd, 1647 378 years ago
Died
1676 349 years ago — 29 years old
A colonial American figure, led a rebellion against the Governor of Virginia in 1676. The conflict arose from grievances over land policies and conflicts with Indigenous peoples. Bacon assembled a group of Virginia settlers and initiated hostilities, resulting in the burning of Jamestown. The rebellion highlighted tensions between the frontiersmen and the colonial government. Despite Bacon's death from illness later that year, the rebellion influenced subsequent colonial policies and attitudes towards governance and land ownership.
Continue ReadingToshiki Kaifu
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 2nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 91 years old
Elected as the 76th Prime Minister of Japan, served from 1989 to 1991. Led the country through challenges such as the economic bubble burst and the Gulf War. Sought to improve Japan's international relations and modernization efforts. Advocated for political reforms and the restructuring of Japan's government. After stepping down, continued work in politics and public service.
Continue ReadingGilbert Murray
Playwright and scholar of ancient Greece
Born
January 2nd, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 91 years old
An Australian-English playwright and scholar specialized in classical studies and the translation of Greek plays. Significant contributions include translating works of Aeschylus and Euripides, making ancient Greek literature accessible to a wider audience. Held the position of Regius Professor of Greek at the University of Oxford between 1908 and 1936. Actively engaged in promoting the peace movement during and after World War I. His translations played a key role in reviving interest in Greek tragedies in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingCuba Gooding Jr.
American actor, Oscar winner for 'Jerry Maguire'
Born
January 2nd, 1968 57 years ago
An actor and producer, gained prominence in the 1990s. Starred in the critically acclaimed film 'Jerry Maguire,' earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Also appeared in 'Boyz n the Hood,' which showcased the struggles of inner-city life. Played a lead role in 'Radio,' a story about an intellectually disabled young man and his bond with a high school football coach. Throughout the career, engaged in various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility in performances.
Continue ReadingKate Bosworth
American actress known for Blue Crush
Born
January 2nd, 1983 42 years ago
An American actress began a career in the early 2000s, gaining attention for performances in films such as Blue Crush, which showcased surfing culture, and Superman Returns, where a significant role was played as Lois Lane. Other notable works include 21, a heist film based on a true story, and Still Alice, highlighting the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. Throughout her career, diverse roles across film and television were embraced, leading to recognition in the industry.
Continue ReadingWilliam Fox-Pitt
Equestrian rider and journalist, eventing
Born
January 2nd, 1969 56 years ago
An accomplished equestrian rider specialized in eventing, contributed significantly through participation in international competitions. Represented Great Britain at multiple championships, achieving notable success. Awarded the title of European Champion and secured medals at the World Equestrian Games and the Olympics. In addition to competitive achievements, contributed to horse riding journalism, sharing insights and experiences within the equestrian community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 19th
John Maynard Smith
Biologist and geneticist, game theory expert
Born
January 6th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2004 21 years ago — 84 years old
Pioneered the study of evolutionary biology and genetics. Developed concepts in game theory as applied to biology. Contributed to understanding genetic linkage and evolutionary strategies. Published numerous influential papers and books, including 'Evolution and the Theory of Games.'
Continue ReadingJim Steinman
Songwriter and producer of rock operas
Born
November 1st, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 73 years old
A prolific songwriter and record producer contributed significantly to rock music. Collaborated extensively with artists like Meat Loaf, producing the iconic album 'Bat Out of Hell' which became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Steinman also wrote hits for other artists, including 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' for Bonnie Tyler and 'Making Love Out of Nothing at All' for Air Supply. His distinctive style often featured theatrical elements and grandiose compositions. Steinman’s work left a lasting mark on the genre, influencing numerous musicians and songwriters in pop and rock.
Continue ReadingCharles Darwin
Naturalist and author of 'On the Origin of Species'
Born
February 12th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1882 143 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed to the field of evolutionary biology through groundbreaking theories and research. Developed the theory of natural selection, which explains the process of evolution in species. Conducted comprehensive studies during the voyage of the HMS Beagle from 1831 to 1836, observing diverse ecosystems and species, which informed his later writings. Published 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859, which revolutionized the understanding of natural history and biology. His work established a scientific basis for the understanding of life on Earth.
Continue ReadingJim Corbett
British-Indian hunter and author
Born
July 25th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1955 70 years ago — 79 years old
A British-Indian colonel, hunter, and author, conducted numerous hunts in India, focusing on man-eating tigers. Authored works such as 'The Man-Eating Leopard of Rudraprayag' and 'Man-Eaters of Kumaon', which detailed encounters with wildlife and wildlife conservation. His experiences in the wilderness were instrumental in establishing the country's first national parks.
Continue ReadingMoonbin
South Korean singer and actor from ASTRO
Born
January 26th, 1998 27 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2023 2 years ago — 25 years old
Gained recognition as a member of the boy group ASTRO, which debuted in 2016 under Fantagio Entertainment. Contributed to the group's success with chart-topping albums and hit songs, including 'Confession' and 'Blue Flame.' Also pursued acting opportunities, appearing in dramas such as 'At Your Service' and 'My ID is Gangnam Beauty.' Demonstrated talents in both fields and received acclaim for performances in music and television.
Continue ReadingAlbert Scott Crossfield
Pioneering American test pilot
Born
October 2nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2006 19 years ago — 84 years old
An American pilot and engineer, contributed significantly to aerospace engineering and flight testing. Played a crucial role in the development and testing of experimental aircraft, particularly during the early years of the U.S. space program. Became the first pilot to fly at twice the speed of sound in 1953 and served as a test pilot for the X-15 rocket plane. His work advanced knowledge of high-speed aerodynamics and helped shape future space exploration efforts.
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