Layne Staley
Lead vocalist of Alice in Chains
An American singer-songwriter gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band Alice in Chains. Originating from Seattle, the band became a prominent figure in the grunge music scene of the early 1990s. Staley's distinctive vocal style and emotive lyrics contributed significantly to the band's success. The group achieved commercial acclaim with hit albums such as 'Dirt' and 'Jar of Flies.' Staley's battle with addiction was well-documented and affected both his personal life and career. He passed away in 2002, leaving a lasting legacy within the rock genre.
Lead vocalist for Alice in Chains
Released hit albums 'Dirt' and 'Jar of Flies'
Other People Born on August 22nd
Rob Witschge
Dutch footballer and manager
Born
August 22nd, 1966 59 years ago
A footballer and manager, played as a midfielder. Started professional career with FC Groningen. Played for clubs including Ajax, where won the Eredivisie and KNVB Cup. Had a successful tenure with the Netherlands national team, earning several caps. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, managing various clubs in Dutch football.
Continue ReadingMilan I of Serbia
King of Serbia, established monarchy
Born
August 22nd, 1854 171 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1901 124 years ago — 46 years old
Became the first King of Serbia in 1882 after serving as Prince. Led Serbia during the Serbian-Turkish War and expanded territories, achieving significant victories. His reign was marked by modernization and centralization of the state. Abdicated in 1889 amid political challenges and personal conflicts. Lived in exile until his death in 1901.
Continue ReadingJacques Lipchitz
Sculptor renowned for modernist works
Born
August 22nd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Lithuania, this artist became a prominent figure in modernist sculpture, later moving to Italy. His works merged Cubism with organic forms, showcasing a unique style that contributed to the evolution of contemporary sculpture. Notable pieces include 'The King and Queen' and 'The Guitarist', which illustrate innovative techniques and forms. Throughout his career, he engaged with themes of movement and fragmentation, influencing many artists. He became a naturalized American citizen and worked extensively in the United States, where he created many significant sculptures. His contributions are widely recognized in various museum collections.
Continue ReadingPaul Gottlieb Nipkow
Inventor of the Nipkow disk
Born
August 22nd, 1860 165 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1940 85 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed to the field of television technology with the invention of the Nipkow disk, a crucial component in early mechanical televisions. Developed this device in 1884, which enabled the transmission of images by scanning them. The innovation laid foundational work for future television systems and influenced video technology development through the 20th century.
Continue ReadingNorman Schwarzkopf
American general, Persian Gulf War leader
Born
August 22nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a United States Army general, leading coalition forces during the Persian Gulf War in 1991. Graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and earned a master's degree in civil engineering from the University of Southern California. Played a vital role in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, executing military strategies that resulted in a swift victory against Iraqi forces. Throughout a distinguished military career, held various command positions and received numerous awards for leadership and service.
Continue ReadingSalih Yoluç
Turkish race car driver, endurance racer
Born
August 22nd, 1985 40 years ago
Competed in various endurance racing events and participated in notable races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved success in the European Le Mans Series with significant performances. Also raced in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Has been involved in GT racing, driving for teams in high-profile events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Thomas Stoltz Harvey
American pathologist famous for autopsy work
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2007 18 years ago — 95 years old
Contributed to the field of pathology through work on the autopsy of Albert Einstein. Conducted the autopsy at Princeton Hospital, where significant findings regarding Einstein's brain were made. Preserved and studied Einstein's brain for decades, which led to various investigations into aspects of brain anatomy. Published findings that prompted further research into neuroanatomy and gifted intelligence.
Continue ReadingAnge-Félix Patassé
Central African politician and president
Born
January 25th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2011 14 years ago — 74 years old
An engineer and politician served as the 5th President of the Central African Republic from 1993 to 2003. Patassé's presidency was marked by efforts to stabilize the nation and improve governance amid challenges such as economic turmoil and civil unrest. Prior to his presidency, he held various government positions, showcasing a long-standing commitment to public service. Following his presidency, he faced political exile but remained an influential figure in Central African politics until his death.
Continue ReadingMark St. John
American guitarist for KISS
Born
February 7th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2007 18 years ago — 51 years old
A guitarist provided significant contributions to the rock band KISS during the 1980s. His tenure with KISS included the recording of the band's 1985 album, 'Asylum,' and his distinctive guitar playing was featured in the tour supporting that album. St. John's style combined heavy metal techniques and classical music influences, contributing to the band's signature sound. In addition to his work with KISS, he collaborated with various artists and bands throughout his career, showcasing his versatility and technical skill on the guitar.
Continue ReadingKim Won-gyun
North Korean composer and politician
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent composer, engaged in the development of North Korean music, contributed significantly to the country's cultural scene. Played a major role in state-sponsored music events and served as a member of the Supreme People's Assembly, influencing the political and cultural landscape. His compositions often reflected the themes of patriotism and the revolutionary spirit of North Korea, aligning with the state's ideologies. Developed a distinct style that incorporated traditional Korean elements, merging them with contemporary musical forms, to create a unique sound that resonated within North Korean society.
Continue ReadingRegina Bianchi
Italian actress celebrated for theatre roles
Born
January 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
An Italian actress, active in theatre and film, focused on portraying complex characters. Gained prominence in the Italian film industry during the mid-20th century. Involved in numerous stage productions, demonstrating a powerful and emotive acting style. Worked in film adaptations of famous plays and literary works, leaving a notable mark on Italian cinema. Collaborated with renowned directors and established a reputation for creativity in her performances.
Continue ReadingLeela Majumdar
Indian author, noted children's literature
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2007 18 years ago — 99 years old
An influential figure in Indian literature, authored numerous children’s books that contributed significantly to vernacular literature. Played a crucial role in promoting children's literature in Bengali and was involved in education as a teacher and academic. Her storytelling often reflected cultural themes and values important to Indian society. Many of her works have been translated into several languages, making them accessible to a wider audience.
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