Lee Smith
Baseball pitcher, Hall of Famer
Born
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent baseball pitcher, had a career spanning from 1980 to 1997. Primarily played for the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and San Francisco Giants. Accrued significant accolades during time in Major League Baseball, including being a three-time All-Star. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2019, recognizing contributions to the sport and notable achievements as a closer.
Achieved a record 478 career saves
Won the Rolaids Relief Man of the Year award
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame
Other People Born on December 4th
Juliette Récamier
French businesswoman and socialite
Born
December 4th, 1777 248 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1849 177 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in early 19th century France, played a significant role in the social and cultural life of Paris. Récamier hosted a renowned salon that attracted various intellectuals, artists, and political figures, becoming a center of progressive thought. Engaged in business endeavors, she managed her family's financial affairs and established a successful private bank. Engaged in philanthropy, she supported several charitable causes during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingAlfred Hershey
Bacteriologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 4th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1997 29 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent bacteriologist and geneticist contributed to the understanding of DNA and genetics. Achievements include the Hershey-Chase experiment, which provided key evidence that DNA is the genetic material. This 1952 experiment utilized bacteriophages, demonstrating that phage DNA, not protein, entered bacterial cells during infection. The work on phage genetics led to further research in molecular biology, influencing the field significantly. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1969 for contributions to bacteriophage research and genetics.
Continue ReadingHerbert Read
English poet and literary critic
Born
December 4th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1968 58 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1893, engaged in the literary scene as a poet, critic, and influential figure in art education. Contributed significantly to modernist poetry and promoted avant-garde movements. Served as a professor of English at various institutions and was involved in the establishment of the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London. Authored several works on art and poetry, exploring the philosophical aspects of creative expression.
Continue ReadingSamuel Butler
English author and critic of literature
Born
December 4th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1902 124 years ago — 66 years old
An English author and critic, contributions spanned multiple genres including fiction and essays. Published notable works such as 'Erewhon' in 1872, which satirized Victorian society and explored themes of evolution and morality. Explored concepts of art and literature through critical essays, influencing thought within these fields. Engaged in debates surrounding Darwinism, applying these ideas within philosophical contexts through writings.
Continue ReadingJules Armand Dufaure
French Lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
December 4th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1881 144 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 33rd Prime Minister of France. Initially practiced law before entering public service. Represented the Gironde department in the French legislature. Contributed to the political landscape during the Second Republic and the early years of the Third Republic. Advocated for political stability and civil rights. Held ministerial positions, including Minister of Justice and Minister of the Interior. His leadership tenure focused on government reform and legal framework.
Continue ReadingTony Todd
American actor in horror films
Born
December 4th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2024 1 years ago — 69 years old
Originated from Washington, D.C., an actor gained prominence in the horror genre, specifically for portraying the titular character in the 'Candyman' film series. The acting career began in the late 1980s, showcasing versatility across film, television, and theater. Contributions to both theatrical productions and onscreen performances highlighted a commitment to the craft. In addition to horror, appeared in various roles across genres, including notable appearances in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' and 'The Crow'.
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