Les Blank
Documentary filmmaker and producer
A prominent American director and producer, noted for a body of work that celebrates culture, music, and the arts. Focused on documentary filmmaking, his style incorporated immersive storytelling and vibrant visuals. Major works include the award-winning documentary 'Marley' which explores the life of reggae musician Bob Marley. His films often highlighted regional cultures, showing traditional music and the lives of ordinary people. Throughout his career, Blank contributed significantly to the documentary genre, influencing both filmmakers and audiences with his unique approach to storytelling.
Directed 'Marley' (2012)
Produced 'Always for Pleasure' (1978)
Other People Born on November 27th
Lars Onsager
Chemist & physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 27th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1976 49 years ago — 72 years old
A Norwegian-American chemist and physicist contributed significantly to the field of thermodynamics. Developed the Onsager reciprocal relations, which describe the relationship between fluxes and forces in non-equilibrium thermodynamics. The collaboration of these principles has played a crucial role in understanding transport processes in various scientific domains. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1968 for work on irreversible processes. His academic career included positions at several prestigious institutions, where research in statistical mechanics and physical chemistry advanced the understanding of complex systems.
Continue ReadingMickey Leland
American politician and activist
Born
November 27th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1989 36 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Texas's 18th congressional district from 1979 until his death in 1990. Focused on issues affecting the poor and disadvantaged. Played a significant role in advocating for international hunger relief and education reforms. Helped establish the Congressional Black Caucus and was involved in various humanitarian efforts during his tenure.
Continue ReadingTommy Robinson
Political activist, co-founder of EDL
Born
November 27th, 1982 43 years ago
An activist co-founded the English Defence League (EDL), an organization that organized protests against what it termed the Islamic extremism in the United Kingdom. Robinson became a prominent figure in British politics and media through his advocacy and participation in various demonstrations that addressed issues related to immigration and national identity. In addition to his work with the EDL, participation in media interviews and public speaking engagements contributed to a notable presence in discussions surrounding English nationalism and counter-jihad movements. This individual also faced legal challenges and controversies related to free speech and activism throughout the career.
Continue ReadingAndries Pretorius
South African general during the Boer Wars
Born
November 27th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1853 172 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent Boer commander during the Great Trek and the Anglo-Zulu War. Led forces in the Battle of Blood River in 1838, achieving a decisive victory against the Zulu army. Played a significant role in the formation of the Natalia Republic and later served as its president. Engaged in negotiations regarding land and governance during a transformative period in South African history.
Continue ReadingKonosuke Matsushita
Japanese businessman and Panasonic founder
Born
November 27th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1989 36 years ago — 94 years old
Founded Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. in 1918, later branded as Panasonic. Developed numerous innovative electrical appliances, including the first electric fan in Japan. Expanded the company into a global electronics powerhouse, producing a wide range of consumer electronics. Emphasized quality management and corporate philosophy focused on employee welfare. Led the company through significant growth during the post-war economic boom in Japan, promoting both technological advancement and social responsibility.
Continue ReadingEddie Rabbitt
Singer-songwriter with 'I Love a Rainy Night'
Born
November 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1998 27 years ago — 56 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, achieved success in country music during the late 1970s and 1980s. Gained popularity for blending country and pop sounds, creating a distinctive style. Released numerous hit songs, with several reaching the top of country charts. Career highlights include writing and performing hit singles that sold millions of copies. Also contributed to the music of others, collaborating with various artists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 7th
Bashir Ahmed Qureshi
Pakistani politician, served as MNA
Born
1959 67 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 53 years old
Elected as a Member of the National Assembly in Pakistan. Held the position from 2002 to 2007 representing the Pakistan Muslim League. Actively participated in legislative processes and local governance during tenure. Advocated for various development projects and public policies in the region.
Continue ReadingV. K. Murthy
Cinematographer for acclaimed films
Born
November 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent Indian cinematographer, contributed to the Indian film industry with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Worked with acclaimed directors and was integral to the visual storytelling in Indian cinema. Notably, partnered with Satyajit Ray on films such as 'Pather Panchali' and 'The Apu Trilogy', which received international recognition. Received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2008 for lifetime achievement in cinema, highlighting contributions to the craft of cinematography.
Continue ReadingGolo Mann
Historian and author of 'The History of Germany'
Born
March 27th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1994 31 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Germany, a prominent historian and author focused on modern German history. Worked as a professor and wrote extensively on the subject. 'The History of Germany' serves as one of the significant works that examine the complexities of Germany's past. Additionally, contributed to various historical journals and series, influencing academic thought.
Continue ReadingDick Turpin
English criminal and highwayman
Born
1705 321 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1739 286 years ago — 34 years old
Active in the early 18th century, a notorious English highwayman gained infamy for robbery and violent crimes. Originally a butcher, transitioned to highway robbery, operating mainly in the countryside of England. Earned notoriety for a dramatic horseback ride from London to York, a distance of over 200 miles, accomplished in a single night. Captured and tried for murder and robbery, faced execution in 1739.
Continue ReadingThomas D'Arcy McGee
Irish-Canadian politician and journalist
Born
April 13th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1868 157 years ago — 42 years old
Born in Ireland, played a significant role in Canadian politics and journalism. Moved to Canada in 1842, where engagement in political affairs began. Advocated for the Confederation of Canada and served as a member of the Canadian Parliament. Contributed to numerous publications, particularly focusing on topics such as Irish nationalism and Canadian unity. McGee was assassinated in 1868, becoming a martyr for the cause of Canadian nationalism.
Continue ReadingFrank Church
American politician and senator
Born
July 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1984 41 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a United States Senator from Idaho from 1957 to 1981. Focused on civil liberties and environmental conservation throughout political career. Chaired the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence in the 1970s, investigating abuses by intelligence agencies. Advocated for various landmark legislation, including the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.
Continue Reading