Marcel Achard
French playwright and screenwriter
Achard was a prominent French playwright and screenwriter, contributing significantly to the theatrical scene in France during the 20th century. His works often blended humor and irony, reflecting contemporary society and culture. Achard wrote numerous plays, one of the most acclaimed being "Les Enfants d'Adam," which premiered in 1939. He also penned screenplays for several films, enhancing the cinematic landscape with his storytelling. Throughout his career, Achard garnered several accolades, including the prestigious Grand Prix du Théâtre.
Wrote the play 'Les Enfants d'Adam'
Won the Grand Prix du Théâtre
Other People Born on July 5th
Robert Bacon
American Colonel and Secretary of State
Born
July 5th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1919 106 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the 39th United States Secretary of State from 1909 to 1911. Held the position of a Colonel during World War I. Also engaged in politics and business, participating in various diplomatic missions and negotiations. Worked alongside prominent figures in shaping early 20th-century foreign policy. After leaving public office, continued contributions to the business sector and maintained involvement in governmental affairs.
Continue ReadingBernardus Johannes Alfrink
Dutch cardinal and church leader
Born
July 5th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1987 38 years ago — 87 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, contributing significantly to church matters in the Netherlands. Played a key role in the Second Vatican Council, advocating for reforms and modernization within the church. Actively worked on ecumenical dialogue, fostering relations between different Christian denominations. Appointed as Archbishop of Utrecht, overseeing the Catholic community in the Netherlands, and engaging in various national discussions concerning social and moral issues.
Continue ReadingVeronica Guerin
Investigative journalist and author
Born
July 5th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 37 years old
An investigative journalist focused on organized crime in Ireland. Worked for the Sunday Independent and The Sunday Tribune, exposing drug trafficking and making significant contributions to journalism. Her reporting on the Dublin drug trade led to increased public awareness of drug-related issues. Guerin's relentless pursuit of the truth earned her numerous accolades, but ultimately, she faced violent retaliation for her work. In 1996, she was tragically murdered, prompting national outcry and significant changes in Irish law enforcement and politics regarding crime and safety.
Continue ReadingStamford Raffles
Politician, founder of Singapore
Born
July 5th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1826 199 years ago — 45 years old
An English politician and colonial administrator played a pivotal role in the founding of Singapore during the early 19th century. This individual served as the Lieutenant-Governor of the island, shaping its early development and establishing it as a vital trading port in Southeast Asia. Raffles advocated for various reforms in the region, promoting trade and strengthening British influence. His policies contributed to Singapore's emergence as a key player in maritime commerce. Additionally, Raffles was deeply interested in local culture and biodiversity, authoring significant works on the flora and fauna of the region.
Continue ReadingThomas Hooker
English minister, founder of Connecticut
Born
July 5th, 1586 439 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1647 378 years ago — 61 years old
An English minister played a significant role in the establishment of the Colony of Connecticut. Relocating from Massachusetts, he advocated for a government based on popular consent, which influenced the Fundamental Orders of 1638-1639. This document is regarded as one of the first written constitutions that created a government. Hooker's leadership and principles helped shape the governance and democratic ideals in the new colony, laying foundations that would resonate in American political thought.
Continue ReadingJames Mirrlees
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 5th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2018 7 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions focused on the theory of incentives and information asymmetry in economics. Developed the Mirrlees model, which analyzes how tax systems can be designed to maximize social welfare while accounting for individual responses to taxation. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Cambridge. Critically engaged with topics such as public economics and economic policy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 4th
Lola Bobesco
Violinist and music educator
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2003 22 years ago — 82 years old
A violinist and educator, contributions included both performance and teaching. Collaborated with notable orchestras across Europe and gained recognition for interpretations of classical repertoire. Taught at various institutions, influencing the next generation of musicians. Performances included prestigious venues and festivals, showcasing skills that earned acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
Continue ReadingErnst Jaakson
Estonian diplomat and UN representative
Born
August 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1905, a diplomat represented Estonia during pivotal moments in international relations. Played a significant role in the post-World War II period, advocating for Estonian independence. Served as Estonia's ambassador to the United Nations and coordinated efforts to gain international recognition for Estonia's sovereignty. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and was active in discussions regarding Baltic states during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingCyrus Mistry
Businessman and former chairperson of Tata
Born
1968 57 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2022 3 years ago — 54 years old
Cyrus Mistry served as the chairman of Tata Sons from 2012 until his removal in 2016. Born in Ireland, Mistry was part of the renowned Mistry family with significant business interests in India. He played a crucial role in managing Tata Group companies, including Tata Motors and Tata Steel. Mistry was involved in strategic decisions that shaped the group's direction during his tenure. After his departure from Tata Sons, Mistry pursued various business interests until his passing in 2022.
Continue ReadingTughril
Seljuq sultan and founder of the dynasty
Died
September 4th, 1063 962 years ago — None years old
Established the Seljuq Empire by uniting the Turkic tribes and expanding territory across Persia and parts of the Middle East. Led military campaigns against the Buyids and other regional powers, securing control over Baghdad. Played a pivotal role in the introduction of Persian culture within the sultanate and consolidated power through strategic alliances. His leadership marked the beginning of Seljuq dominance in the region, influencing the political landscape for years to come.
Continue ReadingJohn Francon Williams
Writer and cartographer of notable works
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1911 114 years ago — 57 years old
Welsh-born writer, journalist, and cartographer contributed to literature and geography through significant writings. Engaged in historical and geographical studies, published various articles that explored themes of landscape and national identity. Worked as a geographer and inventor, focusing on issues of mapping and navigation. His contributions to cartography and historical analysis remained influential in academic circles. His works often reflected a deep understanding of Welsh culture and geography. Developed numerous maps that illustrated the changing landscapes of Wales during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingGarcía de Ayerbe
Spanish bishop and crusade theorist
Died
September 4th, 1332 693 years ago — None years old
Served as a prominent bishop in Spain during the late 13th to early 14th centuries. Contributed to the development of crusade theory, advocating for the religious motivations behind military campaigns. His writings on the crusades offered insights into the theological justification for war and the importance of holy missions. Engaged in ecclesiastical politics and sought to influence religious policies of the time.
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