Martin Luther King Jr.

Civil Rights Leader and Nobel Laureate

Martin Luther King Jr. - Civil Rights Leader and Nobel Laureate
Born

January 15th, 1929
96 years ago

Died

April 4th, 1968
57 years ago — 39 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent minister and civil rights activist played a central role in the American civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968. Advocated for nonviolent protest against racial segregation and discrimination. Delivered the iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. His leadership was instrumental in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for efforts to combat racial inequality through nonviolent resistance.

Delivered the 'I Have a Dream' speech

Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964

Led the Southern Christian Leadership Conference

Played a key role in the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Other People Born on January 15th

Lewis Terman

American psychologist and eugenicist
Born
January 15th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 79 years old

Contributions to psychology included the development of the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, which became a widely used tool for assessing intelligence. Terman also promoted eugenics, advocating for the selective breeding of individuals with desired traits. Conducted longitudinal studies on gifted children, significantly influencing educational practices. Served as a professor at Stanford University and authored numerous influential articles and books in psychology.

Continue Reading

Alexander Marinesko

Ukrainian-Russian submarine commander
Born
January 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1963 61 years ago — 50 years old

Served as a lieutenant in the Soviet Navy during World War II. Commanded the submarine S-13, achieving significant victories against Nazi Germany. Played a pivotal role in sinking the German passenger ship Wilhelm Gustloff, one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history. Post-war, he continued service in the Soviet Navy until retirement, earning recognition for his contributions to submarine warfare tactics.

Continue Reading

Mihai Eminescu

Romanian poet and journalist
Born
January 15th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1889 136 years ago — 39 years old

A significant figure in Romanian literature, contributed extensively as a poet, journalist, and prose writer. Eminescu's themes often revolved around Romanian folklore, nature, and love, reflecting deep emotions and philosophical musings. Major works include the poem "Luceafărul," which is considered one of the greatest achievements in Romanian poetry. His journalism career included writing for various newspapers, where he advocated for national and cultural issues. Eminescu's literary style combined romanticism with a profound awareness of social and political challenges.

Continue Reading

Ben Shapiro

Political commentator and author
Born
January 15th, 1984 41 years ago

Author and conservative political commentator. Hosts a daily political podcast and founded The Daily Wire. Published multiple books addressing political and social issues. Articles and commentary focus on American politics, culture, and society, often emphasizing conservative values and viewpoints.

Continue Reading

Saud of Saudi Arabia

King of Saudi Arabia, 1953-1964
Born
January 15th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 67 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1953 following the death of the founding king. Oversaw significant oil revenue growth during the 1950s and 1960s, which contributed to the modernization of the country. Initiated several development projects aimed at improving infrastructure and education. His reign saw diplomatic relations expanded with Western countries. Experienced internal challenges leading to a coup in 1964, resulting in abdication in favor of his half-brother.

Continue Reading

V. S. Ramadevi

Indian civil servant and politician
Born
January 15th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 13th Governor of Karnataka from 1994 to 1996. Held various governmental positions, contributing to public administration and policy development. Served as Secretary in several ministries including the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Education. Played a significant role in the implementation of various governmental programs and initiatives.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 4th

Carolus Clusius

Flemish botanist and academic scholar
Born
February 19th, 1526 499 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1609 416 years ago — 83 years old

An influential figure in the field of botany, contributed significantly to the study and classification of plants. Served as the first professor of botany at the University of Leiden. Established one of the first botanical gardens in Europe, which became a key resource for the study of plants. His work on horticulture led to the introduction of many new plants to Europe, including the tulip, and he wrote extensively about plant species in several publications.

Continue Reading

Klaus Rifbjerg

Danish author and poet, literary prize winner
Born
December 15th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old

An influential Danish author and poet, contributions spanned novels, poetry, and essays. Debuted with 'Den kroniske uskyld' in 1964, which received critical acclaim. Throughout career, explored themes such as identity, imagination, and societal reflections. Awarded the Nordic Council Literature Prize in 1996 for the work 'Udvalgte digte', showcasing a poetic style that resonated with readers. Held a prominent position in Danish literature, with works translated into several languages. Continued to write until passing in 2015.

Continue Reading

Juliano Mer-Khamis

Israeli actor and activist for culture
Born
May 29th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 52 years old

Juliano Mer-Khamis worked as an actor, director, and activist. He co-founded the Freedom Theatre in Jenin, promoting artistic expression and cultural development in the region. Mer-Khamis sought to use theatre as a tool for social change, addressing issues faced by the Palestinian community. The theatre became a platform for youth to explore their identities and confront their realities. His performances included significant roles in Israeli cinema and theatre, emphasizing themes of conflict and identity.

Continue Reading

William Henry Harrison

9th President of the United States
Born
February 9th, 1773 252 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1841 184 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 9th President of the United States from March to April 1841. Prior to his presidency, held the position of Governor of the Indiana Territory and gained national prominence as a military leader during the War of 1812. Led American forces to victory in the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811 and the Battle of the Thames in 1813, which contributed to his reputation as a military hero.

Continue Reading

Oleg Antonov

Aircraft designer and founder of Antonov
Born
February 7th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1984 41 years ago — 78 years old

An engineer and businessman with roots in both Russia and Ukraine established the Antonov Design Bureau, a prominent aircraft manufacturing company. Focused on developing transport aircraft, the bureau gained recognition for its innovative designs and engineering excellence. One of the notable aircraft was the An-225 Mriya, regarded as the largest cargo plane in the world. Under his leadership, the company contributed significantly to aviation advancements, particularly in the development of cargo transport capabilities.

Continue Reading

Anthony Caruso

American actor in film and television
Born
April 7th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2003 22 years ago — 86 years old

An actor with a career spanning several decades, recognized primarily for performances in television and film. Featured in iconic works such as 'The Asphalt Jungle', 'The Great Race', and 'The Untouchables'. Made numerous guest appearances on popular shows during the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to the golden age of television. Caruso's roles often showcased his ability to portray characters with a tough demeanor.

Continue Reading