Mary Costa
Operatic singer and voice actress
Born in 1930, this American singer gained prominence as the voice of Princess Aurora in Disney's animated classic 'Sleeping Beauty'. A trained soprano, she performed with major opera companies, including the San Francisco Opera and the New York City Opera. In addition to voice acting, she had an extensive singing career in classical music and performed in various operatic roles. Costa also worked in television, including appearances on shows like 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. Her contributions to the world of voice acting and opera left a significant mark in the entertainment industry.
Voiced Princess Aurora in 'Sleeping Beauty'
Performed with the San Francisco Opera
Appeared on 'The Ed Sullivan Show'
Other People Born on April 5th
Arthur Hailey
Author of airport thriller novels
Born
April 5th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2004 21 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1920, this English-Canadian soldier served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. After the war, this individual transitioned to a writing career, producing a series of best-selling novels primarily set in high-stakes environments. Major works included 'Airport,' which provided an in-depth view of the operations at a busy airport, and 'Hotel,' focusing on the intricacies of a hotel management. The writing style combined meticulous research with gripping narratives, resulting in widespread readership and commercial success.
Continue ReadingBianca Maria Sforza
Holy Roman Empress
Born
April 5th, 1472 553 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1510 514 years ago — 38 years old
Born into the Sforza family, she became Holy Roman Empress through marriage to Maximilian I. This union connected powerful dynasties in Europe. Her life spanned the Renaissance, a time of cultural and political change. She experienced significant events including court intrigues and familial alliances. Despite challenges in her marriage and health, she contributed to the Habsburg legacy through her offspring, cementing ties between influential families in Europe.
Continue ReadingAl-Nuwayri
Egyptian Muslim historian and scholar
Born
April 5th, 1279 746 years ago
Died
1333 692 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent historian and scholar active during the 14th century in Egypt. Authored the comprehensive work 'Nihayat al-Arab fi Funun al-Adab', which encompasses various topics including history, geography, and literature. This encyclopedic writing synthesized knowledge of many earlier scholars and contributed significantly to the fields of historiography and Arabic literature. Al-Nuwayri's work captured a wealth of information on the cultural, political, and social aspects of his time, reflecting the rich intellectual tradition of the period.
Continue ReadingBooker T. Washington
Educator and author, founder of Tuskegee
Born
April 5th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1915 110 years ago — 59 years old
An African-American educator, essayist, and historian, played a significant role in the education and upliftment of Black Americans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Founded the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, which became a leading institution for vocational training. Advocated for industrial education and self-help among the African-American community. Wrote several influential books, including 'Up from Slavery', an autobiography detailing personal experiences and philosophies regarding education and race relations.
Continue ReadingJanet Rowley
Human Geneticist and Cancer Researcher
Born
April 5th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
A human geneticist contributed to the understanding of the genetic basis of cancer. Pioneered research identifying chromosomal abnormalities in cancer cells, particularly in leukemia. Helped establish the link between genetic alterations and cancer development. Advocated for the importance of genetics in oncology, influencing both research and treatment approaches in the field of cancer.
Continue ReadingAlbert R. Broccoli
Film Producer of James Bond Series
Born
April 5th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1996 29 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent film producer, introduced millions to the character of James Bond through the successful film franchise. Oversaw production of several notable films starting from 'Dr. No' in 1962. Involved in the adaptation of Ian Fleming's novels, shaping the formula that defines the series. Collaborated closely with directors and writers to maintain the franchise's popularity over decades.
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