Matthew C. Perry
American naval commander and diplomat
A naval commander and diplomat from the United States, conducted the first significant expedition to Japan in the mid-19th century. The mission aimed to establish diplomatic relations and trade with Japan, which had been isolated for over 200 years. Commanded a fleet of warships, known as the 'Black Ships', and successfully negotiated the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1854, which opened Japan to American trade. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Japan's modernization and interaction with the Western world.
Negotiated the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1854
Led the East India Squadron
Commanded naval operations in the Pacific
Other People Born on April 10th
Hugo Grotius
Dutch philosopher and jurist, author of 'On the Law of War and Peace'
Born
April 10th, 1583 442 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1645 380 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent legal scholar and philosopher, contributed significantly to international law and natural law theory. Wrote 'On the Law of War and Peace', which laid foundations for modern international law and influenced legal thought. Played a pivotal role in advocating for the concept of just war and human rights. Held various positions in the Dutch government and faced political challenges due to his views on sovereignty and governance.
Continue ReadingSteve Gustafson
Bass player for Spanish-American band
Born
April 10th, 1957 68 years ago
A bass player gained recognition as a founding member of the band Big Head Todd and the Monsters. The group achieved success with albums such as 'Sister Sweetly' and 'Beautiful World'. Gustafson contributed to the band's distinctive sound, which blends rock with blues influences. The band gained a significant following and performed at numerous festivals across the United States.
Continue ReadingCarole Goble
Computer Scientist and Academic in UK
Born
April 10th, 1961 64 years ago
An English computer scientist and academic focused on e-Science, contributing significantly to the development of tools and standards for data integration and sharing. Played a key role in the establishment of the UK e-Science program and promoted the use of grid computing. Worked on various projects aimed at enhancing computational research infrastructures through software engineering and knowledge representation. Has been involved in numerous international collaborations and has published extensively in the field of computer science.
Continue ReadingJane Kean
American actress and singer in musicals
Born
April 10th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
An actress and singer active in stage and television, notable for performances in musical theater. Gained recognition for roles in productions such as 'The Honeymooners' and various Broadway shows. Worked with prominent theater companies and participated in revivals of classic musicals throughout a career spanning several decades. Contributed to the revival of interest in classic American musicals through performances and recordings. Also appeared in films and guest spots on television series, showcasing vocal talent alongside acting skills.
Continue ReadingWillo Flood
Irish footballer with notable club career
Born
April 10th, 1985 40 years ago
A professional footballer with a career spanning over a decade. Played primarily as a midfielder. Had significant spells at clubs including Celtic, Dundee United, and Derry City. Contributed to teams in domestic leagues and helped achieve crucial victories in cup competitions. Participated in international competitions representing the Republic of Ireland at youth levels.
Continue ReadingDelphine Seyrig
French actress and director recognized for 'Last Year at Marienbad'
Born
April 10th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1990 35 years ago — 58 years old
An influential French actress and director. Gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s through roles in notable films including 'Last Year at Marienbad', directed by Alain Resnais, and 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie', directed by Luis Buñuel. In addition to acting, directed films such as 'Scarlet Diva' and was involved in feminist film circles, advocating for more complex female roles in cinema. Seyrig's performances were characterized by a strong presence and an ability to portray enigmatic characters.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 4th
Clayton Yeutter
American politician and trade negotiator
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Served as Secretary of Agriculture under President George H.W. Bush. Chaired the Republican National Committee from 1989 to 1990. Played a pivotal role in the negotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Worked as a trade advisor and was instrumental in shaping U.S. trade policy throughout the 1990s.
Continue ReadingPhil Batt
American politician and Governor of Idaho
Born
March 4th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2023 2 years ago — 96 years old
Served as the 29th Governor of Idaho from 1995 to 1999. Previously, held positions in the Idaho State Legislature and as a member of the Idaho National Guard. Played a key role in various state initiatives during the gubernatorial term. After leaving office, remained active in local politics and community affairs.
Continue ReadingFranz Marc
German painter and expressionist artist
Born
February 8th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1916 109 years ago — 36 years old
An influential painter of the early 20th century, this artist was a central figure in the German Expressionist movement. His works frequently featured animals and nature, utilizing bold colors and abstract forms to convey emotion. Participated in pivotal exhibitions, including the First Exhibition of the Blaue Reiter in 1911, which he co-founded. Works often focused on animals, reflecting a deep spiritual connection with nature. His life was cut short in World War I when he died in battle at the age of 36.
Continue ReadingAlenush Terian
Iranian astronomer and physicist
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
An Iranian astronomer and physicist contributed significantly to the fields of astrophysics and astronomy. Authored multiple research papers that advanced the understanding of stellar evolution and the cosmic microwave background radiation. Served as a professor and mentor to many students in the scientific community, promoting education and research in physics and astronomy. Actively participated in international conferences, sharing insights and collaborating with other scientists worldwide. These contributions have solidified a legacy in both Iranian and global scientific communities.
Continue ReadingClaude Nougaro
French singer-songwriter and poet
Born
September 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2004 21 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent French singer-songwriter and poet, recognized for a unique blend of jazz, French chanson, and spoken word. Nougaro's career spanned several decades starting in the late 1950s, and he gained attention for his evocative lyrics and emotive performances. His music often reflected themes of love, identity, and social reflection. Nougaro released over a dozen albums throughout his career, many of which achieved significant acclaim. His multilingualism influenced his songs, integrating Spanish, English, and Arabic into his work. He garnered several prestigious awards, including the Grand Prix de la Chanson Française.
Continue ReadingVladislav Ardzinba
Abkhazian historian, 1st President
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent historian and politician, served as the first president of Abkhazia from 1994 until 2005. Played a key role in the region's declaration of independence from Georgia and contributed to the formation of its government and institutional structures following the Abkhaz–Georgian conflict. Led efforts to establish a distinct identity for Abkhazia and influenced the political landscape in conflict with Georgia. After leaving the presidency, remained active in regional politics and continued to advocate for Abkhazian interests until passing.
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