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
Priit Kasesalu
Computer Programmer, Co-Creator of Skype
Born
April 10th, 1972 53 years ago
Estonian computer programmer contributed to the development of Skype, a telecommunications application that allows users to make voice and video calls over the internet. The platform gained immense popularity and was later acquired by Microsoft in 2011. Kasesalu's expertise in software engineering and programming played a crucial role in the early success and functionality of Skype, making it one of the leading communication tools worldwide. In addition to his work on Skype, engaged in various software development projects and continues to influence the tech industry.
Continue ReadingKyösti Kallio
Finnish politician and 4th President
Born
April 10th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1940 85 years ago — 67 years old
A Finnish farmer, banker, and politician, served as the 4th President of Finland from 1937 to 1940. Played a crucial role in Finland's defense during World War II and addressed national needs during the challenging times of the war. Prior to the presidency, held various governmental roles, including Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Social Affairs. Contributed to the establishment of Finland's post-war reconstruction and modernization efforts.
Continue ReadingBernardo Houssay
Argentinian physiologist, Nobel Laureate
Born
April 10th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1971 54 years ago — 84 years old
Physiologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of the role of the pituitary gland in controlling glucose metabolism. Houssay pioneered research in endocrinology, demonstrating the influence of hormones on blood sugar levels. In 1947, received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries related to the physiology of the pancreas and its hormonal regulation. Served as a professor and director of various scientific institutions in Argentina, promoting scientific research and education.
Continue ReadingDon Meredith
American football player and sportscaster
Born
April 10th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 72 years old
Played quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys from 1960 to 1968, leading the team to several playoff appearances. After retiring from professional football, transitioned to a successful career as a sportscaster, gaining prominence as a commentator on 'Monday Night Football'. Earned recognition for his engaging style and insight into the game, influencing the way football was covered on television.
Continue ReadingLeonidas Polk
General and Episcopal bishop
Born
April 10th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1864 161 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1806, a prominent figure in both military and religious spheres. Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War and held the position of a bishop in the Episcopal Church. Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. After his military career, focused on his role within the church, significantly contributing to its development in the South.
Continue ReadingDolores Huerta
American Labor Activist, United Farm Workers Co-Founder
Born
April 10th, 1930 95 years ago
Co-founded the United Farm Workers alongside Cesar Chavez, advocating for farm labor rights. Played a pivotal role in organizing labor strikes, advocating for better wages and working conditions. Instrumental in the passage of the California Agricultural Labor Relations Act of 1975, granting farmworkers the right to unionize. Worked tirelessly on various social justice issues, including women's rights and immigrant rights.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 4th
Mark Freidkin
Russian author and poet of poetry and prose
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 61 years old
An author and poet from Russia, produced significant works in poetry and prose. Contributions to literature included themes of identity, suffering, and human experience. Received recognition for literary endeavors, with many works published throughout his career. His writings often explored complex emotional states and philosophical ideas, reflecting personal and societal struggles.
Continue ReadingHans von Aachen
German painter and educator.
Born
1552 474 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1615 410 years ago — 63 years old
Active during the late Renaissance, this individual specialized in oil painting and was significantly influenced by Italian art. He worked in both Germany and Italy, where he developed a distinctive style that combined elements of Northern European and Southern European art. This person produced numerous portraits, mythological scenes, and altarpieces, contributing to the art scene of the time. Engaging in teaching, this individual also influenced future generations of artists. Major works include various portraits of notable individuals, as well as religious imagery.
Continue ReadingJoe Marsala
Clarinet player and songwriter
Born
1907 119 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1978 47 years ago — 71 years old
A clarinet player and songwriter contributed significantly to the jazz scene in the United States, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s. Marsala started his career in Chicago, gaining recognition for his performances in speakeasies and dance halls. He later moved to New York City, where he collaborated with prominent jazz musicians and joined the orchestra of notable bandleaders. His compositions featured in various performances and recordings, bridging the gap between traditional jazz and modern sounds. Marsala continued to perform and record until the late 1950s, leaving a lasting influence in the jazz community.
Continue ReadingJohn Schofield
American general and Secretary of War
Born
1831 195 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1906 119 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in the American military and political arena, served as the 28th Secretary of War from 1868 to 1869. Led troops in several significant battles during the Civil War, including the Battle of Wilson’s Creek and the Atlanta Campaign. After the war, held various military commands and participated in the Reconstruction efforts, overseeing military districts in the South. Played a crucial role in the negotiations surrounding the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson, advocating for leniency in dealing with the South post-war.
Continue ReadingTadeusz Nalepa
Polish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2007 18 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in Polish music, this singer-songwriter and guitarist contributed significantly to the blues-rock genre in Poland. He began his career in the 1960s, gaining fame with the band Blackout, and later formed the group Apetyty. Notable for his original compositions and unique guitar style, his music often featured themes of love and social commentary. Over the years, he released numerous albums, with a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. His career spanned several decades, during which he became a respected and influential artist in the Polish music scene until his passing in 2007.
Continue ReadingJohn Marvin Jones
American judge and politician
Born
1882 144 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a state district judge in Texas for several years, applying the law in various significant cases. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, represented Texas from 1935 until 1943. Played a role in establishing legal precedents impacting state politics and judicial practices. Contributed to legislation during his tenure in Congress. His legal and political career influenced the development of judiciary procedures in Texas.
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