Maurice Richard
Ice hockey player, The Rocket
An elite ice hockey player participated in the National Hockey League with the Montreal Canadiens from 1942 to 1960. Established a reputation as a prolific goal scorer, notably becoming the first player in NHL history to score 50 goals in a single season during the 1944-45 season. Served as a coach and mentor after retiring, influencing future generations of players. His jersey number 9 was retired league-wide, signifying his impact on the sport. The Rocket continues to be a symbol of hockey excellence in Canada.
First player to score 50 goals in a season
Played for Montreal Canadiens
Retired jersey number 9 league-wide
Other People Born on August 4th
John Riggins
American football player and sportscaster
Born
August 4th, 1949 76 years ago
A professional American football player and sportscaster, Riggins played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Washington Redskins. He was a key player in the team's success during the 1980s, particularly in Super Bowl XVII where he contributed significantly to the victory. After retiring from professional football, he transitioned into a career in broadcasting and acted in various television appearances. Riggins was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, cementing his legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingVicente Álvarez Areces
Spanish politician, 6th President Asturias
Born
August 4th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 6th President of the Principality of Asturias from 2003 to 2011. Held positions in the Socialist Workers' Party, contributing to regional governance. Played a significant role in promoting economic and social policies within the region. Participated in the Spanish Parliament representing Asturias, influencing national legislative processes.
Continue ReadingJames Springer White
Religious leader, co-founder of SDA Church
Born
August 4th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1881 144 years ago — 60 years old
Co-founded the Seventh-day Adventist Church alongside his wife, advocating for religious reforms and humanitarian efforts. Played a pivotal role in establishing the church's early structure and outreach initiatives. Contributed to the publication of various religious writings and periodicals, including the Review and Herald, which served to disseminate Adventist beliefs and teachings. His leadership in the church helped shape its doctrines during formative years.
Continue ReadingJake Beckley
Baseball player and coach
Born
August 4th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1918 107 years ago — 50 years old
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1888, contributing significantly as a first baseman. Played for teams such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, and St. Louis Cardinals over a career spanning more than two decades. Established a reputation as a reliable hitter, finishing with over 2,900 hits. Transitioned to coaching following retirement from active play, influencing future generations of players.
Continue ReadingQueen Elizabeth The Queen Mother
Queen consort of the United Kingdom
Born
August 4th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2002 23 years ago — 101 years old
Born in 1900, served as Queen Consort to King George VI from 1936 until his death in 1952. Played a vital role in boosting British morale during World War II, making public appearances even during the Blitz. After her husband's passing, became a beloved figure, supporting various charitable organizations. Continued to represent the royal family at public events for many years, becoming a symbol of stability. Her long life and dedication to royal duties made a lasting impression on the British public.
Continue ReadingJosé Luis Rodríguez Zapatero
Prime Minister of Spain
Born
August 4th, 1960 65 years ago
A Spanish academic and politician served as the 5th Prime Minister of Spain from 2004 to 2011. Focused on social reforms and economic policies during tenure, adopted measures to address the housing crisis and labor market issues. Promoted laws advancing gender equality and minority rights. Led Spain's response to the 2008 financial crisis and aimed for a shift towards sustainable energy. Represented the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party and was influential in European politics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 27th
Gregg Allman
Musician, founding member of The Allman Brothers
Born
December 8th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2017 8 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent musician, played a key role in the Southern rock genre. Co-founded The Allman Brothers Band, which formed in 1969 and became influential in the rock music scene. Achieved commercial success with albums such as 'At Fillmore East' and 'Brothers and Sisters.' Contributed to the band's signature sound through keyboard and guitar work, as well as distinctive vocals. Also performed as a solo artist, releasing multiple albums including 'Laid Back' and 'Searching for Simplicity.' Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 for contributions to music.
Continue ReadingArmando Picchi
Italian footballer and coach of Inter Milan
Born
June 20th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1971 54 years ago — 35 years old
Played as a defender for Inter Milan from 1954 to 1967. Served as captain during a highly successful period for the club. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, guiding teams such as Catania and Sassuolo. Contributed to the development of youth players, emphasizing tactical discipline and defensive organization.
Continue ReadingPayut Ngaokrachang
Thai animator and director of 'Tawipob'
Born
April 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2010 15 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the Thai animation industry during a career spanning several decades. Founded the first Thai animation studio, developing unique animated content that reflected Thai culture and folklore. Directed 'Tawipob', the first Thai animated feature film, released in 1977. Helped form the Thai Animation Association and promoted education in animation through various initiatives, fostering new generations of animators in Thailand.
Continue ReadingJohn Beaufort
English military leader and noble
Born
March 25th, 1404 621 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1444 581 years ago — 40 years old
The 1st Duke of Somerset served as a military leader during the Lancastrian phase of the Hundred Years' War. Born in 1404, Beaufort held significant titles including Earl of Somerset. He played a pivotal role in various military campaigns, particularly in defense of English territories in France. His leadership was noted in the Battle of Agincourt and the subsequent struggles for dominance in Normandy. The duke's military endeavors spanned several decades, contributing to the ongoing conflicts of the era until his death in 1444.
Continue ReadingGrigoris Lambrakis
Greek physician and politician
Born
April 3rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1963 62 years ago — 51 years old
A physician and politician who served as a member of the Hellenic Parliament. Active in advocating for peace and social justice, this individual participated in various movements throughout the 1960s. Acclaimed for his involvement in the establishment of the Lambrakis Youth, which focused on promoting social consciousness among the youth. Participated in numerous peaceful protests against the war and oppression. Elected as a prominent member of the Greek left, contributing significantly to the political landscape during a turbulent period in Greece.
Continue ReadingGretchen Wyler
American actress and Broadway performer
Born
February 16th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2007 18 years ago — 75 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer recognized for significant contributions to theater and television. Gained prominence in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Fiddler on the Roof' and 'Mame'. Also appeared in television shows, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Active in animal rights, founded the organization Actors and Others for Animals, advocating for animal welfare throughout her life.
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