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
Robbin Crosby
Guitarist and songwriter for Ratt
Born
August 4th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 43 years old
A prominent figure in the American rock scene, contributed to the formation of the band Ratt, which emerged in the early 1980s. Played a key role in the band's ascent to fame with albums such as 'Out of the Cellar' and 'Invasion of Your Privacy'. Recognized for innovative guitar work and songwriting that helped define the glam metal genre. In addition to the band's success, worked on side projects and produced music for other artists throughout the career.
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 ReadingJohn Scaddan
Australian politician, 10th Premier
Born
August 4th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1934 91 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the 10th Premier of Western Australia from 1911 to 1916. Led the government during a period marked by significant social reform and economic development, with a focus on public works and infrastructure. Spearheaded the establishment of several key projects, including the first Labor government in Western Australia, which laid the groundwork for future governance in the state.
Continue ReadingBernard Rose
Film director, screenwriter, cinematographer
Born
August 4th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 36 years old
Active since the 1980s, this English director and screenwriter gained prominence for directing the horror film 'Candyman' in 1992. 'Candyman' is often regarded as a significant entry in the horror genre and has garnered a cult following. The director's work spans various genres, with contributions to both film and television, often exhibiting a distinct style. Apart from filmmaking, also ventured into cinematography, showcasing technical skills in visual storytelling. Several of his films have received critical attention and fostered discussions on cultural themes.
Continue ReadingJohn 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 ReadingWilliam Rowan Hamilton
Irish physicist and mathematician
Born
August 4th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1865 160 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1805, made significant contributions to classical mechanics and optics. Developed Hamiltonian mechanics, which reformulated Newtonian mechanics. Introduced quaternions, which represented the extension of complex numbers to a four-dimensional space. Served as the Astronomical Observator at the Dunsink Observatory in Dublin. Published important works in mathematical physics and played a pivotal role in the development of modern algebra.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 27th
James Montgomery Flagg
Illustrator of iconic wartime posters
Born
June 18th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1960 65 years ago — 82 years old
An American painter and illustrator, this individual achieved prominence primarily through iconic poster designs during World War I and World War II. The most recognized work, the 1917 'I Want You for U.S. Army' poster featuring Uncle Sam, became a symbol of American patriotism and recruitment efforts. In addition to military-themed artwork, he contributed to magazines such as 'Life' and 'Saturday Evening Post', showcasing his skills in caricature and illustration, which garnered widespread acclaim. His artistic contributions extended beyond poster art, with a focus on capturing social themes and figures, and he played a significant role in promoting visual arts during his era.
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 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 ReadingGregg 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 ReadingAjoy Mukherjee
Indian politician, Chief Minister of West Bengal
Born
April 15th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1986 39 years ago — 85 years old
Held the position of Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1967 to 1968 and was a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress. Played an important role in state politics and policies during tenure. Contributed to the formation of the West Bengal government in collaboration with various political groups.
Continue ReadingErnst Lindemann
German naval captain during WWII
Born
March 28th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1941 84 years ago — 47 years old
Served as captain of the battleship Bismarck during World War II. Played a crucial role in naval operations. Engaged in the sinking of the HMS Hood in May 1941. The Bismarck was ultimately sunk shortly after, leading to multiple strategic lessons in naval warfare.
Continue Reading