Melanie Fiona
Canadian singer-songwriter with Grammy win
Born in Canada, a singer-songwriter achieved recognition in the music industry. Debut album, 'The Bridge', released in 2009 included hits such as 'Give It to Me Right' and 'It Kills Me'. Second album, 'The MF Life', released in 2012 featured the Grammy Award-winning single 'Wrong Side of a Love Song'. Notable for blending R&B and soul influences, she gained a following for her powerful vocals and emotive songwriting. Throughout the career, toured internationally and collaborated with various artists, further establishing presence in contemporary music.
Won Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Performance
Released hit singles 'It Kills Me' and 'Give It to Me Right'
Debuted with critically acclaimed album 'The Bridge'
Other People Born on July 4th
Hal Lanier
Baseball player and manager
Born
July 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball primarily for the San Francisco Giants and the Houston Astros. Transitioned to coaching and managing, taking the role of manager for the Triple-A affiliates of the Houston Astros. Also served as a minor league manager, contributing to player development and team strategies.
Continue ReadingJassem Alwan
Syrian Army Officer
Born
July 4th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Syrian Army. Played a significant role during the early years of the Syrian Arab Republic and was involved in major military operations and political developments within the country. Contributed to military strategy and leadership during critical periods of conflict. His career included engagements that shaped the military landscape of Syria.
Continue ReadingEmerson Boozer
American football player, sportscaster
Born
July 4th, 1943 82 years ago
An American football player and sportscaster, achieved prominence as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the New York Jets from 1966 to 1975, contributing to the team's victory in Super Bowl III. Transitioned to a career in broadcasting following retirement from professional football, providing analysis and commentary for various sports programs.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Garibaldi
Italian general and politician
Born
July 4th, 1807 218 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1882 143 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1807, a significant figure in the Italian unification movement, played a critical role in the Risorgimento. Commanded the Expedition of the Thousand in 1860, leading volunteer troops to conquer Sicily and Naples, contributing to the establishment of a unified Italy. Additionally, served in various campaigns in South America, advocating for democratic governance and social reforms. Held positions in the Italian government post-unification, further shaping the nation's political landscape.
Continue ReadingAshikaga Yoshiakira
Japanese shōgun during the Muromachi period
Born
July 4th, 1330 695 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1367 657 years ago — 37 years old
Served as the third shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate from 1351 until 1367. Oversaw the period of the Northern and Southern Courts in Japan, a significant civil conflict that arose during the Nanboku-chō period. Yoshiakira’s leadership was marked by attempts to consolidate power and bring stability to the region amidst the ongoing strife of rival claimants to the throne. Faced with challenges from both internal factions and external pressures, his tenure contributed to the establishment of the Muromachi period's governance framework, which influenced Japanese politics for generations. His rule ended with his death in 1367, leading to a succession crisis.
Continue ReadingMichael Johnson
Footballer and manager with coaching success
Born
July 4th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2017 8 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Represented clubs such as Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing. Managed teams including the Jamaican national team, contributing to their football development.
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