Milan Rastislav Štefánik

Slovak general and politician

Milan Rastislav Štefánik - Slovak general and politician
Born

July 21st, 1880
144 years ago

Died

May 4th, 1919
105 years ago — 38 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Slovakia

Links & References

Born in 1880, a key figure in Czechoslovak history, played significant roles in astronomy, military, and politics. Émigré in France, he served as an aviator during World War I and became a general in the French Army. Instrumental in forming Czechoslovakia as a nation after the war, he emphasized the importance of Slovak identity. He held the position of Minister of War in the Czechoslovak National Council and advocated for Slovak autonomy. His life was cut short in 1919 when his plane crashed, leaving a lasting legacy.

Served as a general in the French Army

Played crucial role in establishing Czechoslovakia

Acted as Minister of War in Czechoslovak National Council

Other People Born on July 21st

Anabelle Langlois

Canadian figure skater and Olympian
Born
July 21st, 1981 43 years ago

Competed in pairs figure skating, representing Canada in several international competitions. Achieved a notable fourth place finish at the 2006 Winter Olympics held in Turin. Partnered with multiple skaters throughout her career, most prominently with Cody Hay. Together, they earned multiple titles in national and international events, showcasing technical skill and artistic performance on ice. Retired from competitive skating following a successful career, Langlois contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor.

Continue Reading

John Negroponte

Diplomat and former UN Ambassador
Born
July 21st, 1939 85 years ago

A prominent diplomat with a career spanning decades in international relations. Served as the 23rd United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 2001 to 2004, playing a significant role during a critical period following the September 11 attacks. Prior to this position, held several key roles, including Ambassador to Iraq, where efforts focused on rebuilding the country post-invasion. Worked in various capacities within the U.S. government, including as Deputy National Security Advisor and Director of National Intelligence.

Continue Reading

Vusamazulu Credo Mutwa

Zulu sangoma and author
Born
July 21st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 99 years old

A well-respected Zulu sangoma and traditional healer, significant contributions made to the preservation of Zulu culture and spirituality. Wrote several books that explore African mythology, including 'Indaba My Children' and 'The Book of Night'. Engaged in storytelling and cultural preservation through various media. Advocated for the recognition and understanding of African traditional practices and beliefs.

Continue Reading

Cat Stevens

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 21st, 1948 76 years ago

Emerging in the late 1960s, this musician gained prominence with a series of successful albums and hit singles. Famous works include "Tea for the Tillerman" and "Bridge over Troubled Water." Transitioning towards a spiritual journey in the 1970s, the artist embraced Islam and changed his name to Yusuf Islam. Music career continued with various philanthropic efforts, returning to public performance in the 2000s with the album "An Other Cup."

Continue Reading

Jean Picard

French astronomer and geodesist
Born
July 21st, 1620 404 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1682 342 years ago — 61 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and geodesy in the 17th century. Developed techniques to measure the size of the Earth and improvements in astronomical instruments. Participated in the measurement of a degree of latitude in 1669, which advanced the understanding of Earth’s circumference. Worked on refining telescopes and measuring celestial bodies.

Continue Reading

Queenie Watts

Actress and singer in British television
Born
July 21st, 1923 101 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1923, an English actress and singer became widely recognized for performances in the television series 'The Wackers' and 'EastEnders'. Career also included stage performances and contributions to music. Strong presence in British entertainment through various roles across multiple decades. Continued to perform until later in life, showcasing versatility in both acting and singing.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 4th

William Brown Meloney

Theatrical producer and writer
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1971 53 years ago — 69 years old

Involved in the New York theatre scene, contributed significantly to several productions. Worked as a writer and produced various plays that garnered attention. Meloney's contributions included adaptations and original works, showcasing a commitment to theatrical arts during the mid-20th century. He also engaged in the promotion of theatrical culture, fostering the growth of performance arts in the region. His influence in the theatre community and connection with notable playwrights helped shape the landscape of American drama during his time.

Continue Reading

Matthew Tilghman

American politician, Maryland politician
Born
1718 307 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1790 234 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent political figure in Maryland during the American Revolution, this individual served as a delegate to the Continental Congress. Tilghman held the position of Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, where significant legislative work took place. In addition to legislative roles, he was integral in the establishment of state governance and played a vital role in local military leadership. His contributions aided in shaping the political landscape of Maryland during a formative period in American history.

Continue Reading

France Štiglic

Slovenian film director and screenwriter
Born
November 12th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1993 31 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Slovenian cinema, directed films that explored complex human emotions and social issues. The first Slovenian director nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for the movie 'Grounding: The Last Days of a Jobless Man'. Helped shape the film industry in Slovenia through various works that captured the essence of the human experience. Emphasized realism in storytelling and contributed significantly to post-war Slovenian culture.

Continue Reading

John Houghton

Carthusian monk and saint
Died
May 4th, 1535 489 years ago — None years old

A Carthusian monk, prominent for leadership in the Carthusian Order, played a significant role in promoting monastic life. He operated within a strict religious framework and dedicated life to contemplative prayer and the ascetic lifestyle of the Carthusians. He faced martyrdom during the reign of King Henry VIII over the rejection of royal supremacy over the Church. His commitment to monastic ideals and integrity under pressure eventually led to canonization as a saint in Catholic tradition.

Continue Reading

Sebastián Kindelán y O'Regan

Colonial Governor of East Florida
Born
December 30th, 1757 267 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1826 198 years ago — 68 years old

Held the position of colonial governor in East Florida, Santo Domingo, and Cuba during the late 18th century. His tenure included efforts to manage colonial governance and military affairs in these regions. Infrastructure and settlement expansions were part of administrative responsibilities. The period was marked by the challenges of colonial rule amid growing tensions and conflicts in the Caribbean.

Continue Reading

Husayn Mirza Bayqara

Timurid ruler known for cultural patronage
Born
1438 587 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1506 518 years ago — 68 years old

A Timurid ruler of Herat, contributed to the cultural and artistic development of the region during the late 15th century. His reign is marked by a flourishing of Persian literature, art, and architecture. The court attracted renowned poets and artists, making Herat a significant cultural center. Under the leadership, the Herat School of Miniature Painting thrived. His efforts in governance led to a period of relative stability amidst the power struggles characteristic of the era. The establishment of architectural projects, including mosques and public buildings, reflected the wealth and artistic aspirations of the time.

Continue Reading