Modibo Keïta

Malian educator and 1st President

Modibo Keïta - Malian educator and 1st President
Born

June 4th, 1915
109 years ago

Died

May 16th, 1977
47 years ago — 61 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Mali

Links & References

An educator and politician, served as the first President of Mali after leading the country to independence from France in 1960. Established educational reforms and sought to promote socialism and nationalization policies. Focused on improving the lives of citizens through various initiatives, including land reform and agricultural production. Led the country until a coup in 1968, which ended his presidency.

Served as the first President of Mali from 1960 to 1968

Led Mali to independence from France

Implemented significant educational reforms

Other People Born on June 4th

Deborah Compagnoni

Italian alpine ski racer and Olympic gold medalist
Born
June 4th, 1970 54 years ago

Compagnoni excelled in alpine skiing, particularly in the giant slalom and super-G disciplines. Achieved significant success in the 1990s, including three medals at the Winter Olympics and multiple World Cup victories. Winner of the gold medal in the giant slalom at the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, as well as a silver medal in the super-G. Secured numerous World Cup titles during her career, establishing herself as one of Italy's leading ski racers.

Continue Reading

Alexis Lapointe

Canadian long-distance runner
Born
June 4th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1924 101 years ago — 64 years old

Renowned as a long-distance runner from Canada, participated prominently in multiple races during the late 19th century. Secured numerous victories in events across Canada and the United States. Achieved significant success in the Boston Marathon, demonstrating exceptional endurance and speed. Competed in various distance events, earning a reputation as a leading figure in Canadian athletics of the era.

Continue Reading

Al B. Sure!

R&B singer-songwriter and producer
Born
June 4th, 1968 56 years ago

Born in 1968, the American R&B singer-songwriter and producer achieved major success in the late 1980s. Debuted with the album 'In Effect Mode' in 1988, which included the hit single 'Nite and Day.' Established a signature sound that combined smooth vocals with contemporary R&B arrangements. In addition to solo work, collaborated with various artists over the years, contributing to several notable projects.

Continue Reading

Yevgeny Mravinsky

Russian conductor and symphony director
Born
June 4th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 85 years old

Conductor and music director led the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra for several decades. Gained recognition for dynamic interpretations and precision in performances. Contributed to the Soviet music scene, premiering several works and presenting classical repertoire. Worked extensively with notable composers, enhancing the orchestra's reputation both domestically and internationally. Helped elevate the stature of the Leningrad Philharmonic, especially during the challenging years of the Cold War.

Continue Reading

Ian White

Ice Hockey Player, NHL Defenseman
Born
June 4th, 1984 40 years ago

Born in 1984, a Canadian ice hockey player had a career in the NHL spanning several seasons. White played predominantly as a defenseman, contributing to multiple teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Calgary Flames, and Detroit Red Wings. Known for strong two-way play and offensive capabilities, he participated in significant playoff runs. After his time in the NHL, he continued his career in professional leagues and gained experience in various international competitions.

Continue Reading

Oliver Nelson

American saxophonist and composer known for Blues and the Abstract Truth
Born
June 4th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1975 49 years ago — 43 years old

An influential American saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to jazz music. Gained prominence in the 1960s with the release of the album Blues and the Abstract Truth, which showcased innovative arrangements and improvisation. Collaborated with notable musicians including Eric Dolphy, cannonball Adderley, and Jimmy Smith. Served as a member of the Jazz Interactions program, aimed at promoting jazz education. Worked as a composer and arranger for television and film, contributing to the music industry beyond performance.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 16th

Gian Maria Visconti

Duke of Milan, notable ruler
Born
1388 637 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1412 612 years ago — 24 years old

Ruled as Duke of Milan from 1402 until death in 1412. Reign characterized by efforts to consolidate power and expand territorial control. Faced conflict with various factions and nobles in northern Italy. The period marked by military campaigns against rival states. Experienced turmoil due to internal strife within the Visconti family. Death led to a power struggle for succession.

Continue Reading

Manny Ayulo

Race car driver with notable successes
Born
October 20th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1955 69 years ago — 33 years old

Competed in American auto racing and achieved recognition during the mid-20th century. Participated in various prestigious events, developing a reputation for skill behind the wheel. Raced in the Indianapolis 500, a key event in the racing calendar, contributing to the popularization of motorsport in the United States. Continued involvement in racing even after retiring from competitive driving, mentoring others in the sport and fostering the next generation of drivers.

Continue Reading

Nigger

RAF mascot dog of Wing Commander Gibson
Died
May 16th, 1943 81 years ago — None years old

A black Labrador Retriever served as the mascot for No. 617 Squadron of the Royal Air Force during World War II. Owned by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, the dog became a symbol of the squadron. The bond between Gibson and the dog was well-documented, and Nigger accompanied the squadron on various missions. The dog's loyalty and presence provided comfort to the airmen during the war. Nigger died in 1943, and subsequent to the death, the squadron honored the dog's memory by naming a new mascot after him.

Continue Reading

James Abdnor

American politician and soldier
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2012 12 years ago — 89 years old

Served in the United States Army during the Korean War and entered politics after returning. Represented South Dakota in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1981 to 1983 and later in the U.S. Senate from 1987 to 1993. His tenure in the Senate included participation in various committees, focusing on agriculture and Indian affairs. Engaged in legislative efforts and worked on issues significant to his constituents.

Continue Reading

Clemens Krauss

Conductor of the Vienna State Opera
Born
March 31st, 1893 131 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1954 70 years ago — 61 years old

Born in Austria, this conductor gained prominence in the early to mid-20th century, notably leading the Vienna State Opera and the Bavarian State Opera. Renowned for expertise in conducting operas, particularly those by Richard Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Worked extensively in both Germany and Austria, influencing the performances of many operatic masterpieces. Also served as a conductor for various orchestras across Europe, leaving a lasting legacy in classical music. Participated in conducting the first performance of Strauss's 'Ariadne auf Naxos' in 1916.

Continue Reading

Henri-Edmond Cross

Neo-Impressionist painter, Landscape artist
Born
May 20th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1910 114 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1856, this French painter contributed significantly to the Neo-Impressionism movement. Influenced by the technique of pointillism, created vibrant landscapes and scenes, often using color harmony and light to evoke emotion. Worked closely with other notable artists of the time and was associated with the Parisian art scene, exhibiting his works in major galleries. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, paintings reflected a transition towards more expressive and dynamic forms. Helped lay the groundwork for future modernist movements in art. Died in 1910.

Continue Reading