Pasquale Paoli
Corsican commander and political leader
Served as a military commander and political leader in Corsica during the 18th century. Instrumental in the island's struggle for independence from French rule, initiated a constitution that established Corsican sovereignty, which was one of the earliest attempts at self-governance in Europe. Paoli led Corsican forces against foreign domination and was appointed the leader of the Corsican Republic. After defeat in the conflict with France, he went into exile in England, where he continued to advocate for Corsican independence.
Established the Corsican Constitution
Led Corsican forces during the War of Independence
Served as the leader of the Corsican Republic
Other People Born on April 6th
André Previn
Composer and conductor of Hollywood films
Born
April 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2019 6 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent musician, recognized for significant contributions as a conductor, composer, and pianist. Began a career in Hollywood, creating scores for films and won multiple Academy Awards. Served as conductor for various renowned orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra. Also made notable contributions to classical music and jazz, merging genres in innovative ways. Transitioned between classical and popular music throughout a prolific career, influencing many in the field.
Continue ReadingWilbur Thompson
American Shot Putter, Olympic Medalist
Born
April 6th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1921, a skilled shot putter represented the United States in international competitions. Competed at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, earning a bronze medal. Made significant contributions to the sport at the national level and participated in various championships throughout his career.
Continue ReadingChristos Sartzetakis
Greek Supreme Court Justice and President
Born
April 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a Supreme Court Justice and later as President of Greece. During the presidency from 1985 to 1990, focused on strengthening democratic institutions in the post-junta era. Contributed to legal reforms and upholding justice within the Greek legal system.
Continue ReadingPatrick Doyle
Scottish actor and composer for film scores
Born
April 6th, 1953 72 years ago
Born in Scotland, significant contributions made to film music and acting. Composed scores for notable films including 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire', 'Brave', and 'Sense and Sensibility'. Also acted in various productions and worked closely with directors like Kenneth Branagh.
Continue ReadingLeonora Carrington
Painter and author of surreal art
Born
April 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1917, a notable English-Mexican painter and author, contributed significantly to the surrealist movement. Engaged with visions and mythology, produced paintings that depicted whimsical and fantastical worlds. Gained recognition through works such as 'The Lovers' and 'The House Opposite'. Later in life, settled in Mexico, becoming part of the local artistic community and influencing generations of artists.
Continue ReadingJames Watson
Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 6th, 1928 97 years ago
A prominent biologist and geneticist, the individual co-discovered the double helix structure of DNA in 1953 alongside Francis Crick and Rosalind Franklin's work. This discovery significantly advanced the field of molecular biology. In 1962, received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for contributions to understanding genetic information transfer. Later served as a professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and contributed to various genetic research initiatives. The influence on genetics and its applications has been profound.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 5th
William Cullen
Physician and chemist known for clinical thermometry
Born
April 15th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1790 235 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and chemistry in the 18th century. Developed a systematic approach to clinical observation and introduced methods for measuring body temperature. Established the first medical school at the University of Edinburgh, which became a model for medical education. Published influential works, including 'First Lines of the Practice of Physic', which detailed clinical treatments. His teachings influenced a generation of physicians.
Continue ReadingJo Zwaan
Dutch sprinter; Olympic athlete
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
Competed in sprinting events representing the Netherlands in international competitions. Participated in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, competing in the 100 meters and 4x100 meters relay. Achieved various national titles during the athletic career. Contributed to the recognition of Dutch athletics in the post-war period.
Continue ReadingElla Grasso
Governor of Connecticut
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1981 44 years ago — 62 years old
Served as the 83rd Governor of Connecticut from 1975 until 1981. First woman elected governor in the United States, as well as the first female governor of Connecticut. Held various positions in the state’s government prior to her governorship, including state representative and state senator. Focused on social issues and environmental protection during time in office.
Continue ReadingMargaret Oakley Dayhoff
Pioneering American chemist and researcher
Born
March 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1983 42 years ago — 57 years old
Contributed significantly to biochemistry and molecular biology. Developed the first amino acid sequence database and introduced the concept of protein sequence alignment. Played an instrumental role in the early development of computer algorithms for analyzing protein sequences. Served as a professor at Georgetown University and published influential works on protein structure and function. Established the field of bioinformatics.
Continue ReadingDoug McClure
American actor in television and film
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 60 years old
This actor gained prominence through performances in the television series 'The Virginian' and 'Viewers' Choice'. His career spanned several decades, featuring roles in various films and television shows. His work in the entertainment industry was marked by a blend of dramatic and adventurous characters, appealing to a broad audience. McClure also appeared in notable projects such as 'The Land That Time Forgot' and 'At the Earth's Core'. His contributions to the acting field are remembered through his performances and character portrayals.
Continue ReadingNorma Candal
Puerto Rican-American actress in telenovelas
Born
April 10th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 78 years old
An actress gained recognition in the entertainment industry through roles in various telenovelas. Notable performances included leading roles in 'Cassandra' and 'Los Díaz de Sábado.' With a career spanning several decades, contributions to the genre inspired many aspiring actors. She became a prominent figure in American and Latin American television, celebrated for her performances and dedication to the craft.
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