Paul Butterfield
Harmonica player and singer, Butterfield Blues Band
An influential singer and harmonica player, contributed significantly to the blues genre. Formed the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 1965, which blended electric blues with rock elements. The band's self-titled debut album featured notable tracks that played a role in popularizing blues music during the mid-1960s. Collaborated with other prominent musicians, enhancing the blues scene. Continued to perform and record music throughout the 1970s and 1980s, maintaining a longstanding presence in the industry until passing in 1987.
Formed the Paul Butterfield Blues Band
Released the influential album 'The Paul Butterfield Blues Band'
Other People Born on December 17th
Anthony Wood
English historian and author
Born
December 17th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1695 330 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1632, a prominent historian and author focused on documenting the history of Oxford. Published notable works including 'The History and Antiquities of the University of Oxford', which provided detailed accounts of the university's origins, growth, and notable figures. His methodologies influenced future historical research, emphasizing primary sources and personal accounts. His contributions significantly shaped the understanding of early modern English history.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Uda of Japan
Emperor of Japan during the Kamakura period
Born
December 17th, 1267 758 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1324 701 years ago — 56 years old
Ruled from 1287 to 1324, overseeing a time marked by political challenges and cultural developments. Ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne following the abdication of his predecessor. His reign faced conflicts with the powerful shogunate, influencing the balance of political power in Japan. Following his abdication in 1324, he became a retired monarch but continued to exert influence in the court. His artistic patronage contributed to the development of the Noh theater and other cultural practices during the period.
Continue ReadingSimo Häyhä
Finland's legendary World War II sniper
Born
December 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2002 23 years ago — 96 years old
A Finnish soldier achieved significant notoriety during the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union. Renowned for exceptional marksmanship skills, recorded over 500 confirmed kills as a sniper. Utilized a Finnish M28/30 rifle and took advantage of the winter landscape to conceal movements. Adopted a strategy that involved minimizing exposure and maximizing stealth, earning the nickname 'White Death.' Survived serious injuries and continued to lead a private life after the war until passing away in 2002.
Continue ReadingDave Madden
Actor on The Partridge Family
Born
December 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
An actor gained recognition for portraying manager Reuben Kincaid on the television series The Partridge Family. Started career in the 1960s and made numerous television guest appearances, often in comedic roles. Also lent voice to characters in animated series, including the cartoon version of The Partridge Family. Acted in films and theater, showcasing versatility.
Continue ReadingPeter Farrelly
Director of 'Dumb and Dumber' series
Born
December 17th, 1956 69 years ago
An American director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual gained prominence in the film industry during the 1990s. Co-directed the successful film 'Dumb and Dumber' in 1994, which became a cultural phenomenon and established a loyal fanbase. Collaborated with a sibling to create numerous comedies, including 'There's Something About Mary' in 1998, which received critical acclaim and commercial success. Won an Academy Award for Best Picture for the film 'Green Book' in 2019, highlighting a shift in focus to more dramatic storytelling. Continued to work in television and film, contributing as a director and producer.
Continue ReadingCraig Kielburger
Canadian activist and author of books
Born
December 17th, 1982 43 years ago
An activist focused on children's rights, founded the organization Free the Children at age 12. Authored several books emphasizing social issues and youth advocacy. Established WE Charity, which aimed to alleviate poverty and improve education globally. Engaged in numerous speaking events and initiatives promoting volunteerism and ethical living.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 4th
Cathryn Damon
Actress known for 'Soap' and 'The Goodbye Girl'
Born
September 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1987 38 years ago — 56 years old
An actress and dancer, notable for performances in television and film. Starred in the sitcom 'Soap' as the character Mary Campbell, which aired from 1977 to 1981 and gained significant acclaim. Additionally featured in the film 'The Goodbye Girl' (1977), showcasing a range of comedic and dramatic talent.
Continue ReadingDavid Reimer
Subject of the John/Joan case
Born
August 22nd, 1965 60 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2004 21 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1965 in Canada, underwent gender reassignment following a botched circumcision. Raised as a girl named Brenda, the case attracted significant media attention and sparked debates on gender identity and psychological outcomes of gender assignment. Eventually, transitioned back to living as male in adulthood, adopting the name David. Struggled with personal identity and mental health issues. The case is often referenced in discussions of gender reassignment and human rights.
Continue ReadingRashidi Yekini
Nigerian footballer and national team star
Born
October 23rd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent figure in Nigerian football, Yekini began his professional career in 1981 with Abiola Babes. His prowess on the field became evident when he joined Sporting Lisbon in 1994. Yekini gained international recognition during the 1994 FIFA World Cup, scoring Nigeria's first-ever goal in the tournament against Bulgaria. He also represented Nigeria in multiple African Cup of Nations tournaments, contributing significantly to the team's performance. He played a crucial role in Nigeria's victory in the 1994 African Cup of Nations, helping the team secure the championship title. Yekini's impactful career spanned over two decades, ending in 2001 after a successful stint in various clubs across Europe and Africa.
Continue ReadingMoe Howard
Comedian and The Three Stooges member
Born
June 19th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1975 50 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American comedian and one of the founding members of The Three Stooges, contributed greatly to the world of slapstick comedy. The group created a series of short films that gained popularity for their unique humor and physical comedy style. Initially starting in vaudeville, the group shifted to the film industry in the early 1930s, achieving significant success. Their comedic routines included distinct character dynamics and memorable catchphrases. The group’s influence extended over several decades, with a lasting legacy in comedy.
Continue ReadingEdgar Cortright
American scientist and engineer
Born
July 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed to the development of various space programs and technologies. Played a significant role in NASA's Project Apollo, which successfully landed humans on the Moon. Also worked on the Skylab space station and the development of scientific instruments for satellite missions. Held a prominent position at the Goddard Space Flight Center, focusing on aerospace engineering and satellite technology.
Continue ReadingFrank Stella
American painter and sculptor
Born
May 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1936, this artist is recognized for pioneering geometric abstraction. Early works feature shaped canvases and vibrant colors, contributing to the development of Minimalism and post-painterly abstraction. Major series include the 'Black Paintings', which utilized industrial materials and techniques. The artist also created significant sculptures that explore form and space, often engaging with architectural elements. Throughout his career, exhibitions have showcased the evolution of artistic expression and the relationship between painting and sculpture.
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