Paul Desmarais

Canadian businessman and philanthropist

Paul Desmarais - Canadian businessman and philanthropist
Born

January 4th, 1927
98 years ago

Died

October 8th, 2013
11 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Canada

Links & References

A prominent Canadian businessman and philanthropist, significantly influenced the business landscape through leadership of Power Corporation of Canada. Guided the company's expansion into various sectors including financial services and energy. Engaged in philanthropic efforts benefiting education, health, and culture. Established partnerships with various organizations to enhance community welfare and support cultural institutions.

Led Power Corporation of Canada as Chairman

Expanded business interests into multiple sectors

Contributed to philanthropic causes across Canada

Other People Born on January 4th

Miguel Monteiro

Portuguese footballer with FC Porto titles
Born
January 4th, 1980 45 years ago

Born in 1980, a professional football player focused on right-back position. Played a significant part of the career at FC Porto, contributing to the team's successes in domestic and European competitions. Represented Portugal at various youth and senior levels, participating in major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2008.

Continue Reading

Malietoa Tanumafili II

Samoan ruler and head of state
Born
January 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old

Ruling from 1962 until 2007, this individual served as the first head of state of Samoa following its independence from New Zealand. During this period, played a significant role in promoting Samoa's sovereignty and cultural heritage. This ruler was a member of the Malietoa dynasty, which had a long-standing tradition of leadership in Samoan society. Instrumental in developing the legislative framework of the country and fostering international relations, especially within the Pacific region. His reign witnessed notable changes in Samoan society and governance as the nation transitioned from colonial rule to self-governance.

Continue Reading

Khondakar Ashraf Hossain

Bangladeshi poet and academic
Born
January 4th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to Bengali literature through poetry and academic work. Worked as a professor, shaping future generations in literary studies. Authored several poetry collections that reflect the cultural and social dynamics of Bangladesh. Engaged in various literary and educational organizations to promote the arts and education.

Continue Reading

Charles Melton

Actor from Riverdale and The Sun Is Also a Star
Born
January 4th, 1991 34 years ago

An American actor gained recognition for roles in the television series Riverdale and the film The Sun Is Also a Star. Riverdale, based on the Archie Comics, features him as Reggie Mantle, a character introduced in the second season. The Sun Is Also a Star, a romantic drama based on the novel by Nicola Yoon, showcased his performance as Daniel Bae. Melton started his career in modeling and later transitioned to acting, appearing in various television shows and films.

Continue Reading

Zehava Gal-On

Israeli politician, Meretz leader
Born
January 4th, 1956 69 years ago

A prominent Israeli politician, played a significant role in the Knesset, representing the Meretz party. Focused on social justice, women’s rights, and peace initiatives throughout a lengthy political career. Served as the party leader and was involved in various legislative efforts aimed at civil liberties and human rights. Was vocal about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and advocated for a two-state solution. Contributed to discussions on issues including minority rights and democratic processes within Israel.

Continue Reading

Jacob Grimm

Philologist and mythologist, Grimms' Fairy Tales
Born
January 4th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1863 161 years ago — 78 years old

A philologist and mythologist contributed extensively to the study of Germanic languages and folklore. Along with a brother, compiled and published a collection of popular folk and fairy tales that grew to include numerous stories such as 'Cinderella', 'Hansel and Gretel', and 'Snow White'. Engaged in extensive linguistic research, laid foundations for comparative philology and historical linguistics through significant works on German grammar and etymology. Also contributed to the study of German folklore and mythology, publishing essays and studies that analyzed the cultural significance of traditional stories.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 8th

Alexei Savrasov

Russian painter known for landscapes
Born
May 24th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1897 127 years ago — 67 years old

This individual was a prominent Russian landscape painter and a significant figure in the development of the Russian realistic school of painting. His formative years were marked by studies at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture. He gained recognition for his ability to capture the essence of the Russian countryside, reflecting its natural beauty and seasonal changes. One of the seminal works includes 'The Rooks Have Come Back', which represents the arrival of spring and has been celebrated for its atmospheric qualities and depth of emotion. Later in life, this individual served as a professor at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, influencing a generation of artists.

Continue Reading

Jean de Quen

French missionary and historian
Born
1603 422 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1659 365 years ago — 56 years old

A French missionary and priest, this individual contributed significantly to the efforts of the Jesuits in North America during the 17th century. Primarily based in Canada, he was involved in missionary work among Indigenous peoples, aiming to convert them to Christianity. His writings provide valuable insights into the culture and traditions of the tribes he encountered. His historical accounts reflect the experiences of French missionaries and the complexities of their interactions with Native Americans. The publication of his narratives helped in documenting early colonial history and missionary activities.

Continue Reading

Andrew Kippis

English minister and biographer
Born
March 28th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1795 229 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a prominent English minister and authored several influential works. Contributed significantly to religious literature and biographical studies during the 18th century. Held the position of a pastor at a Presbyterian congregation in London. Was an influential member of the Congregational Union and engaged in various literary activities.

Continue Reading

Roger Williams

American pianist and composer
Born
October 1st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
October 8th, 2011 13 years ago — 87 years old

A talented pianist and composer, this individual gained recognition for classical and popular music interpretations. Renowned for the album 'Autumn Leaves', which became a significant hit, this artist also released numerous other albums throughout a prolific career. Performance style combined classical technique with popular sensibilities, earning a broad audience. Regular appearances on television and in concert venues helped solidify a lasting legacy in the music community.

Continue Reading

Jean Giono

French author and poet
Born
March 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1970 54 years ago — 75 years old

An influential figure in 20th-century literature, this author produced a body of work that celebrated the natural world and rural life. Giono's narratives often blended realism with elements of fantasy. His notable works include 'The Man Who Planted Trees,' which emphasizes the relationship between humanity and nature. This author contributed significantly to the literary movement of regionalism, focusing on the landscapes and culture of Provence. Giono's writing style merged lyrical prose with deep philosophical insights, offering commentary on existence and the human condition.

Continue Reading

Malcolm Ross

American captain and balloonist
Born
October 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1985 39 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1919, a captain in the U.S. Army Air Forces and a prominent balloonist. Conducted significant scientific research in high-altitude balloon flights, contributing to meteorological studies. Participated in and led high-altitude missions that advanced understanding of the atmosphere. Worked alongside other scientists to develop various projects related to atmospheric research and the effects of altitude on living organisms.

Continue Reading