Richard Proenneke

American pioneer and naturalist

Richard Proenneke - American pioneer and naturalist
Born

May 4th, 1916
109 years ago

Died

2003
22 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

United States

Links & References

Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and worked as a carpenter and a meteorologist. In 1968, chose to live alone in the Alaskan wilderness, constructing a cabin and documenting daily life in a remote environment. Used film and writing to share experiences and observations about nature. The journals and films created during this period contributed to an understanding of self-sufficiency in the wild.

Built a cabin in Twin Lakes, Alaska

Documented life in the Alaskan wilderness

Other People Born on May 4th

John Whiteaker

American politician and 1st Governor of Oregon
Born
May 4th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
1902 123 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the first Governor of Oregon from 1859 to 1862. Held the office of judge in the Oregon Territory and participated in local governance, focusing on infrastructure and education. Played a significant role in the territorial government prior to statehood, advocating for Oregon's admission into the Union.

Continue Reading

Horace Mann

Educator and politician; education reformer
Born
May 4th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1859 166 years ago — 63 years old

Contributions to education reform include advocating for public schooling and establishing teacher training programs. Served as the first Secretary of the Massachusetts Board of Education, promoting the concept of universal public education. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of normal schools for teacher education. Published influential reports that highlighted the importance of professional training for teachers.

Continue Reading

Jorge Lorenzo

Motorcycle racer, 3-time MotoGP champion
Born
May 4th, 1987 38 years ago

Achieved significant success in motorcycle racing, primarily competing in the MotoGP series. Secured three MotoGP World Championships in 2010, 2012, and 2015 while riding for Yamaha. Concluded a successful career with notable stints at Ducati and Yamaha, amassing multiple Grand Prix victories and podium finishes. Known for technical ability and competitive spirit on the track.

Continue Reading

Françoise-Marie de Bourbon

French noblewoman and royal mistress
Born
May 4th, 1677 348 years ago
Died
1749 276 years ago — 72 years old

Born into nobility, held the title of Mademoiselle de Clermont. Established a significant position at the French court during the reign of Louis XIV. Engaged in various political intrigues and maintained connections with influential figures within the court. Became known for a longstanding relationship with the king, which resulted in several children, including legitimate offspring acknowledged by the monarchy. Involved in fostering alliances through marriage and patronage, contributing to the shaping of the court's social landscape.

Continue Reading

Maedayama Eigorō

Sumo wrestler, 39th Yokozuna
Born
May 4th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1971 54 years ago — 57 years old

Maedayama Eigorō was a prominent Japanese sumo wrestler who reached the highest rank of Yokozuna. His career spanned during the mid-20th century, and he was noted for his exceptional skill and technique in the sport. As a Yokozuna, he consistently competed at the highest levels and demonstrated strong leadership within the sumo community. Maedayama's legacy continues to influence future generations of sumo wrestlers.

Continue Reading

Will Arnett

Actor in Arrested Development and LEGO Movie
Born
May 4th, 1970 55 years ago

An actor and producer. Gained prominence for roles in television series and films. Best recognized for portraying Gob Bluth in the sitcom 'Arrested Development' and lending his voice to Batman in 'The LEGO Movie'. Worked on various projects in television and film, showcasing comedic talents. Involved in multiple production ventures and made appearances in other notable series.

Continue Reading