Richard Somers
American military officer and naval hero
Born
1778
248 years ago
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as a lieutenant in the early United States Navy. Played a key role in the First Barbary War against piracy. Commanded the USS Intrepid during a daring mission to blow up the enemy's fleet in Tripoli harbor. Lost life in action when the Intrepid exploded on September 4, 1804. Remembered for dedication to national service and bravery in combat.
Commanded USS Intrepid
Participated in the First Barbary War
Other People Who Died on September 4th
Wilfred de Souza
Indian politician and chief minister
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
A surgeon who transitioned into politics, served as the 7th Chief Minister of Goa. Held office from 1994 to 1999 and was a member of the Indian National Congress. Played a significant role in the development of the state during tenure. Involved in healthcare reforms and governance issues, advocating for improved facilities and services in the region.
Continue ReadingHervé Villechaize
French actor known for Fantasy Island
Born
April 23rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1993 32 years ago — 50 years old
An actor achieved prominence in the role of Tattoo on the television series Fantasy Island. Born in France, gained recognition for distinct height and charismatic performances. Contributed significantly to the show's popularity during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Also appeared in films such as The Man with the Golden Gun and served as a cultural icon in various roles reflecting diverse backgrounds.
Continue ReadingThomas Smythe
English diplomat and colonial administrator
Born
1558 468 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1625 400 years ago — 67 years old
Played a key role in the early 17th century as a diplomat and merchant. Served as the first Governor of the Virginia Company, which was established to promote settlement in North America. Oversaw the establishment of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America, in 1607. Actively participated in the promotion of trade and exploration during a transformative period in English history. Advocated for the interests of England in international relations, particularly with Spain and the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingJohn Fielding
English lawyer and judge
Born
1721 305 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1780 245 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a key figure in the English legal system during the 18th century. Participated in the development of judicial procedures and was influential in legal reforms. Held the position of a judge and contributed to the establishment of the Bow Street Runners, an early police force in London. Advocated for justice and the rights of the accused in an era of significant legal evolution.
Continue ReadingRonald Syme
Historian and scholar of ancient Rome
Born
March 11th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1989 36 years ago — 86 years old
Born in New Zealand, a historian specialized in the history of ancient Rome. Contributed significantly to the understanding of Roman political history. The influential work 'The Roman Revolution' examined the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. Held academic positions at the University of New Zealand and later at Oxford University, shaping the field of ancient history through research and scholarship.
Continue ReadingJohn Francon Williams
Writer and cartographer of notable works
Born
1854 172 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1911 114 years ago — 57 years old
Welsh-born writer, journalist, and cartographer contributed to literature and geography through significant writings. Engaged in historical and geographical studies, published various articles that explored themes of landscape and national identity. Worked as a geographer and inventor, focusing on issues of mapping and navigation. His contributions to cartography and historical analysis remained influential in academic circles. His works often reflected a deep understanding of Welsh culture and geography. Developed numerous maps that illustrated the changing landscapes of Wales during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue Reading