Rube Goldberg
Sculptor and cartoonist of contraptions
A prominent American cartoonist and engineer. Created elaborate cartoons depicting humorous machines designed to perform simple tasks in complicated ways. The term 'Rube Goldberg' became synonymous with such contraptions. Contributed to a variety of publications, including the San Francisco Chronicle and the New York Evening Sun. Goldberg's work extended to inventing various gadgets, earning a patent for an early version of a self-operating napkin. His unique style influenced generations of artists and cartoonists.
Created the Rube Goldberg machine concept
Won a Pulitzer Prize for cartooning in 1948
Published numerous cartoons and illustrated books
Other People Born on July 4th
Angela Baddeley
English actress known for her theatre work
Born
July 4th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1976 49 years ago — 71 years old
An actress in British theatre and film, noted for performances in both mediums. Achievements included significant roles in works such as 'The King and I' and 'Fanny by Gaslight'. Gained recognition for portraying characters with depth, thus securing a lasting place in the theatrical community. Also featured in films, including 'The Last Resort' and 'The Way Ahead'.
Continue ReadingGertrude Lawrence
British actress of 'The King and I'
Born
July 4th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1952 73 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1898, an accomplished British actress, singer, and dancer. Achieved recognition on the London stage and later on Broadway. Began her career in musical theater and became prominent in the 1920s. Gained significant acclaim for performances in productions such as 'Hay Fever' and 'The King and I', where she played Anna Leonowens. Her contributions to the theater were notable, earning admiration for her talent and charisma. By the early 1950s, she had established herself as one of the leading figures in musical theater.
Continue ReadingKing Taufa'ahau Tupou IV
Monarch of Tonga and constitutional reformer
Born
July 4th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 88 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1965, ruling until 2006. Implemented significant constitutional reforms that transitioned Tonga towards a more democratic governance structure. Played a vital role in increasing the political participation of commoners in the Tongan government. Engaged in various international diplomatic missions. Focused on promoting education and economic development within Tonga.
Continue ReadingAlan Wilson
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 4th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1970 55 years ago — 27 years old
Originated as a prominent figure in the American music scene during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Gained recognition as a founding member of the band Canned Heat. Contributed to the band's unique blues-rock sound and co-wrote several of their notable songs, including 'On the Road Again' and 'Going Up the Country'. Exhibited skills as a slide guitarist and harmonica player, enhancing the band's performances. Participated in music festivals, including Woodstock in 1969, and contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of the blues genre.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Blanchard
Pioneer of balloon flight invention
Born
July 4th, 1753 272 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1809 216 years ago — 55 years old
Inventor and aeronaut, played a key role in advancing balloon flight in the late 18th century. Conducted the first successful manned flight in the United States in 1793, launching from Philadelphia. Collaborated with various scientists and made significant contributions to aerial navigation. Developed different types of balloons and contributed to public demonstrations that popularized ballooning in Europe and America.
Continue ReadingPam Shriver
Tennis player and sportscaster
Born
July 4th, 1962 63 years ago
An accomplished tennis player and sportscaster, this individual achieved significant success on the WTA Tour during the 1980s. Winning 21 doubles titles, including four Grand Slam titles in women's doubles, played an integral role in several championship-winning teams. Transitioning into broadcasting, provided expert insights as a tennis commentator and analyst. Her career in sports broadcasting continues to influence the coverage of tennis events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 7th
Junaid Jamshed
Pakistani singer-songwriter and naat khawan
Born
September 3rd, 1964 61 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 52 years old
Started a musical career in the late 1980s as the lead vocalist of the band Vital Signs, which gained popularity with the hit song 'Dil Dil Pakistan'. Transitioned to religious music and became a prominent naat khawan, expressing devotion through poetry and song. Launched a solo music career, releasing several albums that featured both pop and religious themes. Became widely recognized in Pakistan and among the diaspora for spiritual performances and community-oriented initiatives. Also served as a television presenter on various Islamic programs, sharing religious teachings and perspectives. Junaid Jamshed's journey reflected significant shifts in musical style and audience engagement over the years.
Continue ReadingCharles Garnier
French missionary and saint
Born
May 25th, 1606 419 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1649 376 years ago — 43 years old
A missionary recognized for dedication to evangelization in North America during the 17th century. Established missions among Indigenous peoples in what is now Canada, contributing to the Catholic Church's expansion in the region. His efforts included work in areas that are now Ontario and Quebec. Recognized as a saint within the Catholic Church, he is a martyr, having died while serving his mission. His legacy continues to influence the Church's outreach and historical awareness of missionary work.
Continue ReadingReşat Nuri Güntekin
Turkish author and playwright, 'Çalıkuşu'
Born
November 25th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1956 69 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1889, contributed significantly to Turkish literature through novels and plays. Wrote extensively during the early 20th century, reflecting themes of social issues and personal struggles. Most recognized work, 'Çalıkuşu', tells the story of a young schoolteacher facing societal challenges. Other notable works include 'Dudaklı Pınar' and 'Akıncılar', which further explore the complexities of Turkish life. Worked as a teacher and a journalist, engaging with various facets of cultural discourse in Turkey.
Continue ReadingDick Allen
Baseball player; 1972 American League MVP
Born
March 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 78 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a first baseman and designated hitter. Had a significant career in Major League Baseball, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Atlanta Braves. Acclaimed for powerful hitting and unique style on and off the field. Achieved the American League MVP award in 1972 while playing for the White Sox, leading the league in multiple offensive categories. Inducted into various halls of fame and recognized for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingRobert Graves
English poet, novelist, critic
Born
July 24th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1985 40 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1895, this English figure excelled in poetry, novels, and literary criticism. Graves gained prominence with works such as "I, Claudius," a historical novel that provides a fictional account of the Roman Emperor Claudius. Additionally, the poet was recognized for contributions to modernism and the war poetry genre, having experienced World War I firsthand. His literary legacy includes a focus on myth, history, and personal reflection, often intertwining personal experiences with broader themes. Graves also authored notable collections of poetry that received critical acclaim throughout his career.
Continue ReadingRefaat Alareer
Palestinian professor and writer
Born
1979 46 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2023 2 years ago — 44 years old
A professor and writer, contributed significantly to literature and academia in the context of Palestinian issues. Authored several works focusing on the Palestinian experience, particularly through poetry and narrative. Engaged in teaching and mentoring students, while raising awareness of Palestinian culture and struggles. Actively participated in literary circles promoting Palestinian literature.
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