Rube Goldberg

Sculptor and cartoonist of contraptions

Rube Goldberg - Sculptor and cartoonist of contraptions
Born

July 4th, 1883
142 years ago

Died

December 7th, 1970
54 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

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

Robert Hankey

British diplomat and 2nd Baron Hankey
Born
July 4th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1905, served in significant diplomatic roles throughout the 20th century. Contributed to international relations and policy during crucial periods, including World War II. Participated in conferences that shaped post-war Europe and worked on various governmental committees focused on diplomacy and public service.

Continue Reading

Dimitrios Mavroeidis

Greek basketball player, Olympian
Born
July 4th, 1985 40 years ago

Born in 1985, played professional basketball primarily as a center. Competed for various teams in the European leagues, including Olympiacos and AEK Athens. Represented Greece in international competitions, contributing to the national team's success. Participated in the 2006 FIBA World Championship and was part of the squad that won the gold medal at the EuroBasket 2005.

Continue Reading

Mark Slaughter

Singer-songwriter and producer of rock music
Born
July 4th, 1964 61 years ago

A musician and producer, Slaughter co-founded the rock band Slaughter in 1988. The band gained popularity in the early 1990s with hits such as "Up All Night" and "Fly to the Rainbow." Slaughter achieved substantial commercial success with multiple albums reaching gold and platinum status. Aside from his work with the band, he has also contributed to various projects as a producer and songwriter for other artists.

Continue Reading

Lake Underwood

Race car driver and businessman
Born
July 4th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent race car driver and businessman, competed in various racing events. Participated in the Indianapolis 500 multiple times during the late 1940s and early 1950s, earning recognition in the racing community. Transitioned into the automotive business, contributing to the development of race car technology and performance. His career spanned several decades, showcasing skill both on and off the track.

Continue Reading

Terrance Knighton

American football defensive tackle, Pro Bowl
Born
July 4th, 1986 39 years ago

Played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). Had stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Denver Broncos, Washington Redskins, and New England Patriots. Achieved Pro Bowl selection in 2013 while with the Broncos, helping the team reach Super Bowl 48. Contributed to the teams with key tackles and defensive plays throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Marte Elden

Norwegian skier and Olympic medalist
Born
July 4th, 1986 39 years ago

Born in 1986, this athlete specialized in cross-country skiing, making significant contributions to the sport. Competed in multiple World Championships, achieving remarkable results. Participated in the 2010 Winter Olympics and secured a medal, cementing a place in the history of Norwegian skiing. Continued competing at high levels, showcasing skills and endurance in various international events.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 7th

Ron Saunders

Football manager and player
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2019 5 years ago — 87 years old

Played as a forward and later became a football manager. Managed several clubs, including Portsmouth, and guided Aston Villa to win the First Division title in the 1980-81 season. Also had a successful tenure at Norwich City, leading them to the top tier of English football. Throughout a career that spanned decades, he was respected for his tactical acumen and his ability to develop players.

Continue Reading

Joan Bennett

American actress in classic cinema
Born
February 27th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1990 34 years ago — 80 years old

Debuted in film in the silent era and transitioned smoothly into talkies. Played significant roles in films such as 'Little Women' and 'Scarlet Street'. Achieved acclaim for performances in film noir during the 1940s. Also had a successful television career, notably starring in the soap opera 'Dark Shadows' in the late 1960s.

Continue Reading

Huntley Gordon

Canadian-American actor in silent films
Born
October 8th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1956 68 years ago — 77 years old

Active during the silent film era, this actor appeared in numerous films. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Love Burglar' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'. Transitioned into sound films with notable roles in early talkies. Worked extensively in both Hollywood and Canadian cinema.

Continue Reading

Eric Portman

English Actor in classic films
Born
July 13th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1969 55 years ago — 68 years old

An English actor emerged in the early 20th century, gaining prominence during the 1940s. Significant contributions included performances in films such as 'The 39 Steps' and 'The Ghost Train'. Portman frequently collaborated with notable directors and became recognized for his strong, character-driven roles. His stage career included work in Shakespearean productions, showcasing his versatility as a performer. After serving in the military during World War II, he resumed his acting career and continued to influence the British film industry throughout his life.

Continue Reading

Innocent IV

Pope during the 13th century
Born
1195 830 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1254 770 years ago — 59 years old

Served as Pope from 1243 until death in 1254. Initiated the process of canonizing many saints, including St. Francis of Assisi. Convened the famous Second Council of Lyon in 1274, aimed at addressing issues within the Church and promoting unity, especially with Eastern Christianity. Engaged in significant diplomatic efforts, particularly with the Mongol Empire, aiming to establish peace and spread Christianity. Defined papal supremacy and authority through various papal bulls and edicts.

Continue Reading

Saul Steinberg

American businessman and financier
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent businessman and financier focused on investment banking and asset management. Founded a significant investment firm and played a crucial role in the structuring of various financial transactions. Involved in real estate investments and diversified financial services, contributing to major deals throughout his career. Established a reputation for strategic financial decision-making and innovative investment approaches.

Continue Reading