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
George Steinbrenner
Businessman, owner of the Yankees
Born
July 4th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2010 15 years ago — 80 years old
An American businessman, led the New York Yankees as principal owner from 1973 until his death in 2010. Oversaw a major financial turnaround for the franchise, transforming it into a highly profitable sports entity. Focused on aggressive marketing strategies and player acquisitions. The team won seven World Series championships during his tenure, contributing to the Yankees' status as one of the most successful franchises in Major League Baseball history.
Continue ReadingGérard Debreu
Economist and mathematician, Nobel laureate
Born
July 4th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2004 21 years ago — 83 years old
An economist and mathematician contributed significantly to the field of economic theory. Developed the concept of 'general equilibrium' in economics, elaborating on the conditions under which supply equals demand in multiple markets. Published seminal works that combined aspects of mathematics and economics, most notably 'Theory of Value' in 1959. Received the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel in 1983 for contributions to understanding market behavior.
Continue ReadingHiram Walker
American businessman, Canadian Club founder
Born
July 4th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1899 127 years ago — 82 years old
Established Canadian Club, a renowned whisky brand. Founded Hiram Walker & Sons distillery in Ontario, which became a leading whisky producer. Pioneered the production techniques that contributed to the quality and popularity of Canadian whisky during the late 19th century. Expanded business operations and played a significant role in the growth of the spirits industry in Canada.
Continue ReadingAlluri Sitarama Raju
Indian activist and revolutionary leader
Born
July 4th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1924 101 years ago — 26 years old
An Indian activist, played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement against British rule in the 1920s. Engaged in the fight for the rights of tribal populations, initiated the Rampa Rebellion in 1922 in the Eastern Ghats of India. Advocated for the rights of local villagers and fought against oppressive policies imposed by the British government. Became a prominent figure in the struggle for freedom, rallying support from local communities and employing guerrilla tactics.
Continue ReadingFred Wesley
Jazz and funk trombonist, bandleader
Born
July 4th, 1943 82 years ago
A prominent figure in jazz and funk music, this trombonist contributed significantly to the genre from the 1960s onward. He played with the legendary band Parliament-Funkadelic and was a key member of the J.B.'s, the backing band for James Brown. His innovative playing style and composition skills influenced many musicians in the funk genre. In addition to his performance work, he has been involved in music education and has published instructional materials. A prolific arranger, his contributions to the sound of funk music are widely recognized within the music community.
Continue ReadingHenrietta Swan Leavitt
American astronomer studying Cepheid variables
Born
July 4th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1921 104 years ago — 53 years old
An American astronomer and academic contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through research on variable stars, specifically Cepheid variables. Developed a method to determine distances to far-off galaxies using the relationship between a Cepheid's luminosity and its pulsation period. This work laid the foundation for later discoveries regarding the expansion of the universe. Worked at the Harvard College Observatory, where many female astronomers operated under the title of 'computers', analyzing star data and making crucial astronomical advancements during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 7th
Emiko Miyamoto
Japanese volleyball player
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2023 2 years ago — 86 years old
Played as a professional volleyball player in Japan. Achieved significant success in the sport, representing the national team in major international competitions. Competed in the 2020 Summer Olympics held in Tokyo, contributing to the team's efforts in reaching the event. Played for prominent teams in Japan's V.League, becoming one of the well-regarded athletes in the league.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Zephaniah
English poet and playwright
Born
April 15th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2023 2 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1958, this individual gained recognition as a poet and playwright, intertwining themes of social justice and personal experience within the works. He published collections of poetry such as 'Talking Tombstones' and 'Too Black, Too Strong'. As an author, he wrote children's literature alongside novels, often focusing on issues of race, identity, and culture. He also made contributions to theater, with plays such as 'The Death of Freedom' being performed. Moreover, he performed in television and film, appearing in productions like 'Peaky Blinders.' His career also involved activism, influencing social change through literature and performance.
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 ReadingNicholas Murray Butler
Philosopher, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 2nd, 1862 163 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1947 78 years ago — 85 years old
An influential philosopher and academic, associated with Columbia University for many years. Served as president of the university and contributed significantly to its development. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1931 for his writings, particularly focusing on his views regarding peace and the role of education in society. Engaged in various international educational and cultural initiatives.
Continue ReadingWilliam Bligh
English admiral and governor
Born
September 9th, 1754 271 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1817 208 years ago — 63 years old
An English admiral and politician, contributed to naval history during the late 18th century. Bligh served as the 4th Governor of New South Wales from 1806 to 1808. His tenure as governor was marked by tensions between the colonists and British authorities, leading to his eventual removal from office. He also commanded the HMS Bounty, famously facing a mutiny led by Fletcher Christian in 1789 after attempting to enforce strict discipline on the ship. Bligh's subsequent journey of over 3,600 nautical miles in an open boat to reach safety showcased his navigational skills and resilience.
Continue ReadingKari Tapio
Finnish singer with chart-topping hits
Born
November 22nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2010 15 years ago — 65 years old
Began a career in music in the 1960s, with significant contributions to the Finnish music scene. Released numerous albums and became a household name. His distinct style and emotional delivery resonated with audiences, leading to a string of successful singles throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved great popularity with a blend of traditional and modern influences, culminating in a vibrant discography. Continued to perform until the end of his life, solidifying his legacy within Finnish culture.
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