Sam Ervin
American politician and lawyer, Watergate
This American lawyer and politician served as a U.S. Senator from North Carolina from 1954 to 1974. Ervin played a significant role as chair of the Senate Watergate Committee, overseeing the investigation into the Watergate scandal during the early 1970s. His work during the hearings brought national attention to the event and to issues of government accountability and transparency. Following his time in the Senate, Ervin remained active in public life, contributing to discussions on civil rights and government reform.
Chair of the Senate Watergate Committee
Served as U.S. Senator from North Carolina
Other People Born on September 27th
Graham Richardson
Australian politician and journalist
Born
September 27th, 1949 76 years ago
Served as the 39th Australian Minister for Health from 1983 to 1984. Contributed to Australia's political landscape primarily as a member of the Australian Labor Party. Worked in various journalism roles, providing insights into political developments. Played a significant role in health policy during tenure as Minister.
Continue ReadingNinmyō
Japanese emperor during Heian period
Born
September 27th, 808 1217 years ago
Died
May 6th, 850 1175 years ago — 41 years old
A Japanese emperor reigned from 834 to 850 during the Heian period. Ascended to the throne following the abdication of predecessor. Oversaw a time characterized by cultural growth and the establishment of a court-centered society. His reign coincided with the flourishing of literature, poetry, and art, solidifying the Heian period as a significant era in Japanese history. Contributed to the stability of the imperial court and the continuation of established traditions amid various challenges. Passed away at a relatively young age, marking the end of his short reign but leaving behind a lasting legacy in Japanese governance.
Continue ReadingAndrej Hlinka
Slovak priest and politician
Born
September 27th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1938 87 years ago — 73 years old
Involved in the Slovak national movement, played a prominent role in advocating for Slovak rights within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Elected as a member of the Hungarian Parliament, worked on issues concerning Slovak autonomy. Founded the Slovak People's Party in 1918, which aimed at the political representation of Slovaks. Contributed to the establishment of Czechoslovakia following World War I.
Continue ReadingAsashōryū Akinori
Mongolian sumo wrestler, 68th Yokozuna
Born
September 27th, 1980 45 years ago
Became the first Mongolian to earn the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in sumo wrestling. Debuted in professional sumo in 1999 and achieved the Yokozuna title in 2003. Returned to competition after a brief retirement, continuing to lead in tournaments. Won a total of 25 top division championships before retirement in 2010. Played a significant role in popularizing sumo outside of Japan.
Continue ReadingAbraham Gotthelf Kästner
German mathematician and epigrammatist
Born
September 27th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1800 225 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1719, a mathematician and epigrammatist contributed significantly to mathematics and literature. Kästner was influential in promoting mathematical thought and education through teaching and writing. His works included textbooks and studies that facilitated understanding of various mathematical concepts. He also wrote epigrams that reflected societal themes and intellectual ideas of the time, showcasing wit and insight. Beyond academia, Kästner's engagement with mathematical societies and his role in academic circles helped advance the discipline in Germany.
Continue ReadingMilton Subotsky
Screenwriter and producer, Amicus Productions
Born
September 27th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1991 34 years ago — 69 years old
Co-founded Amicus Productions, a British film production company that became prominent for creating a successful series of horror films during the 1960s and 1970s. Contributed as a screenwriter and producer for notable works including 'Dr. Terror's House of Horrors' and 'The Vault of Horror'. The company specialized in anthology films that highlighted several horror stories in one film, which gained a cult following. Worked alongside key figures in the horror genre and influenced the style of British horror cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 23rd
Cesar Chavez
Labor union leader and civil rights activist
Born
March 31st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1993 32 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1927, a prominent labor leader and civil rights activist dedicated to improving conditions for farm workers. Co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) in 1962, advocating for labor rights through nonviolent protests and strikes. Instrumental in garnering national attention for the plight of agricultural workers in the United States. His efforts included leading California grape boycotts, which resulted in improved wages and working conditions. Worked closely with other civil rights leaders to address social justice issues affecting marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingJames Earl Ray
American assassin of Martin Luther King Jr.
Born
March 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1998 27 years ago — 70 years old
Involved in criminal activities during early years, committed the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. Captured in June 1968, received a 99-year prison sentence. Initially confessed to the crime but later recanted. Despite numerous appeals and attempts to seek a trial, remained in prison until death. His actions led to significant national and international conversations about civil rights and racial tensions in the United States.
Continue ReadingJohn C. Stennis
American politician and lawyer
Born
August 3rd, 1901 124 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1995 30 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a United States Senator from Mississippi from 1947 to 1989. Played a significant role in various legislative actions, including defense appropriations and civil rights legislation. Chaired the Senate Armed Services Committee for many years, focusing on military matters and national defense policy. Contributed to the establishment of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in the 1960s. Acknowledged for his lengthy tenure and substantial influence in shaping Southern politics during his career.
Continue ReadingAlexander I of Scotland
King of Scotland, strengthened monarchy
Born
1078 948 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1124 901 years ago — 46 years old
Ruled as King of Scotland from 1107 until 1124. Worked to consolidate and strengthen the Scottish monarchy following the reign of Malcolm III. Advocated for the church, supported its autonomy, and sought to improve relations with England. Initiated reforms aimed at stabilizing the kingdom and expanding its influence. Focused on centralizing authority and bolstering the legal framework of the realm. Died on April 23, 1124, and was buried at Dunfermline Abbey.
Continue ReadingInge II of Norway
King of Norway during the civil war era
Born
1185 841 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1217 808 years ago — 32 years old
Ruled as King of Norway from 1217 until death. Associated with the turbulent period of Norwegian civil wars, which involved multiple claimants to the throne. Briefly served as king after the death of his half-brother, Sigurd. His reign was characterized by conflicts between various factions, including the Birkebeiner and the supporters of other royal pretenders. Inge II's rule faced challenges from rival factions, ultimately leading to a struggle for stability within the realm. Died in 1217, leaving Norway in a fragmented state of power.
Continue ReadingÆthelred the Unready
English King during Viking invasions
Died
April 23rd, 1016 1009 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the throne of England at a young age after the death of his half-brother, faced significant challenges during a period of sustained Viking invasions. The reign included attempts to negotiate peace with the Vikings through tribute payments, which ultimately proved ineffective. Despite military efforts, the invasions persisted, leading to substantial territorial losses. His reign was marked by internal strife and struggles for power among the nobility. Æthelred's actions during this tumultuous time, including the infamous St. Brice's Day massacre, are often scrutinized. He experienced several exiles before eventually reclaiming the throne. His reign ended with his death in 1016.
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