Stephen Boyd
American actor from Northern Ireland
Born in Northern Ireland, an actor achieved prominence in the 1960s. Starred in the film 'Ben-Hur' as Messala, showcasing a significant performance that contributed to the movie's critical acclaim. Worked in various genres including drama and action, earning recognition for versatility. Appeared in several notable films including 'The Fall of the Roman Empire' and 'The Third Secret'. His career spanned over two decades, featuring numerous television appearances and films until his passing in 1977.
Starred as Messala in 'Ben-Hur'
Appeared in 'The Fall of the Roman Empire'
Featured in 'The Third Secret'
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 ReadingKing Taufa'ahau Tupou IV
Monarch of Tonga and constitutional reformer
Born
July 4th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2006 20 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 ReadingLeona Helmsley
American hotelier and real estate leader
Born
July 4th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent business figure in the hotel and real estate industry, operated the Helmsley Hotels. Gained notoriety for operating high-end hotels in New York City, including the famous Parker Meridien and the Grand Hyatt. Her business strategies and controversies garnered significant media attention throughout her career. Became a key figure in the New York social scene during the 1980s, often associated with luxury living and extravagant lifestyles. Her legal troubles in the late 1980s and her eventual conviction for tax evasion, which led to a four-year prison sentence, marked significant turning points in her life.
Continue ReadingStephen Foster
American composer of parlor music
Born
July 4th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1864 162 years ago — 37 years old
A significant American composer and songwriter, primarily associated with the mid-19th century. Contributed immensely to the development of American music, particularly through parlor songs and minstrel shows. Foster's compositions include lyrical melodies that reflect the social themes of his time. Many of his works have become enduring pieces in American musical heritage. Foster's ability to capture sentiment in song has led to continued performances of his music well beyond his lifetime.
Continue ReadingMurad III
Ottoman Sultan during the 16th century
Born
July 4th, 1546 479 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1595 431 years ago — 48 years old
Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1574 to 1595, the reign marked a period of military campaigns and cultural development. Led several military campaigns against Persia and in the Levant, notably the conquest of Tabriz. Established institutions that promoted trade and culture, contributing to the flourishing of arts and architecture in the empire. Known for the construction of significant architectural works including the Yeni Valide Mosque. Also involved in the administration of the empire, overseeing its affairs during a time of considerable power.
Continue ReadingPrince Michael of Kent
British royal and businessman
Born
July 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Born on July 4, 1942, a member of the British royal family and a cousin of Queen Elizabeth II. Engaged in various business ventures and charitable activities, often focusing on the interests of the royal family abroad. Also served as a representative for the United Kingdom on various official visits and functions. Worked in the City of London and pursued a career in marketing and business development. Involved in cultural and historical preservation efforts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 2nd
Ted a'Beckett
Australian cricketer and lawyer
Born
August 11th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1989 36 years ago — 81 years old
Played cricket for Victoria and represented Australia in Test matches. Participated in 11 Test matches from 1931 to 1938. Also worked as a lawyer after his cricketing career, contributing to legal practices in Australia.
Continue ReadingMario Bernardi
Canadian pianist and conductor
Born
August 20th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
A pianist and conductor, significant contributions were made to the Canadian music scene. Led the National Arts Centre Orchestra for many years, enhancing its profile and quality. Conducted numerous orchestras globally, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Collaborated with many distinguished soloists and ensembles, promoting classical music through performances and recordings.
Continue ReadingIrwin Rose
Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent biologist and academic, contributed to the understanding of protein degradation. Developed the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, which is essential for cellular regulation. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2004 for discovering how cells regulate protein levels. Served as a professor and mentor, influencing future generations of scientists. Held significant positions in various academic institutions throughout the career.
Continue ReadingLarry Allen
American football offensive lineman
Born
November 27th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 52 years old
An offensive lineman excelled in American football, playing primarily for the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). Selected in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft, established a reputation as one of the most dominant guards in league history. Played a crucial role in the Cowboys' offensive line during the team's success in the 1990s. Achieved Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors during career, which spanned 14 seasons.
Continue ReadingDavid Levy
Israeli politician and former mayor
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Israeli politician served as the mayor of Jerusalem from 1993 to 2003. Levy held various positions in government, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Housing and Construction. Played a significant role in the development of Jerusalem during his tenure as mayor, promoting urban and cultural initiatives. Also participated in negotiations to advance peace processes in the region.
Continue ReadingShane O'Neill
Irish noble and dynasty leader
Born
1530 496 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1567 458 years ago — 37 years old
Head of the O'Neill dynasty, whose leadership played a significant role in the power dynamics of 16th-century Ireland. Engaged in conflicts against English rule, emphasizing traditional Gaelic authority. Conducted military campaigns to assert control over Ulster and sought to strengthen the position of Gaelic lords. Exerted influence over the English crown and attempted to navigate the complexities of the Tudor conquest.
Continue Reading