Stephen Foster
American composer of parlor music
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.
Wrote 'Oh! Susanna'
Composed 'Camptown Races'
Created 'Swanee River (Old Folks at Home)'
Other People Born on July 4th
Ashikaga Yoshiakira
Japanese shōgun during the Muromachi period
Born
July 4th, 1330 695 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1367 657 years ago — 37 years old
Served as the third shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate from 1351 until 1367. Oversaw the period of the Northern and Southern Courts in Japan, a significant civil conflict that arose during the Nanboku-chō period. Yoshiakira’s leadership was marked by attempts to consolidate power and bring stability to the region amidst the ongoing strife of rival claimants to the throne. Faced with challenges from both internal factions and external pressures, his tenure contributed to the establishment of the Muromachi period's governance framework, which influenced Japanese politics for generations. His rule ended with his death in 1367, leading to a succession crisis.
Continue ReadingVictor Kraft
Austrian philosopher in Vienna Circle
Born
July 4th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1975 50 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed to the development of logical positivism and philosophy of science. Participated in discussions of the Vienna Circle, which emphasized verification and logical inference. Engaged in debates regarding the foundations of mathematics and the philosophy of language. Authored several works critiquing traditional metaphysics and promoting scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingAngela 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 ReadingMichael Johnson
Footballer and manager with coaching success
Born
July 4th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2017 8 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Represented clubs such as Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing. Managed teams including the Jamaican national team, contributing to their football development.
Continue ReadingHal Lanier
Baseball player and manager
Born
July 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball primarily for the San Francisco Giants and the Houston Astros. Transitioned to coaching and managing, taking the role of manager for the Triple-A affiliates of the Houston Astros. Also served as a minor league manager, contributing to player development and team strategies.
Continue ReadingJassem Alwan
Syrian Army Officer
Born
July 4th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Syrian Army. Played a significant role during the early years of the Syrian Arab Republic and was involved in major military operations and political developments within the country. Contributed to military strategy and leadership during critical periods of conflict. His career included engagements that shaped the military landscape of Syria.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 13th
René Bonnet
French race car driver and engineer
Born
December 27th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1983 42 years ago — 78 years old
A French race car driver and engineer, contributed significantly to motorsport during the mid-20th century. Founded the automotive company Bonnet in the 1950s, which designed and manufactured several successful racing cars. Achieved notable success in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and also participated in Formula One races. Involved in engineering innovations that enhanced vehicle performance.
Continue ReadingOliviero Toscani
Italian photographer, renowned for advertising
Born
February 28th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2025 0 years ago — 82 years old
An influential photographer and communication expert, Toscani played a significant role in the development of modern advertising. He was particularly associated with the Italian fashion brand Benetton, where his provocative campaigns often sparked discussions around social issues. His partnerships with various magazines and companies produced campaigns that challenged societal norms, emphasizing issues such as racism, health, and war. Toscani's bold and sometimes controversial approach reshaped advertising's relationship with art and provocation. He also contributed to discussions on visual culture and the importance of aesthetics in communication through his exhibitions and lectures.
Continue ReadingDonny Hathaway
Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
October 1st, 1945 80 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1979 46 years ago — 33 years old
This American singer-songwriter gained recognition for contributions to soul and R&B music during the 1970s. His collaboration with Roberta Flack on the song 'Where Is the Love' achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. Hathaway released acclaimed albums, including 'Everything Is Everything' and 'Donny Hathaway,' which showcased exceptional vocal talent and songwriting skills. His distinctive style combined elements of jazz, gospel, and blues. Hathaway faced mental health challenges throughout his life, which were linked to his untimely death in 1979.
Continue ReadingAino Aalto
Finnish architect and designer
Born
January 25th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1949 76 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent architect and designer, contributed significantly to the field of modern design in Finland. Co-founded the design firm Artek in 1935, specializing in furniture and interior design, which emphasized functionality and simplicity. Aalto's work in architecture included the design of various public and private buildings, showcasing a distinctive style that blended modernism with Finnish traditions. Her design philosophy focused on the integration of architecture and nature, making significant strides in both residential and public spaces.
Continue ReadingJakob Hurt
Estonian theologist and linguist
Born
July 22nd, 1839 186 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1907 118 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to Estonian language and literature, focusing on folklore and language studies. Hurt played a crucial role in the development of the Estonian national identity through linguistic research and advocacy for the native language. Worked as a professor at the University of Tartu and published numerous works that explored the richness of Estonian culture. His efforts in preserving folk songs and tales were essential for the revival of national consciousness during periods of foreign dominance.
Continue ReadingSchuyler Colfax
American politician, 17th Vice President
Born
March 23rd, 1823 202 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1885 140 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the 17th Vice President of the United States from 1869 to 1873 under President Ulysses S. Grant. Before this role, held various political positions, including Speaker of the House of Representatives. Played a significant role in the Reconstruction Era, advocating for civil rights and economic development. Engaged in journalism, contributing to political discourse of the time. After leaving office, faced controversies related to the Credit Mobilier scandal but continued to be involved in public life until death in 1885.
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