Theodoros Kolokotronis
Greek general during the War of Independence
A key military leader in the Greek War of Independence, played a crucial role in the struggle for Greece's liberation from Ottoman rule. He organized and led significant battles, showcasing exceptional leadership and strategy. His contributions were instrumental in the success of the revolution, securing a position as a national hero in Greece's history. After the war, held various roles in the newly established state, influencing the military and political landscape of the country.
Led the Greek forces in the Battle of Dervenakia
Served as the leader of the Struggle for Independence
Other People Born on April 3rd
Nazia Hassan
Pakistani pop singer and lawyer
Born
April 3rd, 1965 60 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2000 25 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1965, an influential Pakistani pop singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1980s with catchy hits that merged Western music styles with South Asian themes. Achievements include winning the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer in 1981. Aside from music, engaged in legal practice and social activism, focusing on women's rights and education. The early career featured collaborations with renowned musicians, leading to iconic songs that contributed to the Pakistani pop culture landscape. Despite a limited musical career span, left a lasting legacy before passing in 2000.
Continue ReadingLouis Applebaum
Canadian composer and conductor
Born
April 3rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2000 25 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent Canadian composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of Canadian music. In 1940, became the first music director for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) Television. Composed many works spanning various genres, including orchestral and choral music. Collaborated with artists across different fields, enhancing the cultural landscape of Canada.
Continue ReadingWilliam Bast
Screenwriter of 'The Killing of Sister George'
Born
April 3rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
A screenwriter and author, this individual contributed to various film and television projects during the mid-20th century. The screenplay for the film 'The Killing of Sister George' became a point of reference in the analysis of LGBTQ+ themes in cinema. In addition to screenplay writing, the individual authored several books that often explored complex characters and societal issues. In 1970, the film adaptation of 'The Killing of Sister George' garnered attention and controversy, solidifying a legacy in screenwriting that addressed themes of sexuality and relationships.
Continue ReadingMary Carpenter
Educational and social reformer
Born
April 3rd, 1807 218 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1877 148 years ago — 70 years old
Born in England, a prominent educational and social reformer focused on improving educational opportunities for the poor and advocating for social welfare. Established training schools for teachers and initiated the first juvenile reformatory. Worked extensively to promote education for girls and women and fought for child welfare laws. Developed the concept of training schools for teachers that influenced future education systems.
Continue ReadingDoris Day
Singer and actress in musicals and films
Born
April 3rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 97 years old
An American singer and actress, emerged in the late 1940s and became a leading figure in the entertainment industry. Achieved widespread fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in iconic films such as 'Pillow Talk', 'Calamity Jane', and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Transitioned seamlessly between music and acting, recording hit songs like 'Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)'. Established an animal welfare foundation later in life, advocating for animal rights and protection.
Continue ReadingLeslie Howard
English actor and director, 'Gone with the Wind'
Born
April 3rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1943 82 years ago — 50 years old
An English actor and director, recognized for contributions to film and theater. Achieved prominence in the early 20th century, particularly for performances in romantic roles. Gained extensive acclaim for portraying Ashley Wilkes in the classic film 'Gone with the Wind'. Also worked in various stage productions, displaying versatility and talent in both acting and directing. Had a significant influence on British cinema during his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 4th
Lodewijk Elzevir
Dutch publisher, co-founder of Elzevir
Born
1546 480 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1617 409 years ago — 71 years old
Co-founded the House of Elzevir, which became a prominent publishing house in the 17th century. Elzevir operated in Leiden and nurtured a reputation for high-quality book production. The press specialized in scholarly works and classical literature. A significant innovation included the development of pocket-sized editions, which improved accessibility to literature. Elzevir's publications contributed to the spread of knowledge during the Dutch Golden Age. The House of Elzevir continued operations long after its founder's death, influencing publishing techniques across Europe.
Continue ReadingÉtienne-Louis Boullée
Architect known for neoclassical designs
Born
February 12th, 1728 297 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1799 227 years ago — 70 years old
An influential French architect and educator, a key figure in the evolution of neoclassicism during the 18th century. Boullée proposed grand architectural concepts characterized by monumental simplicity and clarity of form. His designs often included vast interiors and symbolic architecture, meant to evoke strong emotions. Although many of his projects remained unbuilt, they significantly influenced architectural theory and practice. Boullée's work centered on the idea of architecture as a form of art rather than merely a functional craft. His writings, particularly 'Architecture, essai sur l'art', conveyed his vision of a new aesthetic in architecture that combined beauty and proportion. Several of his most notable projects included the Cenotaph for Isaac Newton, which exemplified his innovative approach to space and light.
Continue ReadingBarry John
Welsh rugby player and Lions star
Born
January 6th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2024 2 years ago — 79 years old
One of the leading fly-halves in rugby union history, contributed significantly to the success of the Welsh national team during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Played a key role in Wales’ Grand Slam victories in 1969 and 1971. His performance in the 1971 series against the All Blacks is often highlighted as one of the greatest in rugby history. Captained the British and Irish Lions during the 1971 tour to New Zealand, leading a team that achieved a historic series win against the All Blacks. After retiring from rugby, transitioned to a successful career as a sports commentator and analyst, sharing insights on the game and its evolution.
Continue ReadingFlorence Green
English soldier and World War II veteran
Born
1901 125 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2012 14 years ago — 111 years old
Served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II. Enlisted in 1941 and contributed to the war efforts as a driver and operator. After the war, lived a private life and shared experiences of service when prompted in later years. Recognized as one of the last surviving veterans of World War II. Passed away in 2012.
Continue ReadingReg Presley
Singer-songwriter of The Troggs
Born
June 12th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2013 13 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent English singer-songwriter gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band The Troggs. The band achieved commercial success in the 1960s with hits such as "Wild Thing" and "With a Girl Like You." As a key figure in the garage rock movement, The Troggs influenced numerous artists in later generations. Presley also ventured into songwriting and released solo material, showcasing his talents beyond the band. In addition to music, Presley had interests in paranormal phenomena, which he explored in later years. He continued to perform until declining health affected his activities, leading to his passing in 2013.
Continue ReadingAntonio del Pollaiuolo
Renaissance artist and painter
Born
January 17th, 1429 597 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1498 528 years ago — 69 years old
Antonio del Pollaiuolo was an Italian painter, sculptor, and engraver active during the Renaissance period. Significant works include 'The Battle of the Ten Nudes' and 'Hercules and Antaeus', both showcasing a mastery of human anatomy and dynamic composition. Pollaiuolo's work displayed a deep understanding of movement and muscle structure, which was a notable advancement in the portrayal of the human figure in art during this era. He played a pivotal role in the development of engraving as an art form, contributing to the dissemination of Renaissance ideas across Europe.
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