Thomas D'Arcy McGee
Irish-Canadian politician and journalist
Born in Ireland, played a significant role in Canadian politics and journalism. Moved to Canada in 1842, where engagement in political affairs began. Advocated for the Confederation of Canada and served as a member of the Canadian Parliament. Contributed to numerous publications, particularly focusing on topics such as Irish nationalism and Canadian unity. McGee was assassinated in 1868, becoming a martyr for the cause of Canadian nationalism.
Advocated for Canadian Confederation
Served as a member of the Canadian Parliament
Wrote extensively on Irish nationalism
Other People Born on April 13th
Max Mosley
Racing executive and engineer
Born
April 13th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 81 years old
Born in England, a prominent figure in motorsport engineering and administration. Co-founded March Engineering, which became a successful race car manufacturer in the 1970s and 1980s. Served as president of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) from 1993 to 2009, overseeing significant regulatory and safety developments in Formula One and other motorsport disciplines. Instrumental in implementing safety measures following high-profile accidents in the sport. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the FIA's Formula E championship focused on electric racing.
Continue ReadingFrank Winfield Woolworth
Businessman who founded Woolworth's
Born
April 13th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent American businessman founded the F. W. Woolworth Company, pioneering the concept of the five-and-dime store. Established the first self-service retail store model that influenced modern retail shopping. The first store opened in Utica, New York in 1879, leading to the rapid expansion of numerous locations across the United States and internationally. His business approach emphasized affordability and accessibility, creating a new shopping experience for consumers. Contributions to retail set the stage for future discount retailers.
Continue ReadingArthur Fadden
Australian politician and Prime Minister
Born
April 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1973 52 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 13th Prime Minister of Australia from August to November 1941. Led the Country Party and held the position of Treasurer. Guided economic policy during World War II and was involved in wartime finance discussions. Played a key role in the establishment of the national health program. Managed fiscal challenges and promoted post-war recovery plans.
Continue ReadingRichard Trevithick
Engineer and inventor of the steam engine
Born
April 13th, 1771 254 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1833 192 years ago — 62 years old
Born in Cornwall, an engineer and inventor focused on steam power. Developed the high-pressure steam engine, which was a significant advancement in engine technology. Constructed the first full-scale working railway steam locomotive in 1804, which operated on the Penydarren Ironworks' tramway in South Wales. His innovations laid foundational work for the future of locomotion and industrial machinery, influencing transportation and engineering.
Continue ReadingThomas Jefferson
American politician, 3rd President
Born
April 13th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1826 199 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809. Drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776, articulating the principles of individual liberty and government by consent. Played a pivotal role in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which expanded U.S. territory significantly. Oversaw the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the western territories. Jefferson was a member of the Continental Congress and the first Secretary of State.
Continue ReadingMaurice Buckley
Australian sergeant in World War I
Born
April 13th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1921 104 years ago — 29 years old
Served as a sergeant in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I. Participated in significant battles, including the Battle of the Somme. Demonstrated leadership and bravery in combat situations. Wounded in action, contributing to the war efforts through service in the trenches. His tenure ended with his death in 1921, marking a significant period in Australian military history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 7th
Joe Kinnear
Football manager and player
Born
December 27th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
Played for clubs including Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United as a defender. Transitioned to management after retirement, taking charge of various clubs including Wimbledon, Luton Town, and Newcastle United. Guided the teams through various league campaigns and had a notable stint at Newcastle where significant attention was drawn during management due to his outspoken nature.
Continue ReadingDave Arneson
Game designer, co-created Dungeons & Dragons
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old
A game designer specialized in tabletop role-playing games. Contributed significantly to the gaming industry by co-creating the seminal game Dungeons & Dragons alongside Gary Gygax. This game introduced innovative mechanics and storytelling elements that set the foundation for modern role-playing games. The first edition was published in 1974, capturing the imagination of countless players and influencing the development of future tabletop and video game genres. Arneson also worked on various other games and expansions, showcasing creativity in game design.
Continue ReadingP. T. Barnum
Circus co-founder and showman
Born
July 5th, 1810 215 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1891 134 years ago — 80 years old
An American businessman and politician, this individual co-founded The Barnum & Bailey Circus, which became known as 'The Greatest Show on Earth.' Initially gaining prominence as a showman with the exhibition of curiosities, this figure embraced entertainment and spectacle as a business model. The circus encompassed a wide variety of acts, including performances by acrobats, clowns, and animal acts. Alongside the success of the circus, this person was also involved in politics, serving as the mayor of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Through strategic marketing and sensationalism, this individual cultivated a significant legacy in the entertainment sector.
Continue ReadingBerengar I of Italy
King of Italy and Holy Roman Emperor
Died
April 7th, 924 1101 years ago — None years old
Ruled as King of Italy from 888 until death in 924 and held the title of Holy Roman Emperor from 915. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions and attempts to consolidate power in northern Italy. Berengar I faced ongoing challenges from various nobles and external threats, particularly from the Saracens and the Magyars. His efforts to unify and stabilize the region included military campaigns and political alliances. Berengar I was ousted briefly in 901 but later regained control. His reign was a significant period in early medieval Italian history, characterized by fragmentation and the competition for power among various tribal entities.
Continue ReadingMaria Doolaeghe
Flemish novelist and playwright
Born
October 25th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1884 141 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in 19th-century Flemish literature, contributed significantly with novels and plays that captured the social issues of the time. Doolaeghe's works often explored themes of personal struggle and societal norms. Among her contributions, the novel 'Het Leven van een Vrouw' gained attention for its poignant portrayal of women's lives. The influence extended beyond her writing as Doolaeghe also engaged in literary activism, fostering the development of Flemish as a literary language.
Continue ReadingLudu Daw Amar
Burmese journalist and author
Born
November 29th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2008 17 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent journalist and author in Burma, engaged in significant literary and journalistic endeavors. Contributed to the development of the literary landscape in Myanmar by publishing various works that reflected the socio-political issues of the time. Founded and edited the magazine 'Ludu' which became a platform for literary expression and political commentary. Advocated for social justice and freedom of expression through writing and journalism, often facing challenges due to political censorship.
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