Ulric Cross
Trinidadian diplomat and judge
A navigator, judge, and diplomat from Trinidad, contributed significantly to the fields of law and international relations. Served as a judge on the Caribbean Court of Justice and contributed to the establishment of various legal frameworks in the Caribbean. Actively participated in the independence movement in various Caribbean nations, advocating for self-governance. Held several key diplomatic roles, representing his country and region in various international forums.
Served as a judge on the Caribbean Court of Justice
Participated in the Caribbean independence movement
Held significant diplomatic positions
Other People Born on May 1st
Danielle Darrieux
French actress and singer
Born
May 1st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 100 years old
Born in France, a prominent film and stage actress and singer. Career commenced in the 1930s, with roles in French cinema that spanned several decades. Starred in notable films such as 'La Ronde' and 'Madame de...' which showcased remarkable talent and versatility. Active during both World Wars, continued to perform well into the 21st century, demonstrating longevity in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAnna Jarvis
Founder of Mother's Day in America
Born
May 1st, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1948 77 years ago — 84 years old
Founded Mother's Day as a holiday to honor mothers and their contributions. The first official celebration took place in 1908 in Grafton, West Virginia. Advocated for the recognition of the day on a national level. This effort led to Mother's Day being officially recognized in the United States in 1914. Later expressed concerns about the commercialization of the holiday and its deviation from its original intent.
Continue ReadingAlexander William Williamson
English chemist and academic
Born
May 1st, 1824 201 years ago
Died
1904 122 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in organic chemistry. Developed Williamson ether synthesis, an important method for forming ethers. Held a position as a professor at University College London. Published many influential papers that advanced chemical knowledge during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingJames Clarence Mangan
Irish poet and author of 'The Love Song'
Born
May 1st, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1849 177 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1803, this individual became a prominent figure in 19th-century Irish literature. The poet contributed significantly to the Irish literary revival and is celebrated for profound and lyrical poetry that often reflected themes of despair and longing. Influenced by earlier poets and the romantic movement, wrote numerous poems that capture the spirit of his times. His works were published in various Irish journals and collections, garnering attention for their emotional depth and innovative use of language.
Continue ReadingChristian Benítez
Ecuadorian footballer; top league scorer
Born
May 1st, 1986 39 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2013 12 years ago — 27 years old
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Achieved prominence in various clubs, especially with El Nacional and Club América. Excelled in the Ecuador national team, contributing to their participation in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Winning multiple league titles and cups in Ecuador and Mexico marked a significant part of the career. Recognized for exceptional scoring abilities and work ethic on the field.
Continue ReadingNikolai Yezhov
Russian police officer and politician
Born
May 1st, 1895 130 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1940 86 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a key figure in the Soviet secret police, Yezhov rose to prominence during the Great Purge initiated by Joseph Stalin. Played a crucial role in orchestrating widespread repression, leading to the arrest and execution of thousands of perceived enemies of the state. His tenure marked an intensification of state terror in the late 1930s, known for implementing harsh measures against dissent, including the extensive use of show trials. Eventually fell from favor, leading to his arrest and execution in 1940 as part of the ongoing purges.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 4th
Rembrandt
Dutch painter and etcher, The Night Watch
Born
July 15th, 1606 419 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1669 356 years ago — 63 years old
Born in the Netherlands, this artist became one of the most influential figures in European art history. His work during the Dutch Golden Age included portraits, landscapes, and biblical scenes, noted for their dramatic use of light and shadow. The artist's innovative techniques in oil painting and etching defined a generation. Over his lifetime, he produced more than 600 paintings, 300 etchings, and 2,000 drawings. Many of his works reflect deep psychological insight and masterful storytelling, contributing to a new approach in art during that era.
Continue ReadingBernard Buffet
French painter of Expressionist works
Born
July 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1999 26 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Paris, a prominent figure in the mid-20th century French art scene. Buffet developed a distinctive style characterized by bold lines and vivid colors, often depicting somber themes. He gained recognition during the 1940s and 1950s, producing a considerable body of work that included portraits, still lifes, and landscapes. His association with the Art Brut movement and being a member of the tachisme group drew attention to his work, leading to exhibitions across Europe and America. Besides painting, he worked in various media, including printmaking and stage design. Buffet's contribution to art was marked by the creation of numerous artworks that reflected the existential sentiments of his time.
Continue ReadingAlar Kotli
Estonian architect and urban planner
Born
August 27th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1963 62 years ago — 59 years old
An architect and urban planner contributed to the development of Estonian architecture in the mid-20th century. Worked as the chief designer for the planning of several significant buildings in Tallinn, including the Estonian National Museum and the Tallinn City Hall. Participated in creating urban plans that reflected modernist principles. His architectural philosophy emphasized functionality while integrating contemporary design with local cultural elements. Survived the challenges of political changes throughout his career and played a significant role in shaping Estonia's architectural landscape during the Soviet era.
Continue ReadingAnne Sexton
Poet and author of 'Live or Die'
Born
November 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1974 51 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1928 in Newton, Massachusetts, this American poet became a central figure in confessional poetry. Notably, the work 'Live or Die' received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1967. Her poetry often explored themes of mental illness and personal experience, providing insight into the struggles of women during her time. As an academic, she taught at several institutions and contributed to the literary community through her teaching and mentorship. Sexton’s candid approach revolutionized the way poetry tackled personal and societal issues.
Continue ReadingFyodor Cherenkov
Footballer and manager, Spartak Moscow
Born
July 25th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 55 years old
A retired Russian footballer and manager, Cherenkov played primarily as a midfielder. His professional career commenced in 1977, spending most of it with Spartak Moscow, where he achieved significant success. Cherenkov was a key player for Spartak, contributing to multiple Soviet Top League titles during the 1980s. After retiring, he transitioned into management and held various coaching positions.
Continue ReadingHugo Carvana
Brazilian actor and filmmaker
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 77 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter from Brazil, Carvana gained recognition for a range of performances in Brazilian cinema and theater. Active during the 20th century, Carvana contributed significantly to the film industry with works that showcased Brazilian culture and humor. Notable projects include leading roles in films such as 'O Homem que Desafiou o Diabo' and 'Se Eu Fosse Rico'. Carvana also directed and produced numerous films that highlighted social issues and life in Brazil.
Continue Reading