Wesley Addy
American actor in television and film
An American actor, prominent during the mid-20th century, worked extensively in television and film. Appeared in leading roles on series such as 'The Edge of Night' and 'The Defenders'. Had a successful career in Broadway, particularly celebrated for performances in productions like 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'. Also featured in movies including 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'.
Portrayed the character of Steve in 'The Edge of Night'
Starred in 'The Defenders'
Appeared in the Broadway production of 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'
Acted in films such as 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'
Other People Born on August 4th
Barack Obama
44th President of the United States
Born
August 4th, 1961 64 years ago
Served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. Delivered significant legislation including the Affordable Care Act. Nominated and awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 for extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples. Prior to presidency, served as a U.S. Senator from Illinois from 2005 to 2008. Authored several books, including 'Dreams from My Father' and 'A Promised Land.'
Continue ReadingGábor Demszky
Hungarian politician and sociologist
Born
August 4th, 1952 73 years ago
A prominent sociologist and lawyer, played a significant role in Hungarian politics post-1989. Co-founded the Alliance of Free Democrats, which became influential in the country's transition to democracy. Served as mayor of Budapest from 1990 to 1994 and again from 1998 to 2002, overseeing urban development and various city initiatives. Actively participated in civil rights movements and advocated for numerous social policies throughout his career.
Continue ReadingWilliam Holman
Politician, 19th Premier of New South Wales
Born
August 4th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1934 91 years ago — 62 years old
Served as the 19th Premier of New South Wales from 1910 to 1913. Contributed to the establishment of public utilities and advanced social reforms during tenure. Advocated for labor rights and played a significant role in the development of the Australian Labor Party. Held various positions within the New South Wales Parliament.
Continue ReadingJohn Wark
Scottish footballer and sportscaster
Born
August 4th, 1957 68 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Started his career with the youth team at Dundee United before moving to Ipswich Town in 1977. Achieved notable success with Ipswich, contributing to the team's victory in the FA Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981. Also represented the Scottish national team on 29 occasions, participating in the 1982 FIFA World Cup. After retiring from playing, transitioned to sportscasting, providing commentary and analysis for various networks.
Continue ReadingPope Urban VII
Pope during the year 1590
Born
August 4th, 1521 504 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1590 435 years ago — 69 years old
Elected as Pope in 1590, served for only 13 days before death, marking one of the shortest papacies in history. Prior to papacy, held various positions within the Church, including Cardinal. Worked towards ecclesiastical reforms and improved church finances. Urban VII was noted for his compassion towards the poor and was instrumental in implementing measures for their well-being.
Continue ReadingKnut Hamsun
Norwegian novelist and Nobel laureate
Born
August 4th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1952 73 years ago — 92 years old
Pioneered modernist literature, focusing on psychological themes, nature, and introspection. Published works include 'Hunger', 'Growth of the Soil', and 'Hunger' garnered international acclaim. 'Growth of the Soil' won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1920. Contributions to literature emphasized the inner workings of the human mind and the struggle for identity. Explored the complexities of human experience and the relationship with nature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Valerian Wellesley
British Duke, politician, and soldier
Born
July 2nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2014 10 years ago — 99 years old
Served as the 8th Duke of Wellington, holding a prominent role in the House of Lords. Participated in military service during World War II, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Engaged in politics, advocating for various causes and contributing to legislative discussions. Inherited the title of Duke in 1943, representing a historic lineage linked to the Battle of Waterloo. Maintained a lifelong connection to the family estate at Stratfield Saye, preserving the legacy of the Wellington family.
Continue ReadingHenry Maitland Wilson
English Field Marshal and 1st Baron Wilson
Born
September 5th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1964 60 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a British Army officer during World War I and World War II. Held prominent positions, including Commander of the British 8th Army during the Second Battle of El Alamein. Led Allied forces in the Mediterranean theater and contributed to significant military strategies. Became Chief of the Imperial General Staff in 1944, overseeing British military operations.
Continue ReadingBarry Lane
Professional Golfer with numerous titles
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2022 2 years ago — 62 years old
A professional golfer who enjoyed a successful career primarily in the European Tour and Champions Tour. Achieved notable success in the 1990s and 2000s, securing multiple tournament victories. Lane had a reputation for consistency on the course and represented England internationally, including participation in the World Cup of Golf. His career spanned over three decades, during which he competed against many top players in the sport.
Continue ReadingMarshall McLuhan
Media theorist, wrote 'Understanding Media'
Born
July 21st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1980 44 years ago — 69 years old
An influential media theorist and author, focused on the effects of media on communication and culture. Played a significant role in the study of media ecology and its impact on human perception. Introduced concepts such as 'the medium is the message' and 'global village'. Published seminal works including 'Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man' and 'The Gutenberg Galaxy'.
Continue ReadingOttokar III of Styria
Duke of Styria and noted ruler
Born
1124 901 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1164 860 years ago — 40 years old
Ruled as Duke of Styria from 1122 until death in 1164. Established the foundations for the later Duchy of Styria. Strengthened the power of the duchy and engaged in territorial expansion during the period. Played a significant role in regional politics and alliances within the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingBasil Wolverton
Author and illustrator of comics
Born
July 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1978 46 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in comic book art and illustration, gained recognition for distinctive style and humor. Contributed extensively to various comic series, particularly with his work for 'Mad Magazine.' Created iconic characters and contributed to the medium with unique and often surreal illustrations. Influenced generations of artists and left a significant legacy in the realm of comics.
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