April 13 birthdays and deaths:

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the United States, was a visionary leader, lawyer, and statesman who wrote the Declaration of Independence. He served from 1801 to 1809, doubling the country's territory through the Louisiana Purchase.

Birthyear: 1743

Ron Perlman

Ron Perlman is a renowned American actor, best known for his iconic roles as Hellboy in the franchise and Clay Morrow in the TV series Sons of Anarchy. With a career spanning over 40 years, he has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Birthyear: 1950

Allison Williams (actress)

Allison Williams is an American actress and singer, best known for her roles in the HBO series "Girls" and the horror film "Get Out." She's the daughter of NBC news anchor Brian Williams.

Birthyear: 1988

Dan Campbell

Dan Campbell is a former American football tight end and current head coach of the Detroit Lions. He played in the NFL for 10 seasons, mostly with the Detroit Lions, and later coached with the Miami Dolphins and New Orleans Saints before becoming the Lions' head coach in 2021.

Birthyear: 1976

Catherine de' Medici

Catherine de' Medici, the Italian-born Queen of France, wielded significant influence as the wife of Henry II and mother of three French kings. Her machinations shaped France's politics, sparking wars of religion and cementing her notorious reputation in history.

Birthyear: 1519

Guy Fawkes

Guy Fawkes, a conspirator in the notorious Gunpowder Plot of 1605, sought to overthrow King James I by blowing up the English Parliament. Captured and tortured, Fawkes was executed by hanging, drawing, and quartering, his infamous mask later becoming a symbol of rebellion and anonymity.

Birthyear: 1570

Jonathan Brandis

Jonathan Brandis was an American actor, best known for his roles in the TV series "SeaQuest DSV" and the film "The NeverEnding Story II". He began his career as a child actor, appearing in various TV shows and films, earning a Young Artist Award nomination.

Birthyear: 1976

Christopher Hitchens

Christopher Hitchens (1949-2011) was a renowned English-American writer, critic, and journalist. A vocal atheist and anti-theist, he penned influential books like "God Is Not Great" and was a contributing editor at Vanity Fair and The Atlantic. His wit, wisdom, and contrarian views inspired and provoked readers worldwide.

Birthyear: 1949

Paul Sorvino

Paul Sorvino was a versatile actor and singer, best known for his roles in "Goodfellas," "Law & Order," and "The Sopranos." With a powerful voice, he also performed opera and released an album of Italian love songs, showcasing his multifaceted talents.

Birthyear: 1939

Garry Kasparov

Garry Kasparov, a Russian chess grandmaster, is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. He was world champion from 1985 to 1993 and 1993 to 2000. He's also an author, politician, and human rights activist, known for his insightful writing on politics and society.

Birthyear: 1963

Glenn Howerton

Glenn Howerton is an American actor, writer, and producer, best known for creating and starring in the TV series "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" as Dennis Reynolds, alongside Charlie Day and Rob McElhenney.

Birthyear: 1976

Al Green

Al Green is a legendary American singer-songwriter, producer, and pastor known for his soulful, velvety voice and iconic hits like "Let's Stay Together" and "Tired of Being Alone." A pioneer of soul music, Green's music blends gospel, R&B, and funk to create a unique sound.

Birthyear: 1946

Peter Davison

Peter Davison is a renowned English actor, best known for his iconic role as the Fifth Doctor in the BBC sci-fi series "Doctor Who" (1982-1984). He has also appeared in various British TV shows, including "All Creatures Great and Small" and "At Home with the Braithwaites."

Birthyear: 1951

Bokeem Woodbine

Bokeem Woodbine is a talented American actor known for his versatility in film and television. He's had notable roles in "Dead Presidents," "Pan Am," and "Fargo," earning a Primetime Emmy nomination for his performance in the latter.

Birthyear: 1973

Samuel Beckett

Samuel Beckett was a renowned Irish novelist, poet, and playwright known for his absurdist works, including "Waiting for Godot" and "Endgame". He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1969 and is regarded as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.

Birthyear: 1906

Edward Fox (actor)

Edward Fox is a renowned English actor born on April 13, 1937. He's known for his distinctive voice and elegant performances in films like "The Day of the Jackal" (1973) and "Gandhi" (1982), as well as his extensive work in British television and theater.

Birthyear: 1937

Carles Puyol

Carles Puyol is a Spanish football legend, playing as a central defender for Barcelona (1999-2014) and the Spanish national team. He won numerous honors, including two Champions League titles, six La Liga titles, and the 2010 World Cup with Spain.

Birthyear: 1978

Butch Cassidy

Butch Cassidy, American outlaw and leader of the Wild Bunch gang, robbed banks and trains in the early 1900s. His exploits, often with partner Sundance Kid, became legendary, earning him folk hero status. Elusive and charismatic, Cassidy's fate remains a mystery, disappearing in Bolivia circa 1908.

Birthyear: 1866

Aaron Lewis

Aaron Lewis is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known as the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and founding member of the rock band Staind. He's also a successful solo country artist, blending post-grunge with country and acoustic sounds.

Birthyear: 1972

Max Mosley

Max Mosley was a British racing driver, engineer, and motorsport executive. He co-founded March Engineering and later became the president of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), serving from 1993 to 2009. Mosley played a key role in improving Formula One safety and governance.

Birthyear: 1940

Ty Dolla Sign

Ty Dolla Sign, born Tyrone William Griffin Jr., is a multifaceted American singer, songwriter, and musician. He's known for his soulful voice, genre-bending sound, and hits like 'Or Nah' and 'Paranoid,' blending R&B, hip-hop, and pop to create a unique sonic experience.

Birthyear: 1982

Ricky Schroder

Ricky Schroder is an American actor and film director, best known for his roles as Ricky Stratton on the sitcom "Silver Spoons" and Detective Danny Sorenson on the police drama "NYPD Blue".

Birthyear: 1970

William Sadler (actor)

William Sadler is an American actor, notable for his iconic roles in films like "The Shawshank Redemption" and "Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey". He's also appeared in numerous TV shows, including "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" and "Hawaii Five-0".

Birthyear: 1950

Madalyn Murray O'Hair

Madalyn Murray O'Hair was a pioneering American atheist activist who founded American Atheists in 1963. A vocal critic of religion, she initiated the Supreme Court case Murray v. Curlett, which led to the removal of prayer from public schools in 1963.

Birthyear: 1919

Don Adams

Don Adams was an American actor and director, best known for his starring role as the bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart in the 1960s TV series "Get Smart!" He won multiple Emmy Awards for his comedic performances.

Birthyear: 1923

Jacques Lacan

Jacques Lacan was a renowned French psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who developed the "mirror stage" theory, emphasizing the role of the self-image in shaping human identity. His work greatly influenced contemporary thought, particularly in the realms of psychoanalysis, philosophy, and cultural studies.

Birthyear: 1901

Josh Gordon

Josh Gordon is an American football wide receiver who has played for the Cleveland Browns, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2013, but has struggled with substance abuse and suspensions throughout his career.

Birthyear: 1991

Melvin Gordon

Melvin Gordon is an American football player who currently plays as a running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft.

Birthyear: 1993

Howard Keel

Howard Keel, a towering figure in Hollywood's Golden Age, charmed audiences with his rich baritone voice and dashing good looks in iconic musicals like "Show Boat," "Annie Get Your Gun," and "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers."

Birthyear: 1919

Seamus Heaney

Seamus Heaney (1939-2013) was an esteemed Irish poet, playwright, and Nobel laureate. His evocative and introspective works explored Irish identity, folklore, and the human condition, earning him the 1995 Nobel Prize in Literature.

Birthyear: 1939

Rudi Völler

Rudi Völler is a German football legend, known for his impressive goal-scoring skills and successful managerial career. As a player, he won the 1990 World Cup with Germany and scored 47 goals in 90 appearances.

Birthyear: 1960

Julius Nyerere

Julius Nyerere, also known as Mwalimu (teacher), was a Tanzanian politician and statesman who served as the first President of Tanzania from 1964 to 1985.

Birthyear: 1922

Baron Davis

Baron Davis, a two-time NBA All-Star, played professionally for 13 seasons, suiting up for the Charlotte Hornets, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, and Cleveland Cavaliers, known for his exceptional passing ability and clutch shooting.

Birthyear: 1979

Max Weinberg

Max Weinberg, renowned American musician and bandleader, is best known as the drummer for Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band. He's also led the Max Weinberg 7, the house band on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, showcasing his versatility and skill.

Birthyear: 1951

Lou Bega

Lou Bega is a German singer-songwriter born David Lubega on April 13, 1975. He rose to fame in 1999 with his catchy hit single "Mambo No. 5", which topped charts worldwide and became a classic of the Latin pop genre.

Birthyear: 1975

Peabo Bryson

Peabo Bryson is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and producer. Known for his smooth, soulful voice, he has recorded many hit songs, including duets with Roberta Flack ("Tonight, I Celebrate My Love") and Celine Dion ("Beauty and the Beast"). He has won multiple Grammy Awards.

Birthyear: 1951

Louis Philippe II, Duke of Orléans

Louis Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, was a French aristocrat who supported the French Revolution, earning the nickname "Philippe Égalité." He voted in favor of King Louis XVI's execution, yet was later guillotined himself in 1793 during the Reign of Terror.

Birthyear: 1747

John Spencer-Churchill, 11th Duke of Marlborough

John Spencer-Churchill, 11th Duke of Marlborough, was a British businessman and member of the esteemed Churchill family. He managed the Blenheim Palace estates and was a prominent figure in British high society before his passing in 2014.

Birthyear: 1926

Stanley Donen

Stanley Donen was a renowned American film director and choreographer, best known for his iconic musicals such as "Singin' in the Rain" (1952) and "Funny Face" (1957), earning him a lifetime achievement Oscar in 1998.

Birthyear: 1924

Hunter Pence

Hunter Pence is a retired American professional baseball right fielder who played 14 seasons in MLB, winning two World Series titles with the San Francisco Giants and earning four Gold Glove Awards for his defensive excellence.

Birthyear: 1983

Antonio Meucci

Antonio Meucci, an Italian-American engineer, invented the "talking telegraph," a precursor to the telephone. He filed a caveat for a "talking telegraph" in 1871, five years before Alexander Graham Bell's patent. Meucci's contributions to telecommunications are often overlooked, but his innovations paved the way for modern communication.

Birthyear: 1808

György Lukács

György Lukács was a renowned Hungarian philosopher, literary critic, and Marxist theorist. He is best known for his work on literary theory, historical materialism, and reification, influential in shaping Western Marxist thought.

Birthyear: 1885

Eudora Welty

Eudora Welty, a celebrated American short story writer and novelist, captured the nuances of Southern life through her poignant and evocative works, earning her the Pulitzer Prize in 1973 for "The Optimist's Daughter".

Birthyear: 1909

Bill Conti

Bill Conti is a renowned American composer and conductor, best known for scoring the iconic theme song "Gonna Fly Now" for the Rocky film series, earning him an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1977.

Birthyear: 1942

Roberto Calvi

Roberto Calvi was an Italian banker who led the Banco Ambrosiano. He was involved in a massive fraud scandal and was found hanged under a London bridge, sparking speculation about the circumstances of his death, which remains a mystery.

Birthyear: 1920

Frederick North, Lord North

Frederick North, Lord North, was a British politician who served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1766 to 1782. He implemented the fateful Tea Act, which sparked the Boston Tea Party, and oversaw the early years of the American Revolutionary War.

Birthyear: 1732

Richard Trevithick

Richard Trevithick, a pioneering Cornish-English engineer and explorer, revolutionized steam locomotive design, building the first steam-powered locomotive in 1804 and influencing the Industrial Revolution. His innovative contributions transformed transportation and earned him a legacy in engineering history.

Birthyear: 1771

Mike Chapman

Mike Chapman is a renowned Australian-English songwriter and producer, known for his work with Blondie, The Knack, and Pat Benatar. He's credited with crafting hits like "Heart of Glass," "My Sharona," and "Hit Me with Your Best Shot," earning multiple Grammy nominations and wins.

Birthyear: 1947

Dan Gurney

Dan Gurney, a legendary American race car driver and engineer, won 7 Grand Prix, including the 1967 Belgian Grand Prix, and founded All American Racers, building IndyCars and Formula One cars, earning him a place in the Motorsport Hall of Fame.

Birthyear: 1931

Quentin Richardson

Quentin Richardson is a retired American professional basketball player who played 13 seasons in the NBA, suiting up for teams like the Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, and New York Knicks, known for his three-point shooting prowess and tough defense.

Birthyear: 1980

Alan Jones (radio broadcaster)

Alan Jones is a renowned Australian rugby coach and radio broadcaster. As coach, he led the Australian national rugby union team to World Cup victory in 1991 and won 34 out of 46 Tests.

Birthyear: 1943

Davis Love III

Davis Love III is a renowned American golfer and sportscaster, winning 21 PGA Tour events, including the 1997 PGA Championship. He has also worked as a golf analyst for CBS Sports and NBC Sports, providing expert commentary at major tournaments.

Birthyear: 1964

Frank Winfield Woolworth

Frank Winfield Woolworth, an American entrepreneur, founded the F.W. Woolworth Company in 1879, pioneering the concept of five-and-dime stores. His innovative approach to retail revolutionized shopping, offering affordable goods to the masses, making him a pioneer in American business history.

Birthyear: 1852

Ben Nighthorse Campbell

Ben Nighthorse Campbell is a renowned American soldier, politician, and former Senator from Colorado. A Korean War veteran, he was a three-time Olympic judoka, and served as a US Representative and Senator from 1987 to 2005, known for his advocacy on Native American and environmental issues.

Birthyear: 1933

Alan Clark

Alan Clark, a British historian and politician, served as Minister of State for Trade from 1986 to 1989. Known for his controversial views, he wrote extensively on military history and was a Conservative MP from 1974 to 1992.

Birthyear: 1928

James Ensor

James Ensor, a pioneering English-Belgian painter, defied conventions with his bold, satirical, and fantastical works, influencing Expressionism and Surrealism. His vibrant, often grotesque, paintings and etchings continue to fascinate art enthusiasts, solidifying his legacy as a 20th-century master.

Birthyear: 1860

Nella Larsen

Nella Larsen, a pioneering African-American writer, expertly woven complex racial identity and jazz-age glamour into her novels, including "Quicksand" and "Passing". Her works continue to captivate readers with their poignant explorations of biracial experience and women's lives in the early 20th century.

Birthyear: 1891

Lorenzo Cain

Lorenzo Cain is an American professional baseball center fielder who has played for the Milwaukee Brewers, Kansas City Royals, and Boston Red Sox. A two-time MLB All-Star, he won the 2015 World Series with the Royals and is known for his impressive defensive skills and consistent batting average.

Birthyear: 1986

Harold Stassen

Harold Stassen was a prominent American lawyer and politician who served as the 25th Governor of Minnesota from 1939 to 1943. He was a Republican presidential candidate nine times and held various government positions, earning him the nickname "the perennial candidate."

Birthyear: 1907

Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford

Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford, was a prominent English soldier and politician who served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland from 1632 to 1640. His policies sparked Irish discontent, leading to his eventual impeachment and execution in 1641.

Birthyear: 1593

Frank Murphy

Frank Murphy was a distinguished American jurist and politician who served as the 56th U.S. Attorney General from 1939 to 1940. He later became a Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1940 until his death in 1949, known for his progressive decisions.

Birthyear: 1890

Bill Clements

Bill Clements, a decorated World War II veteran, was an accomplished engineer and politician. He served as the 15th United States Deputy Secretary of Defense from 1973 to 1977, and later became the first Republican Governor of Texas, serving two non-consecutive terms from 1979 to 1983 and 1987 to 1991.

Birthyear: 1917

John W. Davis

John W. Davis, a renowned American lawyer and politician, served as the 14th United States Solicitor General from 1913 to 1918. He was a Democratic presidential nominee in 1924 and argued over 140 cases before the Supreme Court, earning him great respect in the legal community.

Birthyear: 1873

Arthur Harris

Sir Arthur Harris, 1st Baronet, was a renowned English air marshal who played a crucial role in World War II as the Commander-in-Chief of RAF Bomber Command from 1942 to 1945, leading the strategic bombing campaign against Nazi Germany.

Birthyear: 1892

Olga Tañón

Olga Tañón is a renowned Puerto Rican singer-songwriter, known as the "Queen of Merengue". She has won numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and 29 Billboard Latin Music Awards, for her vibrant and energetic music that blends traditional rhythms with contemporary styles.

Birthyear: 1967

Maurice Ronet

Maurice Ronet was a French actor and director known for his intense, brooding performances in films like "Elevator to the Gallows" and "Purple Noon". He worked with prominent directors, earning critical acclaim and becoming a cultural icon of French New Wave cinema.

Birthyear: 1927

Thomas Lawrence

Sir Thomas Lawrence was a renowned English painter and educator, serving as President of the Royal Academy from 1792 until his death in 1830. He was known for his elegant and expressive portraits of European aristocracy and British royalty.

Birthyear: 1769

Jack Chick

Jack T. Chick was a prolific American author, illustrator, and publisher, best known for creating controversial and influential Christian tracts and comic books, often criticized for their vitriolic content, yet widely distributed and fiercely debated.

Birthyear: 1924

Muwenda Mutebi II of Buganda

Muwenda Mutebi II, the 36th Kabaka (King) of Buganda, has reigned since 1993, promoting cultural preservation, education, and economic development in the Kingdom. He has strengthened Buganda's autonomy within Uganda, fostering unity and modernization while honoring traditional values.

Birthyear: 1955

Robert Watson-Watt

Robert Watson-Watt, a Scottish engineer, pioneered Radar technology in the 1930s, revolutionizing air defense. His invention played a crucial role in World War II, earning him recognition as one of the most important inventors of the 20th century.

Birthyear: 1892

Antonino Rocca

Antonino Rocca, known as "Argentina" Rocca, was a renowned Italian-American professional wrestler. Born in 1921, Rocca was a champion grappler in the 1940s-1950s, famous for his charismatic persona, athleticism, and innovative style, earning him a WWE Hall of Fame induction in 1995.

Birthyear: 1921

Dana Barros

Dana Barros, a Boston College alum, played 14 NBA seasons (1989-2004) as a point guard, averaging 10.5 points and 3.3 assists per game. He coached the Philadelphia 76ers' G-League affiliate, the Delaware 87ers, from 2013 to 2015.

Birthyear: 1967

Josh Reynolds (rugby league)

Josh Reynolds is a renowned Australian rugby league player who has played for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and Wests Tigers in the NRL. A versatile five-eighth, he has also represented New South Wales in the State of Origin series.

Birthyear: 1989

Orlando Letelier

Orlando Letelier was a prominent Chilean-American economist and politician who served as Minister of National Defense in Chile's socialist government. A vocal critic of Augusto Pinochet's regime, he was assassinated in 1976 in Washington, D.C., sparking international outrage and investigations.

Birthyear: 1932

Philippe de Rothschild

Philippe de Rothschild, scion of the wealthy Rothschild family, led a multifaceted life. As a Grand Prix driver, he competed in the 1920s and 1930s. He was also a playwright and producer, penning works like "J'Attendrai" and producing films like "La Fleur de L'Age."

Birthyear: 1902

Phyllis Fraser

Phyllis Fraser, a Welsh-American actress, journalist, and publisher, made her mark in the world of literature. She co-founded Beginner Books, a renowned publishing house, and was instrumental in shaping the literary landscape, leaving a lasting legacy until her passing in 2006.

Birthyear: 1916

J. M. G. Le Clézio

J.M.G. Le Clézio, a French-Mauritian author and academic, won the 2008 Nobel Prize in Literature for his poetic and sensual writing that explores the relationship between humans and the environment, often drawing from his Mauritian heritage and love of nature.

Birthyear: 1940

Josephine Butler

Josephine Butler, a pioneering English feminist and social reformer, campaigned tirelessly against human trafficking and prostitution, advocating for women's rights and social justice. Her work led to the repeal of the Contagious Diseases Acts, improving lives for countless women.

Birthyear: 1828

Werner Voss

Werner Voss, a German lieutenant and pilot, was a World War I flying ace credited with 48 aerial victories. He was known for his exceptional skills and bravery, earning him the Pour le Mérite, before his tragic death in 1917 at just 20 years old.

Birthyear: 1897

Thomas D'Arcy McGee

Thomas D'Arcy McGee, a charismatic Irish-Canadian journalist and politician, played a pivotal role in shaping Canada's early years. As a Father of Confederation, he advocated for unity and nation-building.

Birthyear: 1825

Jon Stone

JonStone was a renowned American composer, producer, and screenwriter, best known for his work on animated classics like Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and Fraggle Rock. His creative contributions have had a lasting impact on children's television and entertainment.

Birthyear: 1931