April 15 birthdays and deaths:

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was born on February 12, 1809. Known for his strong leadership and commitment to preserving the Union, Lincoln guided the country through its greatest crisis, the American Civil War, before being assassinated on April 14, 1865.

Deathyear: 1865

Pol Pot

Pol Pot, a corrupt and brutal leader, served as Prime Minister of Cambodia from 1976-1979. He oversaw the brutal Khmer Rouge regime, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 1.7 to 2.2 million people, approximately 20-25% of the population, through executions, forced labor, and starvation.

Deathyear: 1998

John Jacob Astor IV

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, including women, children, and men from all walks of life. Many were below-deck passengers, including third-class travelers and crew members, who were trapped in inadequate accommodations with limited access to lifeboats.

Deathyear: 1912

Joey Ramone

Joey Ramone, born Jeffrey Hyman in 1951, was the lead singer of the Ramones, a legendary punk rock band that formed in 1974. His powerful, distinctive voice and irreverent stage presence made him a rock icon, inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike.

Deathyear: 2001

Jean-Paul Sartre

Jean-Paul Sartre, a renowned French philosopher and author, influenced 20th-century thought. He's best known for his concept of "existence precedes essence," emphasizing human freedom and responsibility.

Deathyear: 1980

R. Lee Ermey

R. Lee Ermey, a renowned American actor, born in 1944, played iconic roles in "Full Metal Jacket" and "The F Word," earning critical acclaim and a Golden Globe Award. He was also a drill instructor in the US Marine Corps, serving for 11 years before pursuing an acting career.

Deathyear: 2018

Greta Garbo

Greta Garbo was a renowned Swedish-American actress, known for her captivating screen presence and iconic roles in films like "Anna Karenina" and "Ninotchka". She won an Academy Award and was hailed as one of the greatest actresses of all time, retreating from Hollywood's glamour to a private life.

Deathyear: 1990

Edward Smith (sea captain)

Over 1,500 people lost their lives in the Titanic disaster, including wealthy socialites, poor immigrants, and crew members. Women and children were disproportionately affected, making up a significant portion of the victims. Many were trapped below deck as the ship sank.

Deathyear: 1912

Isidor Straus

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, including children, women, and men from all walks of life. Many were wealthy and prominent figures, while others were poor and left behind. The tragedy struck without bias, affecting families and communities worldwide, leaving a lasting impact on history.

Deathyear: 1912

Hu Yaobang

Hu Yaobang was a Chinese soldier and politician who served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1987 until his death in 1989. He was a key figure in Chinese politics and played a significant role in the country's economic and political reform efforts.

Deathyear: 1989

Madame de Pompadour

Madame de Pompadour, a renowned mistress of King Louis XV, held immense power and influence at the French court. Born Jeanne-Antoinette Poisson, she rose to prominence through her wit, fashion sense, and artistic patronage.

Deathyear: 1764

Kenneth Williams

Kenneth Williams, a renowned English actor and screenwriter, was born in 1926. He was known for his distinctive voice and comedic timing, appearing in numerous British films and television shows, including the classic BBC sitcom "Round the Horne."

Deathyear: 1988

Roxelana

Roxelana, a Ukrainian slave-turned-wife, rose to prominence as the favorite concubine of Suleiman the Magnificent, becoming the Sultan's chief consort and a powerful force in Ottoman politics. Her influence extended to warfare and state affairs, earning her the title of "Queen of the Janissaries."

Deathyear: 1558

Thomas Andrews

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, including women, children, and men from all walks of life. Victims included third-class passengers, who were often the poorest and most vulnerable individuals, as well as first-class passengers, including politicians, millionaires, and royalty.

Deathyear: 1912

Tommy Cooper

Tommy Cooper, a beloved Welsh comedian and magician, delighted audiences with his signature mixture of magic, humor, and charm. With his iconic top hat and colorful suits, he performed his trademark tricks and charms, entertaining the masses for over five decades.

Deathyear: 1984

Liz Sheridan

Liz Sheridan is an American actress born on July 10, 1929. She is best known for her roles as Salome Petrovich on the TV series "Major Dad" and as Dorothy Zbornak's mother on the popular sitcom "Cheers".

Deathyear: 2022

Benjamin Guggenheim

Over 1,500 victims lost their lives in the Titanic disaster, including women, men, and children from all social classes. Many were innocent passengers and crew members who perished in the freezing waters of the North Atlantic.

Deathyear: 1912

Ida Straus

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, including women, children, and men from all walks of life. Many were from moderate to upper-class backgrounds, while others were third-class passengers who were mostly immigrants seeking a new life in America.

Deathyear: 1912

William McMaster Murdoch

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people on April 15, 1912. Women and children were disproportionately affected, with over 74% of female passengers and 52% of children under 15 perishing in the tragedy, leaving countless families to mourn their loss.

Deathyear: 1912

Godwin, Earl of Wessex

Godwin, Earl of Wessex (b. 1001), was a powerful Anglo-Saxon nobleman who rose to prominent influence during the reign of King Ethelred II. He married Gytha Thorkelsdottir and had several children, including Sweyn and daughters Gytha and Edith.

Deathyear: 1053

Byron White

Byron White, a multifaceted American pioneer, excelled in football, law, and the judiciary. He played for Colorado University, practiced law in Denver, and served as 4th Deputy Attorney General. Later, he became the 9th Justice of the Supreme Court, advocating for individual liberties and constitutional interpretation.

Deathyear: 2002

Emma Morano

Emma Morano, the last verified person born in the 1800s, was an Italian supercentenarian who lived an extraordinary 117 years (1899-2017). She was the oldest living person in the world from April 2016 until her passing. Her longevity was attributed to her vegetarian diet and no smoking.

Deathyear: 2017

Arthur Lowe

Arthur Lowe was a renowned English actor, born on January 22, 1915. He is best known for his iconic role as Captain Mainwaring in the BBC sitcom "Dad's Army" and for his numerous stage and screen appearances, particularly in British comedy.

Deathyear: 1982

Wallace Beery

Wallace Beery, a legendary Hollywood stalwart, enjoyed a six-decade career, earning two Academy Awards as an actor and becoming one of the earliest stars to reach the "million-dollar man" club, earning $1 million per year in his later years.

Deathyear: 1949

Filippo Brunelleschi

Filippo Brunelleschi was a pioneering Italian sculptor and architect who revolutionized Renaissance art. Born in 1377, he designed iconic structures like St. Peter's Basilica and the Duomo in Florence. His innovations in engineering and architecture set the stage for the Renaissance's artistic and architectural advancements.

Deathyear: 1446

Matthew Arnold

Matthew Arnold, a renowned English poet and critic, was born in 1822. He is best known for his lyrical poetry, which explores themes of nature, morality, and the human condition. His work is characterized by its accessibility, wit, and intellectual depth.

Deathyear: 1888

Father Damien

Father Damien, a Belgian priest, was canonized as Saint Damien in 2009. He spent 16 years on the Hawaiian island of Molokai, caring for the afflicted and ostracized lepers. His selfless love and dedication changed the lives of those he served.

Deathyear: 1889

Françoise d'Aubigné, Marquise de Maintenon

Françoise d'Aubigné, Marquise de Maintenon, was a French aristocrat and second wife of King Louis XIV. Born in 1635, she married the king in 1684 and used her influential position to promote education and charity. Known for her intelligence, compassion, and kindness, she won the king's heart.

Deathyear: 1719

Raymond Bailey

Raymond Bailey was an American actor and soldier, born in 1904. He served in World War I and later appeared in over 100 films and TV shows, including the popular sitcom "Bewitched".

Deathyear: 1980

Jonathan Crombie

Jonathan Crombie was a talented Canadian-American actor and screenwriter, born in 1966. He was known for his role as Ned Tambo in the film "Moonstruck" and wrote the screenplay for the film "The Ice Storm".

Deathyear: 2015

Jean Genet

Jean Genet, a French novelist, poet, and playwright, was born in 1910. His unconventional upbringing and criminal past influenced his writing, which often explored themes of loneliness, rebellion, and the struggles of the marginalized.

Deathyear: 1986

Edward Gorey

Edward Gorey was a renowned American poet and illustrator known for his eerie, whimsical, and macabre style. His work often explored mortality, mortality, and the human condition, captivating audiences through his intricate illustrations and witty, dark humor.

Deathyear: 2000

Whitey Herzog

Whitey Herzog is a legendary figure in Major League Baseball, playing 11 seasons as an outfielder and then managing the Kansas City Royals, Texas Rangers, and St. Louis Cardinals to great success, earning the nickname "Whitey" for his snow-white hair.

Deathyear: 2024

Clement Freud

Clement Freud was a prominent British politician, journalist, and academic. Born in 1924, he was a grandson of Sigmund Freud. A Liberal Democrat MP, he represented Cambridge from 1973 to 1999, known for his witty humor, sharp wit, and love for Scrabble.

Deathyear: 2009

Jack Phillips (wireless officer)

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 souls, including men, women, and children from all walks of life. Many victims were from the upper class, entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals, while others were poor immigrants seeking a new life in America.

Deathyear: 1912

Clifton James

Clifton James was an American actor born in 1920. He is best known for his roles in films like "Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid" and "The Outlaw Josey Wales."

Deathyear: 2017

Clara Blandick

Clara Blandick, a prolific American actress, born in 1880, had a long career on stage and screen. She appeared in numerous films, including "It's a Wonderful Life," and was active in theater, with roles in plays and musicals throughout the United States.

Deathyear: 1962

Mikhail Lomonosov

Mikhail Lomonosov was a renowned Russian chemist and physicist who made significant contributions to the fields of chemistry, physics, and mineralogy. He discovered the properties of baryum (barium) and discovered the law of buoyancy relating to the density of gases.

Deathyear: 1765

Henry Tingle Wilde

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, including women, men, and children. Many were from upper-class families, while others were from the lower classes, including immigrants and cargo workers. The tragedy was felt across the globe, leaving countless families devastated and changed forever.

Deathyear: 1912

Wallace Hartley

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, leaving behind many bereaved families. The tragedy devastated the victims' loved ones, causing immense grief, anguish, and financial loss.

Deathyear: 1912

Nikolai Vatutin

Nikolai Fyodorovich Vatutin was a renowned Soviet general during WWII. He played a crucial role in theBattle of Stalingrad and the Donbas campaign. Vatutin was fatally wounded in 1943 and died shortly after. He was posthumously awarded the title Hero of the Soviet Union.

Deathyear: 1944

Gaston Leroux

Gaston Leroux was a pioneering French journalist and author, best known for his influential novels, particularly "The Mysteries of Paris" and the iconic "The Phantom of the Opera".

Deathyear: 1927

Jack Herer

Jack Herer, an American author and activist born in 1939, is best known for his book "The Emperor Wears No Clothes," a comprehensive guide to the medical and scientific uses of cannabis.

Deathyear: 2010

Totò

Totò, born Antonio De Curtis in Naples, Italy in 1898, was a renowned comedian and actor. With his expressive facial expressions and witty humor, he became a beloved figure in Italian culture, starring in over 150 films and earning the nickname "Mr. Italy."

Deathyear: 1967

Michael Pataki

Michael Pataki is a retired American actor and director, born in 1938. He is best known for his work on the soap opera "General Hospital" and his roles in various TV shows and films, including "The Waltons" and "Dallas."

Deathyear: 2010

Robert Musil

Robert Musil, born in 1880, was an Austrian-Swiss author and playwright known for his avant-garde writings, including his celebrated novel "The Man Without Qualities". He was a prominent figure in modernist literature, blending philosophical and psychological insights with literary innovation.

Deathyear: 1942

Empress Suiko

Suiko, Japan's 33rd emperor, ruled from 593 to 628. Born in 554, she was the daughter of Emperor Bidatsu. Only the second female emperor, Suiko is known for her reign marking the beginning of the Asuka period, characterized by Buddhism and cultural exchange with China.

Deathyear: 628

George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore

George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore, was an English politician and Secretary of State in the early 17th century. Born in 1580, he was a prominent figure in the court of King James I and served as Secretary of State from 1616 to 1625.

Deathyear: 1632

Archibald Butt

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, including women, children, and men from all walks of life. Many were from the upper classes, while others were third-class passengers, workers, and even children traveling with their families to start new lives in America.

Deathyear: 1912

Vittorio Arrigoni

Vittorio Arrigoni was an Italian journalist, author, and activist, known for his humanitarian work in the Gaza Strip. Born in 1975, he was a prominent figure in the international activist scene, fighting for Palestinian rights and human rights.

Deathyear: 2011

Jacques Futrelle

The Titanic disaster claimed over 1,500 lives, leaving behind countless families grieving the loss of loved ones. Survivors recounted tales of bravery and tragedy, including the stories of women and children who perished in the freezing waters of the North Atlantic.

Deathyear: 1912

James Paul Moody

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, including women, children, and men from all walks of life. Victims ranged from third-class passengers to wealthy millionaires, sailors, and crew members, all of whom tragically lost their lives in the freezing waters of the North Atlantic.

Deathyear: 1912

Paul Bogart

Paul Bogart was an American director and producer, best known for his work in television. Born in 1919, Bogart directed many classic TV shows, including "77 Sunset Strip," "Hogan's Heroes," and "All in the Family."

Deathyear: 2012

Leslie Charteris

Leslie Charteris was a renowned English author and screenwriter born in 1907. Known for his gripping tales of adventure and intrigue, Charteris wrote the iconic Simon Templar series, featuring the charismatic and humorous hero, alias "The Saint," captivating readers and audiences worldwide.

Deathyear: 1993

Bilquis Edhi

Bilquis Edhi, Pakistani philanthropist, wife of Abdul Sattar Edhi, has dedicated her life to humanitarian work. She established hospitals, clinics, and orphanages, providing relief to poor and underprivileged communities. Her selfless efforts have earned her numerous awards and recognition.

Deathyear: 2022

W. T. Stead

The Titanic disaster claimed the lives of over 1,500 people, with women and children being particularly affected. Many were trapped below deck, while others jumped into near-freezing waters. The tragedy was met with global shock and grief, with many victims' families and loved ones left to mourn and cope.

Deathyear: 1912

Josip Manolić

Josip Manolić was a Croatian politician who served as Prime Minister from 1989 to 1990 and Speaker of the Chamber of Counties from 1990 to 1992. Born in 1920, he played a significant role in Croatia's transition from communism to democracy.

Deathyear: 2024

Richard LeParmentier

Richard LeParmentier was a versatile American-English actor and screenwriter, born in 1946. He is best known for his role as Admiral Motti in the 1983 film "The Empire Strikes Back," and has appeared in numerous other films and television shows throughout his extensive career.

Deathyear: 2013

César Vallejo

César Vallejo, a renowned Peruvian writer, was born in 1892. He was a journalist, poet, and playwright, known for his innovative and avant-garde style. His work often explored themes of social justice, mortality, and the human condition, earning him international acclaim and a revered place in Latin American literature.

Deathyear: 1938