April 8 birthdays and deaths:

Margaret Thatcher

Margaret Thatcher, dubbed the "Iron Lady," was the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, serving from 1979 to 1990. She implemented conservative policies, reduced government spending, and strengthened the British economy, earning her a lasting place in British political history.

Deathyear: 2013

Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso was a pioneering Spanish artist, born in 1881. He revolutionized modern art with his pioneering Cubist style, creating numerous masterpieces in painting, sculpture, and printmaking. His innovative works, such as "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," transformed the art world.

Deathyear: 1973

Lorenzo de' Medici

Lorenzo de' Medici, known as Lorenzo the Magnificent, was an influential Italian ruler and patron of the arts, serving as de facto ruler of Florence from 1469 to 1492. He fostered the city's cultural and economic growth, supporting artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Deathyear: 1492

Malcolm McLaren

Malcolm McLaren was a renowned English musician, artist, and provocateur, best known as the founding member of the iconic punk rock band The Sex Pistols. He was also a pivotal figure in shaping the UK's punk movement, pushing boundaries and challenging social norms through his music and art.

Deathyear: 2010

Annette Funicello

Annette Funicello, a beloved American singer and actress, was discovered by Walt Disney and became a Mouseketeer on the Mickey Mouse Club. She then starred in numerous Disney films, including "The Shaggy Dog" and "Babes in Toyland".

Deathyear: 2013

Dead (musician)

Per Ohlin, aka Dead, was a Swedish musician and vocalist for the band Entombed. His unique, haunting vocals added a distinct dimension to the band's sound. Born in 1969, Ohlin tragically passed away in 1990 at the age of 25.

Deathyear: 1991

Omar Bradley

Omar Nelson Bradley was a renowned American general who served as the 5th Chief of Staff of the United States Army. Born in 1893, he played a crucial role in World War II and the Korean War, earning the nickname "The G.I.'s General" for his dedication to his troops.

Deathyear: 1981

Caracalla

Caracalla, born Lucius Septimius Bassianus, was Roman Emperor from 211 to 217. He was the eldest son of Septimius Severus and Julia Domna. As emperor, Caracalla implemented numerous reforms, including the Constatinian-Valentinian Code and the widening of Roman streets.

Deathyear: 217

Ryan White

Ryan White, an American activist, was born in 1971. Diagnosed with AIDS in 1984, Ryan became an advocate, raising awareness and challenging stigma. He died in 1990, inspiring the Ryan White CARE Act, which provides funding for HIV/AIDS treatment and education.

Deathyear: 1990

Ben Johnson (actor)

Ben Johnson (1918-1996) was an American actor and stuntman who appeared in over 300 films and TV shows. He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "The Last Picture Show" (1971) and was a favorite of directors Sam Peckinpah and John Ford.

Deathyear: 1996

Sejong the Great

Sejong the Great, the fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty, reigned from 1418 to 1450. He introduced the Korean alphabet, Hunminjeongeum, and implemented various reforms to strengthen the country's economy, education, and government.

Deathyear: 1450

Peter Higgs

Peter Higgs, a British physicist, was born in 1929 and awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2013. He is best known for his prediction of the Higgs boson, a fundamental particle that helps explain how particles acquire mass.

Deathyear: 2024

Laura Nyro

Laura Nyro (1947-1997) was a pioneering singer-songwriter and pianist known for her emotive, soulful voice and poetic lyrics. Her music blended folk, jazz, and rock, influencing artists like Blood, Sweat & Tears and Barbra Streisand.

Deathyear: 1997

Marian Anderson

Marian Anderson was a trailblazing American operatic soprano, renowned for her powerful voice and emotional depth. She became the first African American singer to perform at the White House and the first to perform at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City, breaking racial barriers in the world of classical music.

Deathyear: 1993

María Félix

María Félix, the "Doña Perpetua" of Mexican cinema, was a renowned actress and sex symbol who captivated audiences with her fiery personality, striking beauty, and memorable performances in films like "María Candelaria" and "Así Fue la Amistad".

Deathyear: 2002

Bankim Chandra Chatterjee

Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was a renowned Indian author, journalist, and poet, born in 1838. He wrote iconic works like "Anandamath" and "Chandidas", and was a strong advocate for Indian independence. His works blended Indian culture with Western influences, inspiring a generation of writers and reformers.

Deathyear: 1894

John II of France

John II, King of France (1319-1364), also known as John the Good, was a French monarch who ruled from 1350-1360. He was captured by the English and held prisoner for 10 years, leading to his nickname "the Bad."

Deathyear: 1364

Claire Trevor

Claire Trevor, a talented American actress, made a lasting impression on the silver screen. Born on March 8, 1910, she endeared herself to audiences with her versatility, captivating performances, and striking features. Trevor's iconic roles in films like "Stage Door" (1937) and "Key Largo" (1948) cemented her legacy.

Deathyear: 2000

Vaslav Nijinsky

Vaslav Nijinsky was a pioneering dancer, choreographer, and artist, known for his innovative and expressive movements. Born in Prussia, he danced with the Ballets Russes, choreographing revolutionary works with Sergei Diaghilev. His legacy continues to inspire dancers and choreographers worldwide.

Deathyear: 1950

Rick May

Rick May was a renowned American-Canadian voice actor, born in 1940. He lent his voice to iconic characters in anime and cartoons, including Optimus Prime in Transformers and the unforgettable Big Boss/Median X in Metal Gear Solid.

Deathyear: 2020

John II Komnenos

John II Komnenos, son of Isaac I, ruled the Byzantine Empire from 1118 to 1143. He revived Byzantine power through military campaigns, strengthening the empire's borders, and promoting trade. He was also known for his piety and justice, earning the nickname "John the Charmer."

Deathyear: 1143

Gaetano Donizetti

Gaetano Donizetti was a renowned Italian composer of opera, particularly in the bel canto style. Born in Bergamo, Italy in 1797, he wrote over 60 operas, notable works including "L'elisir d'amore" and "Don Pasquale".

Deathyear: 1848

Prince Shōtoku

Prince Shōtoku, born in 572 CE, was a Japanese prince who played a crucial role in introducing Buddhism to Japan. He is revered as a symbol of peace, wisdom, and cultural exchange, and his reforms helped to establish Buddhism in Japan.

Deathyear: 622

Elisha Otis

Elisha Otis was an American businessman who revolutionized the elevator industry. In 1853, he founded the Otis Elevator Company. Otis' invention of the safety elevator, which stopped at floors without falling, transformed urban architecture and enabled the development of modern skyscrapers.

Deathyear: 1861

Sol LeWitt

Sol LeWitt, an American artist, was a pioneer of conceptualism. Born in 1928, he is known for his bold, geometric paintings and sculptures that emphasize the idea behind the work rather than its physical creation. His work often explores the relationship between art, architecture, and space.

Deathyear: 2007

Sara Montiel

Sara Montiel, a legendary Spanish-Mexican actress and singer, is best known for her iconic films and mesmerizing stage presence. Born in 1928, she rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s, captivating audiences with her stunning beauty, captivating voice, and remarkable acting talent.

Deathyear: 2013

Jack Tramiel

Jack Tramiel, Polish-American entrepreneur, founded Commodore International in 1954 and revolutionized the computer industry.

Deathyear: 2012

Jayakanthan

Jayakanthan is a renowned Indian journalist and author, born in 1934. He has written numerous books, including novels, plays, and essays. His works often explore social issues, politics, and human relationships, offering a critical perspective on Indian society.

Deathyear: 2015

Francis II Rákóczi

Francis II Rákóczi was a Hungarian prince and leader of the Rákóczi's War of Independence. Born in 1676, he led the fight against Habsburg rule, pursuing autonomy for Hungary, and is remembered as a national hero for his bravery and dedication to his people.

Deathyear: 1735

Ralph Puckett

Ralph Puckett Jr. is a Medal of Honor recipient and American Army officer born in 1926. He earned the United States' highest military honor for his bravery during the Korean War, where he led his platoon with selfless courage and distinction, sacrificing his own life to save his comrades.

Deathyear: 2024

Pyotr Kapitsa

Pyotr Kapitsa was a Russian physicist and academic who made significant contributions to the field of low-temperature physics. He shared the 1946 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on the properties of liquid helium, alongside John F. Allen and John S. Dunn.

Deathyear: 1984

István Széchenyi

István Széchenyi was a Hungarian statesman and reformer, born in 1791. He was a key figure in the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 and advocated for the country's independence and modernization.

Deathyear: 1860

Juan Belmonte

Juan Belmonte, born in 1892, was a legendary Spanish bullfighter known for his bravery and precision in the bullring. He was considered one of the greatest matadors of all time, earning the nickname "The Pride of Spain" and thrilling audiences with his daring performances.

Deathyear: 1962