October 10 birthdays and deaths:

Christopher Reeve

Christopher Reeve was an iconic American actor, producer, and activist best known for his portrayal of Superman in the 1978 film. After a devastating horseback riding accident in 1995, he became a vocal advocate for spinal cord research and mobility assistance, inspiring millions with his courage and resilience.

Deathyear: 2004

Orson Welles

Orson Welles was a pioneering filmmaker and theatrical genius. He wrote, directed, and starred in the classic Citizen Kane (1941), considered one of the greatest films of all time. His innovative storytelling, innovative cinematography, and distinctive voice captivated audiences worldwide.

Deathyear: 1985

Yul Brynner

Yul Brynner was a Russian-born actor who gained international fame for his iconic roles in films such as "The King and I" and "The Magnificent Seven". Born in Vladivostok in 1920, he was a grandee of the Russian aristocracy and a renowned heartthrob until his passing in 1985.

Deathyear: 1985

Husayn ibn Ali

Husayn ibn Ali was the third Shia Imam, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, and nephew of Ali ibn Abi Talib. Born in 626 CE, he was martyred in 680 CE at the Battle of Karbala, becoming a symbol of sacrifice and defiance against oppression for Shia Muslims.

Deathyear: 680

Édith Piaf

Édith Piaf, born in 1915, was a renowned French singer-songwriter and actress known for her powerful, soulful voice and charismatic stage presence. Her iconic songs, including "La Vie en Rose," have become symbols of French culture, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique, heart-wrenching style.

Deathyear: 1963

Mulayam Singh Yadav

Mulayam Singh Yadav is a renowned Indian politician who served as the 15th Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Born in 1939, he co-founded the Samajwadi Party and played a pivotal role in shaping Indian politics. His leadership and commitment to social justice earned him widespread recognition.

Deathyear: 2022

Marvin Gay Sr.

Marvin Gay Sr., a prominent African American pastor, was born in 1914. A veteran of the US Navy, he founded the Pentecostal Church of God in Christ in 1940 and served as a minister until his death in 1990.

Deathyear: 1998

Alex Karras

Alex Karras, a Hall of Fame defensive tackle, played nine seasons with the Detroit Lions, then pursued a wrestling and acting career, starring in TV's "Webster" and appearing in films like "Pound Puppies" and "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues".

Deathyear: 2012

Stephen Gately

Stephen Gately was a talented Irish singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor born on March 17, 1976. He rose to fame in the 90s as a member of the iconic boyband Boyzone, known for his charismatic stage presence and charming vocals.

Deathyear: 2009

William H. Seward

William H. Seward was a prominent American statesman, serving as the 24th United States Secretary of State from 1869-1877. A lawyer and politician, he played a key role in shaping America's foreign policy during the late 19th century, most notably negotiating the Alaska Purchase with Russia.

Deathyear: 1872

Abdul Qadeer Khan

Abdul Qadeer Khan was a renowned Pakistani nuclear physicist and metallurgical scientist, known as the "Father of Pakistan's Nuclear Program". He played a key role in Pakistan's nuclear industry, and was instrumental in developing the country's nuclear weapons capability.

Deathyear: 2021

Jagjit Singh

Jagjit Singh, the iconic Indian singer-songwriter, is renowned for his soulful ghazals and Bollywood soundtracks. Born in 1941, he has enchanted audiences with his unique voice and thought-provoking lyrics, earning the nickname "The Ghazal King".

Deathyear: 2011

Ludwig von Mises

Ludwig von Mises was a pioneering Austrian School economist and sociologist, born in Lemberg, Ukraine (then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire) in 1881. He emigrated to the United States in 1940 and taught at NYU and Fordham University, influencing generations of economists and libertarians with his principles of laissez-faire economics.

Deathyear: 1973

Abbas ibn Ali

Abbas ibn Ali, son of Imam Ali, was a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and a respected descendant of the Holy Prophet. Known for his piety and bravery, Abbas fought alongside his father in the Battle of Karbala, ultimately sacrificing his life to quench the thirst of his starving half-brothers.

Deathyear: 680

Ralph Richardson

Ralph Richardson was a renowned English actor, born in 1902. With a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Richardson appeared in numerous plays, films, and television productions, earning critical acclaim for his versatility and commanding stage presence.

Deathyear: 1983

Milton Obote

Milton Obote was a Ugandan politician who served as the 2nd President of Uganda from 1963 to 1971 and again from 1980 to 1985. He played a significant role in Uganda's struggle for independence and was known for his authoritarian and nationalist policies.

Deathyear: 2005

Ken Caminiti

Ken Caminiti was a talented third baseman who played for the Houston Astros, San Diego Padres, and Texas Rangers from 1987 to 2001. He won the National League MVP award in 1996 and was a five-time All-Star during his 14-year Major League career.

Deathyear: 2004

Sirimavo Bandaranaike

Sirimavo Bandaranaike was a pioneering Sri Lankan lawyer and politician, serving as the world's first elected female head of government as the 6th Prime Minister of Sri Lanka in 1960. She broke barriers in politics and paved the way for women's participation in Sri Lankan governance.

Deathyear: 2000

Manorama (Tamil actress)

Manorama is a renowned Indian actress from Tamil cinema, known for her versatility and comedic timing. Born in 1937, she has appeared in over 700 films, earning the nickname "Nattu Mano" (mother of comedy).

Deathyear: 2015

Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman was a Dutch merchant and explorer who sailed to Australia and New Zealand in the early 17th century. He was the first European to sight and name Tasmania and the second to reach New Zealand.

Deathyear: 1659

Carol I of Romania

Carol I of Romania was a German-Franco prince who became the first king of Romania in 1881 after Romania gained its independence. He ruled until his death in 1914, promoting modernization, infrastructure development, and the reunification of Romania's territories.

Deathyear: 1914

Eddie Cantor

Eddie Cantor, known as "The Boy Wonder," was an American entertainer born in 1892. He rose to fame in the 1920s as a vaudeville star, then transitioned to film and radio, starring in movies like "The Lady, the Gorilla" and "The Baker's Dozen."

Deathyear: 1964

Solomon Burke

Solomon Burke was a renowned American singer-songwriter and preacher, known for his rich, soulful voice and gospel-infused R&B sound. With 17 Billboard R&B Top 10 hits, he was dubbed the "King of Rocksteady" and performed with the likes of Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin.

Deathyear: 2010

Scott Carpenter

Scott Carpenter was a pioneering American astronaut who served as a naval officer and test pilot before being selected as an astronaut in 1959. He commanded the Mercury-Atlas 7 mission in 1962, becoming the fifth American in space and the fourth to orbit the Earth.

Deathyear: 2013

Basil L. Plumley

Basil L. Plumley, a highly decorated sergeant, was born in 1920. He served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, earning numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and Purple Heart. His exemplary bravery inspired the characters in the film "We Were Soldiers."

Deathyear: 2012

Charles Fourier

Charles Fourier was a French philosopher and mathematician who proposed a utopian social system, emphasizing communal living and equality. He believed that people with similar passions and skills should live together, creating a harmonious and efficient society.

Deathyear: 1837

Édouard Daladier

Édouard Daladier was a French politician and Captain of the 33rd Alpine Regiment. As Prime Minister from 1934 to 1936 and 1938-1940, he played a significant role in the lead-up to World War II, ultimately surrendering France in 1940.

Deathyear: 1970

Adolphus Busch

Adolphus Busch, a German-born brewer and businessman, co-founded Anheuser-Busch with Eberhard Anheuser in 1852. He revolutionized the brewing process and popularized Budweiser beer, making it a global brand. His innovations and entrepreneurial spirit helped shape the company into a global giant in the brewing industry.

Deathyear: 1913

George Washington Parke Custis

George Washington Parke Custis, a celebrated American author and playwright, was born in 1781. He was the step-grandson of George Washington and founder of Arlington National Cemetery. Custis wrote several plays, novels, and articles, showcasing his wit and literary talent.

Deathyear: 1857

Joan Sutherland

Australian-Swiss soprano Joan Sutherland was renowned for her bell-like voice and remarkable technique. She debuted in 1957 and went on to perform with world-renowned opera companies, earning acclaim for her interpretations of bel canto and Verdi operas.

Deathyear: 2010

Silvana Armenulić

Silvana Armenulić was a renowned Bosnian singer and actress born in 1939. Known as the "Queen of Sevdah", she popularized traditional Bosnian music, Sevdah, and acting in numerous Bosnian films. Her iconic voice and captivating performances left a lasting impact on Bosnian culture.

Deathyear: 1976

Ali al-Akbar ibn Husayn

Ali al-Akbar ibn Husayn was the eldest son of Imam Al-Husayn, grandson of Prophet Muhammad. He was martyred in the Battle of Karbala, alongside his father and brothers, at the age of just 18, fighting against the Umayyad army in 680 CE.

Deathyear: 680

Clark Clifford

Clark Clifford was a renowned American captain, lawyer, and politician who served as the 9th United States Secretary of Defense from 1968 until 1969.

Deathyear: 1998

Bayinnaung

Bayinnaung (1516-1551) was a Burmese king who united various kingdoms and formed the Toungoo Empire. He expanded the kingdom's borders through military conquests and founded the city of Ava. His reign is considered one of the most prosperous periods in Burmese history.

Deathyear: 1581

Lorenzo Snow

Lorenzo Snow (1814-1901) was a prominent American religious leader, serving as the fifth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) from 1898 until his death. He was a devoted follower of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, playing a key role in the development of Utah's early Mormon settlements.

Deathyear: 1901

Katsura Tarō

Katsura Tarō was a Japanese general and politician who served as the 6th Prime Minister of Japan from 1908 to 1911. Born in 1848, he played a key role in Japan's early 20th-century modernization and served as Foreign Minister and Minister of War before becoming Prime Minister.

Deathyear: 1913

Gustave Whitehead

Gustave Whitehead was a German-American pilot and engineer born in 1874. He is often credited with flying the first powered, controlled, and sustained flight in 1896, years before the Wright brothers.

Deathyear: 1927

Angelo Muscat

Angelo Muscat was a Maltese-English actor, born in 1930. He is best known for his long-running role as Tinga, the maintenance man, in the 1960s-70s BBC sitcom "Fall Out!" and various other TV and film appearances.

Deathyear: 1977

Al-Hafiz

Al-Hafiz was the 10th Fatimid imam-caliph, ruling Egypt from 1130 to 1149. Born in 1074/77, he strengthened Fatimid control in North Africa and expanded trade and cultural exchange with the Mediterranean region. He also commissioned numerous architecturalprojects, including the rebuilding of the Al-Hakim mosque.

Deathyear: 1149

Ralph Metcalfe

Ralph Metcalfe was an American sprinter and politician who won three Olympic silver medals and held multiple world records. He later served as a U.S. Representative for Illinois from 1971 to 1977.

Deathyear: 1978