October 27 birthdays and deaths:

Akbar

Akbar, the Mughal emperor (1556-1605), was a renowned ruler of India. He was known for his tolerance, military conquests, and administrative reforms. He was instrumental in promoting Hindu-Muslim harmony, and his reign saw significant cultural achievements and territorial expansions.

Deathyear: 1605

Æthelstan

Æthelstan, king of the English (924-939), successfully defended against Viking invasions, unite the warring kingdoms, and expanded his territory through military campaigns. He is considered one of the most important English monarchs of the Middle Ages.

Deathyear: 939

Lou Reed

Lou Reed was a pioneering American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer known for his work with The Velvet Underground and as a solo artist. His distinctive voice and poetic lyrics explored themes of love, life, and the human condition in his unique, influential, and often provocative music.

Deathyear: 2013

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the self-proclaimed "Caliph" of ISIL, led the terror group from 2010 until his death in 2019. Originally born in 1971 in Iraq, he died in a US military operation, reportedly killing himself with a concussion grenade during the raid in Syria.

Deathyear: 2019

Li Keqiang

Li Keqiang, born in 1955, is the current Premier of China since 2013. A scholar-turned-politician, he previously served as Communist Party Secretary of Liaoning Province and Vice Premier. Known for his pragmatic approach, he has focused on promoting economic reforms and innovation.

Deathyear: 2023

August Coppola

August Coppola, American academic and author, was born in 1934. He was the father of film director Francis Ford Coppola and author of several books, including "Octopus: Stories," and "Notes on the Burning of Clothes."

Deathyear: 2009

Lise Meitner

Lise Meitner was a pioneering Austrian-English physicist and academic, born in 1878. She made groundbreaking contributions to nuclear physics, including the discovery of nuclear fission, for which her colleague Otto Hahn received the Nobel Prize, sparking controversy over her exclusion from the award.

Deathyear: 1968

Betsy Drake

Betsy Drake, the talented French-American actress and singer, was born in 1923. She gained fame for her roles in films such as "Random Harvest" and "Pat and Mike" with her husband, Spencer Tracy.

Deathyear: 2015

Charles Hawtrey (actor, born 1914)

Charles Hawtrey was a beloved English actor, singer, and pianist born in 1914. He rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s, starring in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions, notably in the Carry On comedy series, earning him the nickname "Britain's most versatile performer."

Deathyear: 1988

David Bohm

David Bohm (1917-1992) was a renowned physicist and philosopher who made significant contributions to the fields of quantum mechanics and holism. His work explored the nature of consciousness, free will, and the interconnectedness of all things.

Deathyear: 1992

Elizabeth de Burgh

Elizabeth de Burgh, queen of Robert the Bruce, was a noblewoman of Anglo-Norman descent. She married Robert in 1302, strengthening their alliance. Her diplomatic skills and political influence helped shape Scotland's early medieval history, fostering unity and stability during tumultuous times

Deathyear: 1327

Néstor Kirchner

Néstor Kirchner, a prominent Argentine lawyer and politician, served as the 51st President of Argentina from 2003 to 2007. Known for his progressive policies and anti-neoliberal stance, he implemented significant social and economic reforms, earning him a strong reputation as a left-wing leader.

Deathyear: 2010

Ivan III of Russia

Ivan III, also known as Ivan the Great, was the Grand Prince of Moscow from 1462 to 1505. He expanded Moscow's influence, reorganized the government, and married Sophia Palaiologina, a niece of the Byzantine Emperor Constantine XI, strengthening Russia's ties to Eastern Orthodoxy.

Deathyear: 1505

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the enigmatic and charismatic chairman of Leicester City F.C., acquired the club in 2010 and led the "Foxes" to a stunning Premier League title in 2016. His passing in a helicopter crash outside the King Power Stadium in 2018 was met with widespread grief.

Deathyear: 2018

Elliott Roosevelt (general)

Elliott Roosevelt, son of President Theodore Roosevelt, was a U.S. Army officer, White House aide, and author. He served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy and briefly as Governor of New York before his death in a plane crash in 1948.

Deathyear: 1990

Xavier Cugat

Xavier Cugat, a charismatic Spaniard, rose to fame in the US in the 1940s with his unique blend of Latin rhythms and American jazz. A violinist, bandleader, and actor, he charmed audiences with his charming smile and debonair persona.

Deathyear: 1990

Pradeep Kumar

Pradeep Kumar was a renowned Indian film personality, known for his multifaceted career as an actor, director, and producer. Born in 1925, he debuted in the 1950s and went on to act in over 200 films, earning the title of "Ashok Kumar of Madras" due to his exceptional acting skills.

Deathyear: 2001

Taylor Mitchell

Taylor Mitchell was a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her sweet, soulful voice and poignant lyrics. Born in 1990, she gained international acclaim before her tragic death at age 19 in a bear attack while hiking in Nova Scotia.

Deathyear: 2009

Rod Roddy

Rod Roddy was a legendary American game show announcer, best known for his boisterous calls on "The Price is Right" from 1985 to 2008. With his signature booming voice, Roddy greeted millions of contestants and introduced iconic prizes, becoming an integral part of the show's beloved atmosphere.

Deathyear: 2003

Rudolf Anderson

Rudolf Anderson Jr. was a US Air Force Major who gave his life in the Cold War. Born on July 13, 1927, he was shot down over Czechoslovakia on May 28, 1960, while on a U-2 spy mission, becoming the only American casualty in the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Deathyear: 1962

Jacques Demy

French actor, singer, director, and screenwriter Jacques Demy (1931-1990) is known for poetic and whimsical films like "Lola" (1961) and "The Umbrellas of Cherbourg" (1964). His musical melodramas feature memorable songs and charismatic performances from Jane Birkin and Catherine Deneuve.

Deathyear: 1990

Michael Servetus

Michael Servetus was a Spanish physician and theologian born in 1511. He was a pioneer in medical research, discovering the pulmonary circulation of blood and publishing the groundbreaking work "De flatibus". Despite his contributions, he was burnt at the stake for his anti-Trinitarian beliefs in 1553.

Deathyear: 1553

Ulugh Beg

Ulugh Beg, a renowned Persian astronomer, mathematician, and sultan, born in 1394, compiled the Zij-i Sultani, a comprehensive astronomical table, cataloging 1,020 stars, and also developed a precise method for trigonometric calculations, leaving a lasting legacy in the fields of astronomy and mathematics.

Deathyear: 1449

Takahito, Prince Mikasa

Takahito, Prince Mikasa, a member of the Imperial Family of Japan, was born in 1915. He is the youngest son of Emperor Hirohito and Empress Nagako. Takahito is known for his philanthropic work, advocating for international cooperation and education.

Deathyear: 2016

Isaac Brock

Isaac Brock, a distinguished British army officer and administrator, served as Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada from 1811 until his death in 1812. He is best known for his heroic efforts during the War of 1812, particularly in the Battle of Detroit.

Deathyear: 1812

Albert II of Germany

Albert II of Germany, also known as Albert of Austria, was King of Germany and Archduke of Austria from 1438 to 1439. Born in 1397, he was the eldest son of Duke Albert IV of Austria and succeeded his brother as German King.

Deathyear: 1439

Marcel Cerdan

Marcel Cerdan was a renowned Algerian-French boxer who held the World Middleweight Championship from 1948 to 1950. Born in 1916 in Sétif, Algeria, he is remembered for his skillful fighting style and his tragic death in a plane crash in 1949, at the age of 33.

Deathyear: 1949

James M. Cain

James M. Cain, a pioneering American journalist and author, was born in 1892. He penned the iconic crime novel "The Postman Always Rings Twice" (1934) and "Double Indemnity" (1936), which were later adapted into films. Cain's dark, stylish writing style made him a standout in literary noir.

Deathyear: 1977

Lope de Aguirre

Lope de Aguirre was a Spanish conquistador who led an ill-fated expedition to the Amazon River in the 1560s. Described as cruel and power-hungry, he defected from the expedition and went mad, slaying many of his companions, earning himself the nickname "El Enriterion" (the Lame).

Deathyear: 1561

Joe Niekro

Joe Niekro was a legendary American baseball player, professional pitcher from 1967 to 1988. He played for the expansion team in Houston, Texas, and also member of the Cleveland Indians, New York Yankees, and Detroit Tigers.

Deathyear: 2006

David Shepherd (umpire)

David Shepherd is a renowned English cricketer and umpire. Born in 1940, he played first-class cricket for Glamorgan and later became a prominent umpire, officiating in 379 Test matches, a record at the time of his retirement in 2005.

Deathyear: 2009

Vytautas

Vytautas the Great, a Lithuanian ruler, was born in 1350. He united the Lithuanian Principalities, expanded the kingdom, and resisted the Teutonic Order's expansion. He reformed the government and education system, promoting Christianity. He died in 1430, becoming a legendary figure in Lithuanian history.

Deathyear: 1430

Tom Dowd

Tom Dowd was a renowned American record producer and engineer, born in 1925. He worked with legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and Eric Clapton, and his innovative techniques and warm tones earned him a reputation as one of the greatest producers in the music industry.

Deathyear: 2002

Rex Stout

Rex Stout, an American author, wrote the iconic detective novels featuring Nero Wolfe, a brilliant and eccentric detective, and his able assistant, Archie Goodwin. Born in 1886, Stout's works blended humor, wit, and clever plots, cementing his place as one of the most beloved mystery writers of the 20th century.

Deathyear: 1975

Helmuth Hübener

Helmuth Hübener was a German activist born in 1925. He was a leading figure in the White Rose movement, a group of students who opposed Nazism through leaflets and public protests. Executed in 1943, his bravery inspired many to resist Nazi tyranny.

Deathyear: 1942

James Hillman

James Hillman, a renowned American psychologist and author, pioneered the field of Archetypal Psychology. His work explored the collective unconscious, integrating Jungian theories with poetry and mythology. His writings, including "Re-Visioning Psychology," offered a new perspective on human development and the nature of the self.

Deathyear: 2011

Robert Pritzker

Robert Pritzker, born in 1926, is a prominent American businessman who co-founded the Marmon Group, a conglomerate with diverse industries. He is part of the wealthy Pritzker family, known for their successful entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropic efforts.

Deathyear: 2011

Ugo Tognazzi

Ugo Tognazzi was a renowned Italian actor, director, and screenwriter, born in 1922. He is best known for his eclectic filmography, which spans over 100 films, including commedies, dramas, and musicals.

Deathyear: 1990

Terry Callier

Terry Callier was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist born in 1945. He was a key figure in the Windy City's rich musical heritage, blending folk, soul, and jazz to create a unique sound that earned him a cult following and critical acclaim.

Deathyear: 2012

Squizzy Taylor

Squizzy Taylor, born in 1888, was a notorious Australian gangster who led a life of crime during the 1920s and 1930s. A brutal and cunning individual, he pioneered the Melbourne underworld, becoming a mastermind of theft, extortion, and murder. His reign of terror finally ended with his 1927 execution.

Deathyear: 1927

Enrico Mattei

Enrico Mattei was a visionary entrepreneur and politician who led Eni, Italy's energy giant. He transformed the energy landscape, developing oil and gas resources, and introduced environmental concerns to corporate discourse.

Deathyear: 1962

Murder of Allen R. Schindler Jr.

Allen R. Schindler Jr. was a United States Navy seaman who was murdered in the Philippines in 1992. His murder was highly publicized due to his sexual orientation, and it brought attention to the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the military.

Deathyear: 1992

Moira Lister

Moira Lister was a renowned South African actress, born in 1923. She is best known for her work in theatre, film, and television, earning multiple awards, including a Tony Award nomination. Lister's impressive career spanned over five decades, showcasing her incredible talent and dedication to her craft.

Deathyear: 2007

John David Carson

John David Carson is an American actor, born in 1952. He has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including "The Twilight Zone", "Combat!" and "The Waltons". He's also a skilled impressionist and has worked as a voice actor.

Deathyear: 2009