April 27 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

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April 27 holds a special place in world history for its remarkable events and notable personalities. On this day in 4977 BC, according to Johannes Kepler, the universe was created. In 1521, explorer Ferdinand Magellan was killed in the Philippines during his voyage around the world. South Africa celebrated a new era on this date in 1994 as it held its first multiracial elections, marking the end of apartheid. Many famous people were born on April 27, including Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, and Coretta Scott King, an influential civil rights leader. The day also saw the passing of several prominent figures, leaving lasting marks in politics, art, and science. April 27 remains a day remembered for its deep historical significance and inspiring human achievements.

Famous People Born on April 27

  • 1791: Samuel Morse, American inventor and painter who developed the Morse code
  • 1822: Ulysses S. Grant, 18th President of the United States and Civil War general
  • 1896: Wallace Hume Carothers, American chemist who invented nylon
  • 1900: Walter Lantz, American cartoonist and creator of Woody Woodpecker
  • 1927: Coretta Scott King, American author and civil rights leader
  • 1932: Casey Kasem, American radio personality and voice actor
  • 1951: Ace Frehley, American guitarist and member of the rock band Kiss
  • 1971: Willem-Alexander, King of the Netherlands
  • 1984: Patrick Stump, American musician and lead vocalist of Fall Out Boy
  • 1990: William Moseley, English actor known for The Chronicles of Narnia films
  • Famous Events on April 27

  • 4977 BC: According to Johannes Kepler, the universe was created on this date.
  • 1521: Explorer Ferdinand Magellan was killed in the Philippines during his circumnavigation of the globe.
  • 1565: The first Spanish settlement in the Philippines was established in Cebu City.
  • 1805: The United States Marines captured Derna in Libya, marking the first U.S. victory on foreign soil.
  • 1865: The steamboat Sultana exploded on the Mississippi River, killing more than 1,800 passengers.
  • 1945: Italian dictator Benito Mussolini was captured by Italian partisans.
  • 1961: Sierra Leone gained independence from the United Kingdom.
  • 1986: The city of Pripyat in Ukraine was evacuated following the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
  • 1994: South Africa held its first multiracial elections, marking the end of apartheid.
  • 2005: The Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger airplane, made its first flight from Toulouse, France.
  • Famous People Who Died on April 27

  • 1521: Ferdinand Magellan, Portuguese explorer who led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe
  • 1849: Hartley Coleridge, English poet and biographer
  • 1882: Ralph Waldo Emerson, American essayist, philosopher, and poet
  • 1915: Alexander Scriabin, Russian composer and pianist known for his innovative works
  • 1937: Antonio Gramsci, Italian Marxist philosopher and political theorist
  • 1986: Broderick Crawford, American actor and Academy Award winner
  • 2002: Ruth Handler, American businesswoman and creator of the Barbie doll
  • 2011: Phoebe Snow, American singer and songwriter
  • 2022: Kenneth Tsang, Hong Kong actor known for his roles in action films
  • 2023: Jerry Springer, American television host and former politician
  • April 27 stands out as a date that reflects the diversity of human experience, from groundbreaking scientific ideas to historic milestones in exploration and social progress. The events that occurred on this day reveal humanity’s continuous pursuit of discovery, freedom, and innovation. From the voyages of early explorers to modern political transformations, the day marks moments that have shaped the course of history across continents.

    It is also a day that honors the birth and passing of influential figures who left their mark on the world through leadership, creativity, and courage. Whether in science, politics, or art, the legacies connected to April 27 remind us of the enduring impact of human endeavor. The date continues to inspire reflection on progress and the ongoing journey of civilization.