May 4 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

may-4-in-history-famous-births-events

May 4 is a date that holds great historical and cultural importance across the world. It has witnessed remarkable events that shaped politics, science, and social movements. The day is also remembered for the tragic Kent State University shooting in 1970, which became a symbol of anti-war protests in the United States. In addition, May 4 marks the beginning of the May Fourth Movement in China in 1919, a significant moment that inspired political and cultural reforms. Many famous personalities from various fields were born on this day, making May 4 a notable date in history.

Famous People Born on May 4

  • 1929 Audrey Hepburn iconic British actress and humanitarian known for her roles in Roman Holiday and Breakfast at Tiffany's
  • 1959 Randy Travis American country music singer and songwriter recognized for his rich baritone voice
  • 1958 Keith Haring American artist celebrated for his graffiti-inspired pop art and social activism
  • 1979 Lance Bass American singer and actor best known as a member of the pop group NSYNC
  • 1987 Cesc Fàbregas Spanish footballer who played for Arsenal Chelsea and Barcelona
  • 1989 Rory McIlroy Northern Irish professional golfer and multiple-time major champion
  • 1997 Desiigner American rapper and songwriter known for his hit song Panda
  • Famous Events on May 4

  • 1493 Pope Alexander VI issued the papal bull Inter caetera dividing the newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal
  • 1776 Rhode Island became the first American colony to renounce allegiance to King George III
  • 1886 The Haymarket Affair took place in Chicago during a labor rally advocating for an eight-hour workday
  • 1919 The May Fourth Movement began in China promoting cultural reform and national independence
  • 1959 The first Grammy Awards were held honoring the best achievements in the music industry
  • 1970 Four students were killed by the National Guard during an anti-war protest at Kent State University in Ohio
  • 1979 Margaret Thatcher became the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
  • 1989 Tens of thousands of students gathered in Tiananmen Square Beijing to honor the May Fourth Movement anniversary
  • 1998 The Unabomber Ted Kaczynski was sentenced to life in prison without parole
  • 2019 The Met Gala in New York City celebrated the theme Camp Notes on Fashion featuring extravagant celebrity styles
  • Famous People Who Died on May 4

  • 1821 Napoleon Bonaparte French military leader and emperor who rose to prominence during the French Revolution
  • 1904 Antonín Dvořák Czech composer known for his symphonies and the New World Symphony
  • 1923 Ned Buntline American publisher journalist and writer famous for his Wild West stories
  • 1972 Edward Calvin Kendall American chemist and Nobel Prize laureate recognized for his work on hormones
  • 1975 Moe Howard American comedian and actor best known as the leader of The Three Stooges
  • 1980 Josip Broz Tito Yugoslav revolutionary and statesman who served as president of Yugoslavia
  • 1992 Henri Michaux Belgian-born poet and painter known for his surreal and expressive works
  • 2011 Claude Choules last known combat veteran of World War I and the last military witness to serve in both world wars
  • 2014 Elena Baltacha Scottish tennis player who represented Great Britain in major international tournaments
  • 2017 William Baumol American economist known for his work on entrepreneurship and the cost disease theory
  • May 4 holds a unique place in global history as a day marked by cultural transformation, political change, and memorable events that shaped societies across continents. From the historic May Fourth Movement in China to the tragic Kent State University shooting, this date continues to remind the world of the importance of freedom, reform, and the power of collective action. It stands as a reflection of humanity’s ongoing pursuit of justice and progress.

    Throughout the years, May 4 has also been celebrated for the remarkable individuals who were born or passed away on this day, leaving behind legacies in art, science, politics, and culture. The date encourages reflection on the impact of their contributions and the lessons drawn from history. Whether remembered for innovation, courage, or change, May 4 remains a significant day in the timeline of human achievement.