Famous people born on March 4th
March 4 birthdays span an impressive mix of performers, innovators, and public figures, from comedy and film to sports, politics, and activism. The date brings together globally influential voices and behind-the-scenes shapers of culture, including artists who helped define genres and leaders who left marks on public life. With 27 notable birthdays to explore, March 4 offers a broad snapshot of modern entertainment, ideas, and history.
Notable highlights
- Catherine O'Hara (1954) - A beloved comic actor whose improvisational roots helped shape modern screen comedy, from sketch to iconic character work.
- Miriam Makeba (1932) - The "Mama Africa" singer who brought South African music to global audiences while using her platform to speak against apartheid.
- Knute Rockne (1888) - The Notre Dame coach who popularized forward-pass strategy and helped turn college football into a national phenomenon.
- Rick Perry (1950) - A long-serving Texas governor who later became U.S. Secretary of Energy, reflecting a career spanning state and federal power.
- Chris Squire (1948) - The Yes co-founder whose melodic, aggressive bass tone became a cornerstone of progressive rock.
- Bobby Womack (1944) - A soul songwriter and performer whose gritty vocals and guitar work influenced generations across R&B and rock.
- Tim Vine (1967) - A prolific stand-up known for rapid-fire puns and one-liners, celebrated for precision timing and wordplay craft.
- Ryszard Kapuscinski (1932) - A pioneering reporter of revolutions and decolonization whose literary journalism reshaped how foreign correspondence could read.
- Jason Newsted (1963) - The bassist who joined Metallica at a pivotal moment, contributing to a stadium-era of heavy metal.
- James Ellroy (1948) - The crime novelist behind hard-edged historical noir, famed for clipped style and sprawling, era-defining narratives.
On this day
- 1789 - The U.S. Constitution goes into effect as the first Congress meets in New York City, launching the new federal government.
- 1933 - Franklin D. Roosevelt is inaugurated for his first term as U.S. president, taking office amid the Great Depression.
- 1938 - The first oil is produced in Saudi Arabia at Dammam Well No. 7, a turning point for global energy and geopolitics.
- 1990 - After decades of rule, Chile transitions to democracy as Patricio Aylwin assumes the presidency following elections.