Today is Wednesday, Sept. 4, the 248th day of 2024 with 118 to follow. The moon is waxing. Morning stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Neptune, Saturn and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.
Those born on this date are under the sign of Virgo. They include writer/politician Francois Rene de Chateaubriand in 1768; U.S. first lady Sarah Polk in 1803; engineer/inventor Lewis Latimer in 1848; musician Darius Milhaud in 1892; musician Jan Savitt in 1907; writer Richard Wright in 1908; radio news commentator Paul Harvey in 1918; actor Dick York in 1928; dancer/actor Mitzi Gaynor in 1931 (age 93); actor Kenneth Kimmins in 1941 (age 83); musician Merald "Bubba" Knight (Gladys Knight & the Pips) in 1942 (age 82); Golf Hall of Fame member Raymond Floyd in 1942 (age 82); Golf Hall of Fame member Tom Watson in 1949 (age 75); musician Ronald LaPread (Commodores) in 1950 (age 74); musician Martin Chambers (Pretenders) in 1951 (age 73); actor Judith Ivey in 1951 (age 73); actor/dancer Khandi Alexander in 1957 (age 67); radio/TV personality Drew Pinsky in 1958 (age 66); comedian/actor Damon Wayans in 1960 (age 64); musician Kim Thayil (Soundgarden) in 1960 (age 64); actor Noah Taylor in 1969 (age 55); actor Ione Skye in 1970 (age 54); actor Richard Speight Jr. in 1969 (age 55); music producer Mark Ronson in 1975 (age 49); musician Ian Grushka (New Found Glory) in 1977 (age 47); actor Wes Bentley in 1978 (age 46); actor Max Greenfield in 1980 (age 44); musician/actor Beyonce Knowles Carter in 1981 (age 43); actor Whitney Cummings in 1982 (age 42); comedian/actor Kyle Mooney in 1984 (age 40); musician Neyla Pekarek (Lumineers) in 1986 (age 38); musician James Bay in 1990 (age 34); actor Talitha Bateman in 2001 (age 23).
A Look Back
1700s: The Founding of Los Angeles
On Sept. 4, 1781, 44 Spanish settlers founded El Pueblo de Nuestra Senora la Reina de los Angeles de Porciuncula, now known as Los Angeles. The original name translates to "The Town of the Queen of Angels."
1800s: Edison's Power Plant and the Kodak Patent
Thomas Edison's invention of the light bulb changed the world, and on this day in 1882, his Pearl Street electric power station began operations in New York City. It was the first display of a practical electrical lighting system, bringing light to downtown Manhattan.
The same year, Geronimo, along with the Apache Indians he led, surrendered in Skeleton Canyon in Arizona to Gen. Nelson Miles. Geronimo was known for his fierce resistance to the U.S. government's attempts to confine his tribe to reservations.
On Sept. 4, 1888, George Eastman registered the name "Kodak" and patented his roll-film camera. This groundbreaking invention made photography accessible to the public and changed the way we capture memories.
1900s: The First Police Broadcast and the Maiden Voyage of the "Shenandoah"
In 1921, the first police broadcast was made by radio station WIL in St. Louis, MO. This marked the beginning of a new era in law enforcement, enabling faster communication and coordination.
Just two years later, the first American dirigible, the "Shenandoah," began its maiden voyage in Lakehurst, NJ. The "Shenandoah" was one of the largest airships ever built, carrying more than 20 passengers.
The longest pro tennis match in history was played on Sept. 4, 1949. Pancho Gonzales and Ted Schroeder battled it out for 67 games over five sets, showcasing their remarkable stamina and skill.
1950s: Coast-to-Coast Television and the Yankees Dynasty
In 1951, the first live, coast-to-coast TV broadcast took place in the U.S., connecting the nation in a new way. The event took place in San Francisco, CA, from the Japanese Peace Treaty Conference, and was seen all the way to New York City.
Three years later, on Sept. 4, 1953, the New York Yankees became the first baseball team to win five consecutive American League championships, solidifying their position as a dominant force in baseball.
The Edsel, a car that was unfortunately remembered for its lack of popularity, went on sale in 1957. The Ford Motor Company attempted to create a stylish car that would appeal to the mid-range market, but it failed to gain traction and was discontinued two years later.
1960s: The End of 'Gilligan's Island'
In 1967, the beloved sitcom "Gilligan's Island" aired for the last time on CBS-TV. The show, which featured a group of castaways stranded on a deserted island, ran for 98 episodes and continues to entertain audiences today.
1970s: Mark Spitz's Seven Gold Medals
On this date in 1972, swimmer Mark Spitz captured his seventh Olympic gold medal in the 400-meter medley relay event at Munich, Germany. Spitz was the first Olympian to win seven gold medals in a single Olympics, a record that stood until Michael Phelps won eight in 2008.
1990s: The Fourth World Conference on Women
In 1995, the Fourth World Conference on Women opened in Beijing, China. The conference attracted over 4,750 delegates from 181 countries, focusing on women's rights and gender equality.
More Than Just History
This day is also significant because it marks the birthday of renowned singer Beyonce Knowles Carter. Beyonce has captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful vocals, stunning performances, and inspiring message of empowerment.
Today's events and birthdays remind us of the vast tapestry of human history. From groundbreaking inventions to political milestones to the achievements of inspiring individuals, every day offers an opportunity to learn, reflect, and celebrate the rich and ever-evolving story of our world.
