Born on This Day: December 4

Scottish historian and essayist whose writings influenced Victorian thought, biography, and social criticism.

English writer whose satire and speculative fiction influenced modern literature.

Austrian poet whose lyrical and philosophical works became central to modern European literature.

Spanish dictator whose authoritarian rule shaped Spain for nearly four decades.

Canadian-American singer and actor whose films helped sustain Hollywood musical entertainment during the 1930s and 1940s.

American architect whose atrium hotels transformed commercial architecture and urban development.

American actor whose performances have influenced contemporary film acting.

American rapper and entrepreneur whose music and business career have influenced hip-hop and popular culture.