Born on This Day: July 4

American novelist whose fiction explored guilt, morality, history, and identity and became central to American literature.

Italian military and political leader whose campaigns were crucial to Italian unification.

American songwriter whose melodies became enduring parts of nineteenth-century popular music, though some lyrics reflect racist traditions.

American cartoonist whose elaborate imaginary machines became a lasting symbol of humorous complexity.

American organized-crime figure whose financial methods influenced the development of modern criminal enterprises.

Italian actor and photographer whose international career helped define postwar European cinema and celebrity.

American playwright whose comedies shaped Broadway and popular theater for decades.

American veteran and activist whose memoir and antiwar advocacy influenced public debate about Vietnam and disability.