This Day In History : May 4

1979 United States

Star Wars Day Celebrated (1979)

On May 4, 1979, Star Wars Day was unofficially celebrated for the first time. The pun "May the Fourth Be With You" is a play on the popular Star Wars phrase "May the Force Be With You". Over the years, this day has become a cultural phenomenon celebrated by Star Wars fans worldwide.

Also on This Day in History May 4

Discover what happened on May 4 with HISTORY's summaries of major events, anniversaries,
famous births and notable deaths.

Births on This Day, May 4
  • 1929 Audrey Hepburn

    Belgian-born British actress and humanitarian

  • 1958 Keith Haring

    American artist

  • 1959 Randy Travis

    American country music singer and actor

  • 1928 Hosni Mubarak

    Egyptian President

  • 1953 Pia Zadora

    American actress and singer

Deaths on This Day, May 4
  • 1984 Diana Dors [Fluck]

    British actress and singer

  • 1990 Don Appell

    American writer and director

  • 1991 Bernie Winters [Weinstein]

    British comedian, actor, and TV presenter

  • 2012 Adam Yauch (MCA)

    American musician (Beastie Boys)

  • 1997 Vijayananda Dahanayake

    Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

1979

Margaret Thatcher Becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (1979)

On May 4, 1979, Margaret Thatcher became the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Her tenure as Prime Minister marked a significant period in British politics, characterized by conservative policies and economic reforms.
1993

Audrey Hepburn, Iconic Actress, Dies (1993)

Audrey Hepburn, renowned for her elegance and iconic performances in films like "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "Roman Holiday", passed away on May 4, 1993. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and fans around the world.
1776

Rhode Island Declares Independence from Great Britain (1776)

On May 4, 1776, the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations declared its independence from Great Britain, becoming the first of the Thirteen Colonies to do so. This declaration paved the way for Rhode Island's role in the American Revolutionary War and its eventual statehood.
1929

Audrey Hepburn Is Born (1929)

On May 4, 1929, Audrey Hepburn, one of the most beloved and iconic actresses of Hollywood's Golden Age, was born in Brussels, Belgium. Hepburn's grace, talent, and humanitarian work continue to inspire admiration worldwide.
Holiday
Special day
Discover invention