1. In 1781, renowned American Revolutionary War spy Nathan Hale was executed by the British in New York. Hale had famously said, "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country."

2. On September 4, 1888, the famous inventor Thomas Edison received a patent for his movie camera, the kinetoscope. This invention revolutionized the entertainment industry and paved the way for the development of the modern motion picture camera.

3. In 1949, the West Point Military Academy football team played their season opener against the University of Michigan at Michigan Stadium. It was the first game between the two schools, and Michigan won 27-13.

4. On September 4, 1957, the first commercial jet airliner, the Boeing 707, took its inaugural flight from Seattle to New York City. This event signaled the beginning of the Jet Age and transformed air travel.

5. The legendary musician Bruce Springsteen was born on September 4, 1949, in Long Branch, New Jersey. Springsteen is known for his powerful lyrics and rock and roll sound, which have earned him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.