Achille Vianelli
Italian painter and academic artist
Achille Vianelli was an Italian painter and academic primarily active in the 19th century. Specializing in historical and portrait painting, Vianelli contributed to the Italian art scene through both his artworks and teaching. His involvement with the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice helped shape the next generation of artists. Vianelli's style reflected the traditions of Romanticism, focusing on emotive and dramatic themes, often marrying historical accuracy with romanticized interpretations. His legacy includes the promotion of academic ideals in painting and a body of work that captures the spirit of his time.
Served as a professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice
Created notable historical and portrait works
Other People Born on December 21st
John H. Ketcham
American general and politician
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December 21st, 1832 193 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1906 119 years ago — 73 years old
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War and later became a politician in the post-war period. Commanded troops in several significant battles, contributing to military efforts for the Union. After the war, held various political offices, including serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. Worked on issues related to veterans and reconstruction.
Continue ReadingThomas Wriothesley
English politician and 1st Earl of Southampton
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December 21st, 1505 520 years ago
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July 30th, 1550 475 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a prominent English politician during the Tudor period. Held the position of Lord High Admiral and was a key figure in the administration of King Henry VIII. Presided over the dissolution of the monasteries and played a significant role in various political and military affairs. His lineage continued through the Southampton earldom.
Continue ReadingKurt Waldheim
Austrian politician and former President
Born
December 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 9th President of Austria from 1986 to 1992. Held various roles in the Austrian government, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. Worked as the Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1972 to 1981, overseeing multiple peacekeeping missions and international diplomacy efforts. His presidency was marked by controversy regarding his military service during World War II. Engaged in European and international politics throughout his career, emphasizing neutrality and cooperation.
Continue ReadingNamık Kemal
Turkish journalist and playwright
Born
December 21st, 1840 185 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1888 137 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1840, a Turkish journalist, playwright, and activist contributed significantly to Turkish literature and nationalism. Focused on social reform through writing, emphasized freedom and justice in works. His play, 'Vatan yahut Silistre,' highlighted the importance of patriotism and played a key role in the cultural awakening in the Ottoman Empire. Engaged actively in the Young Turk movement, advocating for constitutional monarchy, and faced exile for opposition to the Sultan. Returned to Istanbul in 1908, continuing to influence political and literary spheres until his death in 1888.
Continue ReadingWalter Hagen
Professional Golfer and Major Champion
Born
December 21st, 1892 133 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1969 56 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American golfer who dominated the sport in the 1920s and 1930s. Achieved significant success in professional golf tournaments. Played a crucial role in the evolution of golf, popularizing the sport and elevating its status. Won multiple major championships, including four U.S. Opens and two British Opens, establishing a legacy as one of the greats of the game.
Continue ReadingJosh Gibson
Baseball player with Negro League standout
Born
December 21st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1947 79 years ago — 35 years old
Played as a catcher for the Homestead Grays and the Pittsburgh Crawfords. Regarded as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history during the Negro Leagues. Recorded an estimated 800 home runs over his career, though official statistics remain incomplete due to the era in which he played. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972, recognizing his contributions to the sport and excellence on the field. Played in several All-Star games, showcasing talent that transcended barriers in the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 2nd
Jesús Franco
Filmmaker and horror genre pioneer
Born
May 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
A Spanish director, screenwriter, producer, and actor, recognized for contributions to the horror genre. Directed over 200 films, spanning various styles and themes. Developed a unique style characterized by low budgets and provocative content. Collaborated with notable actors, including Christopher Lee and Soledad Miranda. Gained a cult following through films that often blended eroticism with horror. His works included titles such as 'Count Dracula', 'The Awful Dr. Orlof', and 'Vampyros Lesbos', which have garnered attention in film studies and retrospectives.
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Computer scientist and engineer
Born
August 19th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
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Graphic designer and artist
Born
1914 112 years ago
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British composer with influential works
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August 30th, 1952 73 years ago
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April 2nd, 2021 4 years ago — 68 years old
A British composer, recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music. Worked extensively in various formats, including orchestral and chamber music. Collaborated with prominent ensembles and received commissions from prestigious institutions. Explored themes and techniques that advanced the modern compositional landscape. Educated at notable institutions and held academic positions, fostering a new generation of composers.
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Soul Singer with 'War' hit song
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January 21st, 1942 84 years ago
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April 2nd, 2003 22 years ago — 61 years old
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Belgian politician and Limburg Governor
Born
April 12th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old
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