Agnès Varda
French film director, 'Cléo from 5 to 7'
A notable figure in the French New Wave, directed numerous influential films throughout a career spanning over six decades. Created a unique style that emphasized personal storytelling and documentary techniques. Associated with the feminist movement in cinema, explored themes of identity and memory. Contributed to film as both a director and a visual artist, merging elements of photography and art installation into her work.
Directed 'Cléo from 5 to 7'
Created 'The Gleaners and I'
Recipient of an Honorary Oscar in 2017
Other People Born on May 30th
Akinoumi Setsuo
Sumo wrestler, the 37th Yokozuna
Born
May 30th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1979 46 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Japan, achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in sumo wrestling. Competed during the Shōwa era and gained recognition for skill and technique in the ring. Claimed many tournament victories and contributed to the popularity of the sport during his career. Retired from active competition and became a coach, continuing involvement in promoting the traditions of sumo wrestling. His legacy remains influential in the world of sumo.
Continue ReadingBruno Gröning
Mystic and author of healing teachings
Born
May 30th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 53 years old
An influential figure in the realm of spiritual healing, contributed to the understanding of healing through spiritual means. Established the Bruno Gröning Circle of Friends, which spread his teachings and practices related to faith healing. Lectured extensively in Germany and other countries, attracting large audiences. Promoted the idea of healing energy and its connection to faith and belief, leading many to explore his methods to improve health and well-being.
Continue ReadingColm Tóibín
Irish novelist and playwright
Born
May 30th, 1955 70 years ago
A prominent figure in contemporary literature, a career spanned multiple genres including novels, essays, and plays. The novel "Brooklyn" received critical acclaim and was adapted into a feature film. Other notable works include "The Master" and "The Testament of Mary," both exploring themes of identity and belonging within rich narratives. Besides fiction, contributions to journalism and criticism established a significant voice in literary discourse.
Continue ReadingAaron Volpatti
Ice hockey player and enforcer
Born
May 30th, 1985 40 years ago
Played ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Vancouver Canucks and the Florida Panthers. Drafted by the Canucks in 2010 and made his NHL debut in 2011. Volpatti primarily played as a left winger known for his physical style of play and enforcer role on the team. Achieved recognition for his contributions during games, including a memorable fight against a key rival. Volpatti's career included time in the American Hockey League (AHL) before transitioning fully to the NHL. His professional career spanned from the early 2010s to 2015.
Continue ReadingJohn Egerton
English politician and 2nd Earl of Bridgewater
Born
May 30th, 1623 402 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1686 339 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1623, the 2nd Earl of Bridgewater served as an influential English politician during the 17th century. Appointed Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, engaged in the political affairs of the time, which included the Civil War period. Played a significant role in local governance and was involved in various political activities that shaped the region during a tumultuous era. Held a prominent position in aristocratic circles, contributing to the political landscape of England.
Continue ReadingZacarias Moussaoui
September 11 attacks conspirator
Born
May 30th, 1968 57 years ago
Born in France in 1968, a citizen linked to the September 11 attacks. Arrested in the United States in August 2001, charged with conspiracy in the attacks that resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. In 2006, sentenced to life in prison without parole after becoming the only person in the U.S. tried and convicted for the crimes connected to September 11. The legal proceedings sparked a national debate over terrorism and justice.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 29th
Charles Wesley
English missionary and hymn writer
Born
December 18th, 1707 318 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1788 237 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in the Methodist movement, contributed extensively to the development of Christian hymnody. Served as a missionary, spreading the teachings of Methodism while promoting social reform. Authored numerous hymns and poems that emphasized spirituality and devotion. Collaborated closely with his brother, John Wesley, to establish the Methodist Church, which emphasized personal piety and direct experience of God.
Continue ReadingLionel Welles
6th Baron Welles of England
Died
March 29th, 1461 564 years ago — None years old
Born around 1406, held the title of 6th Baron Welles. Played a prominent role in the Wars of the Roses, aligning with the Yorkist faction. Managed estates and held positions in the English nobility, contributing to regional governance. Participated in military campaigns during a turbulent period in English history.
Continue ReadingTed Kluszewski
Baseball player and coach, Cincinnati Reds
Born
September 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1988 37 years ago — 63 years old
A professional baseball player and coach, made significant contributions to Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman. Played for the Cincinnati Reds and was part of the 1961 World Series Championship team. Known for a powerful batting style, he achieved a .298 batting average over his career. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching, sharing expertise and experience with younger players.
Continue ReadingJames Rennell
Geographer and oceanography pioneer
Born
1742 283 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1830 195 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent English geographer and historian, contributed significantly to the fields of geography and oceanography. Played a pivotal role in the mapping and understanding of various ocean currents and their effects on navigation. His work in creating detailed maps of the Indian Ocean and the region surrounding it was groundbreaking. Additionally, served as captain in the British Navy before focusing on his geospatial work. His publications included significant research on geography and cartography, which laid the groundwork for future studies in these areas.
Continue ReadingHans Nielsen Hauge
Norwegian lay minister and reformer
Born
1771 254 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1824 201 years ago — 53 years old
A Norwegian lay minister, social reformer, and author contributed significantly to religious life and social reforms in Norway. Established numerous congregations and promoted literacy and education through the establishment of schools. Advocated for workers' rights and economic independence, influencing Norway's societal structure during the early 19th century. Imprisoned multiple times for his religious activities and reformist views, yet continued to inspire followers and contribute to the religious awakening in Norway until death in 1824.
Continue ReadingGustav III
Swedish King and Cultural Patron
Born
1746 279 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1792 233 years ago — 46 years old
Ruled as King of Sweden from 1771 until assassination in 1792. Implemented significant reforms in government, promoting Enlightenment ideas. Established the Swedish Academy in 1786 to promote literature and language. Strengthened the monarchy while fostering a rich cultural life, particularly in theater and music. Engaged in the Russo-Swedish War (1788-1790), which aimed to restore past territories.
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