Anatole Litvak

Film director of 'The Snake Pit'

Anatole Litvak - Film director of 'The Snake Pit'
Born

May 21st, 1902
123 years ago

Died

December 15th, 1974
50 years ago — 72 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in Ukraine, a significant figure in American cinema, directing a variety of influential films. Early career included work in European theater and cinema before relocating to the United States. Gained recognition for directing 'The Snake Pit', which addressed mental health issues and featured a groundbreaking performance by the lead actress. Also directed various other successful films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the film noir genre and creating works that incorporated social themes.

Directed 'The Snake Pit'

Worked on 'The Diary of Anne Frank'

Produced 'The Devil's Brigade'

Other People Born on May 21st

Nora Aunor

Actress and recording artist from the Philippines
Born
May 21st, 1953 72 years ago

Born in 1953 in the Philippines, this actress gained prominence in the 1970s and became a significant figure in Philippine cinema. She starred in numerous films, establishing a career noted for performances in movies such as 'Himala', 'Minsa'y Isang Gamu-gamo', and 'The Flor Contemplacion Story'. As a recording artist, she produced several hit songs and albums, contributing to her widespread acclaim. Over the years, she achieved recognition both locally and internationally, receiving various awards for her performances.

Continue Reading

Albrecht Dürer

German Painter and Engraver
Born
May 21st, 1471 554 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1528 497 years ago — 56 years old

A pivotal figure of the Northern Renaissance, Dürer specialized in painting, engraving, and theoretical writings on art and geometry. Artworks displayed remarkable detail and precision, revolutionizing printmaking. The established practice of signature on works indicated the importance of the artist as an individual. Major contributions to art theory included treatises on proportion and perspective. Dürer's travels to Italy influenced his work, bringing classical elements into the Northern European tradition.

Continue Reading

John Konrads

Australian swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
May 21st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

An Australian swimmer, this individual gained prominence in the 1960s. Achievements include competing in the 1960 Rome Olympics, earning a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle. Additionally, numerous Australian national titles were secured throughout the career. Established a reputation for significant contributions to competitive swimming before transitioning into coaching and promoting the sport.

Continue Reading

Briana Banks

Porn actress and model in adult films
Born
May 21st, 1978 47 years ago

Born in 1978, this German-American figure gained prominence in the adult film industry. Starting her career in the late 1990s, she quickly became a recognizable name within the genre. With a focus on adult entertainment, this individual worked with multiple production companies and received several awards for performances in adult films. In addition to performing, she also participated in modeling, further expanding her presence in the media.

Continue Reading

Hilton Valentine

Guitarist for The Animals, iconic songs
Born
May 21st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 78 years old

An English guitarist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the rock music scene in the 1960s. Played lead guitar for the band The Animals, which gained popularity for its rhythm and blues sound. The band's rendition of 'House of the Rising Sun' became a number one hit in multiple countries in 1964, showcasing distinctive guitar work and vocal delivery. After The Animals, continued to work on music and formed several bands, exploring various musical styles. His contributions to rock music have been recognized with various accolades.

Continue Reading

Marc Ribot

Guitarist and composer for various artists
Born
May 21st, 1954 71 years ago

A prominent guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to various music genres, including jazz, rock, and avant-garde. Ribot collaborated with notable musicians such as Tom Waits, Elvis Costello, and Nick Zinner. He established a unique style that blends traditional techniques with experimental sounds. Ribot released several solo albums, showcasing his versatility across different musical landscapes. His work in film scoring has also gained recognition, adding depth to various cinematic projects. Ribot's guitar work features distinct improvisation and a rich emotional palette.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 15th

Sitting Bull

Hunkpapa Lakota chief and leader
Born
1831 194 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1890 134 years ago — 59 years old

A Hunkpapa Lakota tribal chief, played a pivotal role in resisting United States government policies towards Native Americans. Advocated for the rights and traditions of his people, and became a symbol of Native American resistance. Championed the return of the Lakota to their ancestral lands and led his people during the Great Sioux War. Fought in the Battle of Little Bighorn against General Custer's forces, resulting in a significant victory for the Lakota and their allies. Later, captured and ultimately surrendered, Sitting Bull spent time in captivity before his eventual release.

Continue Reading

Gaspar Fagel

Dutch politician and diplomat
Born
January 25th, 1634 391 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1688 336 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1634, this individual served as a prominent politician and diplomat in the Dutch Republic during the tumultuous 17th century. Played a crucial role in various diplomatic negotiations, particularly during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. Held positions including Pensionary of Amsterdam and played a significant part in the shaping of Dutch foreign policy. Actively engaged in discussions that influenced trade and military strategies. Partook in the Assembly of the States General and contributed to the governance of the provinces.

Continue Reading

Joseph Martin Kraus

Composer of symphonies and operas
Born
June 20th, 1756 268 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1792 232 years ago — 36 years old

Born in 1756, a German-Swedish composer and educator. Studied in Germany and later moved to Sweden, where he became prominent in the classical music scene. Composed symphonies, concertos, and operas. Worked as a court composer for King Gustav III of Sweden, influencing the cultural landscape of the time. His music reflected the styles of the classical era, incorporating both German and Italian elements. Kraus's works were performed during his lifetime, and he gained recognition for his contributions to the music of the 18th century. He passed away in 1792, leaving behind a significant body of work that has since been rediscovered and appreciated in the modern era.

Continue Reading

Girma Wolde-Giorgis

Ethiopian politician; President of Ethiopia
Born
December 28th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2018 6 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the President of Ethiopia from 2001 to 2013. Participated in numerous efforts to enhance the political landscape of the country. Engaged in various peace initiatives and dialogues to foster stability. Worked extensively in the humanitarian sector, focusing on education and health.

Continue Reading

George Hickes

English minister and scholar
Born
June 20th, 1642 382 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1715 309 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a prominent English minister and scholar in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Contributed significantly to the study of languages and literature, especially in connection with Anglicans and Dissenters. Edited and published various works, including theological treatises and academic writings. Held the position of Dean of Worcester and became the first Archbishop of York. Played a crucial role in the development of Anglican scholarship.

Continue Reading

Alp Arslan

Seljuk Sultan and military leader
Born
January 20th, 1029 996 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1072 952 years ago — 43 years old

Ruled as the second sultan of the Seljuk Empire from 1063 until 1072. Expanded the empire's territory significantly, securing victories against both Byzantine and Fatimid forces. His leadership during the Battle of Manzikert in 1071 led to a decisive defeat of Byzantium, paving the way for Turkish settlement in Anatolia. Alp Arslan was characterized by a commitment to Islamic unity and governance based on justice and equity.

Continue Reading