André Cassagnes
Toy maker, creator of the Etch A Sketch
Developed the Etch A Sketch, a popular drawing toy, revolutionizing the way children interact with art. The invention allowed users to create drawings by turning two knobs, controlling a stylus that moved across a screen, leaving a distinctive aluminum powder mark. Introduced to the market in 1960, the toy achieved substantial sales and became a cherished item in many households. Entire generations grew up using the Etch A Sketch, which remains a classic example of innovative design in the toy industry.
Created the Etch A Sketch in 1960
Contributed to the toy industry's design evolution
Other People Born on September 23rd
Napheesa Collier
Professional basketball player, WNBA Champion
Born
September 23rd, 1996 29 years ago
A basketball player competed in the WNBA for the Minnesota Lynx. Achieved success at the University of Connecticut, winning a national championship. Selected as the 6th overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft. In 2021, contributed to the Minnesota Lynx's success in winning a WNBA championship. Also represented the United States in international competitions, securing a gold medal at the 2019 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup.
Continue ReadingBrandon Jennings
Basketball Player - NBA All-Star
Born
September 23rd, 1989 36 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily as a point guard. Attended Oak Hill Academy and later committed to play in Europe instead of college basketball. Entered the NBA in 2009 and joined the Milwaukee Bucks. Achieved immediate success with a notable rookie season. In 2010, scored 55 points in a game against the Golden State Warriors, setting the record for the most points scored by a rookie in a game. Later played for teams including the Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, and the Orlando Magic.
Continue ReadingPetteri Lindbohm
Finnish ice hockey player; Stanley Cup champion
Born
September 23rd, 1993 32 years ago
Played ice hockey as a defenseman in the NHL, contributing to multiple teams. Drafted in 2012 and began professional career with the St. Louis Blues. Played for teams including the Chicago Wolves and the HPK in Liiga. Achieved a notable milestone by winning the Stanley Cup with the St. Louis Blues in 2019.
Continue ReadingBai Lu
Chinese Actress in 'My True Friend'
Born
September 23rd, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, this actress gained prominence in Chinese television and film. Significant roles include appearances in 'My True Friend' and 'The Legend of White Snake'. The actress has worked on various popular dramas, showcasing talent across different genres. Her performances have contributed to the rise of contemporary Chinese television.
Continue ReadingHasan Minhaj
Comedian and host of Patriot Act
Born
September 23rd, 1985 40 years ago
A comedian and television host, contributions include creating and starring in the Netflix series 'Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj', which addressed current events and cultural issues. Prior to this, served as a correspondent on 'The Daily Show', where political satire highlighted numerous societal topics. Contributions to stand-up comedy garnered recognition and awards, including a Peabody Award for excellence in storytelling.
Continue ReadingChris Hawkins
English journalist and radio producer
Born
September 23rd, 1975 50 years ago
Born in 1975, a journalist and radio producer established a career in broadcasting. Worked extensively in radio, producing and presenting for several stations. Known for contributions to BBC Radio, particularly in its regional programming. Engaged audiences through informative discussions and storytelling across various topics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 16th
John Holland
1st Duke of Exeter, English politician
Born
March 18th, 1395 631 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1400 626 years ago — 4 years old
Held the title of 1st Duke of Exeter and served as Lord Great Chamberlain of England. Played a significant role in the Lancastrian court during the late 14th century. Participated in various military campaigns including the wars against the French during the Hundred Years' War. Established alliances through marriage and noble connections.
Continue ReadingGustav Leonhardt
Dutch pianist and early music conductor
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2012 14 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in the revival of early music, conducted performances with the Ensemble Leonhardt and the Netherlands Bach Society. Contributed significantly to the scholarship and performance of Baroque music. Recorded numerous albums, making historical performances accessible to a wider audience, particularly of works by composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach. Served as a professor at the Amsterdam Conservatory, influencing a generation of musicians and conductors with a focus on historical performance practices.
Continue ReadingGlen P. Robinson
Businessman, founded Scientific Atlanta
Born
September 10th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2013 13 years ago — 89 years old
Founded Scientific Atlanta, a major player in the development of cable television technology. Instrumental in pioneering innovations in video technology and the advancement of telecommunications equipment. Expanded the company significantly, contributing to its establishment as a key provider in the industry.
Continue ReadingAndrija Artuković
Croatian Minister of Interior
Born
November 29th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1988 38 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the Minister of Interior during the Independent State of Croatia from 1941 to 1945. Oversaw the internal security and law enforcement agencies of the wartime regime. Worked closely with the Ustaše government, contributing to policies that led to significant human rights violations during World War II. After the war, faced charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, resulting in a long exile before being apprehended and tried in the 1980s.
Continue ReadingPauline Phillips
Journalist and creator of Dear Abby
Born
July 4th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2013 13 years ago — 94 years old
A journalist and radio host played a significant role in American media by creating the advice column 'Dear Abby'. The column provided guidance on various personal issues and became a staple in newspapers across the country. For decades, the work reached millions, addressing topics ranging from relationships to moral dilemmas. The columnist's straightforward style and humor attracted a wide readership and engagement, contributing to the ongoing popularity of advice columns in print and digital media.
Continue ReadingFrank Hurley
Photographer and cinematographer for 'The Shackleton Expedition'
Born
1885 141 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1962 64 years ago — 77 years old
An Australian photographer and cinematographer, Hurley contributed significantly to early 20th-century visual storytelling. His most notable work involved documenting Ernest Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition from 1914 to 1917. The photographic collections and films from the expedition highlighted the extreme conditions and challenges faced during the journey. In 1919, Hurley produced a groundbreaking film about the expedition, 'South', which combined his photography with narrative and visual storytelling techniques. He also worked as a war correspondent during World War I, capturing images that illustrated the realities of conflict. His contributions to photography and film laid the groundwork for later documentary practices, reflecting a keen eye for detail and storytelling.
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