Anne Ramsey
American actress known for The Goonies
An accomplished actress gained recognition for her roles in film and television during the latter half of the 20th century. Portrayed the memorable character Mama Fratelli in the 1985 adventure comedy film The Goonies. Appeared in the television series Room 222 and garnered a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for the show. Continued to work in various roles until her passing.
Played Mama Fratelli in The Goonies
Earned an Emmy nomination for Room 222
Other People Born on March 27th
Elsie MacGill
Canadian-American engineer and author
Born
March 27th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1980 45 years ago — 75 years old
Significant contributions in engineering and literature were made. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Hawker Hurricane aircraft during World War II. Authored works that focused on women's roles in engineering and advocated for women's rights. Actively participated in the engineering community, promoting the involvement of women in technical fields.
Continue ReadingSergey Kirov
Russian politician and party leader
Born
March 27th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1934 91 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1886, served as a prominent Soviet politician during the early years of the USSR. Played a key role in the Bolshevik Party, contributing to the consolidation of power after the October Revolution. Elected as the Secretary of the Leningrad Regional Committee of the Communist Party, he became a leading figure in the region. His assassination in 1934 led to significant political repercussions within the Soviet Union, serving as a catalyst for the Great Purge under Joseph Stalin.
Continue ReadingRuperto Chapí
Spanish composer; founded authors' society
Born
March 27th, 1851 175 years ago
Died
1909 117 years ago — 58 years old
A Spanish composer, contributed significantly to the realm of zarzuela, a Spanish lyrical drama that alternates between spoken and sung scenes. Co-founded the Sociedad General de Autores y Editores, which aimed to protect the rights of authors and composers in Spain. Worked with various musical forms and brought a distinct style to zarzuela that influenced its evolution during the late 19th century. Promoted the importance of intellectual property rights for creators in the music industry and supported the establishment of an organized approach to authorial rights in Spain.
Continue ReadingShūsaku Endō
Japanese author of 'Silence'
Born
March 27th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1996 29 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Japan in 1923, a prominent author explored themes of faith, alienation, and culture in writings. The literary career spanned several decades, beginning after World War II. Gained recognition for the novel 'Silence,' which details the struggle of a Jesuit missionary in Japan. This work received critical acclaim and explored complex interactions between Christianity and Japanese society. Other notable works include 'The Samurai,' which examines the ethical dilemmas faced by an individual caught between two cultures, and 'The Sea and Poison,' a novel about medical ethics during wartime. His contributions to literature provided insights into the conflict between personal faith and societal pressures, affirming the unique perspectives of post-war Japanese authors.
Continue ReadingUwe Rosenberg
Game designer, creator of Bohnanza
Born
March 27th, 1970 56 years ago
A German game designer specializing in creating board games, recognized for the design of several popular games. Notable works include Bohnanza, which introduced players to a unique trading mechanic involving bean cards. Other significant contributions to the board game community include Agrícola and Patchwork, both of which gained critical acclaim and multiple awards. His designs emphasize strategic gameplay and player interaction, making them favorites among enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingJames McNeill
Irish politician, Governor-General of the Irish Free State
Born
March 27th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
1938 88 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1869, served as the second Governor-General of the Irish Free State from 1922 to 1928. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Free State's governance and worked on behalf of the British Crown. Promoted social and economic development within the newly formed state and managed relations between various political factions. Involved in public service throughout his career, contributing to local and national governance efforts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 11th
Otto Wahle
Swimmer and Olympic coach
Born
November 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1963 62 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Austria, a swimmer relocated to the United States. Competed at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, finishing fourth in the 200m freestyle. Later established a successful coaching career, mentoring numerous swimmers. Contributed to the growth of competitive swimming in America and developed training techniques for aspiring athletes.
Continue ReadingGeorge Furth
American actor and playwright noted for "Company"
Born
December 14th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 75 years old
An American actor and playwright, contributed significantly to theatre and television. Played roles in several television series including "The Love Boat" and "L.A. Law". Co-wrote the musical "Company" with Stephen Sondheim, which premiered on Broadway in 1970 and received critical acclaim. Worked extensively in both acting and writing throughout the latter half of the 20th century, leaving a lasting influence on American theatre.
Continue ReadingClare of Assisi
Italian nun and founder of the Poor Clares
Born
July 16th, 1194 831 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1253 772 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent figure in the Franciscan movement, founded the Order of Poor Ladies, known as the Poor Clares, in 1212. Inspired by the teachings of Francis of Assisi, devoted life to poverty and service. Established a monastic community in San Damiano, which emphasized a simple lifestyle and prayer. Canonized as a saint in 1255, recognized for her deep spirituality and commitment to the Franciscan ideals.
Continue ReadingRobin Williams
Actor and comedian, starred in Good Will Hunting
Born
July 21st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent actor and comedian celebrated for a blend of improvisational skills and a range of comedic and dramatic performances. Gained recognition for performances in films such as 'Good Will Hunting', 'Mrs. Doubtfire', and 'Dead Poets Society'. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for role in 'Good Will Hunting' in 1998. Also starred in television series 'Mork & Mindy', which gained a large following in the late 1970s and early 1980s, showcasing a unique ability to engage audiences with heartfelt comedy.
Continue ReadingEunice Kennedy Shriver
American Activist, Founder of Special Olympics
Born
July 10th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 88 years old
An American activist established the Special Olympics in 1968 to provide sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This initiative aimed to promote inclusion and acceptance for people with disabilities through the joy of sports. The organization has since expanded globally, providing opportunities for millions. In addition to founding the Special Olympics, contributions included advocating for people with developmental disabilities and serving as part of the Kennedy family, which was influential in American public life.
Continue ReadingAlfred A. Knopf Sr.
American publisher and book founder
Born
September 12th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1984 41 years ago — 91 years old
Established Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., a publishing house that became influential in the American literature landscape. Focused on quality literature, the publisher developed a reputation for producing works by eminent authors. The imprint published acclaimed books across various genres, emphasizing both fiction and nonfiction. Under this leadership, the company gained a significant market presence and contributed to the literary culture of the time.
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