Antonin Scalia
Supreme Court Justice
Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1986 until death in 2016. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan, Scalia was a significant figure on the Court known for his originalist interpretations of the Constitution. He frequently engaged in public debates about judicial philosophy and the role of the judiciary. Scalia authored numerous opinions, influencing various landmark cases during his tenure. His judicial approach often sparked discussions and controversies regarding constitutional interpretation and the limits of governmental power.
Authored the majority opinion in District of Columbia v. Heller
Contributed to the dissent in Obergefell v. Hodges
Played a key role in establishing originalism as a judicial philosophy
Other People Born on March 11th
José Luis López Vázquez
Spanish actor in 'El verdugo'
Born
March 11th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish cinema, this actor’s career spanned over five decades, beginning in the 1940s. Achievements include work in cinema, theater, and television. Notable films include 'El verdugo', a black comedy that garnered critical acclaim and showcased a unique blend of humor and tragedy. Acted in various other notable films and plays, contributing significantly to the arts in Spain. The versatility in roles spanned from comedy to drama, showcasing a profound influence on Spanish cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingJerry Zucker
Director of 'Airplane!' and 'The Naked Gun'
Born
March 11th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 58 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter, significant contributions include co-directing the comedy 'Airplane!' and directing 'The Naked Gun' series. Collaborated with David Zucker and Jim Abrahams to create a brand of absurdist humor. Founded Zucker Productions and produced various works in television and film. Later projects included directing the romantic comedy 'Ghost,' which received critical acclaim and box office success.
Continue ReadingLawrence Welk
Accordion player and bandleader
Born
March 11th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1992 33 years ago — 89 years old
An accordion player and bandleader, exhibited talent from a young age, performing in local venues. In 1951, began hosting ''The Lawrence Welk Show'', which became a popular television program featuring music, dancing, and variety acts. The show ran for over a decade and influenced American pop culture. Championed a style known as 'champagne music', combining traditional dance music with a lively presentation. Retired from weekly broadcasts in 1982 but continued producing specials.
Continue ReadingVinnie Paul
Drummer for Pantera and Hellyeah
Born
March 11th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 54 years old
One of the influential figures in heavy metal music, contributed significantly to the genre through work with Pantera and Hellyeah. Co-founded Pantera in the early 1980s, which became known for its aggressive sound and profound lyrical themes. The band achieved commercial success with albums such as 'Vulgar Display of Power' and 'Far Beyond Driven', both of which topped charts and received critical acclaim. After Pantera disbanded, continued his music career with Hellyeah, further solidifying a legacy in heavy metal. Additionally, produced and collaborated with various artists throughout the years, enriching the heavy metal community with distinctive rhythms and powerful beats.
Continue ReadingDorothy Gish
American actress in silent films
Born
March 11th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1968 57 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent figure in early cinema, this individual gained fame during the silent film era. Collaborated extensively with D.W. Griffith and starred in significant films such as 'The Birth of a Nation' and 'Intolerance.' Transitioned successfully to talkies, maintaining a notable career in film and stage. Contributed to the theater as well, starring in various productions.
Continue ReadingTorquato Tasso
Italian poet known for 'Jerusalem Delivered'
Born
March 11th, 1544 481 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1595 430 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent Italian poet and educator, contributed significantly to the literary scene during the late Renaissance. Best recognized for the epic poem 'Jerusalem Delivered', which explores themes of religious conflict and heroism. Tasso also engaged in various correspondences with notable intellectuals of his time and participated in the literary circles of Italy. His work not only reflected the cultural atmosphere of the period but influenced future generations of poets and writers. Additionally, he faced personal struggles including periods of imprisonment and mental health issues that affected his career and output.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 13th
Alexander Nowell
English clergyman and theologian
Born
1507 519 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1602 423 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent English clergyman and theologian, served as the Dean of St. Paul's Cathedral in London during the late 16th century. Contributed significantly to the Church of England's doctrinal development in the wake of the Reformation. Authored important theological works, including a catechism aimed at both clergy and laity to clarify key aspects of faith. Engaged in ecclesiastical debate and was involved in the establishment of the Elizabethan Settlement.
Continue ReadingAndronikos II Palaiologos
Byzantine Emperor and scholar
Born
March 25th, 1259 766 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1332 693 years ago — 72 years old
Ruled as Byzantine Emperor from 1282 to 1328. Oversaw significant cultural and economic challenges during the late Byzantine period. Engaged in conflicts with the Ottoman Empire which weakened the Byzantine territories. Encouraged scholarly pursuits and patronized the arts, contributing to the renaissance of Byzantine culture. His reign marked a decline in imperial power and territorial losses, setting the stage for the eventual fall of Constantinople.
Continue ReadingOtakar Batlička
Czech journalist and writer
Born
1895 131 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1942 83 years ago — 47 years old
Contributed significantly to journalism in Czechoslovakia during the early 20th century. Worked as an editor and established a reputation for investigative reporting. Engaged in various public debates on social issues through writing. Published a range of articles that addressed political and cultural topics, influencing public opinion during a tumultuous period in Czech history.
Continue ReadingCallistus Ndlovu
Zimbabwean academic and politician
Born
February 9th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 83 years old
An academic and politician with significant involvement in education and governance. Played a role in Zimbabwe's independence movement and served in various government positions. Contributed to the development of educational policies and institutions in Zimbabwe. Held the position of Minister of Education and Culture, overseeing liberal educational reforms.
Continue ReadingYuri Ivask
Poet and Literary Critic
Born
September 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1986 39 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Russia, a poet and critic settled in the United States. Ivask contributed significantly to the understanding of Russian literature in the West. His works often explored the intricacies of language and cultural expression. Ivask was involved in literary translations, bridging Russian and American literature. His literary criticism provided insights into the lives and works of prominent Russian writers, enriching the appreciation of their contributions. Notable publications include collections of poetry and critical essays that reflect on literary themes and cultural contexts.
Continue ReadingCharlie Norwood
American politician and captain
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2007 18 years ago — 66 years old
Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Georgia's 10th congressional district from 1995 to 2007. Practiced dentistry prior to entering politics and held the rank of captain in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Advocated for veterans' issues and health care reform during legislative career.
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