Beatrice Straight

American actress, Academy Award winner

Beatrice Straight - Performers & Entertainers born August 2nd, 1914
Born
Died
Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American actress who achieved recognition for stage, film, and television performances. Straight's career spanned several decades, featuring a celebrated role in the film 'Network' which earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her stage work included performances in notable Broadway productions, showcasing her talent in the performing arts. Television appearances included roles in series such as 'The Waltons' and 'The Good Wife.' Straight's contributions to acting established a respected reputation in the industry.

Won Academy Award for 'Network'

Performed in notable Broadway productions

Appeared in 'The Waltons' and 'The Good Wife'

Other People Born on August 2nd

Mahmud I

Ottoman Sultan during early 18th century
Born
August 2nd, 1696 329 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1754 271 years ago — 58 years old

Reigned as Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1730 to 1754. Mahmud I's rule followed a turbulent period marked by military losses and political strife. He initiated reforms focusing on strengthening the empire's military capabilities. Under his leadership, the empire engaged in warfare against Russia, particularly during the Russo-Turkish War of 1736-1739, resulting in significant territorial negotiations. Mahmud I is also noted for enhancing the architectural landscape of Istanbul, including the construction of various mosques and public works. His reign marked a period of relative stability and consolidation after previous conflicts.

Continue Reading

Vidya Charan Shukla

Indian politician and Minister of External Affairs
Born
August 2nd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

Served as an influential Indian politician for several decades. Held the position of Minister of External Affairs in the government of India. Played a key role in shaping foreign policy during critical periods, including the non-alignment movement. Participated actively in various national and state-level political activities, influencing legislative processes.

Continue Reading

Ann Dvorak

American actress from early cinema
Born
August 2nd, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1979 46 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1911, this American actress gained prominence during the golden age of Hollywood. Dvorak began her career in silent films, transitioning successfully to talkies. She emerged as a leading lady in the 1930s, becoming recognized for her performances in films such as 'Three on a Match' and 'The Crowd Roars'. Dvorak's work showcased her talent for portraying complex characters, leading to memorable roles throughout her career. In addition to her film work, she appeared on stage and in television, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Naná Vasconcelos

Brazilian singer and berimbau player
Born
August 2nd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1944, this artist gained recognition for contributions to Brazilian music, particularly in the genre of samba and bossa nova. The musician played the berimbau, a traditional Brazilian instrument, and blended various musical styles, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Brazil. The artist collaborated with renowned musicians and participated in numerous festivals, helping to bring Brazilian music to international audiences. The work spanned several decades, culminating in numerous recordings and performances that highlighted the uniqueness of Brazilian rhythms and melodies.

Continue Reading

Saskia van Uylenburgh

Dutch model and Rembrandt's wife
Born
August 2nd, 1612 413 years ago
Died
1642 383 years ago — 30 years old

Saskia van Uylenburgh served as a model for several of Rembrandt van Rijn's paintings during the 17th century. Born in the Netherlands, she married Rembrandt in 1634, and their relationship deeply influenced his artistry. Saskia's likeness appeared in many famous works, showcasing her in various roles and settings that highlighted both her beauty and character. Her legacy is intertwined with that of Rembrandt, as she became a significant subject in his oeuvre. The couple had four children, though only one, Titus, survived infancy. Saskia's presence in Rembrandt's life and work left a lasting mark on the history of Dutch art.

Continue Reading

Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi

French sculptor, designer of Statue of Liberty
Born
August 2nd, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 70 years old

Born in France, a prominent sculptor emerged in the 19th century. Studied at the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts in Paris. Gained international recognition for designing the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States, completed in 1886. This monumental work symbolizes freedom and democracy. Bartholdi also created various other sculptures and participated in multiple exhibitions across Europe.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 7th

Frank Church

American politician and senator
Born
July 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1984 41 years ago — 59 years old

Served as a United States Senator from Idaho from 1957 to 1981. Focused on civil liberties and environmental conservation throughout political career. Chaired the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence in the 1970s, investigating abuses by intelligence agencies. Advocated for various landmark legislation, including the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Continue Reading

Dave Arneson

Game designer, co-created Dungeons & Dragons
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old

A game designer specialized in tabletop role-playing games. Contributed significantly to the gaming industry by co-creating the seminal game Dungeons & Dragons alongside Gary Gygax. This game introduced innovative mechanics and storytelling elements that set the foundation for modern role-playing games. The first edition was published in 1974, capturing the imagination of countless players and influencing the development of future tabletop and video game genres. Arneson also worked on various other games and expansions, showcasing creativity in game design.

Continue Reading

Jean-Baptiste de La Salle

French priest and educational reformer
Born
April 30th, 1651 374 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1719 306 years ago — 67 years old

A priest and educational reformer contributed significantly to the development of education in France. Founded the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in 1680, focusing on the education of the poor and the creation of a system of schools. Established a curriculum that emphasized the importance of education for all children, regardless of social status. Canonized as a saint in 1900, recognized for dedication to teaching and improving education standards.

Continue Reading

Charles VIII of France

King of France during Italian Wars
Born
June 30th, 1470 555 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1498 527 years ago — 27 years old

Ruled as King of France from 1483 until his death in 1498. Initiated the Italian Wars, aiming to expand French territory into Italy. Captured Naples briefly in 1495 and pushed to secure French dominance in the region. Advocated for Renaissance ideals, bringing advancements in culture and architecture to the French court. Built the Château d'Amboise, reflecting the influence of the Italian Renaissance.

Continue Reading

Theda Bara

Silent film actress and vamp archetype
Born
July 29th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1955 70 years ago — 69 years old

An actress in the early years of cinema, gained fame during the silent film era for portraying seductive and glamorous characters. Achieved stardom through iconic roles in films such as 'A Fool There Was' and 'Cleopatra'. Became a cultural phenomenon, representing the archetype of the vampire femme fatale, captivating audiences with dramatic performances. After a successful career, transitioned out of the spotlight in the 1920s with the advent of sound in film. Continued to influence the portrayal of women in cinema until passing away in 1955.

Continue Reading

Berengar I of Italy

King of Italy and Holy Roman Emperor
Died
April 7th, 924 1101 years ago — None years old

Ruled as King of Italy from 888 until death in 924 and held the title of Holy Roman Emperor from 915. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions and attempts to consolidate power in northern Italy. Berengar I faced ongoing challenges from various nobles and external threats, particularly from the Saracens and the Magyars. His efforts to unify and stabilize the region included military campaigns and political alliances. Berengar I was ousted briefly in 901 but later regained control. His reign was a significant period in early medieval Italian history, characterized by fragmentation and the competition for power among various tribal entities.

Continue Reading