Beatrice Wood
Illustrator and potter, The Mother of Dada
Born in 1893, an American illustrator and potter attained recognition as a prominent figure in the Dada art movement. Wood was actively involved in avant-garde circles, producing ceramics that combined artistic expression with utility. Her work showcased a unique style that merged traditional pottery techniques with experimental form and color. In addition to her pottery, Wood illustrated books and created works that reflected her association with Dadaism. She continued to create and display her art well into her later years, influencing both contemporaries and future generations of artists.
Pioneered the use of glazes in pottery
Contributed to the Dada movement
Other People Born on March 3rd
Fred A. Busse
American politician; 39th Mayor of Chicago
Born
March 3rd, 1866 160 years ago
Died
1914 112 years ago — 48 years old
Served as the 39th Mayor of Chicago from 1910 to 1915. Worked as a lawyer before entering politics. Played a significant role in various municipal improvements during the mayoral tenure. Oversaw the city's response to issues such as labor disputes and public safety initiatives.
Continue ReadingCameron Johnson
Basketball player for Phoenix Suns
Born
March 3rd, 1996 30 years ago
Cameron Johnson, born on March 3, 1996, is a professional basketball player. Johnson played college basketball at the University of North Carolina, where he contributed to the team's success in the NCAA tournament. He was selected 11th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns. Johnson became an integral part of the Suns' roster, known for his shooting ability and versatility on the court, helping the team reach the NBA Finals in 2021.
Continue ReadingMaurice Garin
Cyclist and first Tour de France winner
Born
March 3rd, 1871 155 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1957 69 years ago — 85 years old
An Italian-French cyclist, Garin became the first winner of the Tour de France in 1903, claiming victory in the inaugural edition of the race. His career in cycling began in France, where he quickly gained recognition for his speed and endurance. Over the years, Garin secured multiple victories in prestigious races, establishing a reputation as one of the leading cyclists of his time. He faced challenges, including changes in regulations and competition from other cyclists, yet continued to achieve notable success in his sport. His contributions to cycling remain significant in the history of the Tour de France.
Continue ReadingTone Lōc
Rapper with hits like 'Wild Thing'
Born
March 3rd, 1966 60 years ago
An American rapper, producer, and actor emerged in the late 1980s. Gained prominence with the debut album "Lōc-ed After Dark" featuring the hit single "Wild Thing," which reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Another significant single, "Funky Cold Medina," also gained substantial radio play and commercial success. Additionally ventured into acting, appearing in films such as "Posse" and television shows like "In Living Color."
Continue ReadingDragan Stojković
Football manager and former player
Born
March 3rd, 1965 61 years ago
Played as a midfielder during a professional career spanning over a decade, primarily with Red Star Belgrade and Marseille. Contributed to Red Star Belgrade's victory in the 1991 UEFA Champions League. Transitioned to coaching, managing teams including Nagoyu Grampus and the Serbian national team. Under leadership, the national team qualified for the UEFA Euro 2020.
Continue ReadingLindsay Cooper
Composer and musician, notable for film scores
Born
March 3rd, 1951 75 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 62 years old
Born in England, a composer and musician specialized in bassoon and oboe. Worked across multiple genres, including contemporary classical and music for film and theater. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to numerous projects in the progressive rock and avant-garde scenes. Contributed music to the film "The Last of England" and worked with the group Henry Cow, making significant contributions to their sound.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 12th
Ronald DeFeo Jr.
American criminal and mass murderer
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2021 5 years ago — 70 years old
In 1974, committed the mass murder of six members of the DeFeo family in Amityville, New York. The gruesome crime led to his arrest and subsequent conviction in 1975. The case received nationwide attention and inspired the horror film 'The Amityville Horror' and numerous books detailing the events. DeFeo served time in prison until his death in 2021.
Continue ReadingVěra Chytilová
Czech film director, notably Daisies
Born
February 2nd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2014 12 years ago — 85 years old
An influential figure in the Czechoslovak New Wave, contributions as a director included acclaimed films that challenged traditional narratives. Daisies, released in 1966, became a landmark of feminist cinema, exploring themes of female identity and rebellion. The director's innovative techniques and social critique garnered attention both domestically and internationally. Other significant works include The Fruit of Paradise and The Apple Game, which further established a distinct voice in filmic storytelling.
Continue ReadingVictor Westhoff
Dutch botanist and academic researcher
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2001 25 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of botany, focusing on the flora of the Netherlands and the ecology of plant communities. Worked as a professor at several universities, where teaching and mentoring students formed a major part of the academic career. Conducted significant research on the classification and distribution of various plant species. Played a pivotal role in conservation efforts, particularly in preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable practices in botany. Authored numerous publications, contributing valuable knowledge to the scientific community.
Continue ReadingAda Jafri
Pakistani poet and author of Urdu poetry
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2015 11 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1924, this poet and author contributed extensively to Urdu literature. Her poetry, characterized by its emotional depth and lyrical quality, gained popularity throughout Pakistan. She began writing at a young age and published her first collection of poetry, 'Khushbu ke Rang', which showcased her unique voice. Over the years, she became a prominent figure in literary circles, particularly for her themes of love, loss, and women's experiences. She continued to write and publish until her later years, leaving behind a rich legacy in Urdu poetry. She passed away on March 12, 2015.
Continue ReadingLazare Ponticelli
Soldier and last surviving French poilu
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2008 18 years ago — 111 years old
Born in Italy, Ponticelli migrated to France and served in the French Army during World War I. After the war, he worked as a laborer and lived a long life, becoming the last verified French combat veteran of World War I. Ponticelli reached the age of 110 and became widely recognized for his status as a supercentenarian, providing insights into the experiences of soldiers during the war.
Continue ReadingZachris Topelius
Finnish author and journalist
Born
January 14th, 1818 208 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1898 128 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in Finnish literature and journalism, contributed considerably to Finnish identity and culture during the 19th century. Authored several novels, poetry collections, and children's stories, focusing on themes related to Finnish folklore and history. Played a significant role in the development of Finnish-language literature. Edited various publications, advocating for national education and media.
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