Ben Hecht
American screenwriter and director
An influential director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the film industry in the early to mid-20th century. Wrote screenplays for classic films such as 'The Front Page' and 'His Girl Friday.' Also directed several films and produced noteworthy works including 'Wings' and 'Scarface.' Hecht was known for his sharp dialogue and innovative storytelling techniques that helped shape the Hollywood narrative style.
Wrote the screenplay for 'Gone with the Wind'
Co-directed 'Wings,' the first Academy Award winner for Best Picture
Other People Born on February 28th
Mark Pavelich
Ice hockey player; 1980 Miracle on Ice
Born
February 28th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 63 years old
An ice hockey player gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, playing as a forward. Played for the University of Minnesota Duluth before entering the NHL. Contributed significantly to the United States national team during the 1980 Winter Olympics, where the team achieved a historic victory over the Soviet Union, commonly referred to as the 'Miracle on Ice.' After the Olympics, played in the NHL primarily for the New York Rangers, followed by stints with the Minnesota North Stars and the San Jose Sharks. Retired from professional hockey in the early 1990s.
Continue ReadingDaniel Handler
Author of A Series of Unfortunate Events
Born
February 28th, 1970 55 years ago
An American author, musician, screenwriter, and producer. Gained prominence through a series of children's books featuring the Baudelaire orphans, published under the pen name Lemony Snicket. The series gained international recognition and adapted into a film and a television series. Also contributed to various literary works and screenwriting projects, collaborating on film and television adaptations of his stories.
Continue ReadingClaudio Chiappucci
Professional Cyclist, Giro d'Italia Runner-Up
Born
February 28th, 1963 62 years ago
A cyclist from Italy achieved recognition in professional road cycling during the 1990s. Competed in numerous Grand Tours, including the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia. Won the prestigious Milan-San Remo classic in 1991. Excelled in mountain stages, gaining the nickname 'El Diablo' for his aggressive riding style. Chiappucci's most notable achievement was finishing second in the 1992 Giro d'Italia, a showcase of his endurance and climbing ability. Participated in over a decade of competitive racing, representing various professional teams.
Continue ReadingJason Aldean
Country music singer-songwriter, "Hicktown"
Born
February 28th, 1977 48 years ago
Active in the country music genre, gained prominence with the debut album "Jason Aldean" released in 2005. Achieved multiple awards including several ACM and CMA Awards. Known for a blend of traditional country and rock elements, with popular songs such as "Dirt Road Anthem" and "My Kinda Party." Has performed at various major music festivals and tours, building a substantial fan base.
Continue ReadingTore Svennberg
Swedish actor and film director
Born
February 28th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1941 84 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Sweden, a prominent figure in early cinema and theater. Worked extensively in film and stage productions, contributing to the growth of the arts in the region. Directed several films and participated in numerous theatrical performances, highlighting the evolution of Swedish entertainment. Also took part in the burgeoning movement of cinema during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing the artistic landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingPat Monahan
Lead vocalist of Train and songwriter
Born
February 28th, 1969 56 years ago
Monahan, born in 1969, gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the rock band Train. The band achieved commercial success with albums such as 'Drops of Jupiter' and 'Save Me, San Francisco'. Monahan has also pursued a solo career, releasing music that further showcased his songwriting abilities. In addition to music, Monahan has made appearances in television and film, adding to his artistic repertoire.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 18th
Guillermo González Camarena
Mexican engineer and inventor of color TV
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1965 60 years ago — 48 years old
An engineer developed innovations in television technology. Pioneered the first color television transmission system. The invention allowed for the broader use of color in broadcast television, influencing how viewers experienced media. Contributed to various technical advancements in the field, including patents related to color television.
Continue ReadingErnie Pyle
Journalist & war correspondent; WWII reports
Born
August 3rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1945 80 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent journalist and war correspondent, this individual specialized in reporting from the front lines during World War II. Coverage included the experiences of soldiers and the harsh realities of warfare. Work appeared in many newspapers across the United States, connecting readers with the front lines of battle. Contributions to wartime literature earned recognition and respect.
Continue ReadingLouis Feuillée
French astronomer and botanist
Born
1660 366 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1732 293 years ago — 72 years old
An astronomer, geographer, and botanist, contributed to the understanding of the southern hemisphere's flora and celestial phenomena. Participated in several scientific expeditions to South America, conducting extensive research on various plant species and astronomical observations. Published works that included detailed charts and writings on astronomical studies and botanical classifications. The exploration of the natural history in New Spain was significant to the scientific community of the time.
Continue ReadingMarcel Pagnol
French playwright and filmmaker
Born
1895 131 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1974 51 years ago — 79 years old
An influential figure in French literature and cinema, this author, playwright, and director made significant contributions through works that depicted rural life in Provence. The trilogy of plays, 'Marius', 'Fanny', and 'César', became foundational in the French dramatic tradition. This individual also directed films based on these works, further enhancing recognition. A passionate promoter of regional culture, the individual combined storytelling with a cinematic approach, leaving a lasting legacy in both theater and film.
Continue ReadingJohan Wilcke
Swedish physicist and academic
Born
September 6th, 1732 293 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1796 229 years ago — 63 years old
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of thermodynamics. Developed several innovative instruments that advanced scientific measurement and experience. Contributed to the establishment of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and participated in research focused on the properties of heat and electricity.
Continue ReadingErasmus Darwin
Physician and botanist; botanical writings
Born
1731 295 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1802 223 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent English physician and botanist, contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and botany. Advocated for the education of women in the sciences. Published a number of works including 'Zoonomia,' which explored topics related to evolution and the natural world. Also engaged in various botanical studies that advanced understanding of plant life.
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