Bernd Eichinger
German film director and producer
A prominent film director and producer from Germany, notable for creating influential films in the German cinema landscape. Directed the acclaimed movie 'Downfall', which depicted the final days of Adolf Hitler. Produced numerous successful films, including 'The Baader Meinhof Complex', which focused on a radical leftist group in Germany. Instrumental in reviving the German film industry in the 1990s through various projects and his leadership at Filmverlag der Autoren. Established and ran the successful production company Constantin Film.
Directed 'Downfall'
Produced 'The Baader Meinhof Complex'
Revived the German film industry
Other People Born on April 11th
Anton LaVey
Occultist, founder of the Church of Satan
Born
April 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 67 years old
An American occultist established the Church of Satan in 1966, which became the leading organization representing Satanism. The church promoted a distinct form of atheistic belief system and ritual practices. Published 'The Satanic Bible' in 1969, which outlined the doctrines of LaVeyan Satanism and gained significant attention and influence. Authored other works including 'The Satanic Rituals' and 'The Devil's Notebook.'
Continue ReadingAnatoly Berezovoy
Russian astronaut and pilot
Born
April 11th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 72 years old
A colonel in the Soviet Air Force and a test pilot, accomplished missions include a flight on the Soyuz T-7 in 1982. Spent over a week aboard the Salyut 7 space station. Participated in experiments on the effects of long-duration spaceflight on the human body. Demonstrated capabilities in piloting and managing station operations during significant space missions.
Continue ReadingJohanna Elberskirchen
German author and activist focused on women's rights
Born
April 11th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1943 82 years ago — 79 years old
Author and activist dedicated to women's rights produced significant works in the late 19th century. Contributed to the feminist movement within Germany and addressed issues of gender equality, education, and social reform. Notable for writing advocating for the emancipation and empowerment of women. Engaged in political debates and rallied support for women's suffrage, promoting social change through literature and activism.
Continue ReadingStuart Adamson
Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 11th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2001 24 years ago — 43 years old
Originated from Scotland, a prominent figure in music, gained recognition as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Big Country. The band achieved major success in the 1980s with their unique sound characterized by guitar riffs and anthemic melodies. Released the critically acclaimed album 'The Crossing', which included the hit single 'In a Big Country'. Later formed the band Stuart Adamson's Band and continued to create music until his passing.
Continue ReadingJohn Eliot
English lawyer and politician
Born
April 11th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1690 335 years ago — 98 years old
Eliot was an English lawyer and politician who served as a Member of Parliament. He was recognized for his strong opposition to the policies of King Charles I. Eliot played a significant role in the events leading up to the English Civil War. In 1629, he was imprisoned for his opposition to the Crown, and he became a martyr for the cause of parliamentary supremacy. His writings and speeches in Parliament contributed to the discussions surrounding the rights of Parliament and the limitations of royal power.
Continue ReadingWładysław Komar
Polish shot putter and actor
Born
April 11th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 58 years old
Accomplished in athletics, specialized in shot put. Competed in the Olympics, winning a bronze medal at the 1968 Mexico City Games. Transitioned into acting, gaining recognition in Polish cinema. Participated in popular films, contributing to the cultural landscape of Poland.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 24th
J. Carrol Naish
American actor in film and television
Born
January 21st, 1896 130 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1973 53 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1896, a prominent American actor became well recognized for roles in films and television from the 1920s to the 1970s. Frequently cast in character roles, appeared in over 200 films and television shows. Gained significant acclaim for performances in the 'The Adventures of Robin Hood' and 'The Manchurian Candidate'. Also lent voice to various animated characters in classic cartoons.
Continue ReadingFredrik Barth
Anthropologist and academic
Born
December 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2016 10 years ago — 87 years old
A German-Norwegian anthropologist contributed significantly to the field of anthropology, particularly in the study of social organization, ethnicity, and cultural change. Barth's work involved extensive field research, especially among the Pashtun of Afghanistan and the communities of Norway. His influential book, 'Types of Social Organization,' provided important insights into the dynamics of ethnic groups and cultural interactions. Barth's approach to anthropological fieldwork emphasized the significance of social context and the roles of local actors. His academic career included a long tenure at the University of Bergen, where he played a critical role in shaping the anthropology department.
Continue ReadingAlfred Carlton Gilbert
Pole vaulter and toy manufacturer
Born
February 13th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1961 65 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent pole vaulter and businessman established the A. C. Gilbert Company, which became recognized for innovative toy design. Excelled in the sport by setting multiple records and winning several championships during the early 20th century, contributing to the development of competitive pole vaulting. Transitioned into the business world, emphasizing educational toys and building sets that inspired creativity in children. His contributions to both athletics and the toy industry left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingL. Ron Hubbard
Religious leader and founder of Scientology
Born
March 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1986 40 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the development of new religious movements, this individual founded the Church of Scientology in the early 1950s. The foundation of Scientology stemmed from the release of a book titled 'Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health' published in 1950, which introduced concepts of the human mind and personal improvement techniques. The organization grew rapidly and established a worldwide presence, offering various programs related to spiritual development and self-help. Throughout his life, substantial focus was placed on expanding the church's influence and practices, leading to both support and criticism from various sectors. The individual continued to oversee and promote the church until the end of life.
Continue ReadingUsha Narayanan
First Lady of India
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2008 18 years ago — 86 years old
Burmese-born, served as First Lady of India from 1964 to 1966 during the presidency of her husband. Focused on social issues and humanitarian efforts while in office. Contributed to various cultural and charitable initiatives aimed at promoting education and women's welfare. Continued involvement in public service and philanthropic activities following her tenure as First Lady.
Continue ReadingHenry Worsley
Explorer and Antarctic adventurer
Born
October 4th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2016 10 years ago — 55 years old
Accomplished a solo trek across Antarctica in 2016, covering over 900 miles. Began this journey on November 13, 2015, aiming to traverse the continent unassisted. Faced extreme weather and challenging conditions during the expedition. The adventure ended with a rescue attempt needed due to illness, which unfortunately resulted in death during the mission.
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