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
Jyotirao Phule
Indian social reformer and educator
Born
April 11th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1890 135 years ago — 63 years old
An influential scholar and activist in 19th century India. Focused on social reform, particularly the issues of caste discrimination and women's rights. Established the first girls' school in Pune, promoting education for women and lower castes. Co-founded the Satyashodhak Samaj, an organization aimed at fighting social injustices. Authored several works, including 'Gulamgiri', a critique of caste oppression.
Continue ReadingBernard O'Dowd
Australian journalist and poet
Born
April 11th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to Australian literature and journalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Authored numerous poems, essays, and articles, focusing on social issues and human rights. Played a key role in advocating for Australia's literary identity and independence. Involved in several literary movements and often engaged in political discussions through writings.
Continue ReadingAttila József
Hungarian poet and educator
Born
April 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 32 years old
Attila József was a significant Hungarian poet and educator. He became a prominent figure in 20th century Hungarian literature with a focus on themes of love, social issues, and existentialism. József's early works reflected his personal struggles and the socio-political environment of Hungary during his lifetime. His poetry is marked by emotional intensity and innovative language. Throughout his career, he published several influential collections, including 'Nővérek' and 'Esztétika'. In addition to his literary contributions, József worked as a teacher and wrote extensively about education and society.
Continue ReadingHugh Massie
Australian cricketer, Test Player
Born
April 11th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1938 87 years ago — 84 years old
A cricketer played for Australia during the late 19th century. Participated in eleven Test matches from 1882 to 1886. Contributed significantly as a batsman and wicketkeeper. Played for the New South Wales state team, showcasing skills and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingJohn Douglas
Scottish nobleman and boxing advocate
Born
April 11th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1900 125 years ago — 69 years old
The 9th Marquess of Queensberry was a Scottish nobleman, most notably remembered for his association with the sport of boxing. His advocacy for the sport led to the creation of the Queensberry Rules, a set of rules that formalized boxing matches and established key elements such as the use of gloves and the introduction of timed rounds. These rules significantly contributed to the evolution of modern boxing. Aside from his influence on sports, the Marquess was involved in various social pursuits typical of the aristocracy in his era.
Continue ReadingDale Messick
Author and illustrator of Brenda Starr
Born
April 11th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 99 years old
An American author and illustrator, significant contributions included the creation of the comic strip Brenda Starr, which debuted in 1940. Messick's work featured a strong female character in the traditionally male-dominated comic industry. The strip garnered a large readership and was notable for its glamorous storytelling and vibrant artwork, continuing for several decades. Messick also became the first female cartoonist to have a comic strip in major syndication, paving the way for future female artists in the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 24th
Alfonso IV of Aragon
Monarch and King of Aragon
Born
1299 726 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1336 689 years ago — 37 years old
Ruled as the King of Aragon from 1327 until death in 1336. Oversaw the expansion of Aragonese territories and played a key role in Mediterranean politics during the early 14th century. He engaged in military campaigns and sought to strengthen the Kingdom of Aragon's influence. His reign was marked by conflicts with neighboring states and a focus on consolidating power within his realm.
Continue ReadingAmedeo Modigliani
Italian painter and sculptor
Born
July 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1920 105 years ago — 35 years old
Amedeo Modigliani was an Italian painter and sculptor active in the early 20th century. He is recognized for portraits and nudes characterized by elongated forms and a distinctive, expressive style. Modigliani's work reflects influences from various artistic movements, including Cubism and Expressionism. Despite limited commercial success during his lifetime, his pieces gained significant attention posthumously. Modigliani lived most of his life in Paris, where he became associated with a circle of artists and writers. His life was marked by struggles with poverty and illness, which contributed to his early death.
Continue ReadingLeônidas
Brazilian footballer and manager
Born
September 6th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2004 21 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent figure in Brazilian football, this individual made significant contributions as both a player and a manager. As a forward, played for clubs such as Club de Regatas Vasco da Gama, and Clube Atlético Mineiro. Achieved immense recognition during the 1938 FIFA World Cup, leading the tournament in goals scored. In addition to a successful playing career, transitioned to management and guided teams in domestic leagues. Recognized for technical skills and goal-scoring ability.
Continue ReadingRosemary Bryant Mariner
United States Navy Aviator
Born
April 2nd, 1953 72 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2019 6 years ago — 65 years old
One of the first female naval aviators in the United States, played a significant role in paving the way for women's participation in military aviation. Joined the Navy in 1973 and earned a naval aviator designation in 1974, becoming a pioneer for women in combat aviation roles. Held various positions throughout a distinguished career, including commanding officer of the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida. Retired from active duty in 1997, continuing to advocate for women's rights in the military and education.
Continue ReadingOtto Carius
German pharmacist and WWII tank commander
Born
May 27th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a tank commander in the German Wehrmacht during World War II. Achieved notable success in tank warfare, particularly during combat on the Eastern Front. After the war, pursued a career as a pharmacist, establishing a well-regarded pharmacy in Germany. His memoirs provide insight into his experiences during the war and the life of a soldier.
Continue ReadingThurgood Marshall
American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
July 2nd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1993 32 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent lawyer and jurist, served as the 32nd United States Solicitor General and the first African American Supreme Court Justice. Played a pivotal role in the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education, which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. Advocated for civil rights and fought against discrimination throughout a distinguished legal career, contributing significantly to social justice and equality.
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