Betty Oliphant

Ballerina, co-founder of National Ballet School

Betty Oliphant - Ballerina, co-founder of National Ballet School
Born

August 5th, 1918
106 years ago

Died

July 12th, 2004
20 years ago — 85 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

Canada

Links & References

An influential ballerina, contributed significantly to the ballet community in Canada. Co-founded Canada's National Ballet School in 1959, providing a platform for ballet education and nurturing talent. Served as the director of the school for many years, helping to establish rigorous training programs and fostering a new generation of dancers. Contributed to the growth of ballet in Canada through teaching and choreography, shaping the nation's dance landscape.

Co-founded Canada's National Ballet School

Served as director for several decades

Other People Born on August 5th

Vladimir Fedoseyev

Conductor of Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra
Born
August 5th, 1932 92 years ago

Born in 1932, this Russian conductor led various renowned orchestras throughout a distinguished career. Notably served as the Principal Conductor of the Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra in Moscow, contributing significantly to the classical music scene. Participated in numerous international competitions and festivals, showcasing a repertoire that included works by major composers. Worked extensively in both concert halls and opera stages, interpreting a wide range of classical compositions.

Continue Reading

Marine Le Pen

French lawyer and politician
Born
August 5th, 1968 56 years ago

A lawyer and a prominent figure in French politics, this individual has led a political party since 2011, focusing on national sovereignty and immigration policies. Participation in the French National Assembly occurred from 2017 to 2022, representing the Pas-de-Calais department. A presidential candidate in the elections of 2012, 2017, and 2022, received substantial votes in each, particularly in the latter two elections, showcasing significant electoral support.

Continue Reading

Herminio Masantonio

Argentinian Footballer and Goal Scorer
Born
August 5th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 46 years old

Masantonio played primarily as a forward in Argentine football. He spent the majority of his career at Huracán, where he gained recognition for his goal-scoring ability. Masantonio contributed to the team's success, helping Huracán secure the Primera División title in 1940. During his tenure, he became a prominent figure in the club's history, showcasing his skills and artistry on the field. Known for his striking prowess, he left a lasting legacy at Huracán before his retirement in 1949.

Continue Reading

Joe Boyd

Record Producer, Founded Hannibal Records
Born
August 5th, 1942 82 years ago

An American record producer played a key role in the music industry, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Established Hannibal Records, a label dedicated to distributing world music and reissuing traditional recordings. Worked with a variety of influential artists, contributing significantly to the folk and rock genres. Produced albums that highlighted both emerging and established musicians, showcasing their talents on a broader stage. Involved in various production projects across different music styles, helping to elevate the profiles of several artists during his career.

Continue Reading

Jeff Friesen

Ice hockey player with winning goal
Born
August 5th, 1976 48 years ago

Played professional ice hockey predominantly in the NHL. Debuted with the New Jersey Devils and contributed to the team’s successful 2000 Stanley Cup Championship. Recorded significant statistics throughout his career, culminating in a total of over 500 points. Represented Canada in international competitions, including the World Junior Championships and the World Cup of Hockey.

Continue Reading

James Gunn

Director of Guardians of the Galaxy series
Born
August 5th, 1970 54 years ago

An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter contributed to the film industry through projects that blend humor with action and adventure. Gained widespread recognition as the director and co-writer of the Marvel Cinematic Universe films 'Guardians of the Galaxy' and its sequel. Also wrote and directed 'The Suicide Squad,' a DC Comics adaptation, and created the web series 'PG Porn.' Involved in various film projects both in front of and behind the camera, highlighting a career in genre filmmaking that combines quirkiness with mainstream appeal.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 12th

Evan Wright

American writer of impactful literature
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2024 0 years ago — 60 years old

A writer focused on themes of war and its repercussions. Authored the book 'Generation Kill', which chronicles the experiences of Marines during the Iraq War. Contributed to various publications, showcasing a keen insight into military life. Engaged in documentary filmmaking and adapted works for screen, highlighting narratives from armed forces personnel.

Continue Reading

Jimmie Lunceford

Saxophonist and bandleader
Born
June 6th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1947 77 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent American saxophonist and bandleader, played a key role in the development of big band jazz during the 1930s. Led the Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra, which gained widespread popularity for its distinctive sound and innovative arrangements. The band became a fixture at the Cotton Club in Harlem and was noted for its dynamic performances. The orchestra's recordings during this era showcased a blend of swing and humor, contributing significantly to the genre's evolution. Also known for fostering a unique style that emphasized precision and showmanship.

Continue Reading

Goran Hadžić

Serbian politician and war leader
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2016 8 years ago — 58 years old

A key political figure during the Yugoslav Wars, served as the president of the self-proclaimed Serbian Krajina from 1991 to 1994. Played a significant role in the administration of the region during the conflict. Hadžić was arrested in 2011 and faced charges of war crimes, including persecution and murder. His case was part of the broader effort to prosecute individuals involved in the wars that marked the breakup of Yugoslavia.

Continue Reading

Douglas Hyde

Irish politician, 1st President of Ireland
Born
January 17th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1949 75 years ago — 89 years old

An academic and politician served as the first President of Ireland from 1938 to 1945. Played a vital role in advocating for the Irish language and culture. Founded the Gaelic League in 1893, which promoted the revival of the Irish language. Contributed significantly to Irish literature and was a scholar of Irish folklore and history. His presidency emphasized the importance of unity and national identity during a period of political change.

Continue Reading

Cheng Siwei

Chinese engineer and politician
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2015 9 years ago — 80 years old

An engineer and economist, contributed to China's economic development and policy formulation. Served as the vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. Played a vital role in promoting economic reforms and modernizing China's infrastructure. Engaged in educational initiatives, advocating for technology and innovation in the engineering sector. Actively participated in legislative processes related to finance and technology.

Continue Reading

Olga Guillot

Cuban-American singer with bolero hits
Born
October 9th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2010 14 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent singer, regarded as one of the leading figures in the bolero genre. Born in Cuba, her career flourished after relocating to the United States. Released numerous popular albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing her powerful voice and emotive delivery. Performed in various countries, earning both critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. In 1989, became the first woman to receive the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting her contributions to music, particularly in Latin American genres. She influenced many artists and remains a significant figure in Cuban music history.

Continue Reading