Bryan Forbes
English actor and film director
An English actor, director, producer, and screenwriter with a career spanning several decades. Expanded the traditional roles of cinema through directorial work and founded a production company. Contributed to the British film industry with films that showcased the complexities of human relationships and societal issues. Achieved recognition for directing film adaptations of literary works, enhancing the cultural landscape of British cinema.
Directed 'The Rise and Rise of Michael Rimmer'
Wrote and directed 'The L-Shaped Room'
Starred in 'The League of Gentlemen'
Other People Born on July 22nd
Georg Wilhelm Richmann
Physicist and academic, lightning researcher
Born
July 22nd, 1711 314 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1753 272 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1711, a physicist and academic conducted significant research on electricity and atmospheric phenomena. Most notable was the investigation into lightning rods, which led to experimentation with lightning during thunderstorms. A member of the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences, Richmann contributed to the advancement of electrometry and developed the first electrostatic generator in Russia. He faced challenges in his studies due to technological limitations, yet his work laid groundwork for later research in electricity and meteorology. Tragically, Richmann died in 1753 during an experiment when lightning struck him, marking a notable event in the history of scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingPatriarch Daniel of Romania
Religious leader, Patriarch of Romania
Born
July 22nd, 1951 74 years ago
Ordained as a priest in 1976, served in various ecclesiastical roles before becoming the Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church in 2007. Leadership emphasized social issues, cultural heritage, and interfaith dialogue. Played a crucial role in the church's involvement in charity and community service. Engaged in promoting the Romanian Orthodox faith and traditions both domestically and internationally. Involved in numerous religious and cultural events, fostering closer ties between the church and Romanian society.
Continue ReadingJacques-Germain Soufflot
French architect, co-designed The Panthéon
Born
July 22nd, 1713 312 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1780 245 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent architect, contributed to the design of The Panthéon in Paris, a mausoleum that honors distinguished French citizens. Received recognition for blending classical architecture with innovative structural techniques, utilizing a large dome that became a defining feature of the city’s skyline. Also engaged in designing several churches and public buildings during the 18th century. Founded the School of Architecture in the French capital, which influenced a generation of architects. Provided a lasting architectural legacy in France and beyond.
Continue ReadingColin Ferguson
Actor from 'Eureka' TV series
Born
July 22nd, 1972 53 years ago
Raised in Canada, pursued acting career in the United States, achieving recognition primarily through the role of Jack Carter on the television series 'Eureka' from 2006 to 2012. Also appeared in films such as 'The Vampire Diaries' and 'Kiss at Pine Lake'. Involved in various aspects of film production as a director and producer.
Continue ReadingAlex Trebek
Game show host of Jeopardy!
Born
July 22nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2020 5 years ago — 80 years old
A game show host and producer, he became a prominent television personality through the long-running quiz show 'Jeopardy!', which debuted in 1964. He hosted 'Jeopardy!' from 1984 until his passing in 2020, guiding contestants in their pursuit of trivia knowledge. Trebek was awarded multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his television career. His experience in broadcasting also included hosting and producing various other shows before and during his time on 'Jeopardy!'. Trebek helped popularize quiz shows in America and became synonymous with the format.
Continue ReadingEmma Lazarus
Poet and educator, wrote 'The New Colossus'
Born
July 22nd, 1849 176 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1887 138 years ago — 38 years old
A poet and educator, contributed significantly to American literature and Jewish identity in the United States during the late 19th century. Best remembered for the poem 'The New Colossus', which is inscribed on a plaque at the Statue of Liberty, celebrating immigration and freedom. Lazarus was an advocate for Jewish causes, particularly in response to antisemitism and the plight of Jews in Eastern Europe. In addition to poetry, worked to promote the arts and education within the Jewish community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
Uri Zvi Greenberg
Poet and journalist specializing in Hebrew literature
Born
September 22nd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1981 44 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Ukraine, contributed significantly to Hebrew poetry and journalism throughout the 20th century. Emigrated to Palestine in 1921, where poetry became a primary focus, reflecting themes of nationalism and struggle. Actively involved in cultural and political life, serving as an editor for various publications. His work emphasized the beauty of the Hebrew language and the experience of Jewish identity in tumultuous times.
Continue ReadingDana Plato
American actress from 'Diff'rent Strokes'
Born
November 7th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1999 26 years ago — 34 years old
Started acting at a young age, featuring prominently in the television series 'Diff'rent Strokes' as Kimberly Drummond. The role showcased her talent and led to several guest appearances on other shows. After 'Diff'rent Strokes', engagement in various projects continued, including television movies and a few guest roles in series. Despite personal challenges, remained a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry throughout her life.
Continue ReadingMauro Giuliani
Italian guitarist and composer
Born
July 27th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1828 197 years ago — 46 years old
Guitarist and composer originated from Italy. Played a significant role in the development of guitar music during the early 19th century. Contributed extensively to the repertoire for guitar with over 100 compositions. Taught guitar and published several instructional works, which were influential in the education of future generations of guitarists. Also performed widely across Europe, gaining recognition for both solo and ensemble performances.
Continue ReadingRudolf Serkin
Czech-American pianist and educator
Born
March 28th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1903, this pianist and educator gained prominence in classical music, particularly through performances and recordings of works by composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. Trained in Europe, he emigrated to the United States in the 1920s, where he became a dynamic presence in the concert scene. He served as a faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music, influencing generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingAlexander Balashov
Russian general and Minister of Police
Born
July 13th, 1770 255 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1837 188 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1770, a Russian general and politician served as the Minister of Police. Held significant influence during the reign of Tsar Nicholas I. Focused on political repression and maintaining order in society. Contributed to the strengthening of the police force and bureaucratic control. Engaged in military operations and strategic governance.
Continue ReadingManuel González Flores
Mexican general and president
Born
June 17th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1893 132 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a general in the Mexican army and held the presidency at different times during the late 19th century. His political career included two non-consecutive terms as president of Mexico, with the first from 1880 to 1884. Focused on modernization and military reforms during his tenure, contributing to the strengthening of the national military forces. Engaged in various campaigns against opposition leaders and political rivals. After leaving office, remained influential in Mexican politics, aligning with government reforms and military strategies.
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