Bud Spencer
Italian actor and screenwriter
Italian actor and screenwriter
An Italian swimmer turned actor and screenwriter, gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s with a series of action-comedy films. Starred alongside Terence Hill in several successful movies, creating a signature style characterized by humor and physicality. Transitioned from athletics, where excelled as a competitive swimmer, influencing his later film roles. Established a production company, contributing to film development as a screenwriter.
Starred in 'Django' (1966)
Appeared in 'They Call Me Trinity' (1970)
Featured in 'Trinity is Still My Name' (1971)
Competed prominently in tennis and cricket early in the 20th century. Achieved significant success in tennis, capturing four Wimbledon singles titles between 1910 and 1913. Gained recognition for outstanding athletic abilities, becoming a leading figure in New Zealand sports. Also represented New Zealand in cricket, showcasing versatility in both individual and team sports. His contributions laid the groundwork for future generations in New Zealand athletics.
Continue ReadingAn accomplished player in both ice hockey and lacrosse, contributed significantly to both sports during the early 20th century. Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Montreal Canadiens and the Ottawa Senators. Achieved recognition as a talented forward, leading to multiple scoring titles and All-Star selections. Excelled in lacrosse, particularly with the Montreal Shamrocks, earning accolades as one of the top players in the sport's history. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1950, commemorating a notable athletic career that bridged two distinct sports.
Continue ReadingElected pope in 1769, served until 1774. Played a crucial role in the dissolution of the Society of Jesus, leading to the suppression of Jesuit missions globally. Oversaw various reform efforts within the papacy and the Catholic Church during a period of tumultuous political changes in Europe. Engaged in diplomacy to manage relations among Catholic states, particularly in light of rising Enlightenment ideologies. His tenure was marked by significant challenges, including managing opposition from various monarchies and church factions.
Continue ReadingReign spanned from 1861 to 1889, overseeing significant political and social changes in Portugal. Focused on modernizing the Portuguese economy and infrastructure, particularly in transportation and communications. Engaged in efforts to stabilize the monarchy during a time of political turmoil, including a series of constitutional crises and revolutions. Actively involved in cultural and scientific initiatives, promoting the arts and supporting the establishment of more educational institutions.
Continue ReadingAn accomplished actor and voice actor, had a significant career spanning several decades. Best remembered for the role of Charles Emerson Winchester III on the television series M*A*S*H, which aired from 1977 to 1983. Also provided voice work for numerous animated series and films, lending a distinctive character to his roles. Additionally, engaged in music, showcasing talents as a conductor and musician. In later years, continued to appear in various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility as an actor.
Continue ReadingBorn into the British royal family, served as queen consort of Sweden after marriage to King Carl XV. Actively engaged in charitable works and social issues, including support for education and health care. Played a significant role in promoting the arts and culture in Sweden. Involved in royal duties and represented the Swedish crown in various events.
Continue ReadingAn author and illustrator gained recognition for creating the Moomin series, which includes beloved titles such as 'The Moomins and the Great Flood' and 'Finn Family Moomintroll'. Jansson's work combined elements of fantasy and adventure, with Moomins becoming cultural icons in various adaptations, including animation and comic strips. Besides her children's literature, she also wrote novels for adults, exploring themes of identity and isolation. Jansson’s artistic career included contributions to paintings and illustrations, showcasing her versatile talents. Her contribution to literature and art transformed Finnish storytelling and has been celebrated internationally.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1910, Ayer was a prominent figure in 20th-century philosophy, primarily associated with logical positivism. The work 'Language, Truth, and Logic' established key principles of the verification theory, arguing that meaningful statements must be either analytically true or empirically verifiable. Ayer also made significant contributions to discussions on ethics and metaphysics, emphasizing a scientific approach to philosophy. He held a prominent academic position at the University of Oxford and influenced many students and philosophers. In addition to his philosophical writings, Ayer wrote extensively for a wider audience, bridging the gap between academic philosophy and public discourse.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1876, served as the second Prime Minister of Malta from 1921 to 1923. Established key policies for Malta's self-governance and contributed to the country's political landscape during a time of significant change. Focused on promoting social justice and education. Advocated for the development of local industries and infrastructure. His tenure laid groundwork for future political developments in Malta.
Continue ReadingServed as the 9th Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs during significant changes in the country. Actively participated in the development of Estonia's foreign policy following its independence in 1918. Held various positions within the Estonian government and civic organizations, contributing to nation-building efforts in the early 20th century. Was involved in church leadership and maintained a strong connection with the Estonian Lutheran Church.
Continue ReadingBorn in Germany, a mathematician and academic specialized in topology. Contributed to the development of the field through the introduction of concepts such as Dehn's lemma. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s where further research was conducted. Affiliated with institutions like the University of Illinois.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1715, a prominent French general served in multiple military campaigns during the 18th century. Gained recognition as a capable leader during the War of the Austrian Succession and later the Seven Years' War. Held the position of Marshal of France, an honor awarded to military leaders for outstanding service. Known for strategic military planning and effective leadership on the battlefield, contributing to various victories for French forces.
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