Celia Franca
Dancer and director, founded National Ballet
Originated in England, this individual moved to Canada and established a prominent ballet company, becoming a significant figure in the Canadian arts scene. In 1951, the company was founded, providing opportunities for Canadian dancers and expanding the reach of ballet in the country. The artist directed the company for over three decades, fostering the development of numerous productions and cultivating talent in the ballet community. The legacy includes significant contributions to Canadian culture through performance and education, influencing future generations of dancers and choreographers.
Founded the National Ballet of Canada in 1951
Served as artistic director for over 30 years
Choreographed and directed numerous original productions
Other People Born on June 25th
B. J. Habibie
Indonesian engineer and 3rd President
Born
June 25th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2019 6 years ago — 83 years old
An engineer and politician served as the 3rd President of Indonesia from 1998 to 1999. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Minister of Research and Technology and contributed to the development of the Indonesian aviation industry. Initiated several reforms aimed at democratization and economic recovery, following the fall of Suharto's regime.
Continue ReadingHenry H. Arnold
American General, Army Air Forces leader
Born
June 25th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1950 75 years ago — 63 years old
A significant figure in the development of the United States Army Air Forces, played a pivotal role during World War II, overseeing extensive air operations. Instrumental in the transition from a primarily ground-based military structure to an air-centric one, emphasizing the importance of strategic bombing. Served as the first five-star general in the U.S. Air Force, and the only officer to hold a five-star rank in two services. Contributed to the establishment of the U.S. Air Force as a separate branch of the military in 1947.
Continue ReadingGéza Gyóni
Hungarian soldier and poet with war poetry
Born
June 25th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1917 108 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1884, this individual served as a soldier during World War I. He wrote poetry that reflected the experiences and emotions of wartime life. The writings often conveyed the struggles and sorrow faced by soldiers and the ravages of war. His poetry is characterized by vivid imagery and deep introspection. Following his service, he contributed to Hungarian literature through various publications.
Continue ReadingDaniel-Henry Kahnweiler
Art collector and historian, Cubism expert
Born
June 25th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 95 years old
An art collector and historian focused on modern art, particularly Cubism. Kahnweiler's collection included works by prominent artists such as Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. He played a significant role in the promotion and understanding of Cubism, serving as an influential dealer and supporter of these artists during their formative years. Kahnweiler fled to France during World War II, where he continued to work and advocate for modern art. His intellectual contributions included writings that examined the development of Cubism and its key figures, impacting the appreciation of modern art in both France and Germany.
Continue ReadingJames Farnell
Australian politician, Premier of NSW
Born
June 25th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1888 137 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1825, served as the 8th Premier of New South Wales from 1877 to 1880. Represented the Labor Party and was instrumental in the establishment of various legislative reforms during the latter part of the 19th century. His tenure included significant developments in public education and infrastructure. Farnell played a significant role in the expansion of the railway system and advocated for land reform policies.
Continue ReadingNatalia Alexeievna of Russia
Empress Consort of Russia, Palace Reformer
Born
June 25th, 1755 270 years ago
Died
1776 249 years ago — 21 years old
Empress consort of Russia, played a significant role in the court during her husband's reign. Married to Emperor Paul I, she influenced various court decisions and social events. Oversaw the establishment of several charitable organizations and facilitated cultural developments in the empire. Maintained close relationships with leading figures of her time and contributed to the administrative and social frameworks of the Russian Empire.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 19th
Mary
English aristocrat and philanthropist
Born
July 6th, 1701 324 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1785 240 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in 18th century England, she held the title of Countess of Harold. Engaged in various philanthropic endeavors, supported social causes, and contributed to charitable institutions. Pursued initiatives that benefited the less fortunate, emphasizing education and welfare for the needy. Influenced her contemporaries through her active involvement in charitable organizations and local governance.
Continue ReadingHarper Lee
American author of 'To Kill a Mockingbird'
Born
April 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
An American author wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird', published in 1960. The novel addresses serious issues such as racial injustice and moral growth in the Deep South during the 1930s. Alongside the critical acclaim received for this work, it gained widespread popularity and is often included in school curricula. In 2015, a second novel, 'Go Set a Watchman', was published, which was written before 'To Kill a Mockingbird' but was set two decades later. This work revisited the original characters and explored themes of ethics and social change.
Continue ReadingLarry Coryell
Jazz guitarist and fusion pioneer
Born
April 2nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2017 8 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz guitar scene, this artist played a key role in the development of jazz fusion. Early in the career, joined the band The Free Spirits, one of the first jazz-rock groups. Released numerous albums, including 'Spaces' which contributed to the fusion genre. Collaborated with various musicians, including jazz icons like John McLaughlin and Chick Corea. Continued to perform and record music until passing away in 2017.
Continue ReadingSamuel Willenberg
Polish-Israeli sculptor and painter
Born
February 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
A Polish-Israeli artist created impactful sculptures and paintings. Initially imprisoned in a concentration camp during World War II, experience influenced artistic expression. After the war, migrated to Israel and dedicated efforts to telling the stories of Holocaust survivors through art. Participated in numerous exhibitions, showcasing significant works that emphasized the human experience and memory. Engaged in teaching and mentoring young artists, contributing to cultural dialogues within Israel.
Continue ReadingThomas Burgess
Bishop and philosopher in England
Born
November 18th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1837 188 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Bishop of St David's and was a prominent philosopher during the early 19th century. Contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy. Worked to improve the education system within the Church and advocated for the training of clergy. Engaged in the literary world through writings that explored religious and philosophical themes.
Continue ReadingJean-Charles de Borda
French mathematician and physicist
Born
May 4th, 1733 292 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1799 226 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics during the 18th century. Developed methods for precision in measurements and made advancements in naval science. Participated in various naval expeditions and served on the French navy's scientific commissions. Engaged in political discussions related to navigational science and its applications, impacting maritime practices.
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