Charles Blondin
Tightrope walker, Niagara Falls performer
Born
1824
201 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1897
128 years ago — 73 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
France
Links & References
A renowned tightrope walker and acrobat, this individual gained prominence for performances over Niagara Falls. His most famous feat involved crossing the falls on a tightrope, captivating audiences with remarkable stunts including walking blindfolded and on stilts. Showcasing exceptional skill, he also carried various props across the rope, like a chair and a man on his back. His daring demonstrations contributed significantly to the popularity of tightrope walking as a form of entertainment during the 19th century.
Crossed Niagara Falls on a tightrope
Performed various stunts while crossing
Other People Who Died on February 22nd
Salvador Espriu
A prominent figure in Catalan literature, contributed significantly as a poet, playwright, and novelist. Works reflect themes of identity, memory, and social issues. Received numerous literary awards for contributions to the arts and culture of Catalonia. His poetry often utilized traditional forms while also exploring modernity. Served as a voice for Catalan culture during and after the Franco regime, highlighting the importance of regional language and identity.
Continue ReadingMargaret of Cortona
Born in 1247, a woman from the Tuscany region dedicated life to penance following the death of an unfaithful lover. Joined the Franciscans and established a convent in Cortona. Led a life of austerity and charity, helping the poor and sick. Advanced spirituality fostered devotion and reverence, culminating in canonization by the Catholic Church in 1728.
Continue ReadingJoseph Aiuppa
An American gangster associated with the Chicago Outfit, involvement in organized crime included various illegal activities such as racketeering and extortion. Aiuppa was a key figure during the height of the Outfit's power in the 1970s and 1980s. He played a significant role in the operations surrounding gambling and loan sharking within the Chicago area. Following a series of federal investigations and subsequent convictions, Aiuppa's influence diminished. He was sentenced to prison for gambling-related charges and other offenses related to organized crime before passing away in 1997.
Continue ReadingFerdinand de Saussure
A Swiss linguist, contributed significantly to the understanding of language structure and meaning. Published the influential work 'Course in General Linguistics' posthumously in 1916, shaping modern linguistics and semiotics. Introduced the concept of the linguistic sign comprising the signifier and the signified, laying groundwork for structuralism. His theories emphasized the importance of language as a system of signs and have influenced various fields such as anthropology, psychology, and literary theory.
Continue ReadingRomain Maes
A Belgian cyclist achieved notable success in the 1930s. Won the prestigious Tour de France in 1935, marking a significant moment in his cycling career. Participated in various other races and earned recognition for competitive performances. Developed a reputation as a formidable rider in the cycling community, particularly during the era of classic races in Europe. Continued to influence the sport until death in 1983.
Continue ReadingChuck Jones
An influential animator, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the world of animation. Developed and directed many beloved characters and cartoons throughout a career that spanned over six decades. Created iconic characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig while working with Warner Bros. Established a distinct style that combined humor with artistic innovation. Won three Academy Awards for Animated Short Film and received recognition for contributions to the field of animation.
Continue Reading