Clara Bow
American actress and film star
An actress gained recognition during the silent film era and became an iconic figure of the Roaring Twenties. Rose to prominence for performances in films such as 'It', which established the 'It girl' image. Achieved significant popularity for her roles in romantic comedies and dramas, including 'Wings', which won the first Academy Award for Best Picture. Transitioned successfully to sound films, maintaining a successful career until her retirement in the early 1930s.
Starred in 'It', establishing the 'It girl' image
Appeared in 'Wings', the first Academy Award winner for Best Picture
Transitioned to sound films in the early 1930s
Other People Born on July 29th
Hilary Smart
American sailor and world champion
Born
July 29th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2000 26 years ago — 74 years old
Sailed competitively, achieving significant success in various sailing events. Competed in the 1996 Summer Olympics, showcasing skills at an international level. Won multiple national championships and gained recognition as a top sailor in the United States. Contributed to the growth of sailing as a sport through coaching and mentorship to younger sailors, promoting the sport within local communities.
Continue ReadingRichard Egan
American actor in film and television
Born
July 29th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1987 38 years ago — 65 years old
An American actor emerged during the 1950s, gaining recognition for appearances in both film and television. Significant roles included starring in the epic 'The Roman Holiday' and the popular television series ' From Here to Eternity'. Egan displayed versatility across various genres, from drama to adventure, contributing to his lasting presence in American cinema. His performances garnered attention and a dedicated fan base, especially within the context of post-war Hollywood.
Continue ReadingErich Priebke
German military officer involved in WWII
Born
July 29th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 100 years old
A German military officer served as a captain during World War II. Played a significant role in the Italian campaign and was involved in the Ardeatine massacre in Rome, which resulted in the execution of 335 Italian civilians in reprisal for partigiano attacks. After the war, evaded capture for several years before being apprehended in Argentina, where he lived after the conflict. Extradition to Italy occurred in the early 1990s, leading to a trial and conviction for aiding and abetting murder. His death occurred in 2013.
Continue ReadingChester Himes
American author known for detective novels
Born
July 29th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1984 42 years ago — 75 years old
An American author, primarily recognized for contributions to detective fiction. Himes published a series of crime novels featuring characters such as Coffin Ed and Gravedigger Jones. Influenced by personal experiences with racism and societal issues, he used his writing to explore these themes. After moving to France in the 1950s, he continued to write, producing significant works that reflected his views on race and identity. Himes's writing style combined elements of realism and social commentary, establishing a unique voice in American literature.
Continue ReadingTheda Bara
Silent film actress and vamp archetype
Born
July 29th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1955 71 years ago — 69 years old
An actress in the early years of cinema, gained fame during the silent film era for portraying seductive and glamorous characters. Achieved stardom through iconic roles in films such as 'A Fool There Was' and 'Cleopatra'. Became a cultural phenomenon, representing the archetype of the vampire femme fatale, captivating audiences with dramatic performances. After a successful career, transitioned out of the spotlight in the 1920s with the advent of sound in film. Continued to influence the portrayal of women in cinema until passing away in 1955.
Continue ReadingArchbishop Iakovos of America
Greek Orthodox Archbishop and leader
Born
July 29th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2005 21 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the Greek Orthodox Archbishop of America from 1959 to 1996. Worked on interfaith dialogue, particularly between Orthodox Christianity and other religions. Participated in the Civil Rights Movement alongside Martin Luther King Jr., advocating for racial equality. Oversaw significant growth of the Greek Orthodox Church in the United States and contributed to the establishment of various educational and philanthropic organizations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 27th
Oscar Castro-Neves
Guitarist and composer, The Girl from Ipanema
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 73 years old
A Brazilian-American guitarist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to bossa nova and jazz music. Collaborated with artists such as Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand. Also composed music for film and stage, including a notable version of 'The Girl from Ipanema'. His work is characterized by intricate guitar arrangements and a deep understanding of Brazilian musical roots.
Continue ReadingKallen Pokkudan
Indian activist and author promoting ecology
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
An activist focused on environmental issues and a writer, contributed to the ecological movement in India. Founded the Environmental Awareness Centre in Kerala, which educates on various ecological and social issues. Authored several books, emphasizing the importance of natural conservation and sustainable practices. Played a significant role in the movement against the ecological destruction caused by industrialization.
Continue ReadingLloyd Nolan
American actor in film and television
Born
August 11th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1985 40 years ago — 83 years old
Gained prominence as an American actor, particularly in film and television. Starred in the movie 'The Dark Corner' and made significant contributions to the TV series 'Dr. Kildare'. Career spanned several decades, showcasing versatile roles in various genres. Recognized for a distinctive voice and engaging screen presence, Nolan became an integral part of Hollywood's classic era.
Continue ReadingSylvia Pankhurst
Women's suffrage leader and activist
Born
May 5th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1960 65 years ago — 78 years old
Involved in the women's suffrage movement and socialist activism, contributed significantly to advocating for women's voting rights in the early 20th century. Established the Women's Social and Political Union, focusing on direct action and campaigning for women's rights. Engaged in various forms of protest, including hunger strikes, to draw attention to the cause. Authored numerous articles and books on women's rights and social issues, promoting broader social and political reforms.
Continue ReadingWilliam of Wykeham
English bishop and educator
Born
1320 706 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1404 621 years ago — 84 years old
William of Wykeham served as the Bishop of Winchester and was a key figure in the development of education in England. He founded New College, Oxford, in 1379 and established Winchester College in 1382, which became significant institutions for education. His contributions to architecture are notable, especially in the rebuilding of Winchester Cathedral.
Continue ReadingDavid Croft
Television director and producer
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 89 years old
A director and producer, contributed significantly to British television comedy. Created and produced popular sitcoms, most notably 'Dad's Army' and 'Are You Being Served?'. Worked alongside other prominent writers and producers in the genre, shaping the landscape of British humor during the 20th century. Helped foster new talent in comedy and contributed to the revival of shows through remakes and special episodes in later years. Maintained a high level of engagement with audiences over decades.
Continue Reading