Claus von Stauffenberg
German Colonel and Resistance Leader
A German army officer, famous for leading the July 20 plot in 1944 to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Stauffenberg joined the German Army and rose through the ranks during World War II. Dissatisfaction with the Nazi regime led to conspiracy efforts among military officers. Stauffenberg's role involved placing a bomb in Hitler's briefing room, although the attempt ultimately failed. Captured shortly after the attempt, he was executed by firing squad. His actions are often cited as a pivotal moment of resistance against the regime.
Led the July 20 assassination plot against Hitler
Was a key figure in German military resistance
Other People Born on November 15th
Nita Barrow
Barbadian nurse and politician, Governor-General
Born
November 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1995 31 years ago — 79 years old
Significant contributions were made to healthcare and governance in Barbados. Served as the 7th Governor-General of Barbados, overseeing various ceremonial duties from 1990 until 1995. Prior to that, held positions that combined both nursing and public service. Advocated for healthcare improvements and actively participated in organizations focused on health and women's issues in the Caribbean.
Continue ReadingCurtis LeMay
American general and politician
Born
November 15th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1990 35 years ago — 83 years old
A senior officer in the United States Air Force, served as the Chief of Staff from 1961 to 1965. Played a significant role in World War II, leading the strategic bombing campaign against Japan. Contributed to the development of U.S. military aviation and nuclear strategy during the Cold War. Later entered politics, running as a vice presidential candidate in 1968.
Continue ReadingJérôme Bonaparte
French noble and military leader
Born
November 15th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1860 166 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1784, this individual served as a naval officer and played a significant role during the Napoleonic Wars. As the youngest brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, this person received the title of King of Westphalia and ruled from 1807 to 1813. The administration focused on modernizing the region and implementing reforms in governance. Following the downfall of Napoleon, this person lived in exile and later returned to France, where he engaged in various political and social activities.
Continue ReadingMadeleine de Scudéry
French author and novelist
Born
November 15th, 1607 418 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1701 324 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent figure in 17th-century French literature, this individual authored influential novels and is particularly recognized for contributions to the genre of the salon. The works blended themes of romance, social commentary, and philosophy. Through a distinctive narrative style, the author created a literary world that examined the intricacies of love and friendship. Notable works include 'Clélie' and 'Artamène', which were well-received and discussed in intellectual circles of the time, influencing contemporary writers.
Continue ReadingOl' Dirty Bastard
Rapper and producer of Wu-Tang Clan
Born
November 15th, 1968 57 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 35 years old
An influential rapper and producer emerged as a key member of the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Began solo career in the mid-1990s with the release of the album 'Return to the 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version,' which showcased a unique style and unconventional lyricism. Collaborated with many artists and participated in multiple projects, contributing to the genre's evolution. Known for energetic performances and controversial persona, left a lasting legacy in hip-hop culture prior to passing in 2004.
Continue ReadingFrançois Ozon
French film director and screenwriter
Born
November 15th, 1967 58 years ago
Born in 1967, this director and screenwriter has created a diverse array of films that have garnered critical acclaim. The body of work includes feature films that explore themes of identity, sexuality, and human relationships. Significant films include "Swimming Pool," "8 Women," and "Frantz." Ozon's style often combines elements of drama with innovative storytelling techniques, earning recognition at major film festivals.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Robert Young
American actor in 'Father Knows Best'
Born
February 22nd, 1907 119 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor, this individual gained recognition for performances in television and film throughout the mid-20th century. Most notable were roles in the television series 'Father Knows Best' and 'Marcus Welby, M.D.'. The actor's career spanned several decades, transitioning from radio to film and ultimately to television. Performed in numerous films during the 1930s and 1940s, establishing a prominent presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingE. L. Doctorow
American novelist and playwright
Born
January 6th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent American writer, this individual crafted compelling works throughout a career spanning several decades. The writing style often blended historical events with fiction, creating rich narratives. Notable works include 'Ragtime', which depicts early 20th-century America, and 'Billy Bathgate', a novel exploring the life of a young man involved with gangster Dutch Schultz. The author also wrote plays that were well-received in theatrical circles. Contributions to American literature garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated readership.
Continue ReadingMikhail Mikhaylovich Gerasimov
Russian anthropologist and sculptor
Born
1907 119 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1970 55 years ago — 63 years old
Contributions included the development of techniques for facial reconstruction from skulls, revolutionizing the field of physical anthropology. Worked on the reconstruction of historical figures, including those from ancient cultures. Served as an academic leader at the Institute of Ethnography and the Institute of Archaeology in Moscow, guiding research and education in anthropology and archaeology.
Continue ReadingMako Iwamatsu
Japanese actor in 'The Sand Pebbles'
Born
December 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2006 19 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1933, this actor had a prominent career in film and television. Early work included performances in Japanese cinema before moving to the United States. Notably starred in the film 'The Sand Pebbles' alongside Steve McQueen, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Also appeared in popular TV series such as 'Hawaii Five-O' and 'M*A*S*H'. His contribution to the arts extended to voice work in animated features, lending his voice to characters in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' and 'The Last Unicorn'.
Continue ReadingJohn Heard
Actor in 'Home Alone' franchise
Born
March 7th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2017 8 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor and producer, entered the film industry with a passion for theater. Achieved widespread recognition for roles in both film and television. Gained prominence through a pivotal role in the holiday classic 'Home Alone,' where played the father of the young main character. Besides film work, also featured in various television series, including 'The Sopranos.' Career spanned several decades, with performances showcasing versatility across genres from dramas to comedies.
Continue ReadingRalph Houk
Baseball manager and player, Yankees
Born
August 9th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2010 15 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball and managed the New York Yankees. Played from 1947 to 1953. Managed the Yankees from 1961 to 1963, leading the team to a World Series championship in 1961. Also managed the Detroit Tigers and the Boston Red Sox during a career spanning several decades.
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