Dadasaheb Phalke
Pioneer of Indian cinema and filmmaker
Contributed significantly to Indian cinema as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Initiated the first full-length Indian feature film, 'Raja Harishchandra', released in 1913. Founded the Phalke Studios and advanced filmmaking techniques in India. Influenced many future filmmakers and established a foundation for the film industry in India.
Directed the first full-length Indian film 'Raja Harishchandra'
Founded Phalke Studios
Other People Born on April 30th
Juliana of the Netherlands
Queen of the Netherlands (1948-1980)
Born
April 30th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 94 years old
Ruled as queen from 1948 to 1980, serving during a period of national rebuilding post-World War II. Advocated for social welfare and education reform. Worked on diplomatic relations, notably strengthening ties within the European community. Abdicated in 1980 in favor of her daughter, Beatrix.
Continue ReadingCorinne Calvet
French actress from Golden Age cinema
Born
April 30th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 76 years old
Participation in the Golden Age of Hollywood featured performances in films such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'The French Way'. Transitioned to television with guest roles on popular series during the 1960s and 1970s. Emigrated to the United States and became a prominent figure among French actors in Hollywood. Pursued a career in entertainment, spanning across both film and television, contributing to various projects.
Continue ReadingAnnie Dillard
American novelist and essayist
Born
April 30th, 1945 80 years ago
Born in 1945, this individual gained prominence through literary works that blend narrative with philosophical inquiry. Major literary contributions include the Pulitzer Prize-winning non-fiction work, 'Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,' which offers deep observations of nature and life. The writer's essays and books often explore the intersections of spirituality and the natural world, drawing readers into contemplative experiences. Other notable works include 'Teaching a Stone to Talk' and 'The Writing Life,' which reflect on the process of writing and the relationship between nature and creativity.
Continue ReadingDon Schollander
Swimmer; 4-time Olympic gold medalist
Born
April 30th, 1946 79 years ago
Born in 1946, a prominent swimmer represented the United States in the 1964 and 1968 Olympic Games. Achieved significant success in freestyle events, particularly in the 200-meter and 400-meter disciplines. Competed primarily for the University of California, Berkeley, and earned a reputation for exceptional performance in both individual and team events. Set numerous world records during the competitive career, and his contributions to the sport helped elevate the profile of swimming in American athletics.
Continue ReadingTheodore Schultz
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 30th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1998 27 years ago — 95 years old
An economist and academic contributed significantly to the analysis of human capital. Emphasized the importance of education and training in improving economic productivity. Authored pivotal works that explored the relationship between education and economic growth. His research laid the foundation for the development of the human capital theory. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1979 for contributions to the understanding of how education affects economic performance.
Continue ReadingMarina Tomić
Slovenian hurdler and Olympian
Born
April 30th, 1983 42 years ago
Competed in 100 meters hurdles at international levels, representing Slovenia. Participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Achieved medals in European championships and national championships, establishing a reputation as a top competitor in the hurdles discipline. Set personal bests throughout her career and contributed to the visibility of athletics in Slovenia.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 16th
Dazzy Vance
Baseball pitcher and Hall of Famer
Born
March 4th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1961 64 years ago — 69 years old
Played Major League Baseball from 1915 to 1935, primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Achieved significant success as a pitcher, leading the National League in strikeouts for seven consecutive years. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1955. His career spanned two eras of the game, and he was recognized for his strikeout ability and consistent performance on the mound.
Continue ReadingAnthony Shadid
Journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 44 years old
Worked as a journalist primarily covering the Middle East. Contributed to The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and The Washington Post, providing in-depth reporting on conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Awarded the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting in 2004 for coverage of the Iraq War. Remembered for the ability to convey the human side of war and conflict through compelling narratives.
Continue ReadingMary Amdur
Toxicologist and public health researcher
Born
February 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1998 27 years ago — 76 years old
This individual contributed significantly to the field of toxicology and public health research. Focused on the effects of chemical exposure on human health, work included studies on pollutants and their impact on respiratory health. Conducted extensive research on the health implications of asbestos and other hazardous materials. Facilitated the dissemination of vital information regarding chemical safety and health risks associated with environmental contaminants.
Continue ReadingPat Brown
American politician, 32nd Governor of California
Born
April 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 32nd Governor of California from 1959 to 1967. Implemented significant policy reforms in education and water management. Advocated for the construction of the California State Water Project, which aimed to improve water supply and distribution across the state. His administration focused on civil rights and economic growth. Before his governorship, practiced law and served as the District Attorney of San Francisco.
Continue ReadingRusty Magee
Actor and composer of 'On the Twentieth Century'
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 48 years old
An American actor and composer contributed significantly to musical theatre. Best recognized for the role in the musical 'On the Twentieth Century', which showcased skills in both performance and composition. Magee’s work spanned various productions, and collaborations with notable figures in theatre established a unique presence in the performing arts. The contributions to compositions in various theatrical settings highlighted a blend of acting and musical talent, earning a commendable reputation in the industry. Magee's career was characterized by a commitment to the craft of theatre and music until the end of life in 2003.
Continue ReadingKen Farragut
American football player and coach
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Played college football at the University of Washington. Later drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1967 and played as a linebacker. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from professional football, contributing to the development of young athletes. Coached various high school teams and also took roles in college football coaching. Recognized for leadership and mentoring.
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