Franco Zeffirelli
Italian director and producer of film
Directed and produced films and operas, focusing on Shakespearean adaptations and classic literature. Notable works include the film adaptation of 'Romeo and Juliet' (1968) and 'Hamlet' (1990). Founded a production company, Zeffirelli Productions, to oversee his projects. Served as a member of the Italian Parliament and held a significant role in the cultural scene of Italy. Created various acclaimed operatic productions, notably for La Scala in Milan.
Directed 'Romeo and Juliet' (1968)
Produced 'Hamlet' (1990)
Created celebrated operatic productions
Other People Born on February 12th
Julian Schwinger
Theoretical physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
February 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1994 31 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed significantly to quantum field theory, specifically in the development of quantum electrodynamics. His work provided a theoretical framework for understanding particle interactions. Served as a professor at various institutions, including UCLA. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965, sharing the honor with Richard Feynman and Sin-Itiro Tomonaga for their contributions to the field.
Continue ReadingChristina Ricci
American actress, known for Wednesday Addams
Born
February 12th, 1980 45 years ago
An American actress began her career in the early 1990s with roles in films such as 'The Addams Family' and 'Casper.' Gained critical acclaim for performance in 'Buffalo 66' and starred in 'Monster' alongside Charlize Theron. Transitioned to television with a leading role in the series 'Z: The Beginning of Everything,' portraying Zelda Fitzgerald. Founded a production company to develop independent films, and has been recognized for her contributions to the industry through various nominations and awards.
Continue ReadingScott Menville
Voice actor in 'Teen Titans' series
Born
February 12th, 1971 54 years ago
Voice acted in multiple animated series and films. Provided the voice for characters in the 'Teen Titans' franchise. Worked on various video game projects, contributing voice talent for prominent characters. Additionally, pursued a career in music and acted in live performances.
Continue ReadingDom DiMaggio
Baseball player and All-Star center fielder
Born
February 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2009 16 years ago — 92 years old
Played professional baseball as a center fielder from 1939 to 1953. Spent the majority of his career with the Boston Red Sox. Achieved All-Star status three times and was a key contributor to the team's success during his tenure. After retirement, contributed to baseball as a coach and front office executive.
Continue ReadingMike Posner
Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Started his career releasing mixtapes and gained significant attention with the single 'Cooler Than Me' in 2010. The debut album '31 Minutes to Takeoff' featured hits like 'Please Don't Go' and showcased a mix of pop and electronic influences. Later, produced tracks for prominent artists and expanded work into production and songwriting. Achieved recognition for the song 'I Took a Pill in Ibiza', which received widespread acclaim and commercial success, leading to a remix by a notable DJ. Has also undertaken projects involving personal reflection and poetry.
Continue ReadingFrançois-Paul Brueys d'Aigalliers
French admiral of the Napoleonic Wars
Born
February 12th, 1753 272 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1798 227 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1753, an admiral in the French Navy, held significant positions during the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. Commanded the French fleet at the Battle of the Nile in 1798. His naval leadership contributed to the French attempts to expand influence overseas. Died in battle in 1798.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 15th
John Vincent Atanasoff
Physicist and inventor of computing
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1995 30 years ago — 92 years old
An American physicist and inventor developed the Atanasoff-Berry computer, which is recognized as one of the first electronic computers. This pioneering work laid the foundation for modern computing technology. The design introduced the concepts of binary numbers and electronic computation, significantly influencing future computer development. Atanasoff's contributions to electronic computing occurred during the late 1930s and early 1940s at Iowa State College, where collaboration with graduate student Clifford Berry led to the completion of the device.
Continue ReadingFranjo Krežma
Violinist and Classical Composer
Born
September 4th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1881 144 years ago — 18 years old
Pioneered violin performance and composition in Croatian classical music. Studied under prominent teachers and made significant contributions as a violinist and composer. Composed numerous works that enriched the classical repertoire and mentored many students throughout a long career. Krežma's compositions continue to be performed and studied in violin programs.
Continue ReadingJimmy Dykes
Baseball player and manager
Born
November 10th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1976 49 years ago — 79 years old
Played in Major League Baseball as a third baseman from 1919 to 1939. Managed several teams including the Chicago White Sox and the Detroit Tigers. Contributed to the development of players during managerial roles. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, influencing future generations of baseball players.
Continue ReadingTatu Kolehmainen
Finnish long-distance runner Olympic medalist
Born
April 21st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1967 58 years ago — 82 years old
Competed in long-distance running events during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters. Set multiple national records in Finland and excelled in various distance races throughout his career, contributing to the rise of Finland in long-distance running. After retiring from competitive athletics, continued to influence the sport through coaching and local athletics.
Continue ReadingUnryū Kyūkichi
Japanese sumo wrestler, 10th Yokozuna
Born
1822 203 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1890 135 years ago — 68 years old
Achieved the rank of Yokozuna in sumo wrestling, becoming the 10th person to attain this prestigious title. Competed during the late Edo period and established a significant presence in the sport. Contributed to the evolution of sumo through various matches and tournaments, showcasing strength and skill. Career extended across multiple years, with notable performances that solidified status in the sumo community.
Continue ReadingRobert I of France
King of France; united nobles 922
Died
June 15th, 923 1102 years ago — None years old
Ascending to the throne in 922, Robert I became King of France during a tumultuous period marked by increasing power among regional nobles. His reign was characterized by efforts to consolidate power and assert authority over his realm. Prior to his kingship, he served as Duke of France and played a significant role in noble alliances during conflicts, notably the civil wars that plagued Francia. The conflict with Charles III of France culminated in the Battle of Soissons, where Robert I lost his life, marking a pivotal moment in French history.
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