George O'Hara
American actor and screenwriter
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American actor and screenwriter, notable work includes leading roles in films during the 1920s and 1930s. Achievements include contributions to silent films and early sound cinema. O'Hara's screen presence captured the attention of audiences, becoming a well-recognized figure in Hollywood. His career spanned various genres and he wrote scripts for several productions, showcasing versatility in the film industry.
Starred in the film 'The Enchanted Cottage'
Appeared in 'The Phantom of the Opera' (1925)
Other People Born on February 22nd
Ladislaus the Posthumous
Hungarian king and ruler
Born
February 22nd, 1440 585 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1457 568 years ago — 17 years old
Born in 1440, a king who ascended the throne at a young age after the death of his father. His reign was characterized by political instability and conflict over territorial claims in Hungary. Ladislaus faced challenges from various factions, which complicated his rule. Despite his royal status, limited power resulted from ongoing disputes among the nobility and external threats. The king eventually died in 1457 under mysterious circumstances, leaving a turbulent legacy.
Continue ReadingRashi
French rabbi and biblical commentator
Born
February 22nd, 1040 985 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1105 920 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1040 in Troyes, France, Rashi became a prominent rabbi and biblical commentator. His comprehensive commentaries on the Hebrew Bible and Talmud are considered foundational texts in Jewish scholarship. Rashi’s work synthesized earlier interpretations and provided clarity, making complex religious texts accessible to students and scholars alike. His writings incorporated linguistic nuances and contextual insights that influenced subsequent generations of Jewish learning. Rashi's contributions helped shape Jewish education and understanding throughout the Middle Ages and beyond.
Continue ReadingOwen Brewster
American politician, 54th Governor of Maine
Born
February 22nd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1961 63 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1888, served as the 54th Governor of Maine from 1941 to 1945. During tenure, focused on wartime governance and significant infrastructure development within the state. Led Maine's initiatives related to World War II and addressed various state issues including education and transportation. Involved in post-war planning and economic recovery efforts after the war ended. Before governorship, held positions as a state senator and was the chair of the state's Board of Economic Welfare. Played a critical role in promoting the interests of Maine at the national level.
Continue ReadingJean-Bédel Bokassa
Central African President and General
Born
February 22nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the second President of the Central African Republic from 1966 to 1979. Initially a military leader, played a significant role in the country’s political landscape following a coup. Claimed the title of emperor in 1976, establishing the Central African Empire. His administration was marked by a mix of development initiatives and widespread allegations of human rights abuses, as well as extravagant displays of wealth. Overthrown in a coup in 1979, then went into exile before returning to the Central African Republic years later.
Continue ReadingDick Van Arsdale
American basketball player, All-Star
Born
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Played basketball professionally in the NBA from 1965 to 1977. Spent the majority of career with the Phoenix Suns. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1970 and established a reputation as a skilled scorer and tenacious defender. After retirement, contributed to the sport as a coach and executive in the Suns' organization.
Continue ReadingRobert Wadlow
Tallest person in recorded history
Born
February 22nd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1940 85 years ago — 22 years old
Born in 1918, he was an American man recognized as the tallest person in recorded history. His extraordinary height of 8 feet 11 inches was due to an overactive pituitary gland, which resulted in excessive growth hormone production. Wadlow's height led to several health challenges throughout his life. He was a gentle and amiable individual, gaining attention not only for his stature but also for his character. He graduated from Alton High School and attended Shurtleff College. Wadlow's public appearances included participation in promotional events and community engagements, where he inspired curiosity in many. His life came to a premature end in 1940 at the age of 22 due to an infection caused by braces on his legs.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 16th
Roy Dotrice
English actor and audiobook narrator
Born
May 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 94 years old
An English actor with a career spanning several decades, best recognized for distinct performances in theatre, television, and film. Achieved acclaim for portraying the character of Leopold Bloom in the original cast of the stage adaptation of 'Ulysses in Nighttown.' Gained significant recognition for narrating the audiobook series of 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin, which won multiple awards for outstanding narration. Also appeared in numerous television productions, including the miniseries 'World War II: Behind Closed Doors.'
Continue ReadingFrank Moore Cross
Biblical scholar and historian
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
An esteemed scholar in biblical studies and archaeology, played a significant role in the field of ancient Near Eastern studies. Served as a professor at Harvard University, where contributions to biblical Hebrew, epigraphy, and archaeology shaped theological education. Edited the 'Harvard Theological Review' and authored several pivotal works. Constructed new approaches to the understanding of biblical texts through historical and archaeological frameworks.
Continue ReadingIoannis Charalambopoulos
Greek colonel and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
February 10th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old
A military officer and politician, served as a colonel in the Greek army. Became a prominent figure in the political landscape of Greece, particularly during the 1960s. Held the position of Deputy Prime Minister, contributing to the governance of the country during a tumultuous period. Played a significant role in military and political circles, particularly within the framework of Greek national politics.
Continue ReadingDaphne Caruana Galizia
Investigative journalist and blogger
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 53 years old
An investigative journalist and blogger, focused on political corruption and wrongdoing in Malta. Authored the popular blog 'Running Commentary', providing scrutiny of politicians and public officials. Contributed to various publications, including the Malta Independent and The Shift News. Reported extensively on the Panama Papers, revealing connections between Maltese officials and offshore companies. Death occurred in 2017 due to a car bomb explosion, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
Continue ReadingPierre Salinger
American journalist, 11th Press Secretary
Born
June 14th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2004 21 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 11th White House Press Secretary under President John F. Kennedy from 1961 to 1963. Worked as a journalist for various news organizations, including ABC News and the San Francisco Chronicle. Later served in the U.S. Senate as a Democratic member. Engaged in media commentary regarding political affairs throughout his career.
Continue ReadingStu Hart
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
May 3rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 88 years old
An influential professional wrestler and trainer, he founded the legendary Stampede Wrestling promotion in Calgary, Alberta. Developed a wrestling school which produced many future wrestling stars, including Bret Hart and Chris Jericho. Served as a key figure in the wrestling community for decades, training numerous athletes in the craft. His contributions to wrestling extended beyond mere performance, with a focus on developing the next generation of talent.
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