Gérard Oury
French actor, director, screenwriter
An influential figure in French cinema, contributed as an actor, director, and screenwriter. Directed several popular films, including 'La Grande Vadrouille' and 'Le Corniaud,' which showcased a unique blend of comedy and adventure. Worked extensively in the film industry from the mid-20th century onward, becoming a prominent name in French films. The body of work spanned various genres, with a distinct style that resonated with audiences in France and beyond.
Directed 'La Grande Vadrouille', the highest-grossing French film at the time
Directed 'Le Corniaud', a classic comedy featuring Louis de Funès
Acted in various films, enhancing their comedic elements
Other People Born on April 29th
Michael Heidelberger
Immunologist and pioneer of immunology
Born
April 29th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 103 years old
An American immunologist contributed significantly to the understanding of antibodies and their role in the immune response. Heidelberger studied under prominent figures in the field and advanced methods for studying immune responses to polysaccharide antigens. He developed a seminal theory on the structure of antibodies, which paved the way for future research in immunology. His efforts led to breakthroughs in vaccines and diagnostic tests. Heidelberger's work has been foundational in immunological research and education.
Continue ReadingHarry Payne Whitney
Businessman and lawyer; founder of Whitney Museum
Born
April 29th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1930 95 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent American businessman and lawyer contributed significantly to various industries. Established Whitney & Company, which focused on financial services and investments. Engaged in philanthropy and played a vital role in the arts, including founding the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City, dedicated to 20th-century American art. Served as a director for several companies and participated actively in the family business.
Continue ReadingOtis Rush
Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 29th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2018 7 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this musician developed a unique style characterized by powerful vocals and expressive guitar work. Active from the 1950s onwards, the artist released several influential albums, including 'Right Place, Wrong Time' and 'Ain't Enough Comin' In'. The artist's music features a fusion of blues, jazz, and R&B elements, shaping the genre's evolution and inspiring numerous musicians.
Continue ReadingRafael Sabatini
Novelist and short story writer
Born
April 29th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1950 75 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Italy and later becoming a British citizen, this writer specialized in historical novels. The body of work includes tales primarily set in the age of piracy and the Renaissance. Many works received acclaim for their engaging narratives and well-drawn characters. The writer's stories often feature swashbuckling adventures and themes of romanticism, establishing a unique voice in the literary world. 'Captain Blood' and 'Scaramouche' remain among the most recognized titles that showcase storytelling prowess and vivid historical settings.
Continue ReadingMarietta Blau
Physicist and academic in nuclear physics
Born
April 29th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1970 55 years ago — 75 years old
An Austrian physicist specialized in nuclear photography and radiology. Developed methods for the detection of nuclear particles using photographic emulsions. Made significant contributions to the understanding of cosmic rays through pioneering research conducted in high-altitude laboratories. Worked as a professor, sharing knowledge in nuclear physics and related fields. Received recognition for scientific contributions and became a prominent figure in the academic community.
Continue ReadingHarold Urey
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 29th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1981 44 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent American chemist and astronomer, contributions focused on isotopic chemistry and nuclear physics. Developed methods for separating isotopes and played a significant role in the Manhattan Project. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934 for the discovery of deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen. Served as a professor at several universities, including Columbia University and the University of California, Berkeley.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 20th
René Bazin
French author and academic of literature
Born
December 26th, 1853 171 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1932 93 years ago — 78 years old
This individual was a prominent French author and academic, recognized for contributions to literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a member of the Académie Française, this figure achieved prominence through a range of works that explored themes of nature, spirituality, and social issues. Works included 'L'Invasion' and 'Notre-Dame de Paris', which showcased narrative depth and literary skill. In addition to writing, served in academia, influencing a generation of writers and readers.
Continue ReadingJames Alexander Calder
Canadian politician and educator
Born
September 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1956 69 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the Canadian Minister of Militia and Defence from 1921 to 1926. Contributed to military and educational reforms during tenure. Advocated for improved training and mobilization of Canadian forces. Engaged in various initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of the military.
Continue ReadingJames Doohan
Actor and veteran, best known as Scotty
Born
March 3rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Canada, a military career began during World War II, serving in the Royal Canadian Artillery and participating in the D-Day invasion. After the war, transitioned to acting, gaining prominence for the role of Montgomery Scott, also known as Scotty, in the television series Star Trek, which premiered in 1966 and became a cultural phenomenon. Doohan reprised this role in several Star Trek films and contributed to the franchise's legacy. In addition to acting, he was involved in various voiceover projects and public appearances related to the series, attracting a loyal fanbase.
Continue ReadingPierre Fabre
Pharmacist, founder of Laboratoires Pierre Fabre
Born
April 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
A pharmacist established Laboratoires Pierre Fabre, a major player in the pharmaceutical and dermo-cosmetics industry. Utilized expertise in herbal medicine to develop innovative products, merging science and nature. Focus grew on dermatological solutions, leading to the creation of a wide range of skincare products under various brands. Expanded the company into a global entity while retaining a strong commitment to research and development.
Continue ReadingGeeta Dutt
Indian playback singer and actress
Born
November 23rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1972 53 years ago — 41 years old
Celebrated for contributions to Indian playback singing, achieved widespread recognition during the 1950s and 1960s. Frequently collaborated with prominent music directors like Sachin Dev Burman and Hemant Kumar. Major works include iconic songs in films such as 'Pyaasa' and 'Baazi'. Also performed in various stage productions, showcasing versatility in both music and acting.
Continue ReadingAlastair Burnet
Journalist and news presenter
Born
July 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent journalist and news presenter, recognized for a distinguished career in British broadcasting. Worked for ITN and the BBC, contributing significantly to political reporting and current affairs. Served as the editor of the 'Daily Express' and presented coverage of major events including the Apollo 11 moon landing and various general elections. Burnet's interviewing style and in-depth analysis of political issues established a strong reputation in journalism.
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