Gillo Pontecorvo
Italian film director and screenwriter
Acclaimed for significant contributions to cinema, especially in the realm of political and social themes. Directed the highly influential film 'The Battle of Algiers', which depicted the Algerian struggle for independence. Gained recognition for blending documentary-style filmmaking with dramatic storytelling. Worked on various projects that highlighted themes of conflict and resistance, and received widespread critical acclaim for his cinematic techniques and narrative style.
Directed 'The Battle of Algiers'
Created 'Kapò'
Won Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival
Other People Born on November 19th
Reid Scott
Actor in 'Veep' and 'My Boys'
Born
November 19th, 1977 48 years ago
An American actor appeared primarily in television and film. Gained prominence for portraying Dan Egan in the HBO series 'Veep', which received critical acclaim and multiple awards. Featured as Greg in the TBS series 'My Boys', showcasing comedic talent. Acted in films such as 'The Kevin Hart Show' and 'The Last of the Good Guys'.
Continue ReadingJack Dorsey
Businessman, co-founder of Twitter
Born
November 19th, 1976 49 years ago
Co-founded Twitter in 2006, which became a significant social media platform affecting communication and information dissemination. Played a pivotal role in developing Square, a financial services and mobile payment company, launched in 2009. Served as CEO of Twitter twice, from 2006 to 2008 and then from 2015 to 2021. Contributed to the evolution of social media by introducing innovative features and fostering digital discourse.
Continue ReadingGeorg Hermann Quincke
German physicist and academic
Born
November 19th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1924 101 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed to the fields of physics and optics. Developed the Quincke apparatus used for studying light refraction and optical phenomena. Conducted extensive research in acoustics and used a resonator to explore sound phenomena. Held academic positions and published significant works in the area of optics and acoustics.
Continue ReadingBilly Sunday
Baseball player and evangelist
Born
November 19th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1935 90 years ago — 73 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as an outfielder from 1883 to 1891, including stints with the Chicago White Stockings and the Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioned to a career as an evangelist, delivering impactful sermons in the early 20th century, often in large stadiums and arenas across the United States. His revival meetings attracted thousands, and his preaching style incorporated a blend of biblical messages and contemporary themes of the time.
Continue ReadingMikhail Lomonosov
Chemist and physicist, developed the first Russian university
Born
November 19th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1765 260 years ago — 53 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of chemistry and physics. Established the first Russian university, which was instrumental in the development of higher education in Russia. Authored works on various scientific topics, including the theory of heat and the laws of motion. His research laid foundational principles for future scientific inquiry in Russia, influencing generations of scientists and educators.
Continue ReadingLarry King
Journalist and Talk Show Host
Born
November 19th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2021 4 years ago — 87 years old
Also recognized as a prominent journalist and talk show host, played a significant role in broadcasting for over six decades. Hosted the popular CNN program 'Larry King Live' from 1985 to 2010, where interviews with presidents, celebrities, and newsmakers were featured. Leveraged a distinctive interviewing style and became a pivotal figure in American media. Authored several books, including autobiographies that reflected on a rich career and personal anecdotes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 12th
Wilt Chamberlain
Basketball player and coach with 100-point game
Born
August 21st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1999 26 years ago — 63 years old
Outstanding basketball player and coach recognized for exceptional performance on the court. Played for teams such as the Philadelphia/San Francisco Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Lakers. Accumulated numerous accolades during a prolific career including two NBA championships and four NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards. Scored 100 points in a single NBA game on March 2, 1962, a record that remains unmatched. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement, contributing to the sport in different capacities.
Continue ReadingJackmaster
Scottish DJ and record producer
Born
1986 39 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 38 years old
A prominent figure in electronic music, gained recognition as a DJ and record producer. Helped pioneer the house music scene in Scotland and contributed significantly to the global electronic music landscape. Founded the label Numbers, which became a vital platform for underground artists. Known for energetic and eclectic sets that blended various genres, including techno, house, and disco. Performed at major music festivals and events worldwide.
Continue ReadingRegis Toomey
American actor in films and television
Born
August 13th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1991 34 years ago — 93 years old
An actor with a career spanning over five decades, gained recognition for roles in both film and television. Appeared in over 100 films and numerous television series. Notable performances included roles in the films 'The Maltese Falcon' and 'The Big Sleep', as well as a prominent role in the long-running television series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet'. Work encompassed a range of genres, showcasing versatility across drama and comedy.
Continue ReadingJoan Kroc
Philanthropist and humanitarian efforts
Born
August 27th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2003 22 years ago — 75 years old
Significant contributions to charitable causes were made by a prominent philanthropist. Kroc inherited a substantial fortune from the McDonald's franchise, which was co-founded by her late husband. Activism centered around various initiatives, including support for the arts, education, and peace efforts. Major donations facilitated the establishment of several community centers, universities, and food banks, further illustrating a commitment to addressing social issues. Through these endeavors, a legacy of generosity and commitment to public service was established.
Continue ReadingInejiro Asanuma
Japanese politician and Diet member
Born
December 27th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1960 65 years ago — 61 years old
Active in Japanese politics, played a key role in the Japanese Socialist Party. Elected to the House of Representatives multiple times, advocating for social reforms and workers' rights. Served as the party leader during a significant period of political turmoil in Japan. Assassinated in 1960, an event that underscored the intensity of political divisions at the time.
Continue ReadingTito Mboweni
South African politician and former minister
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 65 years old
Held the position of Minister of Finance in South Africa from 2018 to 2021. Served as the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank from 1999 to 2009, implementing policies to stabilize the country's monetary system. Played a key role in the economic transformation of South Africa post-apartheid and contributed to various economic initiatives and reforms. Involved in the African National Congress since the 1980s and participated in negotiations to end apartheid.
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