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
Jack 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 ReadingRobert Sidney
English poet and politician
Born
November 19th, 1563 462 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1626 399 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1563, this individual served as an English poet and held various political roles during his lifetime. Contributing to the literary scene, he was associated with the tradition of courtly poetry. His works reflected themes of love and chivalry, often drawing from classical influences. He was a prominent figure in the court of Queen Elizabeth I, where he engaged in matters of governance and diplomacy. His political career included serving as a member of the Privy Council and holding positions that linked him to important royal affairs.
Continue ReadingTommy Dorsey
American trombonist and bandleader
Born
November 19th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1956 69 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1905, a prominent trombonist, composer and bandleader in the big band era. Established a successful career in music, leading the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. Contributed significantly to the jazz and swing genres, gaining popularity in the late 1930s and 1940s. Collaborated with notable musicians and vocalists, including Frank Sinatra, which led to significant commercial success. Produced numerous hit records that solidified his status in American music history.
Continue ReadingJeane Kirkpatrick
Diplomat and United Nations Ambassador
Born
November 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2006 19 years ago — 80 years old
An American academic and diplomat served as the 16th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 1981 to 1985. Advocated for a strong, active U.S. role in international affairs and supported authoritarian regimes viewed as allies against communism. Played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Reagan administration, contributing to debates on human rights and geopolitical strategies. In 1984, became the first woman to hold the UN ambassador position, influencing U.S. relations with Latin America and promoting a conservative foreign policy agenda.
Continue ReadingSushmita Sen
Indian actress and Miss Universe 1994
Born
November 19th, 1975 50 years ago
An actress and model, achieved fame by winning the Miss Universe title in 1994. Transitioned into acting and gained recognition for performances in multiple films. Starred in popular Bollywood movies and received accolades for contributions to Indian cinema. Also known for leading roles in web series, particularly gaining acclaim for performances that showcased depth and versatility.
Continue ReadingTom Villard
Actor in 'Weird Science'
Born
November 19th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 40 years old
An American actor gained recognition for roles in various television shows and films during the 1980s and 1990s. Most notably, appeared in the cult classic film 'Weird Science' as one of the lead characters. Villard also had a recurring role on the television series 'The Golden Girls' and participated in various made-for-TV movies. His work spanned across multiple genres, showcasing talents in comedic and dramatic roles, contributing to his popularity during that era. In addition to acting, Villard was involved in stage performances and demonstrated significant skills in improvisational comedy. His career continued until his passing in 1994.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 12th
Kanō Eitoku
Japanese painter and educator, famous for screen
Born
February 16th, 1543 482 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1590 435 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent 16th-century Japanese painter and educator active during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. Eitoku contributed significantly to the development of the Kanō school of painting. He focused on creating large-scale paintings for the interiors of castles and temples. His artworks often featured themes from Chinese literature and nature, characterized by bold colors and dynamic compositions. Eitoku also played a vital role in training numerous students who later became renowned artists in their own right, thus influencing the direction of Japanese painting. His oeuvre includes masterpieces housed in significant cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingEdith Cavell
Nurse and humanitarian during WWI
Born
December 4th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1915 110 years ago — 49 years old
Worked as a nurse in Belgium during World War I, providing care to wounded soldiers from both the Allied and German forces. Established the first nursing school in Belgium and played a pivotal role in developing nursing practices. Assisted over two hundred Allied soldiers in escaping German-occupied Belgium, leading to her arrest. Executed by a German firing squad in 1915, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals during wartime. Her legacy extends through numerous memorials and the continued recognition of her contributions to nursing and humanitarian efforts.
Continue ReadingAnthony Berry
English politician and MP for Southgate
Born
February 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1984 41 years ago — 59 years old
Elected as a Member of Parliament for Southgate in 1970, served until 1983. Participated in various parliamentary committees and contributed to discussions on housing and education. Played a role in the Conservative Party during a significant period, actively engaging in local and national politics. Berry worked to represent constituents' interests and was involved in local development initiatives.
Continue ReadingPaul Hermann Müller
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 12th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1965 60 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of insecticides. Developed dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), which became widely used during World War II for pest control and later in agriculture. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1948 for this discovery. Worked in academia and industry throughout the career, contributing to the understanding of chemical compounds and their effects on health and the environment.
Continue ReadingPatricia Breslin
Television actress, guest star on series
Born
March 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 80 years old
An American actress gained prominence during the 1950s and 1960s as a regular on television series. Featured in the acclaimed series "The Twilight Zone" and "The Edge of Night," she became well-regarded for her performances in dramatic roles. Breslin also appeared in multiple films, showcasing her versatility in both television and cinema. Her contributions to the industry continued throughout the 1970s.
Continue ReadingDean Acheson
U.S. Secretary of State during Truman era
Born
April 11th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1971 54 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 51st Secretary of State from 1949 to 1953. Acheson played a significant role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, promoting the Marshall Plan and supporting NATO. His tenure was marked by a focus on containing communism and establishing strong alliances with Western European nations. Involved in key decisions during the Korean War, Acheson's influence extended beyond his time in office through continued engagement in international affairs.
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