Giulietta Masina
Italian actress in cinema, known for 'La Strada'
An influential figure in Italian cinema, her career spanned over five decades. Masina gained prominence for her collaborations with director Federico Fellini, where she often portrayed whimsical, vulnerable characters. Her breakthrough role came in the film 'La Strada' (1954), which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The performance showcased her exceptional emotional depth, leading to critical acclaim. Other significant works include 'Nights of Cabiria' (1957), which also won an Academy Award, and 'The Swindle' (1986). Throughout her career, Masina's performances were characterized by their poignancy and grace, earning her a distinctive place in the history of film.
Starred in 'La Strada' (1954)
Won Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for 'Nights of Cabiria' (1957)
Other People Born on February 22nd
Constance Stokes
Australian painter and art educator
Born
February 22nd, 1906 119 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 85 years old
Actively participated in the Australian art scene from the 1930s to the 1980s, contributing significantly to both painting and art education. Received considerable recognition for landscape paintings that captured the essence of the Australian environment. Engaged in teaching roles, influencing several generations of artists. Exhibited extensively throughout Australia, leaving a lasting legacy in Australian art.
Continue ReadingLadislaus 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 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 ReadingBruce Forsyth
Television host and entertainer
Born
February 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
An English singer and television host, contributed significantly to entertainment over several decades. Gained widespread popularity through hosting the BBC show 'Strictly Come Dancing' and the game show 'The Generation Game'. His career spanned numerous roles in variety shows, showcasing talent in music and comedy. Built a reputation for engaging performances and charismatic presence on television, appealing to a wide audience base. Forsyth also participated in multiple theater productions and musical performances, demonstrating versatility in the entertainment field. His work led to numerous awards and honors recognizing a long-standing commitment to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingLuis Buñuel
Film director of surrealist cinema
Born
February 22nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1983 42 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Spain and later becoming a Mexican citizen, a significant figure in 20th-century cinema emerged as a master of surrealism. Directed influential films which challenged conventional storytelling techniques and explored themes of desire, repression, and societal hypocrisy. Works include 'Un Chien Andalou', created in collaboration with Salvador Dali, and 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie', which received an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. His career spanned several decades, influencing both contemporary cinema and future filmmakers.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on March 23rd
Eudes I
Duke of Burgundy, founded a dynasty
Born
1058 968 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1103 922 years ago — 45 years old
Served as Duke of Burgundy from 1079 until death in 1103. Established the House of Burgundy through strategic alliances and marriages. Played a significant role in the politics of medieval France and was involved in the Investiture Controversy. Worked to consolidate power within the duchy and maintain its independence amidst larger territorial conflicts.
Continue ReadingOnofre Corpuz
Filipino economist and historian
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent economist and historian, contributions included significant works on the socio-economic history of the Philippines. Served as a professor at the University of the Philippines, influencing generations of students. Authored several books focusing on Philippine history and economic development, including 'The Roots of the Filipino Nation'. Was appointed Secretary of Education and pushed for educational reforms that improved the academic landscape.
Continue ReadingKen Howard
American actor and award-winning performer
Born
March 28th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 9 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor who gained prominence for a career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. Best recognized for the role of Coach Ken Reeves in the television series "The White Shadow." Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for the Broadway production of "Child's Play". Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2009 to 2011, advocating for the rights of performers. In addition to television and stage work, appeared in films including "Caprice" and "The Descendants."
Continue ReadingNaji Talib
Iraqi Politician, 52nd Prime Minister
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 52nd Prime Minister of Iraq, holding office during a critical period following the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime. Focused on rebuilding governmental institutions and addressing the challenges of political transition in post-war Iraq. Led efforts to stabilize the economy and restore public services in a nation facing significant social and political upheaval.
Continue ReadingDave Brockie
Singer-songwriter and bass player
Born
August 30th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 50 years old
A Canadian-American musician gained prominence as the lead vocalist and bass player for the heavy metal band GWAR. Founded in 1984, the band combined theatrical stage performances with heavy metal music, creating a unique brand of shock rock. GWAR became known for their elaborate costumes and satirical lyrics, often addressing political and social themes. The band's albums, such as 'Scumdogs of the Universe' and 'America Must Be Destroyed', solidified their status in the metal genre. Brockie's stage persona, Oderus Urungus, became iconic in the music scene.
Continue ReadingMargaret Jones
British archaeologist specializing in ancient sites
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2001 24 years ago — 85 years old
An archaeologist focused on ancient sites, conducted extensive research in the field, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Contributed to the understanding of ancient civilizations through fieldwork and published studies. Participated in several notable excavations that revealed significant historical artifacts and structures. Shared findings in academic journals and presented at international conferences.
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