Howard Fast
American novelist and screenwriter
A prominent American novelist and screenwriter, contributed greatly to literature and film. Wrote over 50 novels, with significant works including 'Citizen Tom Paine', a biography of the American revolutionary, and 'Spartacus', which was adapted into a motion picture in 1960. Early works often reflected socialist themes and historical narratives, leading to political controversy during the McCarthy era. Served a prison sentence for refusing to testify before Congress regarding communist affiliations. Additionally, wrote screenplays, achieving recognition in both literary and cinematic fields.
Authored 'Spartacus', adapted to a major film
Wrote 'Citizen Tom Paine', a historical biography
Other People Born on November 11th
Ottavio Piccolomini
Austrian-Italian field marshal
Born
November 11th, 1599 426 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1656 369 years ago — 56 years old
Served as a prominent military commander in the Thirty Years' War, contributing significantly to the successes of the Imperial army. Gained recognition for strategic prowess and effective leadership in battles such as the Battle of White Mountain and the Siege of Magdeburg. Advanced through ranks due to successful campaigns and alliances, ultimately attaining the title of Field Marshal. Appointed governor of various territories, managing military and political affairs with notable efficacy.
Continue ReadingVincent Schiavelli
American actor in iconic films
Born
November 11th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 57 years old
An actor renowned for unique roles in film and television, spanning a career from the 1970s until his passing in 2005. Notable performances included the roles in 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' as Taber and in 'Ghost' as the subway ghost. Contributions to television included appearances on series such as 'The Wonder Years' and 'Batman: The Animated Series.' Apart from acting, authored a book on Italian cuisine titled 'Vincent Schiavelli's Midnight Kitchen.' His signature look and character portrayals left a lasting impression in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAnna Schwartz
Economist and author of monetary history
Born
November 11th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2012 14 years ago — 96 years old
Contributions to economic research included extensive analysis of monetary history and policy. Collaborated with a prominent economist to produce a key work on the Great Depression and monetary theory. Authored and co-authored several influential texts that shaped understanding of monetary policy and its implications for economic stability. Served as a respected scholar and researcher in the field of economics, contributing to discussions on the role of central banking and inflation.
Continue ReadingGil de Ferran
Race car driver; Indy 500 champion
Born
November 11th, 1967 58 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2023 2 years ago — 56 years old
A Brazilian race car driver participated in various racing series. Achieved significant success in IndyCar, winning the Indianapolis 500 in 2003. Competed in Formula One for a short period and showcased talent in endurance racing. Held the title of Indianapolis 500 champion, solidifying a career in motorsport. Served as a team owner and contributed to the development of drivers within the sport.
Continue ReadingHugh Everett III
Physicist known for many-worlds interpretation
Born
November 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1982 43 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1930, a physicist and mathematician introduced the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics, proposing that all possible outcomes of quantum measurements are physically realized in some 'world' or universe. Developed the concept while completing a doctoral dissertation at Princeton University. The theory challenged traditional views and influenced the fields of physics and philosophy, although initially met with skepticism. Later in life, worked in operations research and contributed to various applications of mathematics.
Continue ReadingStubby Kaye
American entertainer, starring in Guys and Dolls
Born
November 11th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1997 28 years ago — 79 years old
An American entertainer recognized for contributions to musical theater and film. Gained fame through performances in the Broadway musical 'Guys and Dolls', playing the role of Nicely-Nicely Johnson. Also featured in the film adaptation of 'Guys and Dolls', which solidified a longstanding career in show business. Beyond stage performances, ventured into television and voice acting, enhancing the profile as a recognizable figure in entertainment. Career spanned several decades, with a style that resonated with audiences across generations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 12th
Felix Ibru
Nigerian architect and Delta State governor
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 81 years old
An architect and politician, served as the Governor of Delta State in Nigeria from 1992 to 1993. Played a crucial role in architectural development and urban planning in the region. After leaving office, continued to influence political landscapes and contributed to the development of his community through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingJosé Policarpo
Portuguese cardinal and church leader
Born
February 26th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2014 12 years ago — 78 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1961, contributed significantly to the Catholic Church in Portugal. Served as the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon from 1998 to 2013. Participated in the Papal conclaves of 2005 and 2013, which elected Popes Benedict XVI and Francis respectively. Involved in various church initiatives, promoting interfaith dialogue and social justice.
Continue ReadingAda Jafri
Pakistani poet and author of Urdu poetry
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2015 11 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1924, this poet and author contributed extensively to Urdu literature. Her poetry, characterized by its emotional depth and lyrical quality, gained popularity throughout Pakistan. She began writing at a young age and published her first collection of poetry, 'Khushbu ke Rang', which showcased her unique voice. Over the years, she became a prominent figure in literary circles, particularly for her themes of love, loss, and women's experiences. She continued to write and publish until her later years, leaving behind a rich legacy in Urdu poetry. She passed away on March 12, 2015.
Continue ReadingStefan Dragutin
Serbian King and noble ruler
Died
March 12th, 1316 710 years ago — None years old
Became King of Serbia in 1282, ruling until 1316. Established territorial expansion and influence for Serbia during the late medieval period. His reign was marked by conflict with neighboring kingdoms and internal power struggles. Adopted a Catholic faith, which introduced religious changes in a predominantly Orthodox region. Led military campaigns against the Kingdom of Hungary and maintained regional power through strategic alliances.
Continue ReadingTerry Pratchett
Author of Discworld series
Born
April 28th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2015 11 years ago — 66 years old
An English author and journalist, created a vast and satirical fantasy universe through the Discworld series, which spans over 40 novels. These works blend humor, social commentary, and fantasy elements, gaining a significant following. Also wrote several novels outside the Discworld universe, including 'Good Omens' in collaboration with Neil Gaiman. Pratchett received numerous accolades, including the British Fantasy Award and the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Continue ReadingRonald DeFeo Jr.
American criminal and mass murderer
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2021 5 years ago — 70 years old
In 1974, committed the mass murder of six members of the DeFeo family in Amityville, New York. The gruesome crime led to his arrest and subsequent conviction in 1975. The case received nationwide attention and inspired the horror film 'The Amityville Horror' and numerous books detailing the events. DeFeo served time in prison until his death in 2021.
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