Howard Hughes

American pilot and film director

Howard Hughes - American pilot and film director
Born

December 24th, 1905
119 years ago

Died

April 5th, 1976
49 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential figure in aviation and film during the 20th century. Contributed significantly to the development of the aviation industry and held multiple aviation records. Guided a successful career in film direction, producing notable works such as 'Hell's Angels' and 'The Aviator'. Became known for innovative filmmaking techniques and high production values. Established Hughes Aircraft Company, which became a leading aerospace manufacturer. Faced challenges with personal issues but remained a prominent figure in business and technology until passing away in 1976.

Directed the film 'Hell's Angels'

Set multiple aviation records

Other People Born on December 24th

Dana Gioia

American poet and literary critic
Born
December 24th, 1950 74 years ago

A prominent figure in contemporary poetry and criticism, this individual served as the Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts from 2003 to 2009. The early education in business and English literature laid a foundation for a career that merged corporate leadership with poetry. A significant poet, the published collections include 'Interrogations at Noon' and '90 Poems.' Additionally, contributions to literary criticism include essays that analyze the state of American poetry. The work engages with themes of culture and community, resonating with a wide audience.

Continue Reading

On Kawara

Japanese-American conceptual artist
Born
December 24th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2014 10 years ago — 81 years old

This painter gained recognition for a series titled "Date Paintings," created between 1966 and 2014. Each work featured the date of its creation in a specific format, emphasizing the passage of time and existence. The artist utilized a consistent visual style with varying color backgrounds. His works were part of significant exhibitions, including the 1970 Venice Biennale and various prestigious galleries worldwide. This artist's practice reflected a profound engagement with time and memory, leading to notable influences on conceptual art.

Continue Reading

Emre Özkan

Turkish footballer with club achievements
Born
December 24th, 1988 36 years ago

Born in Turkey in 1988, a footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Developed skills at youth level before joining professional ranks. Represented several teams in the Turkish leagues, contributing to their successes. Played for clubs such as İstanbul Başakşehir and was involved in various competitions, showcasing talent and dedication to the sport.

Continue Reading

Paul Manship

American sculptor and bronze artist
Born
December 24th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1885, this artist contributed significantly to American sculpture with a distinctive style that blended classical techniques and modernist forms. Manship studied at the Boston Museum School and the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. He received several commissions including notable works for public buildings and monuments. His approach often integrated themes from mythology and history, reflecting a keen interest in the narrative power of sculpture. Manship's work gained recognition in the 1920s and 1930s, with pieces displayed in prominent exhibitions across the United States and internationally.

Continue Reading

Hamid Karzai

Afghan politician, former President
Born
December 24th, 1957 67 years ago

Served as the 12th President of Afghanistan from December 2001 to September 2014 after the fall of the Taliban. Played a significant role in the establishment of a new government following the U.S. invasion in 2001. Led the country during a challenging period marked by efforts to rebuild and stabilize the nation. Oversaw the drafting of a new constitution and coordinated with international partners for economic and military support. Faced various challenges including internal conflicts and corruption allegations during his presidency.

Continue Reading

Anett Kontaveit

Tennis player with Estonia achievements
Born
December 24th, 1995 29 years ago

Born on December 24, 1995, a professional tennis player from Estonia gained prominence in women's singles. Achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 2 in June 2022, becoming the highest-ranked Estonian player in history. Contended in several prestigious tournaments, including the Grand Slam events. Secured the title at the 2021-Stuttgart Open and reached the final of the 2022 WTA Finals. Known for a powerful playing style and strong baseline game, achieved notable victories against top-ranked opponents during professional career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 5th

Frances Power Cobbe

Irish writer and women's rights advocate
Born
1822 203 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1904 121 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Irish writer and social reformer, contributed significantly to feminist literature and animal rights. Published numerous essays and books advocating for the rights of women and the humane treatment of animals. Established several organizations focused on women's suffrage. Engaged in debates regarding morality and ethics in the Victorian era, influencing contemporary thought on these issues.

Continue Reading

Leabua Jonathan

Prime Minister of Lesotho
Born
October 30th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1987 38 years ago — 72 years old

Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of Lesotho from 1965 to 1986. Played a significant role in the country's early political landscape, leading the Basotho National Party. Oversaw the country's policies during a time of political instability and was instrumental in establishing the framework for Lesotho's governance. After being ousted in a 1986 coup, faced exile until returning in the early 1990s.

Continue Reading

Ain-Ervin Mere

Estonian SS officer during WWII
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 66 years old

Served as an officer in the German SS during World War II. Participated in military operations on the Eastern Front. Involved in the administration of repressive measures in occupied territories. After the war, remained a controversial figure due to association with the Nazi regime.

Continue Reading

Giuseppe Tucci

Italian scholar of oriental cultures
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1984 41 years ago — 90 years old

An Italian scholar specialized in the study of Asian cultures, contributed significantly to the understanding of Tibetan and Indian culture through extensive research and exploration. Conducted numerous expeditions through Asia in the early to mid-20th century, documenting languages, religions, and art forms. Established important academic institutions and fostered cultural exchange, which enriched Western understanding of Eastern traditions. Authored several influential books and papers that served as primary sources in the field of oriental studies.

Continue Reading

Sydney Brenner

Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 13th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 92 years old

Significant contributions to molecular biology and genetics occurred throughout a distinguished career. Pioneered research on the development of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism, which provided insights into gene function and development. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Human Genome Project, leading to groundbreaking advancements in genomics. Recognized for efforts in unifying the fields of genetics and developmental biology, contributing foundational knowledge in the study of life sciences.

Continue Reading

William Derham

English minister and philosopher
Born
November 26th, 1657 367 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1735 290 years ago — 77 years old

A minister and philosopher, contributions included works in natural philosophy and the philosophy of religion. Published several books exploring the intersection of science and theology. Engaged in discussions regarding the nature of God through the lens of natural philosophy, emphasizing the created world as a reflection of divine attributes.

Continue Reading