Jan de Hartog
Dutch-American author and playwright
Born in the Netherlands in 1914, a significant figure in 20th-century literature, particularly noted for contributions to theater and novels. Wrote plays that often explored themes of triumph over adversity and the human spirit. Gained considerable attention for works that reflected personal experiences during World War II, facilitating understanding of the era through engaging storytelling. Relocated to the United States, where further developed an impactful literary career spanning several decades. In addition to plays, authored novels and children's books, cementing a legacy of storytelling that resonates with audiences.
Wrote 'The Fourposter', a popular play
Authored 'The Peaceable Kingdom', addressing war themes
Other People Born on April 22nd
Sean Lock
Comedian and actor, notable for panel shows
Born
April 22nd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 58 years old
A British comedian and actor gained recognition for his work on television, particularly in panel shows. Lock contributed to '8 Out of 10 Cats' as a team captain and appeared in 'The Lock In' and 'Sean Lock: Keep It Light'. His stand-up comedy earned acclaim, with multiple televised performances and specials throughout his career. He also acted in sitcoms and was involved in numerous charity events related to his craft.
Continue ReadingIndro Montanelli
Italian journalist and historian
Born
April 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent journalist and historian, contributions primarily centered on Italian history and culture. Founded several newspapers and magazines, providing insights into political and social issues. Authored numerous books, with a distinctive style that combined rigorous research with a narrative flair. His journalism career spanned several decades, engaging with major political events and figures in Italy. Played a significant role in informing public opinion through critical commentary and analysis of contemporary events.
Continue ReadingCarl Lindner Jr.
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
April 22nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, built a successful career in the food industry. Founded American Financial Group and served as its chairman. Developed and expanded the family-owned Cincinnati-based company, which included the operation of a large dairy business. Contributed to various philanthropic efforts in Cincinnati and beyond, particularly in education and the arts. Made significant donations to universities and cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingMichael Wittmann
German tank commander during WWII
Born
April 22nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1944 81 years ago — 30 years old
A tank commander in the German Army during World War II, achieved significant success in armored engagements. Gained fame for commanding a Tiger I tank in various battles on the Eastern and Western Fronts. Was involved in pivotal operations in the Battle of Kursk and the Normandy Campaign. Demonstrated tactical ingenuity and effectiveness in combat, leading to numerous enemy tank destructions. His leadership resulted in his tank unit becoming one of the most efficient within the German forces until his death in 1944.
Continue ReadingBettie Page
Model and actress in pin-up culture
Born
April 22nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old
Bettie Page gained prominence during the 1950s as a pin-up model and actress. She became an icon of sexuality and glamour, often recognized for her distinctive black hair and trademark bangs. Featured in various magazines, she was a leading figure in the erotic photography genre, which contributed to the cultural landscape of that era. Her work included modeling for photographer Bunny Yeager, and she also appeared in an array of short films. After retiring from modeling in the late 1950s, she led a private life for several decades, only to resurface in popular culture during the 1980s. The resurgence in interest helped establish her as a significant figure in modeling and pop culture history.
Continue ReadingJack Nitzsche
American singer-songwriter and conductor
Born
April 22nd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2000 25 years ago — 63 years old
An influential figure in American music, played a significant role as a songwriter, pianist, and conductor. Collaborated with various artists across genres, contributing to the sound of the 1960s and 1970s. Worked extensively with Phil Spector as an arranger and producer. Composed scores for several films, including 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest', which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 22nd
Pope Clement XIV
Pope with major papal decrees
Born
October 31st, 1705 320 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1774 251 years ago — 68 years old
Elected pope in 1769, served until 1774. Played a crucial role in the dissolution of the Society of Jesus, leading to the suppression of Jesuit missions globally. Oversaw various reform efforts within the papacy and the Catholic Church during a period of tumultuous political changes in Europe. Engaged in diplomacy to manage relations among Catholic states, particularly in light of rising Enlightenment ideologies. His tenure was marked by significant challenges, including managing opposition from various monarchies and church factions.
Continue ReadingAltemio Sanchez
Serial Killer and Rapist
Born
January 19th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2023 2 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Puerto Rico, a serial killer and rapist gained infamy for committing a series of attacks in the Buffalo, New York area during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Between 1981 and 1990, the perpetrator raped and murdered multiple women, instilling fear in the local community. Investigators worked for years to identify the suspect until DNA evidence linked Sanchez to the crimes in 2001. In 2006, he pleaded guilty to several counts of murder and sexual assault, receiving multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Continue ReadingSolomon L. Spink
American lawyer and politician
Born
March 20th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1881 144 years ago — 50 years old
Served in the United States Congress as a representative from Michigan. Engaged in law practice before entering politics. Contributed to various legislative efforts during tenure. Active in local governance and community initiatives throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingJohannes Agricola
Theologian and Reformer of the Reformation
Born
April 20th, 1494 531 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1566 459 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1494, a significant figure in the Protestant Reformation, focusing on doctrine and faith. Played a crucial role in the spread of Lutheranism in Germany. Engaged in debates about justification and the role of the law in salvation, which led to tensions with Martin Luther. Published influential works that emphasized salvation by faith alone.
Continue ReadingVladimir Dal
Russian lexicographer and author
Born
November 10th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1872 153 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to the Russian language through extensive lexicographical work. Compiled the influential "Explanatory Dictionary of the Live Great Russian Language," which provided definitions, etymologies, and usage examples of numerous words. Focused on preserving and documenting the richness of Russian vocabulary in the 19th century. Engaged in various literary and academic pursuits, enhancing the understanding of the language's development and usage.
Continue ReadingChas Hodges
Musician and singer with Chas & Dave
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 75 years old
English musician and singer gained recognition as part of the duo Chas & Dave, which formed in the 1970s. The group specialized in a unique blend of rock and pub sing-along music, often incorporating elements of British culture into their songs. Alongside a successful music career, the duo contributed to the British music scene with their distinctive style and humor. Chas Hodges also played piano and contributed to songwriting, enhancing the duo's appeal with catchy tunes and memorable lyrics. The duo released several albums, with their hit 'Gertcha' becoming one of their signature songs, and gained a loyal fan base over the decades.
Continue Reading