Jan Němec
Czech film director and screenwriter
Contributed to the New Wave movement in Czech cinema during the 1960s. Directed several notable films, including 'Diamonds of the Night', which depicted the struggles of two Jewish boys escaping from a transport to a concentration camp. Němec faced censorship after the Prague Spring in 1968, leading to his exile from Czechoslovakia for over two decades. After returning, continued to create films, often focusing on themes of memory and identity. 'The Party and the Guests' was another significant work that critiqued totalitarianism.
Directed 'Diamonds of the Night'
Directed 'The Party and the Guests'
Other People Born on July 12th
Eric Carr
Drummer for the band Kiss
Born
July 12th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 41 years old
Joined the rock band Kiss in 1979, serving as the drummer until 1991. Contributed to several studio albums, including 'Creatures of the Night' and 'Lick It Up.' Also recorded the band's acclaimed live album 'Alive III.' Developed a distinct persona, the Fox, which became a hallmark of the band’s theatrical performances. Prior to joining Kiss, played in various local bands and gained recognition for his drumming skills.
Continue ReadingEugène Boudin
French landscape painter of seaside scenes
Born
July 12th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1898 127 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent 19th-century French painter, recognized for contributions to landscape painting and seascapes. Boudin primarily painted coastal scenes, often depicting the beaches of Normandy. He was an early supporter of plein air painting, capturing natural light and atmosphere in his works. Boudin influenced the Impressionist movement, guiding younger artists in their exploration of outdoor scenes. His technique and style laid groundwork for painters such as Claude Monet. Boudin exhibited widely and received acclaim for his depictions of light and water.
Continue ReadingVoja Antonić
Computer Scientist, Galaksija Designer
Born
July 12th, 1952 73 years ago
A Serbian computer scientist and journalist contributed significantly to the development of computing in the former Yugoslavia. Designed the Galaksija computer, which played a crucial role in introducing personal computing to the region during the 1980s. Worked as a journalist, focusing on technology and computing topics. Promoted computer literacy and fostered interest in computing among young people and enthusiasts through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingJean Hersholt
Actor and director in Hollywood classics
Born
July 12th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1956 69 years ago — 69 years old
An actor and director, contributed significantly to the film industry in the early to mid-20th century. Born in Denmark, relocated to the United States where a prolific career in cinema developed. Appeared in over 200 films, with notable roles in 'The Last Padres' and 'The Country Doctor'. Served as a president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Contributed to humanitarian efforts, particularly through the Motion Picture Relief Fund, supporting fellow artists in need.
Continue ReadingEmil Hácha
Czech lawyer and Czechoslovak president
Born
July 12th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 3rd President of Czechoslovakia during a tumultuous period leading up to World War II. Assumed office in 1939, succeeding Edvard Beneš. Participated in significant political negotiations and faced challenges maintaining national sovereignty against German influence. After the occupation of Czechoslovakia, moved to Germany and lived in exile for many years until his return post-war.
Continue ReadingStefan George
German poet and translator
Born
July 12th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1933 92 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in German literature, celebrated for poetic works that explored themes of beauty, memory, and identity. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributed to the Symbolist movement. Edited and published the influential literary journal 'Blätter für die Kunst', promoting modernist poetry and intellectual discourse. Translated works of notable poets, enhancing the visibility of foreign literature in German-speaking regions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 18th
Umberto II of Italy
Last King of Italy
Born
September 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1983 43 years ago — 78 years old
Reigned as the last King of Italy in 1946 for a brief period. His reign followed the fall of fascism and culminated in a referendum that abolished the monarchy. After the monarchy was abolished, lived in exile in Switzerland until death in 1983. The political climate during his reign marked a significant transition for Italy as the monarchy was replaced by a republic.
Continue ReadingMatthew III Csák
Hungarian oligarch during the 14th century
Died
March 18th, 1321 705 years ago — None years old
A powerful Hungarian noble of the 13th and 14th centuries, significant for controlling vast territories in Hungary. Held the title of Lord of Trnava and exercised considerable influence over various regions. Engaged in conflicts with the royal authority, notably opposing the rule of Charles I of Anjou. His reign included efforts to consolidate power and autonomy, which ultimately contributed to the turbulent political landscape of Hungary during this period.
Continue ReadingGeoffroy de Charney
Preceptor of Normandy for the Knights Templar
Died
March 18th, 1314 712 years ago — None years old
Served as the Preceptor of Normandy for the Knights Templar during the early 14th century. Involved in the conflicts surrounding the Order during its crisis, particularly against the accusations of heresy. Captured, imprisoned, and tortured during the suppression of the Templars, leading to execution by burning. Authored significant writings that contributed to the legacy and functioning of the Knights Templar.
Continue ReadingFarouk of Egypt
Egyptian King and last monarch.
Born
February 11th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1965 61 years ago — 45 years old
Ascended to the throne of Egypt in 1936 following the death of his father, Farouk led the country during World War II and post-war changes. His reign was marked by political instability, economic challenges, and increasing popular discontent. In 1952, a revolution led to his abdication and exile. He lived in various countries before settling in Italy, where he died in 1965. Farouk's reign symbolizes the end of monarchy in Egypt.
Continue ReadingGeorge Tupou V
King of Tonga and constitutional reformer
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2012 14 years ago — 64 years old
Ascended to the throne of Tonga in 2006, after the death of his father. Implemented significant constitutional reforms to transition Tonga to a democratic government. Oversaw the establishment of a new constitution in 2010 which expanded civil liberties and increased representation in the parliament. Focused on modernization and public sector reforms during the reign. Died in 2012, leaving a legacy of political change.
Continue ReadingJohn FitzAlan
14th Earl of Arundel, English nobleman
Born
February 14th, 1408 618 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1272 754 years ago — -136 years old
Born in 1408, held the title of 14th Earl of Arundel. During the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses, aligned with the Yorkist faction. Played a significant role in the political landscape of England. Served as a Member of Parliament and engaged in several military campaigns on behalf of the king. Inherited vast estates and demonstrated capacity for management and governance.
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