Jan Werich
Czech actor and playwright, collaborated on The Emperor and the Golem
A prominent figure in Czech cinema and theatre, worked as both an actor and a playwright. Co-founded the famous theatrical group, Divadloabc, and created memorable film roles in productions such as 'The Emperor's New Clothes' and 'The Golem'. During the 20th century, became a significant cultural icon in Czechoslovakia, blending humor and social commentary in performances. Collaborated with other notable artists to enrich the Czech theatrical landscape, including the direction of various plays and films that showcased a unique style.
Co-founded Divadloabc
Starred in 'The Emperor's New Clothes'
Starred in 'The Golem'
Other People Born on February 6th
Frederic William Henry Myers
English poet and philologist
Born
February 6th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
1901 124 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1843, this individual was a prominent English poet and philologist who co-founded the Society for Psychical Research. The society aimed to promote the study of psychic phenomena, focusing on topics such as mediumship and spiritualism. Myers authored significant works in both poetry and the study of philology, contributing to literature and the understanding of language. His exploration of the human mind and spirit laid foundational work in areas related to psychical research, influencing subsequent studies in the field.
Continue ReadingPierre-Joseph Desault
Anatomist and surgeon, surgical innovator
Born
February 6th, 1744 281 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1795 230 years ago — 51 years old
Contributions to surgery and anatomy were significant during the 18th century. Founded a surgery school in Paris that became influential in surgical education. Developed new techniques in surgery, particularly in the treatment of wounds and fractures. Published important works on surgical methodology and anatomy, paving the way for modern practices.
Continue ReadingLeonid Gobyato
Russian general and military leader
Born
February 6th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1915 110 years ago — 40 years old
Born in 1875, a Russian general, played significant roles during the First World War and the Russian Civil War. Commanded troops during key battles and demonstrated military strategy in various operations. Promoted to higher ranks due to leadership abilities and loyalty to the state. Involved in military educational institutions after the wars, contributing to the training of future officers.
Continue ReadingRip Torn
American actor and Emmy winner
Born
February 6th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2019 6 years ago — 88 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, contributions included notable performances in film and television. Best known for roles in the television series 'The Larry Sanders Show' and the film 'Cross Creek'. Received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1996. Acted in numerous films and television programs, showcasing a range of characters from dramatic to comedic.
Continue ReadingJair Rodrigues
Brazilian singer and songwriter
Born
February 6th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1939, a Brazilian singer and songwriter gained prominence in the Música Popular Brasileira genre. Beginning a career in the 1960s, performed at the iconic São Paulo nightclub, 'Beco da Lapa', where he built a following. Released various albums, blending samba with other musical styles. Achieved significant acclaim with the album 'Jair Rodrigues e o Samba' and collaborated with notable artists such as Elis Regina. Delivered memorable performances on national television, becoming a familiar face in Brazilian music.
Continue ReadingAntoine Arnauld
Mathematician and philosopher of logic
Born
February 6th, 1612 413 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1694 331 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, theology, and philosophy during the 17th century. Engaged in the intellectual movement of Jansenism, which emphasized predestination and grace in contrast to Jesuit theology. Published works on logic, including 'The Port-Royal Logic', which influenced modern thought. Participated in debates concerning the nature of free will and divine grace. Also involved in the creation of the 'Grammaire de Port-Royal', which contributed to the study of language and grammar. Served as a key figure in the development of the philosophical discourse surrounding Cartesian ideas.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 31st
Michael Alsbury
Engineer and test pilot for SpaceShipTwo
Born
1975 50 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 39 years old
An engineer and test pilot who contributed significantly to the development of commercial spaceflight. Worked with Scaled Composites, where pivotal tests were conducted for the SpaceShipTwo spacecraft. Involved in designing and testing innovative aerospace technologies. Played a central role in the SpaceShipTwo program until the tragic accident in 2014, which occurred during a test flight aimed at achieving suborbital space travel.
Continue ReadingGus Savage
American politician and businessman
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Illinois from 1981 to 1993. In Congress, focused on issues affecting the African American community and was involved in various social justice initiatives. Prior to his election, had a successful career in business and community organizing. Also served on the Chicago Board of Education. Had a reputation for strong advocacy on civil rights and education reform.
Continue ReadingGreg Moore
Race car driver and CART competitor
Born
1975 50 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1999 26 years ago — 24 years old
A Canadian race car driver, achieved recognition in the CART series during the late 1990s. Started his career in karting and progressed through various racing categories, including the Atlantic Championship. Secured multiple podium finishes in CART, racing for teams such as Players Forsythe Racing. Gained a reputation as a talented and promising driver before a tragic accident during a race led to his untimely death. His legacy continues to influence the motorsport community.
Continue ReadingGeorge Roth
American gymnast, 1932 Olympic medalist
Born
April 25th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1997 28 years ago — 86 years old
Competed in gymnastics, winning a bronze medal in the team event at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. Contributed to the growth and popularity of gymnastics in the United States during the 1930s. Achieved multiple titles in national competitions, showcasing skill across various gymnastics disciplines.
Continue ReadingRaf Vallone
Footballer and actor, notable in Italy
Born
February 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2002 23 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Italy in 1916, a successful footballer played primarily as a forward. Represented several clubs, including Inter Milan and Genoa, achieving recognition in Serie A. Transitioned into acting and appeared in international films, gaining acclaim in the 1951 movie 'Three Coins in the Fountain' and the 1954 classic 'The Cheetah'. Vallone's contributions to both football and cinema established a multifaceted legacy.
Continue ReadingGérard de Villiers
French journalist and author of SAS series
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
A journalist and author specialized in spy fiction, gained recognition through the SAS series, which includes over 200 novels. The series features the character Malko Linge, an Austrian nobleman and CIA agent. This extensive work, spanning from the 1960s to the 2010s, merged espionage and thriller elements in an engaging narrative style. De Villiers traveled extensively for research purposes, often drawing on real-world events and geopolitical contexts. This approach contributed to the series' authenticity and detail, appealing to a wide readership across Europe and beyond.
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