Joséphine de Beauharnais
French empress, wife of Napoleon
First Empress of the French, influencing the early 19th century. Married Napoleon Bonaparte in 1796, becoming a prominent figure in the court during his rise to power. Actively engaged in cultural and social life, she was instrumental in promoting the arts and fashion. Played a crucial role in Napoleon's personal and political life until their divorce in 1810. Became the queen of France when Napoleon was crowned in 1804. Following her marriage, she established the Château de Malmaison, a center of horticulture and a showcase of her interests in botany.
Marriage to Napoleon Bonaparte
Becoming the first Empress of the French
Other People Born on June 23rd
Carl Reinecke
German pianist and composer of symphonies
Born
June 23rd, 1824 201 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1910 115 years ago — 85 years old
A distinguished German pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the Romantic music era. Held the position of conductor at the Gewandhaus Orchestra in Leipzig for over three decades. Composed a variety of works, including symphonies, concertos, chamber, and choral music. Actively participated in teaching, influencing subsequent generations of musicians while serving as a professor at the Leipzig Conservatory. His compositions, characterized by lyrical melodies and rich harmonic textures, remain performed by ensembles.
Continue ReadingAmédée Gordini
French race car driver and manufacturer
Born
June 23rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1979 46 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Italy, transitioned to France where a career in racing began. Developed a passion for racing and founded a sports car manufacturing company. Competed in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving notable success. Advocated for automobile innovation, contributing to the development of performance vehicles that gained recognition in motorsport.
Continue ReadingLuiza Galiulina
Gymnast with World Championship medal
Born
June 23rd, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in rhythmic gymnastics representing Uzbekistan. Achieved a notable performance at the 2011 World Championships, securing a bronze medal in the all-around competition. Participated in the 2012 Summer Olympics, showcasing skills on an international stage. Recognized for contributions to the sport through consistent training and competition successes.
Continue ReadingSándor Bródy
Hungarian author and journalist
Born
June 23rd, 1863 162 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1924 101 years ago — 61 years old
Born in Hungary in 1863, an influential figure in Hungarian literature and journalism. Contributed significantly to the Budapest literary scene and engaged with sociopolitical issues of the time. Wrote novels, essays, and critiques that explored themes of identity, society, and culture. Involved in various literary movements and published numerous works that reflected the complexities of life in Hungary. His writing style combined realism with a deep understanding of human emotions and societal struggles.
Continue ReadingBob Fosse
Choreographer and director of Cabaret
Born
June 23rd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1987 38 years ago — 60 years old
A significant figure in musical theater, a unique style in choreography combined elements of jazz and theatrical presentation. Created iconic works such as the celebrated musical 'Cabaret' and the acclaimed dance spectacle 'Chicago'. Played a pivotal role in shaping the style of Broadway during the late 20th century, earning recognition for innovative staging and dance techniques. Contributed as a director and choreographer to various films, including 'Sweet Charity' and 'Pippin'. Received multiple awards for work in theater and film, influencing generations of performers.
Continue ReadingJean Cione
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
June 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2010 15 years ago — 82 years old
This individual played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Philadelphia Phillies. Debuting in 1949, contributions included a solid performance during the early years of the franchise. Although career statistics were modest, time spent in the league represented a significant commitment to the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 29th
Thomas Rotherham
English cleric and Bishop of Rochester
Born
August 24th, 1423 602 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1500 525 years ago — 76 years old
Served as an English cleric during the 15th century. Held the position of Bishop of Rochester and later became the Archbishop of York. Engaged in the administration of the church and participated in the political landscape of the time. Contributed to educational reforms and founded several institutions including colleges. His influence extended to the royal court, where he acted as an advisor during significant political events.
Continue ReadingJames Whale
English film director of horror classics
Born
July 22nd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1957 68 years ago — 67 years old
Directed iconic horror films during the early 20th century. Achieved prominence in the 1930s with classic works that set standards for the genre. 'Frankenstein' (1931) became a benchmark in horror cinema, showcasing innovative techniques and storytelling. Followed with 'The Invisible Man' (1933), further establishing a legacy in the film industry. Contributions to the genre influenced filmmakers for decades.
Continue ReadingRomy Schneider
Film actress of 'The Things of Life'
Born
September 23rd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1938, this German-French actress gained prominence for roles in French and German films during the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved fame with films like 'Sissi' and 'The Things of Life'. Engaged in a successful collaboration with prominent directors, showcasing talent in various genres, including drama and romantic films. Received multiple awards, including the César Award for Best Actress for her performance in 'The Trial'.
Continue ReadingKonstantinos Mitsotakis
Greek lawyer and 178th Prime Minister
Born
October 18th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2017 8 years ago — 98 years old
Born in 1918, a prominent figure in Greek politics served as the Prime Minister from 1990 to 1993. He was instrumental in the modernization of the New Democracy party and focused on economic reforms during his term. Mitsotakis also held various ministerial positions before becoming Prime Minister, including Minister of Transportation and Communications. He actively participated in the Greek political landscape for several decades, contributing to policy discussions and party leadership.
Continue ReadingEmmanuel de Grouchy
French General during the Napoleonic Wars
Born
October 23rd, 1766 259 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1847 178 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a General in the French Army and was a prominent figure during the Napoleonic Wars. Participated in the battles of Austerlitz and Waterloo, where he led troops in crucial engagements. Played a significant role in the Campaign of 1814, contributing to several battles against the Sixth Coalition. His command decisions and military strategies were influential in various military operations during this period.
Continue ReadingHumphry Davy
Chemist known for isolating elements
Born
December 17th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1829 196 years ago — 50 years old
A renowned chemist and physicist, contributions spanned several fields including electrochemistry and spectroscopy. Developed the Davy safety lamp which improved mining safety, and conducted pioneering work on the isolation of various elements such as sodium and potassium through the process of electrolysis. Investigated nitrous oxide, exploring its potential as an anesthetic. His lectures and writings influenced the academic landscape of chemistry, establishing concepts that were fundamental to the field.
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