Kenji Mizoguchi
Japanese film director and screenwriter
A prominent director and screenwriter in Japanese cinema. Pioneered the vertical narrative style in film with a focus on women's struggles in society. Established a significant body of work during the 1940s and 1950s. Influenced international cinema with unique storytelling and visual compositions. His films often explored themes of suffering and social issues, particularly those affecting women in Japan. Received critical acclaim, including awards at major film festivals.
Directed 'Ugetsu'
Directed 'The Life of Oharu'
Directed 'Sansho the Bailiff'
Other People Born on May 16th
William H. Seward
U.S. Secretary of State, negotiated Alaska
Born
May 16th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1872 153 years ago — 71 years old
A lawyer and politician, served as the 24th United States Secretary of State from 1861 to 1869. Played a crucial role in the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, a decision often referred to as 'Seward's Folly' at the time. Instrumental in supporting the Union during the Civil War and enhancing foreign relations. Advocated for the abolition of slavery and promoted various reforms throughout his political career.
Continue ReadingLevi P. Morton
American banker and Vice President
Born
May 16th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1920 105 years ago — 96 years old
Served as the 22nd Vice President of the United States from 1889 to 1893 under President Benjamin Harrison. Initially involved in the banking sector, established a successful career as a financier. Contributed to various infrastructure projects, enhancing national growth. After his vice presidency, served as the U.S. Ambassador to France from 1894 to 1895, representing American interests abroad. Engaged in Republican politics and was active in public service throughout his career.
Continue ReadingYvonne Craig
Ballet dancer and actress in TV series
Born
May 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Initiated a career as a ballet dancer, performing with prestigious ballet companies. Transitioned to acting and gained recognition for roles in television, particularly as Batgirl in the series 'Batman' during the 1960s. Appeared in films such as 'The Gene Krupa Story' and 'Mars Needs Women'. Also contributed to the arts as a choreographer for various productions.
Continue ReadingMargaret Fountaine
English lepidopterist and diarist
Born
May 16th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 78 years old
Contributions included extensive research on butterflies, particularly in the study of their habits and habitats. Fountaine traveled across several countries, documenting her findings and creating a significant collection of butterflies. The work 'A Diary of a Butterfly Collector' detailed her experiences and observations, combining scientific study with personal reflection. Fountaine's diaries not only chronicled her travels but also provided insight into the early practices of entomology during her era.
Continue ReadingStuart Bell
English lawyer and politician
Born
May 16th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Elected to Parliament as a Labour member, served as the representative for Middlesbrough since 1983. Played a significant role in legal matters and local governance. Took part in various parliamentary committees and advocated for community issues throughout tenure. Retired in 2012 after nearly three decades in politics.
Continue ReadingMerton Miller
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 77 years old
An economist and academic contributed significantly to the field of finance and economics. Developed the capital asset pricing model alongside other crucial theories. Received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1990 for contributions to the understanding of financial markets and derivatives. Had a long academic career, including teaching at the University of Chicago, influencing generations of economists and practitioners in financial theory.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 24th
Hanna Reitsch
German pilot and test pilot
Born
March 29th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1979 46 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1912, a pioneering test pilot in Germany. Worked with the German military during World War II and was involved in the development of advanced aircraft. Reitsch flew various aircraft types, including the Messerschmitt Me 163 rocket plane and the Focke-Wulf Fw 190. After the war, she continued to work in aviation, promoting flight safety and training new pilots. Played a crucial role in demonstrating the capabilities of German aircraft in the early era of jet and rocket propulsion. Despite controversies surrounding her affiliations, her contributions to aviation technology remain noted.
Continue ReadingTom Norman
English businessman and entrepreneur
Born
May 7th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1930 95 years ago — 70 years old
A businessman from England, played a significant role in the candy industry. Established a successful confectionery company that produced a wide variety of sweets. Became prominent for creating a popular line of products that gained a large customer base. The business was rooted in traditional recipes and showcased an understanding of market trends. Focused on quality and innovation, which led to an expansion in the company’s offerings. Managed the brand to achieve recognition during its peak years in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingFrederick Carl Frieseke
Painter known for Impressionist works
Born
April 7th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1939 86 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Germany and later emigrated to the United States, this painter specialized in Impressionist landscapes and portraits. He studied at the Académie Julian in Paris and became part of the American art scene. His technique featured vibrant colors and bold, loose brushstrokes. The painter established a significant career in France, where much of his work was completed among the renowned artists of the time. Later, he returned to the U.S. and continued to exhibit his works. His pieces often depict women in idyllic settings, capturing light and atmosphere with an innovative approach.
Continue ReadingRocco Petrone
Colonel and engineer of Apollo program
Born
March 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Air Force and became a prominent engineer in the space program. Played a critical role in the Apollo missions, particularly as the Director of Launch Operations at Kennedy Space Center. Oversaw the successful Apollo 11 mission, which resulted in the first human landing on the Moon. Contributed to advancements in aerospace technology and launch procedures during a pivotal era of space exploration.
Continue ReadingGaspard II de Coligny
French Admiral and military leader
Born
February 16th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1572 453 years ago — 53 years old
Served as an admiral in the French navy during significant conflicts in the 16th century. Played a crucial role in the Wars of Religion in France, advocating for the Protestant cause. Instrumental in the planning of military operations against the Spanish and other factions. Assassinated in 1572 during the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre, which marked a turning point in French history.
Continue ReadingFerenc Kölcsey
Hungarian poet and political figure
Born
August 8th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1838 187 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent figure in Hungarian literature, Kölcsey authored the national poem 'Himnusz', which became the official anthem of Hungary. His literary work also includes critical essays that significantly shaped Hungarian poetry. In addition to his contributions to literature, Kölcsey was active in politics, serving in various capacities and advocating for cultural and political reforms. His tenure in the national political scene placed him among the influential intellectuals of his time.
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