Lavrentiy Beria
Georgian-Russian general and politician
Beria served as a prominent general and politician in the Soviet Union, rising to significant power during the leadership of Joseph Stalin. He was appointed as the head of the Soviet secret police, overseeing state security and intelligence operations. His influence expanded during and after World War II, managing various security apparatuses and contributing to the Soviet atomic bomb project. Following Stalin's death in 1953, Beria briefly held a position of power but was arrested and executed within months during a political power struggle.
Led the Soviet secret police during Stalin's regime
Oversaw the Soviet atomic bomb project
Other People Born on March 29th
Arthur O'Connell
American actor with Oscar nomination
Born
March 29th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1981 44 years ago — 73 years old
Acted in theater and film throughout a lengthy career, gaining notable recognition for performances in major productions. Featured in films such as 'Marty', which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and made appearances in popular TV shows during the 1950s and 1960s, including 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked extensively in stage productions prior to focusing on film and television, contributing to the golden age of entertainment. His versatility allowed for a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic.
Continue ReadingPearl Bailey
Actress and singer of 'Porgy and Bess'
Born
March 29th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1990 35 years ago — 72 years old
An American singer and actress, known for contributions to theater and music from the 1930s through the 1990s. Achieved acclaim for performances in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Hello, Dolly!'. Recorded a number of successful albums and became an influential figure in both the theater and music industries. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for 'Hello, Dolly!' in 1968. Recognized for her ability to engage audiences with charisma and talent while blending comedic and dramatic performances.
Continue ReadingMartin Fleischmann
Chemist known for cold fusion experiments
Born
March 29th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
A British chemist contributed significantly to the field of electrochemistry and nuclear reactions. Conducted controversial cold fusion experiments in the late 1980s that claimed to achieve nuclear fusion at room temperature. The results sparked widespread interest and debate within the scientific community, leading to further investigation into low-energy nuclear reactions. Worked on techniques involving surface chemistry and developed an early electrochemical cell for measuring ionic concentrations.
Continue ReadingDouglas Harkness
Canadian politician and defense minister
Born
March 29th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a Canadian colonel and held the position of Minister of National Defence. Contributed to defense policy during a pivotal period in Canadian military history. Engaged in politics for several years, focusing on national defense and security.
Continue ReadingJózsef Mindszenty
Hungarian cardinal and church leader
Born
March 29th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1975 50 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Hungarian cardinal, played a significant role in the Catholic Church during a tumultuous period in Hungary. Participated in the resistance against the Nazi regime and opposed Communist policies after World War II. Arrested in 1948 by the Communist government and imprisoned for several years. Subsequently took refuge in the U.S. embassy in Budapest, where he remained for over 15 years. His steadfastness on issues of religious freedom resonated within Hungary and abroad, garnering attention from international religious and political communities. Returned to Hungary in 1971, although under strict government surveillance, continuing to advocate for the Church's influence in the evolving political landscape.
Continue ReadingLudwig Büchner
German physiologist and philosopher
Born
March 29th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1899 126 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in the field of physiology and philosophy, contributed significantly to the understanding of the natural sciences. Explored the relationship between the mind and body, advocating for a scientific approach to psychology. Authored influential works that emphasized the importance of materialism in understanding human existence. Engaged in debates around the implications of scientific findings on philosophy and metaphysics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 23rd
Patric Knowles
English actor in Hollywood films
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1995 30 years ago — 84 years old
An English actor emerged in the early 20th century, building a successful career in Hollywood. Featured in leading roles in several films during the 1930s and 1940s, gained recognition for appearances in 'The Adventures of Robin Hood' and 'The Invisible Man Returns.' Worked predominantly under Warner Bros., appearing in numerous productions that showcased talent in both drama and comedy. Transitioned to television in later years and continued to contribute to film and stage until retirement.
Continue ReadingNgapoi Ngawang Jigme
Chinese general and politician
Born
February 1st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2009 16 years ago — 99 years old
Born in 1910, a prominent figure in the Tibetan region, served as a general and played a significant role in the political landscape of Tibet in the mid-20th century. Led Tibetan forces during the 1950s against the Chinese invasion and later participated in discussions regarding the political future of Tibet. Played a key role in the establishment of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, aligning with the Chinese government, and served in various political capacities thereafter. Contributed to the framing of Tibetan provincial policies and was influential in various governmental organizations.
Continue ReadingJean-Marie Pelt
Biologist and environmental educator
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions centered on botany, ecology, and environmental education. Served as a professor at the University of Metz. Advocated for the preservation of biodiversity and promoted sustainable development through public speeches and writings. Authored numerous books on plants and the environment, emphasizing the importance of ecological balance.
Continue ReadingEdward Schillebeeckx
Theologian and academic
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2009 16 years ago — 95 years old
A Belgian theologian and academic, this figure contributed significantly to theological discourse and education in the 20th century. Notable works include 'Jesus: An Experiment in Christology' and 'The Church with a Human Face'. The approach to theology emphasized the importance of personal experience and existential questions. In the realm of Vatican II, this theologian engaged critically with church teachings, bringing fresh perspectives on topics such as grace and the nature of the church. Schillebeeckx's writings influenced a generation of theologians, scholars, and lay practitioners.
Continue ReadingDon Howe
Football manager and player
Born
October 12th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old
A football player and manager with a prominent career in English football. Played as a defender and later took on managerial roles, notably with West Bromwich Albion and the England national team. Contributed to coaching at Arsenal and worked with various clubs throughout a lengthy career, influencing many players and coaching strategies.
Continue ReadingFred Hargesheimer
American soldier and pilot
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Elected to fly bombing missions over enemy territory in the Pacific Theater. After sustaining serious injuries and being captured, escaped captivity and evaded enemy forces in Japanese-occupied territory. Contributed to the war effort through daring acts of bravery and resilience. Awarded the Air Medal and Purple Heart for valor.
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