Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun
French portrait painter, Marie Antoinette
Pioneered portrait painting in the 18th century, creating a distinctive style characterized by elegance and grace. Developed a professional career in a male-dominated field, achieving significant recognition across Europe. Captured the likenesses of various royals and aristocrats, with notable works including her portraits of Marie Antoinette, which played a key role in shaping the queen's public image. Emigrated to several countries, including Austria and Italy, due to political turmoil in France, continuing to produce acclaimed artworks.
Painted over 30 portraits of Marie Antoinette
Became a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture
Exhibited at the Salon in Paris, gaining widespread acclaim
Opened an art studio in Naples, contributing to art education
Other People Born on April 16th
Guy Burgess
English-Russian spy during Cold War
Born
April 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1963 62 years ago — 52 years old
Burgess served as an important figure in espionage during the Cold War. Initially working for the British Foreign Office, he was a member of the Cambridge Five, a group of spies who passed information to the Soviet Union. In 1951, amid heightened scrutiny and suspicion, Burgess defected to the Soviet Union with fellow spy Donald Maclean, ultimately settling in Moscow. His actions contributed to significant intelligence leaks during a critical period in history, causing widespread alarm within British intelligence circles. He lived in the Soviet Union until his death in 1963, continuing to work in various capacities for the Soviet government.
Continue ReadingSir James Corry
British politician and Baronet
Born
April 16th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1891 134 years ago — 65 years old
A Baronet and politician contributed to the British political landscape in the 19th century. Represented the city of Londonderry in Parliament, serving as a member of the Conservative Party. Engaged in various local and national political issues during a significant period of change in British governance.
Continue ReadingVicar
Chilean cartoonist and illustrator
Born
April 16th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old
An influential Chilean cartoonist specialized in humor and satire. Worked for several national and international publications and became a prominent figure in the Latin American cartooning scene. Contributed to various iconic Chilean humor magazines, where political and social satire flourished during the country's tumultuous periods. Collaborated with well-known artists and maintained a legacy of sharp wit through powerful imagery and narratives until passing away in 2012.
Continue ReadingSadie Sink
American actress in 'Stranger Things'
Born
April 16th, 2002 23 years ago
Born in 2002, an actress emerged in the entertainment industry with significant roles in television and film. Gained prominence for playing Max Mayfield in the Netflix series 'Stranger Things'. Also starred in the film adaptation of 'Dear Evan Hansen', showcasing talent in both dramatic and musical roles. Participated in various theatrical productions, further expanding presence in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingLennart Risberg
Swedish boxer with Olympic experience
Born
April 16th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 78 years old
Competitive boxing career spanned several years, including participation in the 1960 Rome Olympics. Achieved significant recognition within national and international boxing circles. Notable for skill and techniques that showcased the sport's tactical nature.
Continue ReadingDusty Springfield
English singer and 'Son of a Preacher Man'
Born
April 16th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 59 years old
An influential English singer, noted for a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Gained prominence in the 1960s, becoming one of the era's leading female vocalists. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'Son of a Preacher Man' and 'I Only Want to Be with You'. Springfield's career spanned several decades, during which she transitioned from pop to blue-eyed soul, amassing a dedicated fan base. Alongside a successful music career, she had a significant impact on the development of female artists in popular music. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, solidifying her legacy within the music industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 30th
Roger Slifer
Author and screenwriter for animated series
Born
November 11th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old
An author, illustrator, screenwriter, and producer recognized for contributions to the animated television industry. Worked as a writer and producer for the animated series 'DuckTales'. Co-created the animated series 'The 10th Kingdom' and contributed to the development of various comic book series. Played a significant role in the evolution of storytelling in animation.
Continue ReadingBill Withers
Singer-songwriter with iconic hits
Born
July 4th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2020 5 years ago — 81 years old
An American singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1970s with a distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics. Best known for hits like 'Ain't No Sunshine,' 'Lean on Me,' and 'Lovely Day,' Withers' music explored themes of love and resilience. His work earned multiple Grammy Awards, showcasing a talent for blending soul, R&B, and folk influences. Withers released several albums, including 'Just As I Am' and 'Still Bill,' which featured chart-topping singles and became staples in music history. After generously stepping away from the spotlight, the artist continued to influence many across various genres until passing away in 2020.
Continue ReadingRed Hickey
American football coach and player
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 89 years old
A former American football player and later coach, achieved prominence in the NFL. Played as a quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers and was instrumental in the team’s early years. Transitioned into coaching, leading the 49ers and later the Atlanta Falcons. Developed the shotgun formation, an innovative offensive strategy that changed the game. Coached during a period of growth for professional football.
Continue ReadingJaime Escalante
Educator and mathematics teacher
Born
December 31st, 1930 94 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 79 years old
An educator who taught mathematics at Garfield High School in East Los Angeles. Introduced innovative teaching methods that improved student engagement and understanding. Developed a calculus program that allowed students to excel in advanced mathematics. The story of his tenure was depicted in the film 'Stand and Deliver'.
Continue ReadingFred Korematsu
American civil rights activist and plaintiff
Born
January 30th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1919, an American civil rights activist who challenged the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. In 1942, refused to comply with the evacuation order that forced Japanese Americans into internment camps, leading to his arrest. This act of defiance resulted in a landmark Supreme Court case, Korematsu v. United States, which upheld the internment policy at that time. Later in life, continued to speak out against injustice and discrimination, receiving recognition for contributions to civil rights. Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998 for efforts in advocating for social justice.
Continue ReadingEdith Schaeffer
Religious leader and author; co-founded L'Abri
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 99 years old
Co-founded the L'Abri community in Switzerland, providing a place for intellectual and spiritual discussions. Authored several books exploring Christian faith, including 'The Hidden Art of Homemaking' and 'Christianity Is Jewish'. Contributed to the dialogue between faith and reason through various speaking engagements. Engaged in counseling and mentoring individuals seeking spiritual guidance.
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