Luise Rainer
German-English actress with Academy Awards
Born in Germany, a celebrated actress gained prominence in the 1930s. Rainer starred in films such as 'The Great Ziegfeld' and 'The Good Earth'. Her performances earned her critical acclaim and two consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actress, making her the first to achieve this feat. After a successful early career in Hollywood, she relocated to Europe, where she continued to act in various productions. Rainer's contributions to cinema during her peak years solidified her legacy in film history.
Won Academy Awards for 'The Great Ziegfeld' and 'The Good Earth'
First actress to win consecutive Academy Awards
Other People Born on January 12th
P. W. Botha
South African politician, 8th Prime Minister
Born
January 12th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
Served as Prime Minister from 1978 to 1984, implementing policies central to the apartheid government. Played a key role in the National Party and participated in various legislative reforms aimed at maintaining the political structure of apartheid South Africa. Later became the first Executive President from 1984 to 1989 under a new constitutional framework that consolidated the powers of the presidency. Involved in international diplomacy and negotiations during a period marked by internal unrest and increasing international pressure against apartheid.
Continue ReadingHeather Mills
Businesswoman and activist
Born
January 12th, 1968 58 years ago
A businesswoman, activist, and former model, involvement in humanitarian causes focused on disability rights. Advocated for the rights of amputees and worked on initiatives aimed at improving accessibility. Established a number of ventures, including a vegan food company. Competed in charitable events including the reality show 'Dancing on Ice'.
Continue ReadingHermann Göring
German politician and military leader
Born
January 12th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1946 79 years ago — 53 years old
Served as a prominent figure in Nazi Germany, becoming the second-in-command to Adolf Hitler. Held the position of Minister President of Prussia and was a leading member of the National Socialist German Workers' Party. In addition to political duties, played a significant role in the development of the Luftwaffe, the German air force, and was instrumental in various military strategies during World War II. After the war, faced trial at Nuremberg for war crimes.
Continue ReadingJuan Foyth
Argentinian footballer and defender
Born
January 12th, 1998 28 years ago
Born in 1998, this footballer began his career with Estudiantes de La Plata, making a name in the Argentine league. In 2017, moved to Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League. Featured prominently in the Argentine national team, contributing to their defense. Played a key role in winning the Copa America in 2021. After a loan stint at Villarreal, became part of the squad that secured the UEFA Europa League title in 2021.
Continue ReadingMarián Hossa
Professional ice hockey player, three-time Cup champion
Born
January 12th, 1979 47 years ago
A prominent ice hockey player, played primarily as a right winger in the NHL. Drafted 12th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 1997, spent time with teams including the Atlanta Thrashers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Chicago Blackhawks. Achieved significant success with the Blackhawks, winning three consecutive Stanley Cups in 2013, 2014, and 2015. Accumulated over 1,000 career points in the NHL, recognized for skillful play and consistency.
Continue ReadingLaura Adams Armer
American author and photographer
Born
January 12th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1963 63 years ago — 89 years old
An author and photographer, contributed significantly to children's literature. Published an acclaimed book titled 'Waterless Mountain,' which won the Newbery Honor Award in 1931. Photographed various Native American cultures, capturing their traditions and lifestyles. Promoted cultural understanding through literary and photographic works, reflecting the experiences of the American West.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Giuseppe Occhialini
Physicist and academic with major findings
Born
December 5th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1993 32 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Italy and later became a French citizen, significant contributions were made to the field of particle physics. Engaged in research at CERN and the University of São Paulo, collaborating on numerous experiments. Discovered the existence of the positron and researched cosmic rays. Also contributed to advancements in the understanding of particle interactions.
Continue ReadingRita Levi-Montalcini
Neurologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 22nd, 1909 117 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 103 years old
Completed medical studies and began research in neurobiology. Conducted pioneering work on nerve growth factor, leading to significant advancements in understanding nervous system development and function. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1986 for discoveries regarding growth factors. Served as a professor of neurobiology at Washington University in St. Louis and received numerous honors and accolades throughout her career in academia and research.
Continue ReadingMary Brian
American actress from silent films
Born
February 17th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 23 years ago — 96 years old
Began a career in silent films in the 1920s, transitioning to talkies with notable performances. Starred in films such as 'The Family Secret' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Represented a significant figure during the silent film era and the shift to sound films in Hollywood. Continued to perform in various film and television roles through the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingPope Felix I
Pope and early Christian leader
Died
December 30th, 274 1751 years ago — None years old
Served as the Bishop of Rome during the early years of the Christian church. His papacy took place in the 3rd century, a time marked by significant challenges for Christians including persecution. Established a Sunday celebration of the Eucharist and is traditionally credited with authorizing the use of the tombs of martyrs for Christian burial. Contributed to the development of early Christian doctrine and maintained the church's structure during a tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingMaximilian III Joseph
Elector of Bavaria, significant ruler
Born
March 28th, 1727 299 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1777 248 years ago — 50 years old
Served as Elector of Bavaria from 1745 until 1777. As a ruler, focused on consolidating power and enhancing the administration of the electorate. Implemented reforms that improved the financial situation and developed the region's infrastructure. Fostered the arts and culture, supporting figures like the composer Leopold Mozart. Held an important role in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during his reign, navigating relations with neighboring states.
Continue ReadingRona Jaffe
American novelist with The Best of Everything
Born
June 12th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 74 years old
An American novelist achieved recognition through numerous literary works throughout the 20th century. 'The Best of Everything', published in 1958, explored the lives of young women in the workforce and became a cultural touchstone. Jaffe published several novels, many of which were adapted into films and television series. In addition to her novels, Jaffe wrote for magazines and worked as a screenwriter. The themes in her works often featured strong female characters and societal issues relevant to women. She continued to write well into her later years, contributing to the genre of women's fiction.
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