Marie Dressler
Actress in 'Min and Bill' and 'Tugboat Annie'
Born in 1869, an actress and singer emerged in the early 20th century. Initially a stage performer, gained recognition in vaudeville before transitioning to film. Achieved success in silent films and became a prominent figure in talkies. Notable performances included roles in 'Min and Bill' and 'Tugboat Annie,' showcasing comedic talent. Received an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1931, marking a pinnacle in film career. Influential during the early Hollywood era, contributed to the popularity of feature films with strong female leads.
Won the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1931
Starred in the film 'Min and Bill'
Featured in 'Tugboat Annie'
Other People Born on November 9th
Thomas Ferebee
American colonel and pilot, Enola Gay bombardier
Born
November 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2000 25 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Played a significant role as the bombardier on the Enola Gay, the aircraft that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Had a distinguished military career beyond World War II, holding various positions and contributing to air warfare strategies. Continued to serve in various capacities, including in the Korean War and later in the Air Force reserves before retiring.
Continue ReadingHedy Lamarr
Actress and inventor of frequency hopping
Born
November 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2000 25 years ago — 85 years old
An actress and inventor, contributions included co-inventing a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology used in wireless communications. Gained prominence in the film industry during the 1930s and 1940s, starring in movies such as 'Algiers' and 'Samson and Delilah'. Early work in filmmaking was notable for combining beauty with technical ingenuity. Later in life, recognition for her inventions in technology garnered attention, culminating in induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingRonald George Wreyford Norrish
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 9th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1978 47 years ago — 80 years old
An English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chemical kinetics. Developed flash photolysis, a technique that allowed for the observation of rapid chemical reactions. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge, where research encompassed various aspects of physical chemistry. Honored with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967, sharing the award for investigations of extremely fast chemical reactions. Published numerous papers and worked extensively on the behavior of molecules in different states.
Continue ReadingMikhail Tal
Chess Grandmaster and World Champion
Born
November 9th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1992 33 years ago — 55 years old
A celebrated chess player and author, this individual achieved prominence in the world of chess during the mid-20th century. Winning the World Chess Championship in 1960 made a significant mark in chess history. Renowned for an aggressive playing style and imaginative tactics, the individual inspired numerous players and fans alike. Alongside competitive success, published works on chess strategy contributed to the intellectual exploration of the game. Several influential chess tournaments featured his participation, highlighting a career characterized by remarkable games that continue to be studied.
Continue ReadingGeorge Witt
Baseball player and coach for Dodgers
Born
November 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
Played as a Major League Baseball pitcher from 1943 to 1948. Played for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies and Brooklyn Dodgers. Transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of players in the minor leagues. Worked to mentor emerging talent, showcasing a commitment to the sport's development.
Continue ReadingAnthony Asquith
Film director and screenwriter, 'The Browning Version'
Born
November 9th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1968 57 years ago — 65 years old
A significant figure in British cinema, contributed to the film industry as a director and screenwriter. Worked on various notable films during the 20th century, including adaptations of classic literature. Pioneered techniques in storytelling through film, focusing on emotional depth and character development. Received critical acclaim for a number of works, cementing a legacy in British film history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 28th
Edward Natapei
Vanuatuan politician, 6th Prime Minister
Born
July 17th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the 6th Prime Minister of Vanuatu from 2004 to 2006. Held various positions in the Vanuatu government including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance. Contributed to national development and international diplomacy.
Continue ReadingBulstrode Whitelocke
English lawyer and legal scholar
Born
August 6th, 1605 420 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1675 350 years ago — 69 years old
An English lawyer and legal scholar, this individual served as a member of the Long Parliament and was a notable figure during the English Civil War. Represented England at the Peace of Uppsala in 1654, advocating for a settlement with Sweden. Authored 'Memorials of the English Affairs', documenting significant events of the Civil War and later, reflecting on the political atmosphere of the time. His works remain a source of insight into 17th-century English law and governance.
Continue ReadingLouis Tancred
South African cricketer, Test match player
Born
October 7th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1934 91 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1876, a South African cricketer played in the early 20th century. He was a key member of the South African national team and made significant contributions to the sport during his career. Tancred participated in the first Test series against England in 1902 and established himself as a reliable player in the lineup. His career spanned several years, during which he played both domestic and international matches.
Continue ReadingGaspard Monge
Mathematician and engineer, founder of descriptive geometry
Born
May 9th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1818 207 years ago — 72 years old
Born in France, made significant contributions to mathematics and engineering. Developed the field of descriptive geometry, which facilitated the visual representation of three-dimensional objects on two-dimensional surfaces. Held the position of professor at the École Polytechnique and served in various roles during the French Revolution, including being a member of the National Convention. His work laid the foundation for modern geometric representation and influenced architectural design and engineering practices.
Continue ReadingDusty Hill
Rock musician and bassist for ZZ Top
Born
May 19th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in rock music, contributed as a bassist and vocalist for the band ZZ Top. Formed ZZ Top in 1969, achieving significant commercial success with albums such as 'Eliminator' and 'Recycler'. The band became known for its blend of blues, rock, and boogie music alongside a distinct visual style featuring long beards and sunglasses. Contributed to the band's high-energy performances and unique sound that integrated synthesizers and boogie rhythms.
Continue ReadingKeith Green
Singer-songwriter and minister
Born
October 21st, 1953 72 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1982 43 years ago — 28 years old
American singer-songwriter and pianist, contributed significantly to contemporary Christian music. Began career in the early 1970s and released several albums. Established a ministry through music that emphasized faith and outreach. Founded a community in Texas called The Last Days Ministries, which supported various charitable efforts. His music often featured a mix of gospel and contemporary styles, resonating with a wide audience. Passed away in 1982 in a plane crash, leaving a lasting legacy in Christian music.
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