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
Louisa E. Rhine
Botanist and parapsychologist, researched ESP
Born
November 9th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1983 43 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed to the field of parapsychology and conducted extensive research on extrasensory perception (ESP). Worked alongside husband, Joseph B. Rhine, at Duke University. Established the Foundation for Research on the Nature of Man. Significant publications include studies on psychic phenomena and investigatory works in botanical sciences. Focused on experimental approaches to parapsychological phenomena, setting foundations for future research in the field. Active in discussions surrounding the scientific study of paranormal activity.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Banneker
American surveyor and almanac author
Born
November 9th, 1731 294 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1806 219 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1731 in Maryland, this individual was a notable farmer, surveyor, and author. He played a significant role in the surveying of the boundaries of the District of Columbia. Banneker published several almanacs that included astronomical calculations and weather predictions. He corresponded with Thomas Jefferson, advocating for the rights of African Americans and the abolition of slavery. His contributions include a remarkable understanding of mathematics and astronomy, despite limited formal education.
Continue ReadingThomas Ferebee
American colonel and pilot, Enola Gay bombardier
Born
November 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2000 26 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 ReadingAnthony Asquith
Film director and screenwriter, 'The Browning Version'
Born
November 9th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1968 58 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 ReadingIvan Turgenev
Russian author known for 'Fathers and Sons'
Born
November 9th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1883 142 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent Russian author and playwright, contributions to literature included novels, short stories, and plays. Major works encompassed 'Fathers and Sons', 'A Month in the Country', and 'A Month in the Country'. Turgenev's writing frequently examined themes of social change, class struggle, and human emotion. Active during the 19th century, his influence extended across literary circles in Europe, fostering dialogue between Russian literature and Western thought. His works introduced the character of the superfluous man, providing critical insights into the Russian intelligentsia. Turgenev was also noted for his personal relationships with contemporary writers, including Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky, often navigating complex dynamics in the literary community.
Continue ReadingMark Akenside
English physician and poet
Born
November 9th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1770 255 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1721, this individual practiced medicine and produced poetry. As a physician, contributions to the medical field included writings that merged science and literature. The poetry often focused on themes of nature and human experience, with notable works such as 'The Pleasures of the Imagination,' which highlighted the relationship between creativity and perception. This individual also became a prominent figure in the literary circles of the 18th century, influencing contemporaries with both medical and poetic insights.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 28th
Dusty 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 ReadingBernhard Crusell
Finnish composer of wind music
Born
October 15th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1838 187 years ago — 62 years old
A composer and clarinetist, contributed significantly to music in the early 19th century. Crusell's compositions primarily focused on works for woodwinds, particularly the clarinet. He served as a conductor and wrote operas, chamber music, and concertos. Key works include his clarinet concertos, which are central to the clarinet repertoire, and operas such as 'Kärmesönn' and 'Mördarens död'. His influence extended beyond Finland, impacting the development of wind music in Europe.
Continue ReadingAbraham Pais
Physicist and historian of science
Born
May 19th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2000 25 years ago — 82 years old
Born in the Netherlands, this physicist and historian contributed significantly to the understanding of physics and its history. Emigrating to the United States during World War II, work included collaborations with major figures in theoretical physics. Contributions to the biographies of prominent physicists enriched the historical narrative of the discipline. The individual served as a professor at various institutions, influencing generations of students and researchers.
Continue ReadingJan Kulczyk
Polish businessman and investor
Born
June 24th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 65 years old
Built a prominent business empire in Poland and was one of the wealthiest individuals in the country. Focused on various sectors including energy, telecommunications, and real estate. Founded Kulczyk Investments, which played a significant role in the privatization and growth of Polish enterprises. Engaged in numerous international business ventures and held various investments across Eastern Europe and Africa.
Continue ReadingFlinders Petrie
Archaeologist, founded field archaeology
Born
June 3rd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1942 83 years ago — 89 years old
Pioneered systematic methodology in archaeology, establishing rigorous excavation techniques and scientific approaches to the study of ancient artifacts and sites. Conducted extensive research in Egypt, contributing vital insights into the history and culture of ancient civilizations. Published numerous scholarly works, including 'Egyptian Tales' and 'The Ten Gold Hoards'. Developed the concept of sequence dating, revolutionizing the way archaeological timeframes were understood. His educational efforts led to the establishment of the British School of Archaeology in Egypt, which facilitated continued archaeological research in the region.
Continue ReadingRamón Grau
Cuban physician and politician
Born
September 13th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old
A physician and politician with a prominent role in Cuban history. Served as the 6th President of Cuba from 1933 to 1934. Advocated for social reforms and modernization during his presidency, focusing on education and labor rights. Played a significant role in Cuban political life through various positions, including as a member of the Cuban Congress and as a leader in the opposition against past regimes. His administration faced significant challenges, including political unrest and economic struggles.
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