Marie Vassilieff
Russian-French painter and artist
Originated from Russia, developed a significant career in France as a painter. Vassilieff's work showcased elements of both Cubism and Fauvism. She became associated with the Montparnasse art scene and frequently exhibited at various galleries. In 1914, she participated in the Salon d'Automne, gaining recognition for her distinctive style. Vassilieff also contributed to the art community through teaching and was involved in the promotion of contemporary art.
Exhibited at the Salon d'Automne in 1914
Participated in the Montparnasse art movement
Other People Born on February 12th
Abraham Lincoln
16th President of the United States
Born
February 12th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1865 160 years ago — 56 years old
Served as the 16th President of the United States from 1861 to 1865. Guided the nation through its Civil War, leading to the preservation of the Union. Issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which began the process of freedom for America's slaves. Delivered the Gettysburg Address in 1863, emphasizing national unity and the principles of liberty and equality. Assassinated in 1865, leaving a legacy as one of the most significant leaders in American history.
Continue ReadingCharles Van Doren
American academic and quiz show contestant
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2019 6 years ago — 93 years old
An academic and quiz show contestant gained national attention through participation in the television quiz show 'Twenty-One'. This role brought controversies surrounding quiz show ethics to light. During the 1950s, considerable public interest followed the revelations of the scripted nature of quiz shows. After the scandal, pursued a career in education and writing, focusing on topics related to literature and culture. Served as a professor at Columbia University and authored several works, contributing to discussions on the role of education in society.
Continue ReadingLorne Greene
Actor in Bonanza and Battlestar Galactica
Born
February 12th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1987 38 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1915, a Canadian-American actor gained prominence through roles in television and film. Best remembered for portraying Ben Cartwright in the long-running western television series Bonanza, which aired from 1959 to 1973. Later starred as Commander Adama in the science fiction series Battlestar Galactica, which debuted in 1978. The deep, resonant voice became an iconic feature, leading to additional narration work in various documentaries and programs. Contributed to the entertainment industry as a producer and director over a career spanning more than five decades.
Continue ReadingZoran Mušič
Slovene painter and illustrator of landscapes
Born
February 12th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 96 years old
Born in Slovenia, a painter and illustrator gained recognition for contributions to modern art. Developed a unique style characterized by landscapes and figural compositions. Emigrated to Italy and later settled in Paris, where exposure to different cultures influenced artistic development. Worked primarily with oil paintings and was noted for incorporating elements of identity and memory into his artworks. His work reflected the tumultuous historical experiences of the 20th century, including the impact of World War II on personal and collective experiences.
Continue ReadingRay Manzarek
Keyboardist and co-founder of The Doors
Born
February 12th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent keyboardist and producer, contributed significantly to rock music as a co-founder of the band The Doors. Instrumental in shaping the sound of the band with distinctive keyboard melodies and innovative use of the organ. Served as the band's creative force alongside its iconic frontman. Played a key role in producing several of the band's albums and supporting the distinctive blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia that characterized their work. Frequent collaborator with other artists throughout his career, exploring various musical genres.
Continue ReadingRoger J. Traynor
Chief Justice of California
Born
February 12th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1983 42 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 23rd Chief Justice of California from 1964 to 1970. Contributed to the legal framework of the state through several landmark rulings. Held a professorship in law at the University of California, Berkeley. Additionally, authored multiple influential opinions that shaped California law, particularly in the areas of torts and criminal justice.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
Pierre-Claude Nivelle de La Chaussée
Playwright with significant contributions
Born
February 14th, 1692 333 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1754 271 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent French playwright in the 18th century, contributed significantly to the genre of comedy. Authored several plays that showcased the evolution of French theater. Pioneered the comic drama format, blending humor with serious themes. His works laid the groundwork for future developments in French theatrical literature.
Continue ReadingWillem Drees
Dutch Prime Minister (1948-1958)
Born
July 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1988 37 years ago — 101 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1948 to 1958. Played a significant role in post-war reconstruction and economic recovery. Led the Labour Party and was a key figure in Dutch politics during the period of rebuilding after World War II. Oversaw social reforms and the establishment of the welfare state in the Netherlands, contributing to the modernization of Dutch society.
Continue ReadingDoyle Brunson
Professional poker player and author
Born
August 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2023 2 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in the world of professional poker, contributed significantly to the popularity of the game. Played a crucial role in shaping modern poker strategies and authored several influential books on poker theory, including 'Super/System'. Successful participant in the World Series of Poker, securing ten championship titles over a career that spanned several decades. Brunson's strategies and gameplay became a blueprint for aspiring poker players and contributed to the growth of poker as a competitive sport.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Lüth
German naval commander during WWII
Born
October 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1945 80 years ago — 31 years old
Served in the Kriegsmarine during World War II. Achieved the rank of Korvettenkapitän and commanded several U-boats. Participated in the Battle of the Atlantic, conducting multiple successful patrols against Allied shipping. Recognized for leadership and tactical skills in submarine warfare.
Continue ReadingGrumpy Cat
Internet meme celebrity cat
Born
April 4th, 2012 13 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2019 6 years ago — 7 years old
A domestic cat rose to fame through memes showcasing a perpetual frown, garnering significant attention on social media platforms. The cat's image became iconic, leading to merchandise ranging from books to figurines. Various appearances were made on television shows, and the cat starred in a Christmas movie titled 'Grumpy Cat's Worst Christmas Ever.' The popularity of the feline sparked discussions about internet culture and the phenomenon of cat memes.
Continue ReadingThomas Simpson
Mathematician known for numerical methods
Born
August 20th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1761 264 years ago — 50 years old
Engaged in the field of mathematics, contributed to the development of numerical analysis. Developed Simpson's Rule, a method for numerical integration that approximates the definite integral of a function. Worked extensively on the calculus of finite differences and made advancements in the theory of approximation. Also served in academic roles, influencing education in mathematics.
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