Mary Pickford

Actress and co-founder of United Artists

Mary Pickford - Actress and co-founder of United Artists
Born

April 8th, 1892
133 years ago

Died

May 29th, 1979
45 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

Canada

Links & References

An actress, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the film industry in the early 20th century. Co-founded United Artists, a pioneering film studio that allowed filmmakers more creative control over their works. Achieved major success during the silent film era, gaining recognition for performances in films such as "Coquette" and "The Poor Little Rich Girl." Championed the rights of actors and was instrumental in establishing the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Won the Academy Award for Best Actress for "Coquette"

Co-founded United Artists

Popularized the role of the American girl in film

Other People Born on April 8th

Harri Rovanperä

Finnish rally car driver, WRC champion
Born
April 8th, 1966 59 years ago

A rally car driver from Finland, competed in the World Rally Championship (WRC) during the 1990s and early 2000s. Achieved notable success with multiple rally wins and was recognized for skillful performances on challenging terrains. Career highlighted by driving for teams such as Toyota and Mitsubishi. Successfully transitioned to a co-driver role in subsequent years, sharing expertise and insights with upcoming drivers.

Continue Reading

Giuseppe Tartini

Italian violinist and composer, creator of 'Devil's Trill Sonata'
Born
April 8th, 1692 333 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1770 255 years ago — 77 years old

An Italian violinist and composer, recognized for contributions to Baroque music. Created the 'Devil's Trill Sonata', a pivotal work in the violin repertoire. Served as concertmaster and developed teaching methods for violin. Founded a violin school in Padua, which influenced future generations of musicians. Wrote several treatises on music theory and composition, which became important resources for violinists and composers.

Continue Reading

Carlos Deltour

French rower and rugby player
Born
April 8th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1920 104 years ago — 56 years old

Born in France in 1864, this individual was a prominent rower and rugby player. Competed in rowing events, making significant contributions to the sport. Played an important role in the development of rugby in France, participating in early matches and promoting the sport at various levels.

Continue Reading

María Félix

Mexican actress in classic cinema
Born
April 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 8th, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old

A leading figure in the Golden Age of Mexican cinema, the actress appeared in over 47 films during a prolific career spanning several decades. Recognized for her beauty and charisma, performances included roles in 'Doña Barbara' and 'La Belleza de la Vida'. Earning acclaim for her strong female characters, she became a cultural icon both in Mexico and abroad. She was also involved in various artistic endeavors beyond acting.

Continue Reading

Nayden Todorov

Bulgarian conductor and culture minister
Born
April 8th, 1974 51 years ago

A conductor and culture minister contributed to the development of classical music in Bulgaria. Held the position of artistic director for several major orchestras and engaged in numerous international projects. Known for enhancing cultural exchanges and promoting Bulgarian music on global platforms. Played a significant role in the Bulgarian Ministry of Culture, advocating for the arts and supporting musicians and artists.

Continue Reading

Jamie Drysdale

Ice Hockey Player, Anaheim Ducks Defenseman
Born
April 8th, 2002 23 years ago

Born in 2002, this Canadian ice hockey player played as a defenseman for the Anaheim Ducks in the National Hockey League (NHL). After being drafted sixth overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, he quickly established himself as a key player within the team. Drysdale also represented Canada on the international stage, contributing to successes in the IIHF World Junior Championships.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 29th

Juan Ramón Jiménez

Spanish poet and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1958 66 years ago — 77 years old

This individual was a notable Spanish poet and a prominent figure in the Spanish literary scene. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1956 for his lyrical poetry, which emphasized the beauty of nature and the essence of existence. His most recognized work, 'Platero y yo', is a prose poem depicting the bond between a man and his donkey, celebrated for its sensitivity and vivid imagery. The poet's work contributed significantly to 20th-century Spanish literature, and he spent notable periods of his life in both Spain and Puerto Rico, influencing poets and writers across generations.

Continue Reading

Mulgrew Miller

Jazz pianist and composer
Born
1955 70 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2013 11 years ago — 58 years old

An acclaimed jazz pianist and composer, this individual contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Raised in Arkansas, developed a passion for music early on and eventually moved to New York City, where collaborations with notable artists flourished. Worked with renowned figures such as Art Blakey and Betty Carter, gaining recognition for exceptional talent. Released several albums, showcasing original compositions and unique interpretations of jazz standards. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing the next generation of musicians.

Continue Reading

Robert Bacon

American Colonel and Secretary of State
Born
July 5th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1919 105 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the 39th United States Secretary of State from 1909 to 1911. Held the position of a Colonel during World War I. Also engaged in politics and business, participating in various diplomatic missions and negotiations. Worked alongside prominent figures in shaping early 20th-century foreign policy. After leaving public office, continued contributions to the business sector and maintained involvement in governmental affairs.

Continue Reading

Fanny Brice

Actress and singer from 'Funny Girl'
Born
October 29th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1951 73 years ago — 59 years old

Brice gained prominence as a singer and comedienne in the early 20th century. She became a star in the Ziegfeld Follies, showcasing her unique style and humor. Brice's role in the musical 'Funny Girl,' which chronicles her life and career, solidified her legacy in entertainment. Her comedic talent and ability to connect with audiences set her apart in the Broadway scene.

Continue Reading

Tamara Toumanova

Ballet dancer and film actress
Born
March 2nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1996 28 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1919, this Russian-American ballerina trained at the Imperial Ballet School before joining the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. She gained recognition for her exceptional grace and technique, performing leading roles in classical ballets such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Firebird.' Transitioning to film, she appeared in several movies during the 1940s, showcasing her talents beyond ballet. Her artistic contributions spanned theatre and film, solidifying her position in the performing arts.

Continue Reading

Henry II of Castile

Monarch and founder of the Trastámara dynasty
Born
1334 691 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1379 645 years ago — 45 years old

Ascended to the throne as the King of Castile in 1366, establishing the Trastámara dynasty. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions, including the claimants to the throne from the House of León. Through military campaigns, annexed significant territories and consolidated power in the region. Fostered alliances through marriages, strengthening the political landscape of his kingdom. The reign ended with his death in 1379, after which his son succeeded him.

Continue Reading