Max Schreck
German actor in film and theater
An influential German actor primarily recognized for the role of Count Orlok in the 1922 silent horror film 'Nosferatu'. Schreck began his career in theater, performing in various productions before transitioning to cinema. His portrayal of the vampire Orlok left a lasting impact on the horror genre and established a definitive image of the creature. Schreck's work in early German cinema helped shape the expressionist style that characterized the era. Alongside 'Nosferatu', Schreck appeared in several other films, contributing to the development of the medium during its formative years.
Played Count Orlok in 'Nosferatu'
Appeared in 'The Student of Prague'
Other People Born on September 6th
William Lane
Journalist and founder of New Australia
Born
September 6th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1917 109 years ago — 56 years old
Born in England and later moving to Australia, engaged in journalism and social reform. Founded the New Australia settlement in Paraguay, promoting a communal lifestyle based on socialist principles. Contributed to several publications, advocating for workers' rights and political change.
Continue ReadingFranz Josef Strauss
German politician and Minister President
Born
September 6th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1988 37 years ago — 73 years old
Served as a prominent German politician and Minister President of Bavaria. Played a significant role in the development of the Christian Social Union (CSU) and held various ministerial positions throughout his career. As Minister President, focused on economic growth and modernization in Bavaria. Advocated for strong regional policies and was influential in the German political landscape during the latter half of the 20th century. Actively participated in national politics and was involved in the establishment of significant infrastructure projects.
Continue ReadingIsabelle Collin Dufresne
French actress and author
Born
September 6th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
An actress and author emerged as a notable figure in the French cultural landscape. Gained prominence through performances in the film 'La Jetée' and the series 'L'Amour Fou.' Authored several works that explored themes of identity and existence, contributing to literary discussions within the avant-garde movement. Engaged with various artistic and literary circles throughout a prolific career.
Continue ReadingFelix Salten
Austrian-Swiss author of Bambi
Born
September 6th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1945 80 years ago — 76 years old
An author and critic, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Wrote the children's novel 'Bambi, A Life in the Woods', published in 1923, which explored themes of nature and life in the forest. The story was later adapted into a successful animated film by Disney in 1942, bringing the narrative to a broader audience. Besides children's literature, engaged in journalism and theater, contributing to various publications throughout his career.
Continue ReadingKorczak Ziolkowski
Sculptor, designer of Crazy Horse Memorial
Born
September 6th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1982 44 years ago — 74 years old
An American sculptor focused on monumental art, particularly recognized for designing the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota. The undertaking aimed to honor the Lakota leader, Crazy Horse, and symbolizes Native American culture. Ziolkowski began the project in 1948 and dedicated his life to its realization, although it remained incomplete at the time of his death in 1982. The memorial has since become a symbol of reconciliation and understanding between Native Americans and other communities.
Continue ReadingPhilipp von Boeselager
German soldier and economist
Born
September 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 1st, 2008 17 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a German soldier during World War II, becoming a significant figure in the Wehrmacht. Participated in the assassination attempt against Adolf Hitler on July 20, 1944, known as Operation Valkyrie. After the war, pursued a career in economics and business, gaining recognition in academic and professional circles. Contributed to discussions on post-war reconstruction and economic policy in Germany.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
Gene Siskel
Film critic and co-host of At the Movies
Born
January 26th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 53 years old
This individual served as a prominent film critic and journalist, co-hosting the television program 'At the Movies' alongside Roger Ebert for over two decades. The program became influential in defining film criticism on television, providing reviews and insights on a wide range of films. The critic also wrote for the Chicago Tribune, where a column and reviews highlighted cinematic works, influencing public perception and the film industry. His work often involved spirited debates about films, particularly in the context of popular culture. The critic's legacy endures in the field of film journalism, shaping how films are critiqued and approached by audiences.
Continue ReadingCurt Gowdy
American sportscaster and television host
Born
July 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent sportscaster in the United States, played a significant role in the evolution of sports broadcasting. Served as the lead announcer for the Boston Red Sox from 1951 to 1965, bringing baseball to television audiences. Became known for broadcasting the Super Bowl and other major sports events. Worked with NBC Sports and ABC Sports, where coverage of the World Series and college football became notable. Received several accolades for contributions to sports broadcasting, including a Sports Emmy Award and induction into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingTobias Mayer
Astronomer and academic, lunar maps
Born
February 17th, 1723 302 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1762 263 years ago — 39 years old
German astronomer and academic contributed significantly to celestial cartography and lunar mapping. Published methods for calculating lunar positions and developed a detailed lunar map that aided navigation at sea. Engaged with contemporary scientific communities and influenced future astronomical studies. His work was recognized for improving the accuracy of lunar observations and providing valuable resources for sailors and navigators.
Continue ReadingDavid S. McKay
American biochemist and geologist
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
A biochemist and geologist, contributed to the understanding of extraterrestrial life's potential by studying Martian meteorites. Worked at NASA's Johnson Space Center and participated in the analysis of samples brought back from the Moon during the Apollo missions. His research focused on recognizing biological signatures in ancient rocks, enhancing the search for life beyond Earth.
Continue ReadingGarrick Utley
American journalist and news anchor
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
Started a career in journalism in the 1960s, contributing to significant news outlets. Served as a foreign correspondent for NBC News during crucial global events like the Vietnam War. Anchored weekend editions of NBC Nightly News and played a pivotal role in the launch of CNN in 1980. Later, worked with PBS and contributed to various news programs, offering insights on international relations and media ethics. Continued to engage in journalism until retirement, influencing generations of news reporting.
Continue ReadingValentín Canalizo
Mexican general and 14th President
Born
February 12th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1850 175 years ago — 56 years old
A Mexican general and politician served as the 14th President of Mexico from 1843 to 1844. He played a significant role during a tumultuous period in Mexican history marked by political instability and conflict. Canalizo was initially a supporter of the conservative forces and held various military positions before assuming the presidency. His tenure was characterized by ongoing struggles with rival factions and social unrest. After leaving office, Canalizo held command in military operations and continued to be involved in politics until his death in 1850.
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