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
Scott Travis
Rock drummer for Judas Priest
Born
September 6th, 1961 64 years ago
Rock drummer began playing for the band Racer X in the 1980s. Joined Judas Priest in 1989, contributing to their iconic heavy metal sound. Participated in the band's successful albums such as 'Painkiller' and 'Firepower'. Known for energetic performances and technical proficiency on the drums.
Continue ReadingAlexander Tilloch Galt
Canadian politician, 1st Minister of Finance
Born
September 6th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1893 132 years ago — 76 years old
A businessman and politician, contributed to the Confederation of Canada. Served as the first Minister of Finance, overseeing the country’s financial policies. Active in the development of railways and economic initiatives which supported Canadian growth. Played a significant role in advancing trade and commerce within Canada.
Continue ReadingFrances Wright
Author and social reformer advocating rights
Born
September 6th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
1852 174 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Scotland, an author and activist focused on advocating for women's rights, abolition of slavery, and education reform. Immigrated to the United States, where involvement in social reform movements led to founding the Nashoba Commune in Tennessee, aimed at promoting the education and emancipation of enslaved people. Published influential works including 'A Few Days in America' reflecting thoughts on social issues. Engaged in public speaking to promote equality and social justice during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingMoses Mendelssohn
German philosopher and theologian
Born
September 6th, 1729 296 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1786 240 years ago — 56 years old
An influential philosopher and theologian, contributed significantly to the Jewish Enlightenment movement in Germany. Advocated for religious tolerance and the integration of Jews into European society. Played a critical role in the development of modern Jewish thought. Translated works of prominent philosophers such as John Locke and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz into German, making them accessible to a wider audience. His major work, 'Jerusalem, or on Religious Power and Judaism', addressed the relationship between religion and state.
Continue ReadingSid Watkins
Neurosurgeon and F1 medical director
Born
September 6th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent neurosurgeon and academic, specialized in neurosurgery and medical education. Contributed significantly to Formula One as the Chief Medical Officer from 1978 to 2004. Established the FIA Institute for Motor Sport Safety and Prevention of Injury, focusing on improving medical standards and safety protocols in motorsport. Authored several books on neurotrauma and motorsport medicine. Engaged in humanitarian activities, providing medical assistance in various disasters.
Continue ReadingJessie Willcox Smith
Illustrator of children's books
Born
September 6th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1935 91 years ago — 71 years old
An American illustrator, recognized for work in children's literature and magazines during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Contributions included illustrations for well-known books such as 'Little Women' and 'A Child's Garden of Verses'. Collaborated with prominent authors and published illustrations in magazines like 'Ladies' Home Journal' and 'Scribner's'. Smith's distinctive style featured soft colors and emotional depth, appealing to both children and adults.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
René Cassin
Lawyer and judge, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 5th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1976 50 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent French lawyer and judge, contributed significantly to international human rights law. Played a crucial role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which remains a foundational document in the field of human rights. Served as a judge at the International Court of Justice and held the position of president of the European Court of Human Rights. Advocated for social justice and peace throughout his career.
Continue ReadingMildred Dresselhaus
American physicist and 'Queen of Carbon'
Born
November 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2017 9 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions to the field of physics focused on carbon nanostructures and materials. Played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of thermoelectric materials. Served as a professor at MIT, influencing generations of students in the field of physics and electrical engineering. Received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Continue ReadingAndreas Brehme
Footballer and 1990 World Cup winner
Born
November 9th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2024 2 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent figure in football, played as a midfielder. Achieved fame during the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where he scored the decisive penalty in the final match against Argentina, leading West Germany to victory. Had a notable club career, playing for teams such as Kaiserslautern, Bayern Munich, and Inter Milan, and contributed to multiple domestic league titles and European competitions. Brehme was recognized for his skillful play and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingLaura Bassi
Italian physicist and scholar
Born
October 29th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1778 248 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed to the development of physics and experimental science in the 18th century. Became the first woman to earn a degree in physics in Italy. Held a position at the University of Bologna, where taught for decades. Conducted experiments and published findings on topics such as hydraulics and mechanics, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingToru Takemitsu
Composer and musician renowned for 'Corona'
Born
October 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1996 30 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent Japanese composer, pianist, and guitarist, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Born in 1930, began composing in the 1950s, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese music and Western classical forms. Collaborated with various notable musicians and artists throughout the career, including conducting performances of own compositions. The work 'Corona for Strings' received particular acclaim, showcasing innovative orchestration and the blending of styles. Additionally, composed film scores, enhancing cinematic storytelling in numerous Japanese films. Earned a distinguished reputation in both the national and international music scenes before passing in 1996.
Continue ReadingSandra Dee
American actress, starred in Gidget
Born
April 23rd, 1942 84 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2005 21 years ago — 62 years old
An actress achieved fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Gained recognition for starring in films such as 'Gidget', 'A Summer Place', and 'Take Her, She's Mine'. Appeared in numerous television shows, becoming a popular figure in teen films. Became a teen idol and appeared on magazine covers, symbolizing the era's youth culture. Struggled with personal challenges later in life.
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