Mercedes McCambridge
Academy Award-winning actress
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An accomplished actress active from the 1940s to 2000, contributions spanned radio, theater, and film. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in the 1949 film 'Giant'. Voiced the character in the iconic film 'The Exorcist', which became a significant part of horror film history. In addition to acting, worked as a writer and was known for her voice talent in various radio dramas.
Academy Award for 'Giant'
Voice role in 'The Exorcist'
Other People Born on March 16th
Vladimir Komarov
Russian pilot and cosmonaut, Soyuz 1
Born
March 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 40 years old
A pilot and engineer, made significant contributions to space exploration as a cosmonaut. Flew on the Vostok 1 mission in April 1967. Commanded the Soyuz 1 mission in April 1967, which ended in tragedy when the spacecraft crashed upon re-entry. Despite the mission's outcome, advancements were made in crewed spaceflight and safety protocols as a result of this flight. Participated in the development of Soviet space technology and testing programs.
Continue ReadingReggie Walker
South African Olympic sprinter
Born
March 16th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1951 74 years ago — 62 years old
Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting events. Claimed the gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1908 London Olympics, becoming the first South African to win an Olympic gold. Participated in the 1906 Intercalated Games where a silver medal was earned in the 110-meter hurdles. Held the South African 100 yards record for several years. Helped promote athletics in South Africa through various competitions and events throughout his career.
Continue ReadingPieter Corneliszoon Hooft
Dutch historian and poet, wrote Dutch history
Born
March 16th, 1581 444 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1647 378 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1581, a prominent figure in Dutch literature and history. Engaged in historical writing and poetry, contributing significantly to the Dutch Golden Age. Best known for the historical work 'Nederlandse Historien', which detailed the history of the Netherlands during the Eighty Years' War against Spain. His poetry emphasized the beauty of the Dutch landscape and classical themes. Hooft also played a key role in the literary circles of his time, influencing other writers and poets.
Continue ReadingRebecca Cole
Physician and social reformer
Born
March 16th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1922 103 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1846, this individual was a pioneering African American physician and a significant figure in the women's rights movement. Graduating from the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1867, the individual became one of the first African American women to earn a medical degree. The practice focused on providing medical services to underserved populations and emphasized the importance of health education. In addition to practicing medicine, engaging in social reform efforts, particularly in the areas of education and public health, was a primary focus. The establishment of a school to train African American nurses was among the notable contributions to the healthcare field.
Continue ReadingGösta Mittag-Leffler
Mathematician, founder of Acta Mathematica
Born
March 16th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1927 98 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical analysis, the theory of functions, and complex analysis. Founded the journal Acta Mathematica in 1882, which became a prominent platform for mathematical research. Served as a professor at the University of Stockholm, where formalized and advanced various mathematical theories. Involved in the establishment of several mathematical societies and contributed to the organization of international mathematical congresses.
Continue ReadingJens Stoltenberg
Norwegian politician and NATO Secretary General
Born
March 16th, 1959 66 years ago
An economist and politician served as Norway's 27th Prime Minister, overseeing significant economic and social reforms. His tenure included a focus on climate change and international relations. After concluding two terms as Prime Minister, transitioned to become the 13th Secretary General of NATO in 2014. Played a crucial role in directing NATO's responses to various global security challenges. Strengthened alliances and emphasized collective defense during a pivotal time in international relations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 2nd
Francis II
Holy Roman Emperor and last emperor
Born
February 12th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1835 190 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1768, the last Holy Roman Emperor reigned from 1792 until 1806. The dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire occurred after the Austro-Prussian War, leading to the establishment of the Austrian Empire. Emphasized the importance of maintaining the empire's influence in European politics during the Napoleonic Wars, facing significant challenges from Napoleon Bonaparte. Advocated for diplomatic solutions and alliances to preserve imperial power, ultimately abdicated in 1806 as Napoleon’s forces advanced. Transitioned to the role of Emperor of Austria thereafter, continuing to rule until 1835.
Continue ReadingHank Ballard
American singer-songwriter, 'The Twist'
Born
November 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2003 22 years ago — 75 years old
An American singer-songwriter, significant contributions came to the rhythm and blues genre in the 1950s and 1960s. Ballard's music was characterized by its engaging melodies and danceable rhythms. The hit song 'The Twist' became a cultural phenomenon, popularizing the dance craze of the same name and influencing the music scene of that era. Ballard's work laid the foundation for future artists and the evolution of various musical styles, particularly in the rock and roll genre.
Continue ReadingJosé Martínez Ruiz
Spanish author and literary critic
Born
1873 152 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1967 58 years ago — 94 years old
An influential figure in Spanish literature, this author contributed significantly to the literary movements of the early 20th century. Known for addressing themes of modernity and social issues, the author engaged with contemporaries through critiques and essays. The literary work 'El espíritu de la comedia' reflects a blend of personal experience and cultural insights. The author also partook in the Spanish Civil War, aligning with intellectuals to advocate for social change. Following the war, contributions to journals and publications continued, solidifying a role as a literary critic in Spanish culture.
Continue ReadingSarojini Naidu
Indian poet and political activist
Born
February 13th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1949 76 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1879, an influential figure in Indian literature and the independence movement. Known as the 'Nightingale of India' for her poetic contributions, her works often addressed themes of love and patriotism. Active in the struggle for India's freedom from British rule, she played a significant role in the Indian National Congress and worked alongside leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. She became the first woman to serve as a governor in independent India, taking office as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh in 1947. As a prominent figure in both literature and politics, she bridged the gap between cultural expression and nationalist aspiration.
Continue ReadingDean Hess
American minister and military officer
Born
December 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Air Force and was a prominent military chaplain. Played a significant role during the Korean War as a group chaplain, providing support to troops in combat. Worked extensively in pastoral care and leadership within the military and civilian communities. Engaged in multiple humanitarian efforts throughout his life.
Continue ReadingJoão Bernardo Vieira
Politician, President of Guinea-Bissau
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the President of Guinea-Bissau from 1980 to 1999 and then again from 2005 until assassination in 2009. Vieira rose to power following a military coup and was instrumental in the country's early years of independence. Leadership marked by ongoing political instability and economic challenges.
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