Michael Curtiz

Film director known for 'Casablanca'

Michael Curtiz - Film director known for 'Casablanca'
Born

December 24th, 1886
138 years ago

Died

April 10th, 1962
63 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

A Hungarian-American director, producer, and screenwriter, specialized in filmmaking during the early to mid-20th century. Relocated to the United States, where contributions to the film industry included a wide range of genres. Directed several iconic films, with 'Casablanca' being one of the most celebrated works. Received an Academy Award for Best Director for the film 'Angels with Dirty Faces'. Pioneered various cinematic techniques that influenced future filmmakers.

Directed 'Casablanca'

Won Academy Award for 'Angels with Dirty Faces'

Directed 'Mildred Pierce'

Other People Born on December 24th

Oleg Skripochka

Russian astronaut and engineer
Born
December 24th, 1969 55 years ago

An astronaut and engineer from Russia participated in multiple missions to the International Space Station. Contributed to various scientific experiments during expeditions, including Expeditions 23, 24, and 29. Played a significant role in maintenance and operation aboard the ISS, focusing on technology development and space research. Engaged in numerous spacewalks and implemented upgrades to the station's systems and equipment.

Continue Reading

Isaac De Gois

Rugby league player, NRL competitor
Born
December 24th, 1984 40 years ago

A rugby league player, represented clubs in the National Rugby League (NRL) including the Newcastle Knights, Parramatta Eels, and the Cronulla Sharks. De Gois played as a hooker and made significant contributions to his teams during his professional career. His career spanned over a decade, making regular appearances in the NRL and showcasing his skills on the field. De Gois's efforts culminated in participation in the competition's notable matches.

Continue Reading

Ava Helen Pauling

American humanitarian and activist
Born
December 24th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1903, a notable humanitarian and activist focused on nuclear disarmament and peace advocacy. Worked alongside husband Linus Pauling to promote international peace and disarmament efforts. Joined various organizations, including the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, advocating for social justice and civil rights. Engaged in campaigns against nuclear testing and contributed to the establishment of the World Peace Movement.

Continue Reading

Matthew Arnold

English poet and literary critic.
Born
December 24th, 1822 202 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1888 137 years ago — 65 years old

An influential poet and literary critic in 19th century England, contributed significantly to English poetry and educational reform. Authored notable works like 'Dover Beach' and 'The Scholar-Gipsy,' showcasing a blend of lyrical beauty and philosophical themes. Offered critical insights through essays on culture and society, notably in 'Culture and Anarchy'. Served as an inspector of schools, advocating for educational improvement and public access to literature.

Continue Reading

Mary Higgins Clark

Author of suspense novels
Born
December 24th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 93 years old

An American author recognized for writing suspense novels. Began writing stories as a child, eventually becoming a prolific writer with her first book published in 1975. Gained popularity with titles such as 'Where Are the Children?' and 'A Stranger Is Watching'. Achieved significant commercial success with numerous books reaching bestseller lists. Received multiple awards for her work, including the Mystery Writers of America's Grand Master Award.

Continue Reading

Honoré II

Prince of Monaco and cultural patron
Born
December 24th, 1597 427 years ago
Died
1662 363 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1597, a prince of Monaco, ruled from 1604 until death in 1662. As a leader, focused on developing Monaco's economy and culture. Established the Grimaldi family's power during a tumultuous period in European history. Implemented various reforms and engaged in diplomatic efforts to strengthen Monaco's position. His reign marked a significant progression in the principality's governance and its relations with neighboring states.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 10th

Giacomo Antonio Perti

Italian composer of sacred music
Born
1661 364 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1756 269 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent composer during the late Baroque period, contributed significantly to the development of sacred music in Italy. Worked primarily in Bologna, where composed numerous motets, oratorios, and other liturgical works. Held the position of maestro di capella at the Basilica di San Petronio in Bologna for many years. His compositions are characterized by their elaborate melodies and harmonic richness, reflecting the style of his contemporaries while also exhibiting personal originality.

Continue Reading

Hendrik Nicolaas Werkman

Dutch printer and typographer
Born
April 29th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1945 80 years ago — 62 years old

A significant figure in the field of printing and typography, focused on experimental graphics and typographical design. Werkman established his own printing workshop in Groningen, where innovative techniques were employed. He produced unique works that merged philosophy, poetry, and visual art, influencing the modern graphic design movement. His works, particularly those from the 1940s, showcased a distinctive blend of color and form, contributing greatly to modern typographic practices. Werkman was also involved with the Dutch resistance during World War II.

Continue Reading

Evelyn Waugh

Novelist and journalist; wrote 'Brideshead Revisited'
Born
October 28th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1966 59 years ago — 62 years old

An English soldier, novelist, journalist, and critic, this individual became prominent in the early 20th century. Initial military service took place during World War II, followed by a literary career highlighted by sharp social commentary and satire. Major works include 'A Handful of Dust' and 'Brideshead Revisited', the latter exploring themes of faith and friendship among the British aristocracy. Contributions to literature expanded through essays and criticism, addressing cultural and political issues of the time.

Continue Reading

Kay Medford

American actress and singer
Born
September 14th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1980 45 years ago — 60 years old

An actress and singer contributed significantly to film and theatre. Gained recognition for the role of ‘Rose’ in the Broadway musical ‘Funny Girl’. Performed in various productions, showcasing vocal talent and acting skills. Appeared in films such as ‘The Music Man’ and ‘The Great Race’, further establishing a career in entertainment. Received nominations for various awards acknowledging performances in both film and stage. Later transitioned to television, with notable appearances in shows that reflected her musical prowess.

Continue Reading

Jacopo Mazzoni

Italian philosopher of the Renaissance
Born
November 27th, 1548 476 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1598 427 years ago — 49 years old

Mazzoni contributed to philosophy during the Italian Renaissance. His works explored various topics including metaphysics and the relationship between philosophy and poetry. He was associated with the literary and philosophical circles of his time, engaging in debates and discussions that would influence future thinkers. Mazzoni's ideas often reflected a blend of classical philosophy with contemporary thought, emphasizing the value of reason and intellectual inquiry. His notable philosophical treatise addressed the nature of the universe and humanity's place within it, providing insight into the prevailing thoughts of his era. The legacy includes influence on both philosophical discourse and poetic form.

Continue Reading

Angela Voigt

German long jumper Olympic medalist
Born
May 18th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2013 12 years ago — 61 years old

Competed in long jump, representing Germany. Secured a silver medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Achieved success in European competition, winning gold medals at the European Athletics Championships in 1982 and 1986. Established herself as one of the top long jumpers of her time through consistent performances and technical skill.

Continue Reading