Michael Curtiz
Film director known for 'Casablanca'
Born
Died
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
Carol Vorderman
Welsh television host and mathematician
Born
December 24th, 1960 65 years ago
A television presenter in the United Kingdom, noted for appearances on quiz shows and educational programs. Gained prominence for co-presenting the game show 'Countdown' from 1982 to 2008, where her skills in mathematics and witty personality captivated audiences. Also involved in various media projects, including radio shows and documentaries. Engaged in writing, contributing to books that emphasize mathematics education.
Continue ReadingYevgeniya Rudneva
Ukrainian lieutenant and pilot
Born
December 24th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1944 81 years ago — 23 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the Soviet Air Force during World War II. Rudneva flew combat missions and contributed to the defense of her country. She achieved significant success as a pilot, leading to her recognition within the military. Her service ended when she was killed in action in 1944.
Continue ReadingMark Valley
American actor in drama series
Born
December 24th, 1964 61 years ago
An actor featured prominently in television series, particularly in roles that showcase strong character development. Gained recognition for performances in the television series 'Valerie' and 'Boston Legal'. Demonstrated range through various guest appearances in popular series, including '24' and 'Body of Proof'.
Continue ReadingTommy Turtle
British soldier
Born
December 24th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 70 years old
Served in the British Army during critical military engagements. Participated in various operations, including deployments that involved combat and peacekeeping. Achieved the rank of Sergeant, demonstrating leadership and commitment to service. After retirement, contributed to veteran support organizations and worked on initiatives to aid transitioning soldiers.
Continue ReadingLibby Larsen
Composer and orchestral artist
Born
December 24th, 1950 75 years ago
An influential American composer, she has composed over 400 works spanning various genres, including orchestral, chamber, and vocal music. Collaborations with numerous theater companies and orchestras highlighted her career, significantly contributing to contemporary classical music. She co-founded the Minnesota Commissioning Club to promote new works. Larsen's compositions have been performed by major orchestras, leading to increased recognition in the field of contemporary classical music.
Continue ReadingMauricio Kagel
Composer and scholar of contemporary music
Born
December 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Argentina and later moving to Germany, this composer contributed significantly to the avant-garde music scene. He studied musicology, performance, and composition, blending elements of theater and music in innovative ways. Some compositions incorporated multimedia elements, exploring the relationship between sound and visual art. This composer was a professor at various institutions, influencing future generations of musicians and composers. Notable works include 'Zwei Augen' and 'Transición,' showcasing a unique approach to contemporary classical music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 10th
Morarji Desai
Indian politician and Prime Minister
Born
February 29th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1995 30 years ago — 99 years old
A civil servant and politician, served as the fourth Prime Minister of India from 1977 to 1979. Desai was a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Janata Party, playing a key role in Indian politics during the post-emergency period. His government focused on anti-corruption measures, grievances of the common citizen, and fiscal policies aimed at self-reliance. A proponent of the cooperative movement and rural development, he promoted the use of cottage industries and decentralization of power. Desai's tenure was marked by political challenges and economic adjustments in the wake of a previous state of emergency declared in India. After his resignation, he continued to be a significant figure in Indian politics until his retirement.
Continue ReadingRaymond Boudon
French sociologist and academic
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2013 12 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of sociology, focusing on rational choice theory and the role of education in social inequality. Worked extensively on the concept of social mobility and the mechanisms behind educational choices. Authored numerous influential texts including 'The Unintended Consequences of Social Action' and 'Education, Opportunity, and Social Inequality'. Served as a professor at the University of Paris 12 and held various academic positions throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingSantino Solari
Architect and sculptor of Swiss heritage
Born
1576 449 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1646 379 years ago — 70 years old
Active during the 17th century, contributed significantly to architecture and sculpture. Worked primarily in the region of Ticino. Designed several notable churches and public buildings, incorporating Baroque elements. Blended architectural design with sculpture, creating harmonious structures that are still appreciated today. Influenced the development of local architecture through innovative designs.
Continue ReadingNorbert Brainin
Violinist and member of the Amadeus Quartet
Born
March 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2005 20 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished violinist with a prominent role in the Amadeus Quartet, contributed significantly to chamber music. Studied at the Vienna Academy of Music and later became part of the quartet, which formed in 1947. This ensemble gained international recognition for its performances and recordings, particularly of classical repertoires. Highlighted the works of composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. His performances showcased a deep understanding of the musical forms and structures, enhancing the appreciation of chamber music worldwide. Continued to perform and teach, sharing expertise with new generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingHeinz Fraenkel-Conrat
Biochemist and physician in virology
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1999 26 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of virology, focusing on the structure and function of viruses. Developed the first successful strategy for purifying tobacco mosaic virus, paving the way for subsequent research in virology. Conducted early studies on the genetic nature of viruses, laying groundwork for future discoveries in molecular biology. Held academic positions at several universities and published extensively in scientific journals.
Continue ReadingAlgernon Charles Swinburne
English poet and playwright
Born
April 5th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1909 116 years ago — 72 years old
Born in England, a significant literary figure of the Victorian era, produced works characterized by their bold themes and innovative use of language. Authored several plays, including 'The Queen Mother' and 'Chastelard', alongside influential poetry collections such as 'Poems and Ballads'. His writing often explored themes of sexuality, politics, and nature, earning recognition for its lyrical beauty and complex structure. Contributed extensively to the development of the dramatic monologue and was associated with a group of poets known as the Pre-Raphaelites.
Continue Reading