Michael Joseph Savage
Union leader and Prime Minister of NZ
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
New Zealand
Links & References
Served as the 23rd Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1935 until 1940. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the welfare state in New Zealand, implementing various social reforms that improved living standards. Prior to political leadership, was actively involved in union organization and worked to improve workers' rights. His government focused on economic recovery during the Great Depression and initiated significant public works programs. Advocated for social justice and equality, contributing to the foundation of modern New Zealand's social policy.
Founded the New Zealand welfare state
Led the Labour Party to victory in 1935
Implemented the Social Security Act of 1938
Other People Born on March 23rd
Jon Finlayson
Australian Actor and Screenwriter
Born
March 23rd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1938, this Australian actor and screenwriter gained recognition for contributions to film and television. Career highlights include significant roles in productions such as 'The Spy Who Came In from the Cold' and 'The Mummy'. Known for versatility, worked in both dramatic and comedic genres, contributing to a variety of screenplays and performances. Active in the industry for decades, the focus remained on creating engaging narratives and memorable characters.
Continue ReadingDietrich Eckart
German journalist and politician
Born
March 23rd, 1868 157 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1923 101 years ago — 55 years old
A journalist and politician, contributed significantly to the development of nationalist ideology in Germany during the early 20th century. Involved with the German Workers' Party and later the National Socialist German Workers' Party, played a key role in shaping the party's early direction. Worked as an influential writer and editor, promoting nationalistic ideas through various publications. In addition to political activities, engaged in cultural and literary circles, influencing various thinkers and political figures of the time.
Continue ReadingDane Rudhyar
Astrologer, author, and composer
Born
March 23rd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1985 40 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1895, this French-American figure made significant contributions to astrology, combining psychological insights with astrological practices. The works on harmony and the connection between astrology and psychology established a foundation for modern astrological thought. The influence extended to music composition, with a focus on the interplay between sound and consciousness. Publications included influential texts that reshaped the understanding of personal and collective astrology.
Continue ReadingYevgeny Grishin
Speed Skater, Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
March 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2005 20 years ago — 74 years old
Competitor in speed skating during the late 20th century. Achieved significant success at national and international levels. Won a gold medal in the men's 500 meters at the 1960 Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley. Additionally earned multiple titles at World Championships, showcasing exceptional skills in long-distance and sprint events. Contributed to the development of the sport in Russia.
Continue ReadingRic Ocasek
Rock band frontman and producer
Born
March 23rd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2019 6 years ago — 75 years old
Singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer originated from Maryland but gained prominence in the late 1970s as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the rock band The Cars. The band achieved significant commercial success with hit songs such as "Just What I Needed," "Shake It Up," and "Drive." Ocasek also contributed to the band’s distinctive sound through his innovative production techniques. Outside of his work with The Cars, Ocasek produced albums for several artists, demonstrating a wide-ranging influence in the music industry. His contributions were recognized when The Cars were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
Continue ReadingJurij Vega
Mathematician and physicist, artillery expert
Born
March 23rd, 1754 271 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1802 223 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent Slovene mathematician and physicist contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics in the 18th century. As an artillery officer, served in the Habsburg army and applied mathematical principles to improve artillery techniques and calculations. Published several important works on mathematics, including studies on ballistics and naval artillery. Engaged in educational activities, promoting scientific knowledge in military applications and mathematics. His contributions helped to advance artillery science during his time and influenced future developments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 27th
Jacob Veldhuyzen van Zanten
Dutch airline captain and pilot
Born
February 5th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1977 48 years ago — 50 years old
Born in the Netherlands in 1927, this individual served as a captain for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. He piloted various aircraft, gaining extensive experience in the aviation field. The most notable event in his career was leading Flight 4805, which tragically ended in a collision at Tenerife Airport in 1977, resulting in the deadliest airline accident in history. This incident greatly influenced aviation safety regulations and cockpit communication practices.
Continue ReadingJean-Marie Balestre
Businessman and Formula One president
Born
April 9th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the president of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) from 1978 to 1993. Played a significant role in the development and promotion of Formula One motor racing during his tenure. Oversaw the introduction of various regulations and measures aimed at improving safety in motorsport. Involved in the organization of the Monaco Grand Prix and the implementation of the World Rally Championship.
Continue ReadingYuri Gagarin
Russian cosmonaut and space pioneer
Born
March 9th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1968 57 years ago — 34 years old
A Soviet pilot and cosmonaut, became the first human to travel into space on April 12, 1961, aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft. The mission lasted 108 minutes, orbiting the Earth once. This historic flight marked a significant achievement in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. After the space flight, served as a deputy training director for future cosmonauts and participated in various public engagements promoting space exploration. Received numerous awards and decorations for contributions to space science and aeronautics until untimely death in a plane crash in 1968.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gilbert Scott
Architect, designer of the Albert Memorial
Born
1811 214 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1878 147 years ago — 67 years old
An English architect, contributed significantly to the Gothic Revival architectural style. Worked on numerous churches and public buildings throughout the 19th century, emphasizing the use of traditional Gothic elements. The design of the Albert Memorial, a monument in Kensington Gardens, remains a prominent example of his work. Additionally, designed St Mary's Cathedral in Glasgow, which showcases his skill in blending architectural styles and his influential approach to ecclesiastical design.
Continue ReadingRichard N. Frye
American scholar and academic expert
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old
An influential scholar in Persian studies, contributed significantly to the understanding of Iranian history and culture. Held academic positions at Harvard University and the University of Massachusetts. Founded the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard, which became a key institution for the study of the region. Authored several books and translated important Persian texts, enhancing Western knowledge of Persian literature and culture.
Continue ReadingSigismund Báthory
Transylvanian Prince and military leader
Born
1573 452 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1613 412 years ago — 40 years old
Served as Prince of Transylvania during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Ascended to the throne in 1593 and was involved in various military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership was marked by efforts to maintain Transylvanian autonomy amidst external pressures from neighboring powers. Báthory's rule faced challenges from both within and outside the principality, leading to eventual deposition due to political intrigue and military failures. Following his removal, he spent time in exile.
Continue Reading