Norma Shearer
Canadian-American actress most famous for 'The Divorcee'
Born in Canada, one of early cinema's prominent actresses. Transitioned to Hollywood and gained fame during the 1920s and 1930s. Achieved significant success with roles in films such as 'The Divorcee', which won an Academy Award for Best Actress. Played pivotal roles in romance and drama films and became a leading lady at MGM Studios. Notable for her sophisticated on-screen presence and ability to portray complex characters. Contributed to the Golden Age of Hollywood, receiving accolades for performances and serving as a pioneer for women in film.
Starred in 'The Divorcee', winning an Academy Award
Appeared in 'Marie Antoinette'
Featured in 'The Barretts of Wimpole Street'
Other People Born on August 10th
Juan Manuel Santos
Colombian President and Peace Advocate
Born
August 10th, 1951 74 years ago
A businessman and politician, served as the 59th President of Colombia from 2010 to 2018. Spearheaded the peace negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to end over five decades of conflict, resulting in a historic peace accord in 2016. Focused on economic development, social equity, and strengthening international relations during presidency. Previously held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Defense, where strategies were implemented to reduce violence and improve security in the country.
Continue ReadingJustin Theroux
Actor from 'The Leftovers' and 'Mulholland Drive'
Born
August 10th, 1971 54 years ago
An American actor and screenwriter, contributed significantly to television and film. Gained recognition for performances in HBO's 'The Leftovers' and David Lynch's 'Mulholland Drive'. Also worked as a writer, collaborating with notable directors. Engaged in projects across various genres, including comedy and thriller.
Continue ReadingBarry Unsworth
English-Italian author and academic
Born
August 10th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
An author and academic, contributed significantly to literature through a range of novels that often explore themes of historical and social significance. Achieved recognition for works that delve into the complexities of human experience, and the impact of history on modern life. Received prestigious accolades, including the Booker Prize in 1992 for the novel 'Sacred Hunger', which examines the transatlantic slave trade and its ramifications. His writing includes both fiction and historical narratives that reflect deep research and engagement with historical contexts.
Continue ReadingKate O'Mara
English actress in 'Dynasty'
Born
August 10th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
An English actress appeared in various television series and films, gaining recognition for a prominent role in the soap opera 'Dynasty' as Cassandra. O'Mara's career spanned several decades, with a notable presence in British television. She also appeared in the series 'Doctor Who' as the character The Rani. In addition to her television roles, she performed in theatre and took part in productions across the UK.
Continue ReadingCamillo Benso
Italian politician, 1st Prime Minister of Italy
Born
August 10th, 1810 215 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1861 164 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent Italian soldier and politician, served as the 1st Prime Minister of Italy. Played a crucial role in the unification of Italy during the 19th century. Instrumental in diplomatic negotiations and military strategies that led to the consolidation of the Italian states into a single nation. Emphasized modernization and economic development during tenure. His leadership significantly shaped the modern Italian political landscape.
Continue ReadingLeo Fender
American businessman and guitar inventor
Born
August 10th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1991 34 years ago — 81 years old
Founded Fender Musical Instruments Corporation in 1946, revolutionizing the music industry with electric guitars and amplifiers. Developed iconic instruments such as the Telecaster and Stratocaster, which became staples in rock and roll and blues music. Provided innovative designs that influenced generations of musicians. Contributed to the advancement of electric music technology and shaped the sound of modern music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Hermann Scherchen
Conductor and viola player in classical music
Born
June 21st, 1891 134 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1966 59 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent conductor and viola player, contributed significantly to classical music throughout his career. Conducted orchestras in numerous prestigious venues and festivals, promoting contemporary compositions alongside classical masterpieces. Established a reputation for innovative interpretations and dedication to the works of major composers. Alongside conducting, performed extensively as a viola soloist, showcasing talent and skill in both chamber and orchestral music.
Continue ReadingAleksandr Deyneka
Russian painter and sculptor, wartime art
Born
May 20th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1969 56 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1899, this artist contributed significantly to Soviet art. Deyneka's career spanned various forms of painting and sculpture, focusing on themes of labor and heroism. His work during World War II included propaganda art that celebrated the Soviet military effort. He was associated with the artistic movement known as Socialist Realism, which aimed to depict the ideals of communism and promote Soviet values. Deyneka taught at various institutions and participated in numerous exhibitions throughout his career, leaving a lasting legacy in Russian visual arts.
Continue ReadingJames FitzJames
French general and politician
Born
August 21st, 1670 355 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1734 291 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1670, served as a military leader in the French army. Held the title of 1st Duke of Berwick and played a key role in various battles during the War of the Spanish Succession. Appointed Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, overseeing local governance. Recognized for efforts in military strategy and administration.
Continue ReadingMenachem Mendel Schneerson
Rabbi and Chabad-Lubavitch leader
Born
April 5th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Russia, served as the seventh leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Guided the movement from New York, expanding its reach globally. Emphasized the importance of education, outreach, and the study of Jewish texts. Played a significant role in the revitalization of Jewish life in post-Holocaust communities.
Continue ReadingNicole Brown Simpson
Restaurant employee and murder victim
Born
1968 57 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1959, worked in various restaurants and was previously married to NFL player O. J. Simpson. Resided in Los Angeles, where she became a significant figure in a high-profile criminal case. Brown Simpson was found murdered in 1994, and the case garnered extensive media attention and public interest, leading to one of the most publicized trials in American history.
Continue ReadingGyörgy Ligeti
Hungarian-Austrian composer of avant-garde music
Born
May 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1923, this composer contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. Emigrated to the West in 1956, settling in Austria. Worked with various forms of music, including orchestral, choral, and chamber compositions. Influenced by multiple musical styles and integrated complex rhythms and textures into works. Achieved recognition for compositions such as "Atmosphères," "Lux Aeterna," and the opera "Le Grand Macabre."
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