Pérez Prado
Cuban-Mexican bandleader and musician
This musician, born in Cuba and later based in Mexico, played a key role in popularizing mambo music during the mid-20th century. As a bandleader, created a distinct sound that blended Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz. The mambo hits, including 'Mambo No. 5' and 'Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White,' became internationally recognized and widely performed. His energetic performances and innovative arrangements contributed to the genre's global appeal and left a lasting influence on Latin music.
Popularized mambo music
Performed 'Mambo No. 5'
Released 'Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White'
Other People Born on December 11th
Christina Onassis
Businesswoman and heiress of Onassis fortune
Born
December 11th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1988 37 years ago — 38 years old
Born to a prominent shipping magnate, established a significant presence in business and social circles. Managed her father's extensive shipping company after his passing. Engaged in various ventures including real estate, while also involved in philanthropic efforts. Life was marked by public scrutiny and personal challenges, including a high-profile marriage and subsequent divorce.
Continue ReadingGerd Arntz
Modernist artist, co-creator of Isotype
Born
December 11th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 38 years ago — 88 years old
An artist associated with the modernist movement, contributed significantly to visual communication through the development of the Isotype (International System of Typographic Picture Education). The Isotype aimed to present information visually, utilizing simple and clear symbols to convey complex ideas. This system became influential in various fields, including education, sociology, and design. Arntz's work was characterized by bold graphics and a commitment to clarity, reflecting the ideals of the modernist aesthetic during the early to mid-20th century. Collaborated with other artists and thinkers to promote the use of visual language in presenting statistical data and social information.
Continue ReadingSantiago Creel
Mexican politician and Secretary of the Interior
Born
December 11th, 1954 71 years ago
A lawyer and politician involved in the Mexican political landscape since the late 20th century. Served as Secretary of the Interior from 2000 to 2003 under President Vicente Fox. Elected to the Chamber of Deputies and held positions within the National Action Party (PAN). Focused on issues related to security and governance during his tenure. Participated in various electoral processes, advocating for reforms within the party's structure and electoral laws.
Continue ReadingMichael Lang
Concert promoter and producer of Woodstock
Born
December 11th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2022 4 years ago — 77 years old
A concert promoter and producer played a pivotal role in organizing the original Woodstock Music and Arts Festival in 1969. This event became a landmark festival that symbolized a generation’s counterculture and passion for music. Lang later contributed to the revival of Woodstock in 1994 and 1999, showcasing a variety of artists and bands from different genres. Through these festivals, a new era of music festivals emerged, influencing the concert promotion industry significantly.
Continue ReadingGeorge Mason
American lawyer and statesman, Constitution
Born
December 11th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1792 233 years ago — 66 years old
A significant figure in the founding of the United States, he played a central role in the drafting of the Virginia Declaration of Rights in 1776. Mason's advocacy for individual liberties and religious freedom set a precedent for future constitutional reforms. He was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in 1787 but refused to sign due to concerns over the lack of a bill of rights. Later, he became an influential voice in Virginia's discussions surrounding the Constitution.
Continue ReadingMaila Nurmi
Actress and producer known as Vampira
Born
December 11th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2008 18 years ago — 85 years old
An actress, producer, and screenwriter, gained recognition as the character Vampira, featuring in the 1956 film 'Plan 9 from Outer Space'. Created a television show in the 1950s that showcased horror films, becoming an early pioneer of horror television. Managed to capture the public's attention with unique style and personality.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 14th
Juliet Prowse
Actress known for 'Funny Face'
Born
September 25th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1996 29 years ago — 59 years old
Born in South Africa, a prominent actress, singer, and dancer gained recognition for performances in film, television, and theater. Prowse gained significant acclaim for starring in the film 'Funny Face' alongside Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn. Additionally, notable television appearances included roles on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Hollywood Palace'. Prowse also showcased her dance skills on Broadway, contributing to productions such as 'Can-Can'. Her career spanned several decades, with performances reflecting a blend of talent in singing and dancing, further solidifying her presence during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingTom Roberts
Painter and educator of Australian art
Born
1856 170 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1931 94 years ago — 75 years old
A painter and educator, this individual played a significant role in the development of Australian Impressionism. Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributions included participation in the famous '8 by 5' exhibition in Melbourne. The artist's works often depicted Australian landscapes and rural life. Notable pieces include 'Shearing the Rams' and 'The Golden Fleece'. The career spanned various roles, including teaching and mentoring younger artists, influencing the art community in Australia.
Continue ReadingBachir Gemayel
Lebanese commander and political leader
Born
November 10th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1982 43 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1947, a prominent Lebanese commander and politician played a significant role in the Lebanese Civil War. As a leader of the Phalangist Party, held a key position in the Lebanese Forces, which became a dominant militia during the conflict. Elected as President of Lebanon in 1982, faced considerable challenges during his tenure due to the ongoing civil strife and regional tensions. Assassinated in September 1982 shortly after taking office, his legacy remains influential in Lebanese politics.
Continue ReadingJanet Gaynor
Actress and Academy Award winner
Born
October 6th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1984 41 years ago — 77 years old
An American actress began her career in silent films, achieving fame for performances in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Won the first Academy Award for Best Actress in 1929 for her roles in 'Seventh Heaven', 'Street Angel', and 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans'. Continued to work in film throughout the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in several notable productions. Transitioned to television in the later stages of her career, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until her retirement.
Continue ReadingJohn McPhee
American author and educator, 'Coming into the Country'
Born
March 8th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1952 73 years ago — 21 years old
An author and educator, this individual has made significant contributions to literature, particularly in the genre of nonfiction. A graduate of Princeton University, taught writing at universities including Princeton and the University of California, Berkeley. Wrote extensively about environmental issues, sports, and American culture. Authored numerous books, with 'Coming into the Country' highlighting the Alaskan wilderness and its inhabitants. Recipient of multiple awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1999 for 'Annals of the Former World'.
Continue ReadingWayne Morris
American actor in 'Casablanca'
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1959 66 years ago — 45 years old
An actor, singer, and producer, recognized primarily for performances in films during the 1940s. Appeared in the classic movie 'Casablanca' as Captain Frank H. L. McLeod. Also featured in other films such as 'Pride of the Marines' and 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'. Alongside acting, engaged in music and produced various projects. His versatile career spanned multiple roles, contributing to the entertainment industry until his passing.
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