Piero Taruffi
Italian racing driver and motorcycle racer
Competed in both car and motorcycle racing. Participated in the Mille Miglia and achieved notable success in the 1950s. Drove for teams such as Ferrari and Maserati. Won the 1954 Mille Miglia and finished second in the 1955 race. Continued to race in various competitions until the late 1960s, remaining involved in motorsport as a journalist and commentator.
Won the 1954 Mille Miglia
Finished second in the 1955 Mille Miglia
Competed for Ferrari and Maserati
Other People Born on October 12th
Ferdia Walsh-Peelo
Irish actor and musician in 'Sing Street'
Born
October 12th, 1999 26 years ago
An Irish actor and musician, gained prominence through a leading role in the film 'Sing Street'. The film, set in 1980s Dublin, focused on a group of teenagers forming a band to impress a girl and navigate the challenges of adolescence. This role showcased musical talent alongside acting. Additionally, contributions were made to other projects in film and music, establishing a presence within the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOlivia Smoliga
American swimmer, Olympic medalist
Born
October 12th, 1994 31 years ago
Accomplished swimmer specializing in freestyle and backstroke events. Competed for the United States at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, contributing to a silver medal win in the women's 4x100-meter medley relay. Swam at Stanford University, achieving multiple All-American honors and NCAA championships. Participated in various international competitions, consistently earning medals and recognition for outstanding performances.
Continue ReadingBrian J. Smith
American actor and 'Sense8' star
Born
October 12th, 1981 44 years ago
An American actor born in 1981, recognized for performances in film, television, and theater. Gained prominence through the role of Will Gorski in the Netflix series 'Sense8'. Appeared in the television series 'Stargate Universe' as Matthew Scott. Engaged in numerous theater productions, showcasing a range of acting skills across genres.
Continue ReadingOwen Watkin
Welsh rugby player, British & Irish Lions member
Born
October 12th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, a professional rugby player specializing in centre positions. Competed at the club level for Ospreys in the United Rugby Championship. Represented Wales at various levels, including senior international matches. Selected for the British & Irish Lions tour in 2021, contributing to the team's efforts against South Africa. Known for strong defensive skills and notable performances in international competitions.
Continue ReadingAnna Iljuštšenko
Estonian High Jumper, Olympic Competitor
Born
October 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, a prominent high jumper represented Estonia in international competitions. Achievements include competing at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and participating in European Championships. Established personal records throughout the career, becoming a significant figure in Estonian athletics.
Continue ReadingSimon Bridges
New Zealand politician and former leader
Born
October 12th, 1976 49 years ago
A member of the National Party, served as the Leader of the Opposition from 2018 to 2020. Represented the Tauranga electorate in Parliament since 2008. Held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Transport and Minister of Energy and Resources. Focused on economic development and infrastructure during tenure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 12th
Maximilian I
Holy Roman Emperor, known for political reforms
Born
March 22nd, 1459 566 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1519 506 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1493 until his death in 1519. Worked to strengthen the power of the Habsburg dynasty through strategic marriages and alliances. Initiated significant military campaigns and reforms within the empire. Played a pivotal role in the political landscape of Renaissance Europe, establishing a foundation for the influence of the Habsburgs in subsequent generations. Negotiated treaties to secure peace and expand territorial claims, aiming to consolidate authority over fragmented regions.
Continue ReadingJohann Melchior Molter
German composer and violinist
Born
February 10th, 1696 329 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1765 260 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in the Baroque music era, contributed significantly to the development of violin music and composed numerous concertos and chamber works. Strongly influenced the musical landscape of the time through innovative compositions. Also played a crucial role in the evolution of orchestral music, with many pieces showcasing the capabilities of string instruments. Molter's works were characterized by their melodic inventiveness and harmonic richness, reflecting the stylistic transition from the Baroque to the Classical period.
Continue ReadingOscar Florianus Bluemner
Painter and illustrator of color theories
Born
June 21st, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1938 87 years ago — 70 years old
A German-American painter and illustrator, this individual contributed significantly to the development of modern color theory within the visual arts. Arriving in the United States in the early 20th century, this artist created a body of work characterized by vibrant colors and abstract forms. The artist's work combined elements of landscape and abstraction, demonstrating a unique approach to light and color. Most notably, incorporation of German expressionism influenced many of the paintings created during this period. The individual exhibited frequently and gained recognition among contemporary art circles.
Continue ReadingCyrus Vance
American lawyer and Secretary of State
Born
March 27th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 57th United States Secretary of State from 1977 to 1980 under President Jimmy Carter. Focused on foreign policy, particularly in détente with the Soviet Union and promoting peace in the Middle East. Prior to this role, worked as an attorney and engaged in various governmental positions, including service as a Deputy Under Secretary of State and as an Assistant Secretary of the Army. Advocated for human rights and arms control during tenure as Secretary of State. Played a significant role in negotiating the Camp David Accords alongside Carter and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, establishing a framework for peace in the region. After leaving office, continued participation in foreign policy discussions through various organizations.
Continue ReadingJames Killen
Australian soldier and politician
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2007 18 years ago — 82 years old
Served in the Australian Army during World War II. Held the position of the 38th Minister for Defence from 1969 to 1972. Worked as a lawyer after military service and entered politics, representing the Australian House of Representatives for the Liberal Party. Advocated for national security issues throughout his political career.
Continue ReadingKarl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel
German philosopher and critic of literature
Born
March 10th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1829 196 years ago — 56 years old
A key figure of German Romanticism, contributed to philosophy and literary criticism. Developed ideas on aesthetics that influenced future thinkers. Co-founded the journal "Athenaeum" with his brother, promoting Romantic literary theories. His translations and interpretations of ancient texts expanded the reach of philosophy and literature. Engaged with various cultural currents of the time, advocating for a synthesis of philosophy, art, and science through a broader human experience.
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