Ray Hnatyshyn
Canadian lawyer and 24th Governor General
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 24th Governor General of Canada from 1990 to 1995. Hnatyshyn held various roles, including Minister of Multiculturalism and Citizenship. His tenure as Governor General was marked by a focus on youth engagement and the arts. Before his appointment, he was a member of Parliament representing the Liberal Party. Contributed to significant discussions regarding Canadian identity and multiculturalism during his political career. After leaving office, remained active in the legal field and contributed to charitable organizations.
Served as the 24th Governor General of Canada
Held the position of Minister of Multiculturalism and Citizenship
Represented the Liberal Party in Parliament
Other People Born on March 16th
Rosa Bonheur
Painter of 'The Horse Fair'
Born
March 16th, 1822 204 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1899 126 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1822, this artist gained recognition for detailed animal paintings, particularly horses. Growing up in Paris, significant influence from the art community shaped her work. A pioneer for women in the arts, she often dressed in traditionally male attire to facilitate her access to rural areas for studying animals. 'The Horse Fair', completed in 1855, showcased her skill in capturing the movement and spirit of horses. This work gained critical acclaim during the Paris Salon, establishing her reputation as a leading artist of the time. Her dedication to realism and the naturalistic portrayal of animals set trends within the art community. An animal lover, she owned and cared for a variety of species, reflecting her passion in her paintings. Throughout her career, numerous exhibitions featured her works, solidifying her status in the art world.
Continue ReadingReggie Walker
South African Olympic sprinter
Born
March 16th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1951 74 years ago — 62 years old
Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting events. Claimed the gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1908 London Olympics, becoming the first South African to win an Olympic gold. Participated in the 1906 Intercalated Games where a silver medal was earned in the 110-meter hurdles. Held the South African 100 yards record for several years. Helped promote athletics in South Africa through various competitions and events throughout his career.
Continue ReadingGösta Mittag-Leffler
Mathematician, founder of Acta Mathematica
Born
March 16th, 1846 180 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1927 98 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical analysis, the theory of functions, and complex analysis. Founded the journal Acta Mathematica in 1882, which became a prominent platform for mathematical research. Served as a professor at the University of Stockholm, where formalized and advanced various mathematical theories. Involved in the establishment of several mathematical societies and contributed to the organization of international mathematical congresses.
Continue ReadingLeo McKern
Actor, known for 'Rumpole of the Bailey'
Born
March 16th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Australia, McKern became a prominent actor in both Australian and English theatre and television. He gained attention for his work in various productions prior to rising to fame with his role in the series 'Rumpole of the Bailey'. McKern also appeared in films and on stage, showcasing a range of characters that highlighted his versatility. His performances spanned several decades, earning recognition for his contributions to the performing arts.
Continue ReadingIvan Toney
Footballer and record goalscorer
Born
March 16th, 1996 30 years ago
A professional footballer, Toney played as a striker. Development took place at several clubs including Newcastle United, where limited first-team opportunities arose. A successful loan spell at Barnsley showcased goal-scoring ability, leading to a transfer to Brentford. At Brentford, Toney achieved notable recognition and became the club's all-time leading goalscorer in a single season. Performance in the Championship helped secure promotion to the Premier League for the 2021-2022 season. He contributed to the team's inaugural Premier League campaign.
Continue ReadingNapoléon
Prince Imperial of France
Born
March 16th, 1856 170 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1879 146 years ago — 23 years old
Born in 1856, he served as the Prince Imperial of the French Empire. The singular son of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, he was designated to continue the Bonaparte legacy. He moved to England following the fall of the Second Empire in France. During the Franco-Prussian War, he enlisted in the British Army and later joined the 1st Battalion of the 60th Rifles. He participated in the Zulu War in 1879, where he met his end during the Battle of Isandlwana.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 18th
Majel Barrett
Actress and producer, Star Trek series
Born
February 23rd, 1932 94 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
An American actress and producer, she featured prominently in the Star Trek franchise. Barrett portrayed Nurse Christine Chapel in the original Star Trek series and provided the voice for the ship's computer in multiple Star Trek series and films. She became an influential figure within the franchise, contributing to the development of its iconic universe. Additionally, she produced various Star Trek series, further shaping the legacy of the franchise through her creative involvement.
Continue ReadingAlfonso II of Naples
King of Naples and Sicily, patron of arts
Born
November 4th, 1448 577 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1495 530 years ago — 47 years old
Ruled as King of Naples from 1494 until his abdication in 1495. Under the reign, the kingdom was marked by significant cultural developments and he supported artists and scholars. His reign witnessed the consolidation of power and the expansion of the kingdom's influence in Italy. Abdicated the throne in favor of his son, demonstrating a commitment to the continuity of the royal line despite political challenges. Died shortly after his abdication.
Continue ReadingMark Felt
FBI Agent and Watergate Informant
Born
August 17th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 95 years old
Served as an associate director of the FBI and played a pivotal role in the Watergate scandal as an anonymous whistleblower. Provided information to journalists that led to the exposure of the scandal involving President Richard Nixon's administration. Felt's revelations regarding illegal activities by government officials were crucial in the investigation. After years of anonymity, he publicly revealed his identity in 2005.
Continue ReadingSam Wanamaker
American actor and director of stage
Born
June 14th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1993 32 years ago — 74 years old
An American actor and director, was instrumental in the reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London. Started a career in acting during the 1940s, appearing in various films and television series. Faced difficulties during the McCarthy era due to political accusations. Transitioned to directing, with a significant focus on theater, particularly in the UK. Established the Globe Theatre Trust in 1970, which was dedicated to recreating the historic venue. The theater opened in 1997, several years after the passing of its founder.
Continue ReadingPaul Tortelier
Cellist and composer of note
Born
March 21st, 1914 112 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1990 35 years ago — 76 years old
A distinguished cellist and composer, contributed significantly to the world of classical music. Held memberships in prominent orchestras and taught at renowned conservatories. Frequently performed with various orchestras, bringing cello repertoire to diverse audiences. Composed original works that showcased the instrument's capabilities. Promoted the art of cello through inspiring performances and educational efforts.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Lamarck
Biologist and early evolution theorist
Born
August 1st, 1744 281 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1829 196 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to early biological thought. Developed the concept of inheritance of acquired characteristics, which proposed that organisms could pass traits developed during their lifetime to their offspring. Served as a soldier before embarking on a scientific career. Held academic positions, notably at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris. His work laid groundwork for later evolutionary theories, although some ideas were later revised or challenged.
Continue Reading