Raymond Chandler
Crime novelist and screenwriter
Chandler was an American novelist and screenwriter active during the early to mid-20th century. He is recognized for his contributions to the hard-boiled detective genre, creating complex characters and intricate plots. His most famous work, 'The Big Sleep', introduced the character Philip Marlowe, a private detective navigating a corrupt society. Chandler also worked on screenplays for films such as 'Double Indemnity' and 'Strangers on a Train'. His writing style, characterized by vivid descriptions and sharp dialogue, has influenced numerous authors and filmmakers.
Authored 'The Big Sleep'
Contributed to 'Double Indemnity' screenplay
Created the character Philip Marlowe
Other People Born on July 23rd
Philip Seymour Hoffman
Actor and director; Academy Award winner
Born
July 23rd, 1967 58 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 46 years old
An accomplished actor and director, recognized for versatility in film and theater. Gained acclaim for roles in 'Capote', 'The Master', and 'Doubt'. Directed the play 'Long Day's Journey Into Night' and co-founded the Labyrinth Theater Company. Honored with numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for 'Capote' and multiple Tony Awards for stage performances.
Continue ReadingAnthony Kennedy
U.S. Supreme Court Justice with landmark opinions
Born
July 23rd, 1936 89 years ago
Served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1988 until retirement in 2018. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan, contributed to key decisions on issues such as free speech, abortion, and same-sex marriage. Played a pivotal role in shaping modern constitutional law. Kennedy's opinions often reflected a centrist approach, influencing pivotal cases and establishing precedents that continue to affect American society.
Continue ReadingHaile Selassie
Ethiopian Emperor and Rastafarian icon
Born
July 23rd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1975 50 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1892, the ruler of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974 led the country through significant political changes, including resistance against Italian invasion during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War. In 1963, this emperor played a key role in the formation of the Organization of African Unity, promoting African unity and cooperation. His reign witnessed modernization efforts and political strife, ultimately leading to his overthrow during a coup in 1974. After his exile, he became a central figure in Rastafarian beliefs, symbolizing resistance against oppression.
Continue ReadingClive Rice
Cricketer and coach, South African leader
Born
July 23rd, 1949 76 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
Played as a prominent all-rounder in South African cricket from the 1970s to the 1990s. Captained the national team and led the squad during the early years of post-apartheid cricket. Excelled in both batting and bowling, achieving significant statistics in first-class cricket. Following retirement, transitioned to coaching and worked to develop cricket in South Africa.
Continue ReadingMaria João Pires
Pianist renowned for classical performances
Born
July 23rd, 1944 81 years ago
A celebrated pianist, notable for performances of classical music, particularly works of Beethoven, Mozart, and Chopin. Gained international acclaim for solo recitals and collaborations with esteemed orchestras. Engaged in educational pursuits, initiating projects to promote classical music and nurture young talent. Received numerous honors and awards throughout a distinguished career, including the prestigious Crystal Award from the World Economic Forum.
Continue ReadingSusan Graham
American soprano and educator
Born
July 23rd, 1960 65 years ago
An acclaimed soprano, this individual achieved recognition for performances in opera and concert. She performed leading roles in works by composers including Benjamin Britten and Richard Strauss. Contributions to education in the arts also marked her career, providing mentorship to young artists and promoting vocal training. This soprano received several prestigious awards for achievements in music, including Grammy Awards.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 26th
Arne Bendiksen
Norwegian singer and composer
Born
October 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 82 years old
A significant figure in Norwegian music, contributed extensively as both a singer and composer. Achieved recognition for songwriting and performing, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Composed several hit songs that resonated with the public. Successfully participated in the Eurovision Song Contest as a representative for Norway, showcasing talents on an international stage.
Continue ReadingInnocent Vareed Thekkethala
Indian actor and politician
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 75 years old
An actor and politician from India, played significant roles in Malayalam cinema. Acted in over 700 films and became a prominent figure in the industry. Entered politics and served as a Member of Parliament. Gained recognition for comedic and character roles in various films throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Contributed to the cultural landscape of Indian cinema while engaging in public service.
Continue ReadingSisto Averno
American football player and coach
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
Played college football at the University of Notre Dame where the team won the national championship in 1943. After college, played professionally in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Giants. Transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for several teams at the high school and college level. Contributed to the development of many players through coaching roles.
Continue ReadingGeraldine Ferraro
American politician and lawyer
Born
August 26th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2011 14 years ago — 75 years old
Ferraro served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1979 to 1985, representing New York's 9th congressional district. In 1984, she became the first female vice presidential candidate on a major party ticket, running alongside Democratic nominee Walter Mondale. Ferraro's candidacy marked a significant milestone in U.S. political history, paving the way for future female candidates in high-level political positions. After leaving Congress, Ferraro engaged in various roles, including work as a political commentator and author.
Continue ReadingThomas M. Cover
Information theorist and author
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Contributed significantly to information theory and statistical learning. Co-authored the influential textbook 'Elements of Information Theory' with Joy A. Thomas, which became a foundational text in the field. Served as a professor at Stanford University, where research focused on topics such as pattern recognition, data compression, and statistical inference. Engaged in work that explored the convergence of learning algorithms and information theory principles.
Continue ReadingFriedrich L. Bauer
Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
June 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions to computer science included work on algorithms and programming languages. Pioneered concepts in software engineering and data structures. Held a professorship at the Technical University of Munich. Authored influential texts on algorithms and computational complexity.
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