Régine Crespin
Soprano and actress known for operatic roles
A prominent French soprano and actress, had a significant career in both opera and theater. Studied at the Paris Conservatory and made her debut in 1946 at the Opéra-Comique in Paris. Gained recognition for performances in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'Salome.' Collaborated with leading opera companies including the Metropolitan Opera and the Vienna State Opera. Also performed in musicals and concerts, showcasing a versatility in genres. Achieved acclaim for the richness and depth of the voice.
Major roles in 'Carmen' and 'Salome'
Performed at the Metropolitan Opera
Appeared in productions at the Vienna State Opera
Other People Born on February 23rd
Kevin Connauton
Ice hockey player, Vancouver Canucks
Born
February 23rd, 1990 35 years ago
This athlete played professional ice hockey primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL), with stints at various teams including the Vancouver Canucks, Dallas Stars, and Arizona Coyotes. Career in the NHL began after being drafted in 2011. Competed in the league for several seasons, showcasing skills as a defenseman. In addition to the NHL, also played in the American Hockey League (AHL), contributing to the teams' defensive lines and earning recognition in junior hockey leagues.
Continue ReadingCésar Ritz
Founder of luxury Ritz hotels
Born
February 23rd, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 68 years old
A Swiss businessman, established the Ritz Hotel in London and Hôtel Ritz Paris, revolutionizing luxury hospitality. Emphasized high standards of service and comfort. His hotels became synonymous with elegance and sophistication, attracting affluent clientele from around the world.
Continue ReadingLiang Qichao
Chinese journalist and philosopher
Born
February 23rd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1929 96 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent journalist, philosopher, and scholar, contributed significantly to modernization efforts in China during the late Qing dynasty and early Republic period. Advocated for constitutional reform and social change through writings and publications. Established influential journals that promoted new ideas and intellectual thought. Engaged in political activism and played a role in the reformist movement, emphasizing the importance of education and civic responsibility.
Continue ReadingPaul Tibbets
American general and pilot of Enola Gay
Born
February 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a general in the United States Air Force. Played a critical role during World War II as a pilot and commanded the aircraft that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945. Tibbets was pivotal in the development of strategic bombing tactics. His career included various leadership roles in military operations post-war, influencing airpower doctrine.
Continue ReadingFemke Bol
Dutch Hurdler, Olympic medalist
Born
February 23rd, 2000 25 years ago
Born in the Netherlands, an accomplished hurdler and sprinter excelled in the 400 meters hurdles. Achieved notable success at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the 400 meters hurdles event. Dominated the 2021 European Athletics Championships, securing gold medals in both the 400 meters hurdles and the 4x400 meters relay. Competed in the Golden Gala and established herself as a prominent athlete in European track and field.
Continue ReadingAndrew Wiggins
Basketball player; NBA Champion
Born
February 23rd, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, a Canadian basketball player achieved significant success in the NBA. Played for the Minnesota Timberwolves after being selected first overall in the 2014 NBA Draft. Demonstrated athleticism and skill as a forward. In 2022, contributed to the Golden State Warriors' victory in the NBA Championship. Participated in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where the Canadian national team finished in fourth place.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 5th
Jon Landau
Film producer, Avatar series
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent film producer, contributions included work on multiple high-grossing films. Best known for producing the blockbuster film 'Avatar' and its sequels. Collaborated closely with director James Cameron on several projects, advancing the use of technology and visual effects in cinema. Played a crucial role in the production of 'Titanic', which won multiple Academy Awards and set box office records.
Continue ReadingJames Stockdale
Admiral and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old
A United States Navy admiral and aviator who served during the Vietnam War, received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism as a prisoner of war. Stockdale spent over seven years in captivity, enduring severe hardships and torture. After his release, Stockdale became a prominent author and educator, and served as a Vice Presidential candidate in 1992. His leadership and resilience during captivity significantly contributed to the morale of fellow prisoners.
Continue ReadingRaffaella Carrà
Italian singer and television presenter
Born
June 18th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2021 4 years ago — 78 years old
Carrà began her career in entertainment in the late 1960s, gaining prominence for her energetic performances and distinctive style. Her contributions include music, dance, and television, where she hosted popular shows such as 'Canzonissima' and 'Carràmba! Che sorpresa!' A significant figure in Italian pop culture, she integrated music and dance in engaging ways, becoming a household name. Her songs, often characterized by catchy melodies and upbeat rhythms, gained popularity across Europe and Latin America. Carrà also acted in films, including 'The Swindlers' and 'The Cat O' Nine Tails'.
Continue ReadingCarole Landis
American actress in film and theater
Born
January 1st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1948 77 years ago — 29 years old
An actress active during the 1940s, gained popularity in the Hollywood film industry. Best recognized for performances in films such as 'One Million B.C.' and 'A Night at the Opera.' Appeared in numerous comedies and musicals, providing strong entertainment performances. Also had a successful career in radio and stage productions, showcasing a talent that crossed multiple media platforms. Landis became a prominent figure during World War II, known for her support of troops through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingNicéphore Niépce
French inventor of the photograph
Born
March 7th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1833 192 years ago — 68 years old
An inventor from France pioneered the earliest form of photography. In 1826, created the first successful permanent photograph known as 'View from the Window at Le Gras.' Developed a process called 'heliography,' enabling the capturing of images through sunlight exposure on a thin layer of bitumen of Judea.
Continue ReadingUffe Haagerup
Danish mathematician and academic
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in operator algebras. Worked extensively on the theory of von Neumann algebras and harmonic analysis. Held a professorship at the University of Aarhus, influencing many students and researchers in mathematical sciences. Published numerous papers and collaborated with several mathematicians worldwide, establishing a prominent presence in the academic community.
Continue Reading