René Desmaison
French mountaineer and climber
Born in 1930, a significant figure in French mountaineering, especially recognized for daring ascents in the Himalayas. Achieved the first ascent of the north face of the Dent du Geant in 1958. Carried out numerous ascents in the Mont Blanc massif and led several expeditions to peaks in the Himalayas, including Makalu. Contributed to the exploration of lesser-known routes and peaks, advancing the understanding of high-altitude climbing.
First ascent of the north face of the Dent du Geant
Expeditions to Makalu and other Himalayan peaks
Other People Born on April 14th
Rod Steiger
Academy Award winning actor
Born
April 14th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2002 23 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in American cinema, achieved acclaim for versatile performances across various genres. Gained recognition for roles in iconic films such as 'On the Waterfront' and 'In the Heat of the Night', earning an Academy Award for Best Actor for the latter. Steiger also appeared in noteworthy films including 'Doctor Zhivago' and 'The Pawnbroker'. His career spanned over five decades, establishing a legacy in film marked by powerful portrayals and strong character interpretations.
Continue ReadingJohn Gielgud
English actor, director, and producer
Born
April 14th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2000 25 years ago — 96 years old
An influential English actor, director, and producer, recognized for contributions to theatre and film throughout the 20th century. Achieved significant acclaim for performances in Shakespearean roles, particularly as Hamlet and Richard III. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role of Hobson in 'Arthur' released in 1981. Received accolades for both stage and screen work, including multiple Laurence Olivier Awards and a Tony Award.
Continue ReadingFredric Jameson
Cultural critic and Marxist theorist
Born
April 14th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions focused on cultural theory, postmodernism, and Marxism. Authored influential works including 'Postmodernism, or, The Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism' and 'The Political Unconscious'. Served as a professor and wrote extensively on issues related to ideology and capitalism in contemporary culture.
Continue ReadingPeter Behrens
Architect, designer of AEG turbine factory
Born
April 14th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1940 86 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Germany in 1868, this architect was a pioneering figure in the development of modern industrial architecture. Best recognized for designing the AEG turbine factory in Berlin, the work exemplified the principles of functionality and aesthetic beauty in industrial buildings. Contributions also included furniture design and art direction, influencing the Bauhaus movement. His approach combined the use of new materials with an emphasis on simplicity and utility, which marked a significant departure from the ornate styles prevalent in previous architectural practices.
Continue ReadingCecil Chubb
Barrister and Stonehenge owner
Born
April 14th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1934 91 years ago — 58 years old
Born in England, a barrister acquired ownership of Stonehenge in 1915. This ownership was transferred to the nation in 1918, allowing public access to the prehistoric monument. Chubb was also involved in local government and served as a magistrate. His interest in historical preservation played a role in the care and management of Stonehenge.
Continue ReadingAverroes
Andalusian Arab philosopher and physician
Born
April 14th, 1126 899 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1198 827 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1126, this individual significantly contributed to philosophy and medicine during the medieval period. A prominent commentator on Aristotle, works included 'The Incoherence of the Incoherence' and 'The Book of Healing'. Focused on integrating Aristotelian philosophy with Islamic thought, influencing later European philosophy and scholasticism. Engaged in medical practice, produced influential texts on medicine that were referenced for centuries. Through extensive writings, the individual bridged the gap between ancient Greek philosophy and Islamic scholarship, leaving a lasting legacy in both fields.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 28th
Harpo Marx
Comedian and musician, member of the Marx Brothers
Born
November 23rd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1964 61 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent comedian and musician, contributed to the American entertainment landscape through silent antics and virtuoso harp performances. Gained fame as a member of the Marx Brothers, a comedy troupe that revolutionized film and stage humor during the early 20th century. Starred in classic films such as 'Duck Soup' and 'A Night at the Opera'. Often portrayed a silent character, utilizing slapstick comedy and expressive facial gestures to engage audiences. Excelled in comedy, music, and theatrics, showcasing raw comedic talent and musical prowess.
Continue ReadingPredrag Ejdus
Serbian actor in 'Besa' and 'Porodično blago'
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2018 7 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent Serbian actor, active in film, television, and theater. Gained recognition for memorable roles in the television series 'Porodično blago' and the film 'Besa'. Ejdus also built a substantial theater career, participating in numerous stage productions. His contributions to the performing arts, particularly in Serbia, marked him as a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry before passing away in 2018.
Continue ReadingRudolf Caracciola
German racing driver and Mille Miglia winner
Born
January 30th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1959 66 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent racing driver in the early 20th century, this individual was a key figure in motorsport. Competing for Mercedes-Benz, achieved significant success in Grand Prix racing. Secured three European Championship titles in the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing exceptional skill on various circuits. Won the Mille Miglia in 1931, highlighting notable endurance and speed. Continued racing until the onset of World War II, earning a reputation as one of the leading drivers of his era.
Continue ReadingKris Kristofferson
Singer-songwriter and actor, A Star is Born
Born
June 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1936, a notable American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor gained prominence in the 1970s. As a singer-songwriter, crafted numerous classics such as "Me and Bobby McGee" and "For the Good Times," both of which became hits for other artists. Transitioned into acting with a significant role in the film "A Star is Born" alongside Barbra Streisand, which showcased talent in both music and film. Associated with the outlaw country movement, collaborated with many prominent artists and contributed to the genre's evolution. Received multiple awards including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingGuillermo Endara
Panamanian lawyer and politician, President
Born
May 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2009 16 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 32nd President of Panama from 1989 to 1994. Held the presidency during a critical period marked by the aftermath of the U.S. invasion of Panama. Prior to presidency, served as a member of the National Assembly and held various government posts. Advocated for democratic reforms and worked to rebuild the country in the wake of military dictatorship. His administration focused on economic recovery and strengthening democratic institutions.
Continue ReadingÉmile Gaboriau
French author known for detective fiction
Born
November 9th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1873 152 years ago — 40 years old
Contributed significantly to the genre of detective fiction. Began writing in the 1860s and created the character of Monsieur Lecoq, a detective who became a model for future fictional detectives. Published several novels that combined elements of mystery and social commentary, including 'L'Affaire Lerouge' and 'Monsieur Lecoq'. Worked as a journalist before fully committing to fiction writing, influencing the development of mystery literature in France.
Continue Reading