Robert J. Flaherty
Documentary filmmaker and director

Born
February 16th, 1884
141 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1951
74 years ago — 67 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
Flaherty was a documentary filmmaker recognized for pioneering the genre. In 1922, he released the film 'Nanook of the North,' which is considered one of the first feature-length documentaries. The film depicted the life of an Inuk man and his family as they navigated the challenges of living in the Arctic. Flaherty's approach emphasized visual storytelling and authenticity, influencing the future of documentary filmmaking.
Directed 'Nanook of the North'
Pioneered the documentary film genre
Other People Born on February 16th
Zhang Jike
A professional table tennis player earned acclaim in the sport through numerous achievements. Won the Men's Singles title at the World Table Tennis Championships in 2011 and 2013. Clinched the gold medal in Men's Singles at the 2012 London Olympics. Achieved a Grand Slam in table tennis, winning the World Cup, World Championships, and Olympic Games.
Continue ReadingGaspard II de Coligny
Served as an admiral in the French navy during significant conflicts in the 16th century. Played a crucial role in the Wars of Religion in France, advocating for the Protestant cause. Instrumental in the planning of military operations against the Spanish and other factions. Assassinated in 1572 during the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre, which marked a turning point in French history.
Continue ReadingStephen Gaskin
Co-founded The Farm, a spiritual community in Summertown, Tennessee, in 1971. The community became known for its commitment to sustainable farming, vegetarianism, and communal living. Gaskin taught classes on spirituality and social issues, attracting followers who sought an alternative lifestyle. He authored several books on topics including spirituality, communal living, and social change, offering insights into his vision of a harmonious society. Gaskin's work with The Farm influenced the counterculture movement of the 1970s and inspired similar intentional communities across the United States.
Continue ReadingMargaux Hemingway
Born in 1954, this American model and actress gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. She modeled for several high-profile brands and magazines, including Vogue and Calvin Klein. In film, she starred in 'Lipstick' and 'The Last Generation'. Beyond modeling and acting, a notable connection exists to the literary world through her family legacy, being a granddaughter of influential author Ernest Hemingway. The combination of beauty, talent, and familial ties created a significant presence in popular culture during her career.
Continue ReadingJohn I
Born in 1419, served as Duke of Cleves from 1448 until death in 1481. Governed the duchy during a period of relative stability and established the foundation for Cleves' future developments. Engaged in the political dynamics of the region, including interactions with neighboring states. His reign contributed to the increasing significance of Cleves in the politics of the Lower Rhine region.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Barth
Conducted extensive explorations in North and West Africa during the 19th century. Barth embarked on a journey from Tripoli to Timbuktu, which lasted from 1850 to 1855. Through this expedition, valuable geographical, ethnographic, and linguistic knowledge was gathered, significantly contributing to the understanding of African cultures and geography. Barth published several works detailing his travels, including 'Travels and Discoveries in North and Central Africa'. His research greatly influenced European perspectives of Africa during that era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 23rd
Tenby Davies
Competed in middle-distance running events, specializing in the 1500 meters. Represented Great Britain at the 1908 London Olympics, securing a silver medal in the 1500 meters final. Achieved multiple victories in national championships and contributed to the development of athletics in Wales. Continued to participate in various athletic meets throughout the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingCarlos Paredes
Regarded as a master of the guitarra Portuguesa, an instrument integral to Fado music, contributed significantly to Portuguese music. Paredes combined traditional sounds with contemporary techniques, influencing musicians in and outside Portugal. His performances showcased a unique style, merging classical, popular, and folk music elements. Paredes became a figure in music, not only through performances but also through compositions that echoed the soul of Portugal. Prominent in the 20th century, he released several albums that cemented his reputation as a leading artist in the genre.
Continue ReadingFrederick Holder
Served as the 19th Premier of South Australia from 1910 to 1912. Was a member of the House of Assembly for the Liberal Union. Played a significant role in the development of the state's policies during his tenure. Actively participated in various legislative reforms.
Continue ReadingWilliam Luther Pierce
An author and activist focused on white nationalist ideology, played a significant role in the white supremacist movement. Founded the National Alliance, which promoted racial separation and anti-Semitic views. Wrote several books, including 'The Turner Diaries,' which became influential in extremist circles.
Continue ReadingD. W. Griffith
An American director, producer, and screenwriter played a significant role in the early development of cinema. Pioneered narrative techniques and established conventions in film that are still used today. Directed 'The Birth of a Nation' in 1915, which was one of the first feature-length films and showcased innovative storytelling methods. The film sparked considerable controversy due to its portrayal of race relations and the Ku Klux Klan.
Continue ReadingHenry Hallett Dale
Contributed significantly to the understanding of neurotransmitters and their role in the nervous system. Conducted research on the actions of histamine, emphasizing its importance in allergic reactions and gastric acid secretion. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1936 for work on chemical transmitters in the nervous system. Published extensively, influencing the field of pharmacology and physiology.
Continue Reading