Russ Columbo
Singer, violinist, and actor
Born in 1908, a prominent figure in early 20th-century American music and entertainment, recognized for contributions as a singer, violinist, and actor. Achieved popularity through a blend of romantic ballads and smooth vocals. Gained acclaim for the song 'Prisoner of Love,' which became a jazz standard. Ventured into acting, appearing in films and performing on stage. Played a significant role in the popularization of the crooner style in music. His career was cut short when he died in a tragic accident in 1936, which ended a promising trajectory in the entertainment industry.
Achieved hit with 'Prisoner of Love'
Contributed to the rise of crooning
Performed in films and on stage
Other People Born on January 14th
Mark Goodson
Game show producer, created Family Feud
Born
January 14th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1992 33 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American game show producer, contributions included the creation of popular television games. Developed iconic formats that contributed to the landscape of television entertainment. The production company, established, became synonymous with successful game shows. Collaborated with various networks to deliver engaging content, leading to widespread viewer engagement. Recognition came from influential awards in the television industry, underscoring the significance of these creations in television history.
Continue ReadingStan Brakhage
Experimental film director and producer
Born
January 14th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2003 23 years ago — 70 years old
An influential figure in experimental cinema, created innovative films that challenged traditional narrative structures. Pioneered techniques such as hand-painted film and the use of non-professional actors. Focused on personal vision and subjective experience, often drawing from nature and dreams. Significant works include 'Dog Star Man' and 'Mothlight', which explored visual perception through unconventional methodologies. A prolific filmmaker, directed over 350 films during his career, contributing to the development of avant-garde filmmaking.
Continue ReadingHenry Petty-Fitzmaurice
English politician, 34th Governor-General of India
Born
January 14th, 1845 181 years ago
Died
1927 99 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a prominent British politician and held the title of 5th Marquess of Lansdowne. Played a significant role in British colonial governance, particularly during the later years of the 19th century. Appointed as the 34th Governor-General of India from 1888 to 1894, implemented various reforms in administration and legislation. Focused on education, land revenue systems, and infrastructure development. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to strengthen British relations with Indian states.
Continue ReadingLeonardo Ortolani
Comic book creator, Rat-Man series.
Born
January 14th, 1967 59 years ago
An Italian author and illustrator, created the comic book series Rat-Man, which gained significant popularity in Italy. The series debuted in 1990 and showcased the adventures of a superhero parodied from classic comic book tropes. Ortolani's distinctive artwork and humor contributed to the comic's success, leading to various adaptations and merchandise.
Continue ReadingFrank Cowper
Yachtsman, author, and illustrator
Born
January 14th, 1849 177 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1930 95 years ago — 81 years old
Engaged in competitive yacht racing and authored several works about yachting. Contributed illustrations to books about maritime activities. Involved in the design and development of yachts and wrote extensively on sailing techniques and navigation. Played a significant role in promoting yacht racing in England during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingChristian de Meza
Danish General and military leader
Born
January 14th, 1792 234 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1865 160 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1792, held prominent military roles in Denmark during the early 19th century. Played a significant part in various campaigns, including the First Schleswig War. Advocated for military reforms and modernization in the Danish army, influencing strategic military developments in the nation. His leadership and tactical decisions were pivotal during moments of conflict, shaping military operations and outcomes. Contributed to the organizational improvements within the Danish military.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
Ronald Coase
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 29th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 102 years old
An economist and author, contributed significantly to the fields of law and economics. Developed the Coase theorem, which states that under certain conditions, private parties can negotiate without government intervention. Authored influential works such as 'The Nature of the Firm' and 'The Firm, the Market, and the Law'. Had a notable academic career with decades spent teaching at various institutions, including the University of Chicago. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1991 for contributions to economic theory.
Continue ReadingBob Denver
American actor from Gilligan's Island
Born
January 9th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 70 years old
An actor gained fame for a leading role in the television series 'Gilligan's Island,' which aired from 1964 to 1967. Denver portrayed the character Gilligan, a bumbling first mate of the SS Minnow. The show became a cultural icon and has continued in syndication over the decades. In addition to 'Gilligan's Island,' Denver appeared in other television and film projects, including 'The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis.' His career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Denver's performances contributed significantly to the landscape of American television during the 1960s and beyond.
Continue ReadingIslam Karimov
Politician, 1st President of Uzbekistan
Born
January 30th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 78 years old
Held the position of the first President of Uzbekistan from 1991 until death in 2016. Served as the Secretary of the Communist Party of Uzbekistan from 1989 to 1990. Oversaw the country's transition to independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Implemented policies aimed at maintaining political stability and state control over the economy.
Continue ReadingFranz-Benno Delonge
Game Designer, created TransAmerica
Born
1957 69 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 50 years old
Contributed to the board game industry through the design of innovative games. Created the game TransAmerica, which received acclaim for its engaging gameplay. Worked in various capacities within the gaming community, influencing game mechanics and design approaches. Participated in events and contributed to discussions focused on game design and development.
Continue ReadingMark Abrahamian
Guitarist for the band Shadowfax
Born
1966 60 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 46 years old
A guitarist, contributed to the fusion and world music genres. Played with the instrumental band Shadowfax, which gained popularity in the 1980s. Released several albums that blended jazz, rock, and folk influences. Shadowfax received a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Performance in 1988 for their album 'Shadows'. Abrahamian's playing style incorporated both technical skill and an emotional depth, earning recognition among peers and fans alike.
Continue ReadingHelena Rakoczy
Polish gymnast and Olympic competitor
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
Competed for Poland in artistic gymnastics at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Achieved significant success in national and international competitions, contributing to the prominence of Polish gymnastics during the 1960s. Participated in several European championships, showcasing gymnastics talent and earning medals.
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