Ruth Duccini
American actress; Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz
An accomplished actress, contributed to the field of entertainment from a young age. Gained recognition as a Munchkin in the classic film The Wizard of Oz, released in 1939. Throughout the career, participated in various theatrical productions and television shows. Her portrayal in The Wizard of Oz remains a significant highlight in the film's legacy. Continued to be involved in the film and television industry for several decades.
Played a Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz
Participated in various theater productions
Other People Born on July 23rd
Anthony 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 ReadingRaimund Abraham
Architect, designer of Austrian Cultural Forum
Born
July 23rd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 76 years old
An architect and educator from Austria, contributed significantly to modern architecture through innovative designs and teaching. Designed the Austrian Cultural Forum in New York, which is noted for its striking geometry and facade. Helped foster architectural discourse through educational roles and public lectures. His work balanced artistic vision with practical execution, incorporating diverse influences and pushing the boundaries of contemporary architectural design.
Continue ReadingQuett Masire
Botswana politician, former Vice-President
Born
July 23rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the Vice-President of Botswana from 1980 to 1998. Helped in the establishment of the Botswana Democratic Party and held various ministerial positions. Influenced Botswana's political landscape during the transition from colonial rule to independence. Engaged in regional diplomacy and contributed to stability in Southern Africa.
Continue ReadingVera Rubin
Astronomer known for galaxy rotation research
Born
July 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
An American astronomer made significant contributions to the study of galaxy rotation and dark matter. Conducted groundbreaking observational work that provided evidence for the existence of dark matter through the analysis of galaxy rotation curves. Served as a faculty member at several universities and became a prominent figure in the field of astronomy. Received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the National Medal of Science.
Continue ReadingMorris Halle
Linguist; co-authored The Sound Pattern of English
Born
July 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 95 years old
Born in Latvia and later relocating to the United States, a prominent linguist focused on phonology and syntax. Contributed significantly to the generative grammar movement, collaborating with Noam Chomsky. Co-authored a key text, 'The Sound Pattern of English', which became influential in the study of phonetics and phonology. Led academic contributions as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where extensive research on the phonological structure of languages took place. Played a vital role in shaping modern linguistic theory and education.
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 January 16th
Yao Beina
Chinese singer and 'The Voice of China' finalist
Born
September 26th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2015 11 years ago — 33 years old
A prominent Chinese singer, gained recognition as a finalist on the popular singing competition 'The Voice of China'. Began her music career with performances at many local events and gained a loyal fanbase. Released several singles that achieved commercial success and resonated with audiences. Additionally, contributed to soundtracks for television dramas and films, showcasing vocal talent across various musical genres. Despite a battle with illness, left a significant legacy in the Chinese music industry.
Continue ReadingPanagiotis Poulitsas
Archaeologist and judge in Greece
Born
1881 145 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1968 58 years ago — 87 years old
Engaged in extensive archaeological work in Greece, contributing significantly to the field through research and excavation. Played a key role in legal matters pertaining to archaeological heritage and preservation. Involved in various academic and professional organizations dedicated to archaeology and law. His efforts helped establish best practices for archaeological site management.
Continue ReadingKaye Webb
English journalist and publisher
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1996 30 years ago — 82 years old
A journalist and publisher focused on children's literature, contributed significantly to the field through editorial work. Served as the editor of Puffin Books, where publishing strategies and children's books were developed. Established the Kaye Webb Prize to promote children's literature. Authored several works aimed at young readers.
Continue ReadingDave Madden
Actor on The Partridge Family
Born
December 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2014 12 years ago — 82 years old
An actor gained recognition for portraying manager Reuben Kincaid on the television series The Partridge Family. Started career in the 1960s and made numerous television guest appearances, often in comedic roles. Also lent voice to characters in animated series, including the cartoon version of The Partridge Family. Acted in films and theater, showcasing versatility.
Continue ReadingRobert J. Van de Graaff
Physicist and inventor of the Van de Graaff generator
Born
1901 125 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1967 59 years ago — 66 years old
An American physicist and academic, contributions included the invention of the Van de Graaff generator, a device that produces high voltages for particle acceleration. This invention facilitated significant advancements in nuclear physics and radiation studies. Worked at various institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of California, Berkeley. Actively engaged in research and education until death in 1967.
Continue ReadingLéo Delibes
French composer of ballet music
Born
February 21st, 1836 189 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1891 135 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent French composer, significant for contributions to ballet music. Composed scores for influential ballets, including 'Coppélia' and 'Sylvia'. His work combined melodic richness with innovative orchestrations. Undertook training in both music and opera, creating a unique style that influenced later composers. Associated with the Paris Opera, worked to integrate ballet with operatic elements, enhancing the theatrical experience. His influence extended into the 20th century, as his compositions continued to be performed and studied.
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