Sam Peckinpah
Film director and screenwriter, 'The Wild Bunch'
Director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the Western genre with a distinctive style characterized by slow motion and violent imagery. Directed several influential films, including 'The Wild Bunch,' which garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of anti-heroes and moral ambiguity. Also directed 'Straw Dogs,' notable for its controversial themes and intense violence. Began as a television director before moving to feature films, influencing generations of filmmakers with innovative techniques and storytelling.
Directed 'The Wild Bunch', a landmark Western
Directed 'Straw Dogs', controversial for its themes
Other People Born on February 21st
Mirra Alfassa
French-Indian spiritual leader
Born
February 21st, 1878 147 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1973 52 years ago — 95 years old
A spiritual leader established an ashram in Pondicherry, India. Founded the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and developed the Integral Yoga philosophy, combining spiritual growth with a deep understanding of human nature and societal evolution. The organization attracted followers worldwide and emphasized personal transformation as a means to contribute to global consciousness.
Continue ReadingDouglas Bader
World War II Fighter Pilot
Born
February 21st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1982 43 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. After losing both legs in a flying accident, continued to fly operational missions. Escaped from a German POW camp and returned to service. Bader became a prominent figure in British aviation and a symbol of resilience.
Continue ReadingAntonio López de Santa Anna
Mexican General, 8th President of Mexico
Born
February 21st, 1794 231 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1876 149 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent political and military figure in Mexico during the 19th century. Served multiple non-consecutive terms as President of Mexico. Led Mexican troops in the Texas Revolution and was a key figure in the Battle of the Alamo. Surrendered to Texian forces in 1836 and was eventually captured, leading to the independence of Texas. Returned to power in the Mexican government numerous times amid political instability.
Continue ReadingJean Tatlock
American psychiatrist and physician
Born
February 21st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1944 82 years ago — 30 years old
Contributed to psychiatry and the understanding of mental illness. Focused on psychoanalysis and its application in clinical practice. Engaged in research related to the intersection of psychology and human behavior. Had significant involvement in the intellectual circles of the mid-20th century. Advocated for mental health awareness and the importance of psychiatric treatment.
Continue ReadingZachary Scott
American actor in stage and film
Born
February 21st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1965 60 years ago — 51 years old
An American actor achieved recognition during the 1940s and 1950s, primarily in film and stage productions. Debuted on Broadway in 'The First Man' and transitioned to Hollywood where prominent roles in films included 'The Southerner' and 'Mildred Pierce'. Portrayed complex characters often associated with villains or antiheroes, exhibiting a distinct presence in noir cinema. Continued to work in theater and returned for television appearances in the 1960s.
Continue ReadingJoachim I Nestor
Elector of Brandenburg, Prussian ruler
Born
February 21st, 1484 541 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1535 490 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1484, Joachim I Nestor served as the Elector of Brandenburg from 1499 until his death in 1535. He presided over considerable territorial expansion and consolidation of power within the region. His reign marked the elevation of Brandenburg into a significant political entity within the Holy Roman Empire. Joachim’s governance saw an emphasis on the support for the arts and culture, alongside religious reform movements sweeping through Europe during the Reformation. His legacy included the promotion of Protestantism, which laid grounds for major changes in the socio-political landscape of Northern Germany.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 28th
Philippe Panneton
Canadian physician and diplomat
Born
April 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1960 65 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1895, a prominent Canadian physician and academic contributed significantly to medicine and international diplomacy. Held various academic positions, including serving as a professor at a prominent Canadian university. Actively participated in diplomatic efforts representing Canada in international health organizations. His work focused on public health and medical education, bridging gaps between academia and government policy. Retired from active practice but remained involved in health-related initiatives until the later years of life.
Continue ReadingEduard Strauss
Composer and conductor of waltzes
Born
March 15th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1916 109 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1835, a composer and conductor from Austria, primarily associated with the genre of waltz music. Contributed significantly to the family tradition of waltz composition established by Johann Strauss I and Johann Strauss II. Conducted the Strauss orchestras in numerous performances throughout Europe. Composed several popular waltzes and polkas, solidifying a reputation within the genre. Held a prominent position in the Viennese music scene.
Continue ReadingMary II of England
Queen of England, Scotland, and Ireland
Born
April 30th, 1662 363 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1694 331 years ago — 32 years old
Reigned alongside William III from 1689 until her death in 1694. Ascended to the throne following the Glorious Revolution, which saw the overthrow of James II. Her reign marked the establishment of constitutional monarchy in England. Implemented several reforms and governed during a period of political and religious turmoil.
Continue ReadingDebbie Reynolds
Actress and singer from Singin' in the Rain
Born
April 1st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 84 years old
An actress, singer, and dancer, notable for a career spanning over six decades. Gained prominence with the role of Kathy Selden in the musical 'Singin' in the Rain' alongside Gene Kelly. Transitioned from film to television, appearing in series such as 'The Debbie Reynolds Show' and 'Will & Grace'. Pursued a successful stage career, including performances in musicals and cabaret. Actively participated in the film industry and remained a popular figure until the later years of life.
Continue ReadingMaurice Ravel
French composer of orchestral music
Born
March 7th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1937 88 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent figure in early 20th-century music, one contributed significantly to classical compositions. Born in the Basque region of France, created innovative works that merged classical and nationalistic elements. Known for intricate orchestration and distinctive melodies, compositions include the ballet 'Daphnis et Chloé' and the orchestral piece 'Boléro.' Worked as a conductor and was influenced by various musical styles, including jazz and Spanish music. His works often featured complex harmonies and rhythms, which helped shape modern classical music.
Continue ReadingAndrea Gritti
Doge of Venice during War of the League of Cambrai
Born
April 17th, 1455 570 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1538 487 years ago — 83 years old
Served as Doge of Venice from 1523 until 1538. Played a key role in the politics of the Republic of Venice, particularly during the War of the League of Cambrai. Managed to restore Venice's influence in trade across the Mediterranean after the conflict. Promoted various naval and military reforms to strengthen the Venetian fleet. Oversaw significant construction projects in the city, contributing to the architectural landscape of Venice.
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