Sidney Poitier
Actor and director, Oscar-winning role
Born
February 20th, 1927
98 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2022
3 years ago — 94 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in the Bahamas, an impactful figure in American cinema. Starred in films such as 'Lilies of the Field', earning an Academy Award for Best Actor. Other notable works include 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner', 'To Sir, with Love', and 'The Defiant Ones'. Poitier also directed films including 'Buck and the Preacher' and 'Stir Crazy'. Later served as the Bahamian ambassador to Japan, contributing to diplomatic relations. His career spanned decades, influencing representation in film and culture.
Won the Academy Award for Best Actor for 'Lilies of the Field'
Starred in 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner'
Directed 'Buck and the Preacher' and 'Stir Crazy'
Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Other People Born on February 20th
Louise
Born in 1867, held the title of Princess Royal, which is traditionally given to the oldest daughter of the reigning monarch. Contributed to various charitable organizations and arts promotion, significantly impacting the cultural landscape of England. Actively participated in royal duties and represented the British monarchy at numerous functions. Engaged with military charities and supported educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingDanis Tanović
A Bosnian director and screenwriter, this individual achieved international recognition through the film 'No Man's Land', which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2002. The narrative explores the complex situation in the midst of the Bosnian War, blending dark humor with poignant commentary. Other works include the films 'Cirkus Columbia' and 'Triage', which reflect on themes of war and personal struggle. The director's unique storytelling and approach have contributed to discussions surrounding the impact of war on human lives.
Continue ReadingHulusi Behçet
A significant figure in dermatology, developed Behçet's disease as a recognized condition in the 1930s. Conducted extensive research on various skin disorders and contributed to advancements in the field. Served as a professor of dermatology and influenced medical education in Turkey. Engaged in clinical practice while establishing a comprehensive understanding of autoimmune diseases through systematic study.
Continue ReadingSiniša Mihajlović
Born in 1969, this Serbian footballer played as a defender and later transitioned to coaching. Career highlights as a player include stints at teams such as Red Star Belgrade, Sampdoria, and Lazio. In Lazio, won the Serie A title, Coppa Italia, and the UEFA Super Cup. Many remember this individual for skills in set pieces and powerful free-kicks. Transitioning into management, coached several clubs including Bologna FC and the Serbian national team. Achievements as a manager include leading clubs to improved performances and contributing to the development of players in various leagues.
Continue ReadingAlfred Escher
Established the Swiss railway system and significantly influenced the development of Swiss industry in the 19th century. Served as a member of the Federal Council of Switzerland and played a key role in the founding of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich. Advocated for infrastructure improvements and modernization in Switzerland.
Continue ReadingLouis Zborowski
An English race car driver and engineer contributed significantly to early motorsport and automotive design. Zborowski participated in various racing events during the 1920s, becoming recognized for innovative engineering solutions. He was associated with the development of the 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' series of cars, which were advanced racing and luxury vehicles of the time. His work encompassed both racing and engineering disciplines, reflecting a deep understanding of both the technical and practical aspects of motorsport. His career ended tragically with his death in a racing accident in 1924.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 6th
Roberta Wohlstetter
Contributed to the study of intelligence and military history. Authored significant works, including 'Pearl Harbor: Warning and Decision,' which analyzed the intelligence failures preceding the attack on Pearl Harbor. Served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where focus was placed on history and international relations. Participated in various governmental advisory boards and contributed to strategic assessments during the Cold War era.
Continue ReadingAlvin Kraenzlein
A prominent American athlete in the early 20th century, competed in track and field events specializing in hurdles and long jump. Achieved significant success at the 1900 Paris Olympics, where victories were secured in the 110-meter hurdles, 400-meter hurdles, long jump, and 200-meter dash. These accomplishments marked a pivotal point in Olympic history, as becoming the first athlete to win four gold medals in a single Olympics. After work in coaching and education, contributions to the field of athletics continued.
Continue ReadingLouis Braille
An educator developed a tactile writing system that enables visually impaired individuals to read and write. At the age of 15, created a simplified version of a code for reading and writing using raised dots based on the military night writing system. Established a school for the blind in France, dedicated to teaching this innovative method, which significantly improved literacy among visually impaired people.
Continue ReadingGordon Renwick
An influential figure in Canadian ice hockey, played a key role in the development of the sport at both amateur and professional levels. Served as president of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association and was integral in promoting the growth of youth hockey programs across Canada. Additionally, contributed to the management of professional teams and ensured the establishment of fair play standards and regulations within the sport. Focused on advancing the interests of ice hockey players and fostering a culture of excellence throughout the hockey community.
Continue ReadingLars Hertervig
Born in Norway, a prominent painter characterized by dramatic landscapes inspired by nature. Studied under prominent artists and developed a unique style that emphasized light and atmosphere. Struggled with mental health issues throughout life, which influenced artwork. Spent time in Düsseldorf studying the Romantic movement, which shaped artistic vision. Despite facing challenges, created a significant body of work that continued to influence artists after death.
Continue ReadingAbo of Tiflis
Abo of Tiflis was an Iraqi martyr and saint born in 756. He is associated with the early spread of Christianity in the region. His life is marked by his steadfast faith, leading to his martyrdom in 786. The historical context includes the religious conflicts of the time, which shaped the experiences of early Christian figures in the Middle East. The legacy includes veneration among saints within the Christian tradition.
Continue Reading