Sig Ruman
German-American film and stage actor
Born in Germany, this actor emigrated to the United States and became a prominent figure in film and theater during the mid-20th century. Ruman appeared in numerous films, particularly in comedic roles and often portraying German characters. His performances showcased a distinctive presence that resonated with audiences. Major works included roles in classic films such as 'To Be or Not to Be' and 'The Great Dictator'. Ruman's contributions to cinema spanned several decades, and he became a recognizable figure in the industry until his passing in 1967.
Appeared in 'To Be or Not to Be'
Featured in 'The Great Dictator'
Other People Born on October 11th
C. Gordon Fullerton
Astronaut and engineer of Space Shuttle
Born
October 11th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 76 years old
An American colonel and engineer, contributed significantly to the space program as a NASA astronaut. Served as a pilot on the Space Shuttle missions STS-3 and STS-51-F, participating in critical phases of shuttle operations. Worked on various engineering and aeronautics projects prior to joining NASA, helping to advance aerospace technology. Retired from NASA and continued a career in academia and engineering.
Continue ReadingMal Whitfield
Olympic track and field athlete
Born
October 11th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
An American track and field athlete excelled in middle-distance events and gained recognition during the 1948 and 1952 Olympic Games. Claimed gold medals in the 800 meters at both Olympics, showcasing exceptional speed and endurance. Competed for the United States in various international events, earning multiple accolades and setting records in his discipline. Contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor after his competitive career. Advocated for athletics programs and youth sports, emphasizing education and discipline.
Continue ReadingCahit Arf
Turkish mathematician and academic
Born
October 11th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1997 28 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, especially in the fields of algebra and number theory. Developed the Arf invariant, a crucial concept in topology. Held a professorship at Istanbul Technical University and was a member of the Turkish Academy of Sciences. Engaged in academic activities throughout most of life, including publishing numerous research papers that advanced mathematical understanding.
Continue ReadingJon Miller
American sportscaster and voice of baseball
Born
October 11th, 1951 74 years ago
A prominent sportscaster, Miller gained recognition for his work as a play-by-play announcer for Major League Baseball. His career included a long tenure with the San Francisco Giants and ESPN, where he called numerous Baseball Tonight broadcasts. Miller has provided commentary for several All-Star Games and World Series, becoming a staple voice in baseball broadcasting. With a distinct style and engaging storytelling, he contributed to the coverage of many memorable moments in the sport. Miller has also received multiple awards for excellence in sports broadcasting, securing a place in the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingMiroslav Dvořák
Czech ice hockey player & Olympian
Born
October 11th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 56 years old
A Czech ice hockey player who competed in international tournaments. Represented Czechoslovakia in the Winter Olympics, achieving a silver medal in 1976. Played for HC Slovan Bratislava, gaining recognition for contributions to the team's success during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingElmore Leonard
Novelist and screenwriter of crime thrillers
Born
October 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
An American writer whose career spanned over six decades, produced numerous acclaimed novels and screenplays. A master of dialogue and character development, crafted stories that often centered around crime, suspense, and the complexities of human relationships. Authored works that were adapted into popular films and television series. Notable novels include "Get Shorty," "Rum Punch," and "Out of Sight," many of which received screen adaptations that garnered attention. Developed a unique style that blended elements of westerns, crime fiction, and mainstream literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 14th
Ronald Dworkin
American legal philosopher and scholar
Born
December 11th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2013 13 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent philosopher and scholar, contributed significantly to legal and political theory. Developed influential ideas on law and morality, emphasizing the importance of individual rights. Wrote several key texts including 'Taking Rights Seriously' and 'Law's Empire', addressing the relationship between law and ethics. Engaged in public debates on various issues including abortion and assisted suicide, advocating for liberal principles based on rights and dignity.
Continue ReadingPhilip Levine
Poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
January 10th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
An American poet and academic, contributions to contemporary literature spanned several decades. Focused on themes of working-class life and industry, poetry collections included 'What Work Is,' which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1995. Served as a professor at several universities, including California State University. Work reflected the challenges and intricacies of American labor and identity.
Continue ReadingAmalie Andersen
Norwegian actress in early cinema
Born
April 19th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1924 102 years ago — 62 years old
An actress active in the early 20th century, notable contributions were made to Norwegian theater and film. Appeared in productions that showcased the cultural landscape of Norway during that period. Work included performances in several silent films, demonstrating the evolving art of early cinema. The career spanned various roles that reflected social themes and showcased dramatic storytelling, aligning with contemporary movements in performing arts.
Continue ReadingJames Cook
Explorer and cartographer of the Pacific
Born
November 7th, 1728 297 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1779 247 years ago — 50 years old
An English captain, cartographer, and explorer made three significant voyages to the Pacific Ocean. The first voyage from 1768 to 1771 mapped New Zealand and the eastern coastline of Australia, claiming the territory for Britain. The second voyage from 1772 to 1775 crossed the Antarctic Circle and explored various islands in the South Pacific. The third voyage from 1776 to 1779 aimed to find the Northwest Passage. The explorations contributed to the knowledge of the geography and biodiversity of the Pacific region and established navigational routes that would influence maritime trade.
Continue ReadingMorgan Tsvangirai
2nd Prime Minister of Zimbabwe
Born
March 10th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2018 8 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Zimbabwe from 2009 to 2013 following a power-sharing agreement with the ruling party. Established the Movement for Democratic Change in 1999, which became a prominent political force opposing the long-standing rule of Robert Mugabe. Played a significant role in advocating for democratic reforms and human rights in Zimbabwe. Faced numerous challenges including political persecution and periods of detention throughout the political career.
Continue ReadingSteven Stucky
Composer and educator, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
November 7th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2016 10 years ago — 66 years old
An American composer and academic contributed extensively to contemporary music. Stucky studied at the University of California, Berkeley, and received advanced degrees from Cornell University. He served as a professor of composition at the Ithaca College School of Music and later as the composer-in-residence for major orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Stucky composed numerous orchestral, chamber, and vocal works. His most notable piece, 'Silent Woods,' won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1993.
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