Silvana Mangano
Italian actress in well-known films
Born in 1930, this Italian actress gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Significant roles included performances in 'Bitter Rice' (1949) and 'The Fountain of Youth' (1958). Mangano collaborated with prominent directors such as Luchino Visconti and Federico Fellini, showcasing her versatility in various genres. She also featured in international productions, building a prominent film career that extended to the 1970s. Additionally, Mangano worked as a producer for several projects, contributing to the Italian cinema landscape.
Starred in 'Bitter Rice'
Appeared in 'The Fountain of Youth'
Collaborated with directors Luchino Visconti and Federico Fellini
Other People Born on April 21st
Maurice Wilson
English soldier and mountaineer
Born
April 21st, 1898 128 years ago
Died
1934 92 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1898, served as a soldier in World War I, later becoming an accomplished pilot. In 1934, aimed to summit Mount Everest, undertaking a solo expedition without supplemental oxygen. The journey was marked by challenges, ultimately resulting in disappearance on the mountain.
Continue ReadingWilliam Stang
Bishop with significant influence in the Church
Born
April 21st, 1854 172 years ago
Died
1907 119 years ago — 53 years old
A German-American bishop, played a pivotal role in the development of the Catholic Church in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ordained a priest in 1878, served in various capacities before becoming the first bishop of the Diocese of Winona, Minnesota. Focused on educational development, established schools and promoted the importance of religious education for the immigrant community. Played an integral part in the construction of churches and parishes, aiming to provide spiritual guidance and community support for Catholic families. Advocated for the rights of immigrants and emphasized the importance of integration into American society.
Continue ReadingOdilo Globocnik
SS officer involved in Holocaust activities
Born
April 21st, 1904 122 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1945 81 years ago — 41 years old
Served as an SS officer in World War II and played a significant role in the implementation of the Holocaust, particularly in occupied Poland. Oversaw the operation of extermination camps, including the construction of the Belzec, Sobibor, and Treblinka camps. Participated in the systematic murder of Jews and other targeted groups as part of the broader Nazi genocide efforts. After the war, faced apprehension by Allied forces and was found dead in 1945.
Continue ReadingIgnatius Zakka I Iwas
Iraqi patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church
Born
April 21st, 1933 93 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2014 12 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church from 1980 until death in 2014. Oversaw a significant period of growth within the church and participated in interfaith dialogue efforts, promoting cooperation among different Christian denominations and between religions. Actively engaged in humanitarian work, focusing on the rights and welfare of Christians in the Middle East. His leadership spanned major events affecting the church and its followers in Iraq and beyond.
Continue ReadingLicio Gelli
Italian financer of Propaganda Due
Born
April 21st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 96 years old
A financier associated with a clandestine Masonic lodge, heavily involved in Italian conspiracy and political maneuvering during the Cold War. Established the Propaganda Due (P2) lodge, which gained notoriety for its connections to various political figures, financial institutions, and illegal activities. The activities and influence of P2 were pivotal during a tumultuous period in Italian history, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Gelli's role in the lodge included orchestrating efforts that tied together interests across politics, business, and organized crime, causing significant political scandals and controversies in Italy.
Continue ReadingEve Arnold
Photographer and journalist recognized for portraiture
Born
April 21st, 1912 114 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2012 14 years ago — 99 years old
Achieved acclaim as a documentary photographer and photojournalist. Worked extensively with publications such as Magnum Photos and Life magazine. Captured intimate portraits of notable subjects including Marilyn Monroe and the working-class population in America. Published several photography books and was recognized for contributions to the field of photojournalism.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Martin Brasier
English palaeontologist and biologist
Born
April 12th, 1947 79 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 67 years old
An English palaeontologist and biologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of early life forms and the fossil record. Played a crucial role in studying microbialites and their implications for the origin of life. Served in various academic positions, fostering research in palaeobiology. Published numerous influential papers that advanced the field and collaborated on interdisciplinary projects linking geology with biology.
Continue ReadingKakuei Tanaka
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 4th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1993 32 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the 64th Prime Minister of Japan from 1972 to 1974. Played a significant role in Japan's post-war economic growth and focused on large-scale infrastructural projects. Involved in Japanese politics for decades, beginning his career as a member of the House of Representatives. Established the Tanaka Doctrine, promoting diplomacy and economic partnerships with Southeast Asia. Resigned amid a bribery scandal but left a lasting legacy on Japan’s modern political landscape.
Continue ReadingThelma Todd
American actress in early comedies
Born
July 29th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1935 90 years ago — 29 years old
An American actress and singer, became prominent during the late 1920s and early 1930s, primarily in comedy films. Featured in a series of short films with the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy. Starred in notable films such as 'Married Too Young' and 'The Party's Over'. Established a reputation for her comedic timing and captivating screen presence. Additionally, appeared in various films and stage productions throughout her career.
Continue ReadingAileen Pringle
American actress in silent films
Born
July 23rd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 94 years old
An American actress, significant contributions were made to the silent film era during the 1910s and 1920s. Pringle appeared in over 30 films, starting her career after participating in various theatrical productions. Leading roles in films such as "The Whispering Chorus" and "The Devil's Playground" showcased her talent. Transitioning to sound films, she remained active in the industry until the late 1930s, before retiring from acting.
Continue ReadingOscar Alfredo Gálvez
Race car driver, multiple Gran Premio winner
Born
August 17th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent race car driver from Argentina, Gálvez competed primarily in the mid-20th century. He achieved significant success in road racing, particularly in the Gran Premio Internacional del Norte and the Gran Premio de Argentina. Gálvez was instrumental in bringing attention to motorsport in South America through his remarkable driving skills and competitive spirit. His legacy includes being one of the first Argentine drivers to win major racing events in Europe, significantly contributing to the popularity of racing in Argentina.
Continue ReadingHellmuth Walter
German-American engineer and inventor
Born
August 26th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1980 45 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Germany and later emigrating to the United States, contributed significantly to the development of rocket propulsion systems. Focused on innovative designs for jet engines and high-altitude technologies. Worked on various military projects during World War II and after. Founded a company specializing in aerospace engineering and advanced propulsion technology.
Continue Reading