Theda Bara
Silent film actress and vamp archetype
An actress in the early years of cinema, gained fame during the silent film era for portraying seductive and glamorous characters. Achieved stardom through iconic roles in films such as 'A Fool There Was' and 'Cleopatra'. Became a cultural phenomenon, representing the archetype of the vampire femme fatale, captivating audiences with dramatic performances. After a successful career, transitioned out of the spotlight in the 1920s with the advent of sound in film. Continued to influence the portrayal of women in cinema until passing away in 1955.
Starred in 'A Fool There Was'
Portrayed Cleopatra in 'Cleopatra'
Other People Born on July 29th
Rochus Misch
German SS officer and bodyguard
Born
July 29th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1917, served as a bodyguard for Adolf Hitler during World War II. Assigned to the Führerbunker in Berlin, played a key role in the security detail. Experienced the final days of the Third Reich and witnessed numerous significant historical events. After the war, captured by Soviet forces and later became a successful entrepreneur. His post-war life included a focus on sharing personal experiences of service during the Nazi regime, providing insight into the inner workings of the regime's leadership.
Continue ReadingTroy Perkins
Soccer player, MLS goalkeeper
Born
July 29th, 1981 44 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper in Major League Soccer. Began a professional career with the Portland Timbers before moving to the MLS. Played for D.C. United and the Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Achieved a reputation for skillful shot-stopping and organizational ability in the penalty area. Competed in the U.S. Open Cup and playoff matches throughout career.
Continue ReadingRupert Hamer
Australian politician and lawyer
Born
July 29th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old
A soldier during World War II, contributed to Australia's legal and political landscape. Served as the 39th Premier of Victoria from 1972 to 1981, implementing significant reforms in education and health. Hamer also had a legal career, focusing on constitutional law and public policy after his tenure as Premier.
Continue ReadingLiam O'Brien
Ice hockey player for the Colorado Avalanche
Born
July 29th, 1994 31 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player played in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted in 2012, development occurred in the junior leagues before making a professional debut. Competed primarily as a forward, contributing to team offense and physical play. Played for the Colorado Avalanche, participating in various NHL seasons and contributing to the team's performance on the ice.
Continue ReadingWilliam Powell
Actor in The Thin Man series
Born
July 29th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1984 41 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor, renowned for a distinctive style in film and a sophisticated persona. Starred in the 'The Thin Man' series, portraying the character Nick Charles, which became a hallmark of his career. Also earned acclaim for performances in films like 'My Man Godfrey' and 'The Great Ziegfeld'. His career spanned over five decades, starting in the silent film era and transitioning to talkies, showcasing versatility in various genres. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for 'My Man Godfrey'.
Continue ReadingPhilip Charles Durham
Scottish admiral and politician
Born
July 29th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1845 180 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the Royal Navy and reached the rank of admiral. Participated in significant naval engagements during the Napoleonic Wars. Played a crucial role in political matters, representing Scotland. His leadership contributed to naval strategies and operations, impacting maritime affairs during his time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 7th
Thomas D'Arcy McGee
Irish-Canadian politician and journalist
Born
April 13th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1868 157 years ago — 42 years old
Born in Ireland, played a significant role in Canadian politics and journalism. Moved to Canada in 1842, where engagement in political affairs began. Advocated for the Confederation of Canada and served as a member of the Canadian Parliament. Contributed to numerous publications, particularly focusing on topics such as Irish nationalism and Canadian unity. McGee was assassinated in 1868, becoming a martyr for the cause of Canadian nationalism.
Continue ReadingFrank Church
American politician and senator
Born
July 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1984 41 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a United States Senator from Idaho from 1957 to 1981. Focused on civil liberties and environmental conservation throughout political career. Chaired the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence in the 1970s, investigating abuses by intelligence agencies. Advocated for various landmark legislation, including the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste de La Salle
French priest and educational reformer
Born
April 30th, 1651 374 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1719 306 years ago — 67 years old
A priest and educational reformer contributed significantly to the development of education in France. Founded the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in 1680, focusing on the education of the poor and the creation of a system of schools. Established a curriculum that emphasized the importance of education for all children, regardless of social status. Canonized as a saint in 1900, recognized for dedication to teaching and improving education standards.
Continue ReadingBerengar I of Italy
King of Italy and Holy Roman Emperor
Died
April 7th, 924 1101 years ago — None years old
Ruled as King of Italy from 888 until death in 924 and held the title of Holy Roman Emperor from 915. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions and attempts to consolidate power in northern Italy. Berengar I faced ongoing challenges from various nobles and external threats, particularly from the Saracens and the Magyars. His efforts to unify and stabilize the region included military campaigns and political alliances. Berengar I was ousted briefly in 901 but later regained control. His reign was a significant period in early medieval Italian history, characterized by fragmentation and the competition for power among various tribal entities.
Continue ReadingV. K. Murthy
Cinematographer for acclaimed films
Born
November 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent Indian cinematographer, contributed to the Indian film industry with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Worked with acclaimed directors and was integral to the visual storytelling in Indian cinema. Notably, partnered with Satyajit Ray on films such as 'Pather Panchali' and 'The Apu Trilogy', which received international recognition. Received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2008 for lifetime achievement in cinema, highlighting contributions to the craft of cinematography.
Continue ReadingShimazu Tadatsune
Japanese daimyō of the Shimazu clan
Born
November 27th, 1576 449 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1638 387 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a daimyō during the early Edo period. Led the Shimazu clan's governance in Satsuma Province, significantly influencing the region's political landscape. Fostered the clan's military strength and supported the arts and culture in the region. Played a key role in the administration and consolidation of power within the clan, ensuring its prominence in Japanese feudal society.
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