Tony Rolt
Race Car Driver and Engineer with Le Mans Win
Acclaimed as both a race car driver and engineer, achieved significant success in motorsport during the 1950s. Competed extensively in endurance racing and was a prominent figure at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Played a crucial role in the development of several automobile technologies.
Won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1953
Competed for Jaguar and Ferrari teams
Other People Born on October 16th
Max Bygraves
English-Australian actor and singer
Born
October 16th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
An actor and singer engaged in entertainment during the mid-20th century. Achievements include a successful career in television and music. Primarily recognized for work on British television, particularly on shows such as 'The Max Bygraves Show'. Gained acclaim as a musical performer, often appearing with a signature comedic style and charm. Recorded many popular songs, contributing to the entertainment landscape in Britain and Australia.
Continue ReadingMaria Pia of Savoy
Queen consort of Portugal
Born
October 16th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
1911 114 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1847, she became queen consort of Portugal upon her marriage to King Luis I. As queen, she held a ceremonial role in the Portuguese court and was involved in social and philanthropic activities. Her marriage produced several children, contributing to the stability of the Portuguese monarchy. Following the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910, she and her family went into exile. Later years saw her residing in Italy, where she continued her philanthropic pursuits until her death in 1911.
Continue ReadingCharles Colson
American lawyer and Watergate figure
Born
October 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
A lawyer and political aide, participated in the Watergate scandal during the administration of President Richard Nixon. After resigning from his position, founded a prison ministry focused on helping inmates reintegrate into society. Authored several books discussing faith, politics, and ethics. Established the Charles Colson Center for Christian Worldview to promote a biblical understanding of societal issues.
Continue ReadingLucy Stanton
American activist for civil rights
Born
October 16th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1910 115 years ago — 78 years old
An early advocate for civil rights, focused on the education and advancement of African Americans in the United States. Worked to secure the rights of freed slaves and was instrumental in promoting equal educational opportunities. Contributed to various organizations dedicated to civil rights and women's suffrage. Published writings advocating for social justice and equal rights. Participated in numerous speaking engagements to raise awareness about the plight of African Americans in the post-Civil War era.
Continue ReadingBert Kaempfert
Conductor and composer of pop music
Born
October 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1980 45 years ago — 56 years old
A German conductor and composer contributed to the popular music scene. Born on October 16, 1923, produced instrumental hits that blended orchestral sounds with popular music. Utilized innovative arrangements and techniques, influencing the genre significantly. Established a reputation through a distinctive style that combined elements of jazz, easy listening, and big band music. Created iconic works like 'Strangers in the Night' and 'Spanish Eyes', which gained widespread recognition. His compositions and arrangements led to a successful career that included numerous recordings and collaborations with various artists.
Continue ReadingClaude H. Van Tyne
Historian and author of American history
Born
October 16th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1869, significant contributions to historical scholarship were made. Specialization in American history resulted in several influential works. A prominent figure in the field, engagement with historical education and writing enhanced understanding of key events and personalities in American history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 6th
Leo von Caprivi
German politician and chancellor
Born
February 24th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1899 126 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a German general and politician, Caprivi held the position of Chancellor of Germany from 1890 to 1894. His tenure was marked by a focus on social and economic reforms, steering the country through a period of political transformation. Caprivi sought to improve relations with foreign powers and initiated various domestic policies aimed at modernizing Germany's economy. Prior to his chancellorship, he had a distinguished military career and played significant roles in various campaigns, contributing to Germany's military strategies.
Continue ReadingDonald Lynden-Bell
English astrophysicist and astronomer
Born
April 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2018 7 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics, particularly in the study of galaxies and the dynamics of stellar systems. Developed the concept of the dark matter halo, enhancing understanding of galaxy formation and evolution. Involved with the discovery of supermassive black holes at the center of galaxies, influencing modern cosmological theories. Participated in numerous projects and organizations focused on astronomical research and education.
Continue ReadingDan Hicks
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of 'Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks'
Born
December 9th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old
Dan Hicks gained recognition as a singer-songwriter and guitarist, blending elements of folk, swing, and country music. Emerging in the late 1960s, he formed the group Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks, which became known for a unique sound characterized by witty lyrics and an eclectic mix of musical styles. The band released several albums, with 'Where's the Money?' and 'Striking It Rich' being particularly notable. Hicks showcased a distinctive vocal style and clever songwriting, which contributed to his recognition in the Americana music scene. In addition to performing, Hicks collaborated with various artists throughout his career, contributing to a rich and varied musical tapestry. His work has influenced subsequent generations of musicians and continues to resonate within the roots music community.
Continue ReadingJames Whitmore
American Actor, The Shawshank Redemption
Born
October 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2009 16 years ago — 87 years old
An American actor with a career spanning over five decades, made significant contributions to film and theatre. Initially focused on stage performances, transitioned to screen roles, becoming recognized for his performances in major films. Notably starred in 'The Shawshank Redemption' as Brooks Hatlen, showcasing a poignant portrayal that resonated with audiences. Also appeared in 'Give 'Em Hell, Harry!' and 'The Asphalt Jungle', receiving acclaim for versatility in roles. Won a Tony Award for his work in theatre and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in 'Give 'Em Hell, Harry!'. Throughout his career, appeared in various television series and films, remaining a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingMotilal Nehru
Indian lawyer and Congress President
Born
May 6th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1931 94 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, held the office of President of the Indian National Congress in 1919 and again in 1928. Played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian independence movement through legal and political advocacy. Contributed to the drafting of the Motilal Nehru Report in 1928, which aimed to increase self-governance in India. Actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement alongside Mahatma Gandhi, advocating for civil disobedience against British rule.
Continue ReadingShirley Jean Rickert
American actress in classic films
Born
March 25th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2009 16 years ago — 82 years old
Began acting in Hollywood films as a child in the 1930s and appeared in notable productions. Gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Wizard of Oz' and 'The Little Princess'. Transitioned into television in later years, continuing to contribute to the entertainment industry.
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