Vincent Canby
Film critic and historian for The New York Times
Served as a film critic for The New York Times from 1969 to 1993. Critiqued over a thousand films during tenure, establishing a prominent voice in American cinema journalism. Authored several books on film history, including 'The New York Times Film Guide' and 'The Film Directors'. Influenced generations of film lovers and critics through writings, including retrospective analyses of filmmakers and trends. Received the prestigious George Jean Nathan Award for Dramatic Criticism.
Critiqued films for The New York Times
Authored books on film history
Received the George Jean Nathan Award
Other People Born on July 27th
Gary Gygax
Game Designer, Co-creator of Dungeons & Dragons
Born
July 27th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2008 18 years ago — 69 years old
An influential game designer co-created the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons in the early 1970s, which established a new genre in gaming. The game's mechanics and storytelling elements influenced subsequent role-playing games and other media. Gygax co-founded TSR, Inc., the company that published Dungeons & Dragons, and authored several game supplements and novels related to the franchise. Contributions to the gaming community and conventions promoted the growth of tabletop gaming.
Continue ReadingHenri Longchambon
French politician and public figure
Born
July 27th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1969 57 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a prominent figure in French politics during the mid-20th century. Held various positions within the government, contributing to political discourse and policy development. Engaged in legislative processes that shaped the political landscape of France. His career included significant involvement in local and national governance, reflecting the political dynamics of the time.
Continue ReadingErnst May
Architect and urban planner in Germany
Born
July 27th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1970 56 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Germany, an architect and urban planner specialized in modernist architecture. Played a key role in urban planning during the Weimar Republic. Instrumental in the development of the Frankfurt Kitchen, which revolutionized kitchen design. Overseen numerous housing projects aimed at addressing the post-World War I housing crisis in Germany. Advocated for the principles of functionalism in architecture. His work during the 1920s significantly influenced residential building design in Germany.
Continue ReadingJonathan Rhys Meyers
Irish actor in 'The Tudors'
Born
July 27th, 1977 48 years ago
Born in 1977, this Irish actor gained prominence for his role as King Henry VIII in the television series 'The Tudors'. He started his acting career in the late 1990s and appeared in several films and television shows. Some of his notable works include 'Match Point', directed by Woody Allen, and the film 'August Rush'. He has received several award nominations throughout his career for his performances. In addition to acting, he has been involved in music and has released singles.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey de Havilland
Pilot and engineer; designed Mosquito
Born
July 27th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1965 61 years ago — 82 years old
An English pilot and engineer played a significant role in the development of military aircraft during World War II. Established the de Havilland Aircraft Company, which produced several notable aircraft designs. The most prominent of these was the de Havilland Mosquito, a twin-engine bomber known for its speed and versatility. Beyond military applications, contributions also extended into civil aviation with the design of the de Havilland Comet, the world's first commercial turbojet airliner. His engineering advancements greatly influenced aircraft performance and technology in aviation.
Continue ReadingDiane Webber
Model and actress from 'The Naked City'
Born
July 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in modeling, dancing, and acting from the mid-20th century. Featured as a pin-up and appeared in several publications. Gained recognition for the role in the television series 'The Naked City'. Worked with various filmmakers and contributed to the entertainment industry during her career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 15th
Géraud de Cordemoy
French historian and philosopher
Born
October 6th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1684 341 years ago — 58 years old
Contributed to the fields of history and philosophy during the 17th century. Formulated ideas on the nature of reality and perception, addressing topics such as substance and the mind-body relationship. Advocated for a philosophical framework that integrated historical context. Engaged in legal practice, reflecting a multifaceted understanding of societal structures.
Continue ReadingLambert of Italy
Italian King and Duke of Spoleto
Died
October 15th, 898 1127 years ago — None years old
Born around 880, Lambert ascended to power as the Duke of Spoleto and later became the King of Italy. His reign occurred during a tumultuous period characterized by conflict among the nobility and external threats from various groups. Lambert's rule was marked by efforts to secure his kingdom and consolidate power against rival factions. Despite the challenges faced, Lambert managed to maintain a degree of stability during his reign. He died on October 15, 898, leaving behind a complex legacy tied to the political landscape of late 9th-century Italy.
Continue ReadingVirginia Lee Burton
Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
August 30th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1968 57 years ago — 59 years old
An American author and illustrator, created several beloved children's books. 'Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel' published in 1939, remains a classic, showcasing themes of friendship and innovation. Another significant work, 'The Little House,' explores the concept of urbanization and change over time through the eyes of a house. Burton's illustrations, characterized by a unique style, contributed greatly to her narratives, making her books visually captivating for young readers. In 1943, received the Caldecott Medal for 'The Little House,' solidifying her status in children's literature. Burton also co-founded the Folly Cove Designers, a collective of textile artists, blending art with craftsmanship.
Continue ReadingJack Narz
Game Show Host with 'The Joker's Wild'
Born
November 13th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old
Game show host and announcer emerged in the entertainment industry during the 1950s. Hosted several popular game shows, including 'The Joker's Wild' and 'Jackpot', which gained significant viewership. Acted as an announcer for various television programs and events throughout the career. Contributed to the format and style of game shows during a pivotal time in television history.
Continue ReadingRudy Minarcin
Baseball player and coach
Born
March 25th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
Played professional baseball as a pitcher from 1953 to 1961. Contributed to the major leagues, specifically with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Athletics. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, guiding various teams at different levels of baseball. Served as a mentor to many young players throughout his coaching career.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Alexander
Geologist and physicist, academic leader
Born
December 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1958 67 years ago — 49 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of geology and physics. Served as a professor and held important academic positions, influencing geological education and research. Engaged in extensive research on geological processes and contributed to the understanding of magnetic properties in geological materials.
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