Vivienne Westwood

Fashion designer and punk icon

Vivienne Westwood - Fashion designer and punk icon
Born

April 8th, 1941
84 years ago

Died

December 29th, 2022
2 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Originated punk fashion in the 1970s, collaborated with Malcolm McLaren to open the boutique 'SEX' on King's Road, which became a hub for the punk movement. Created iconic designs that challenged conventional fashion norms, including the 'Pirate Collection' in 1981. Westwood emphasized sustainability and ethical fashion throughout her career, often using her platform to address climate change and social issues. Received the British Fashion Award for Outstanding Achievement in 2007.

Pioneered punk fashion in the 1970s

Designed the 'Pirate Collection' in 1981

Opened the boutique 'SEX' with Malcolm McLaren

Received the British Fashion Award in 2007

Other People Born on April 8th

María Félix

Mexican actress in classic cinema
Born
April 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 8th, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old

A leading figure in the Golden Age of Mexican cinema, the actress appeared in over 47 films during a prolific career spanning several decades. Recognized for her beauty and charisma, performances included roles in 'Doña Barbara' and 'La Belleza de la Vida'. Earning acclaim for her strong female characters, she became a cultural icon both in Mexico and abroad. She was also involved in various artistic endeavors beyond acting.

Continue Reading

Nnedi Okorafor

Author of speculative fiction works
Born
April 8th, 1974 51 years ago

An author and educator specializing in speculative fiction, focusing on themes from African culture and identity. Writings include novels, short stories, and graphic novels. Won the Hugo and Nebula awards for contributions to science fiction and fantasy literature. Additionally, teaches creative writing and has contributed to discussions on representation in media.

Continue Reading

Phil Schaap

Jazz disc jockey and historian
Born
April 8th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the world of jazz, contributed significantly to the genre through various radio shows and historical analysis. Hosted jazz programs on several radio stations, including WKCR-FM, where educational content about jazz history was emphasized. Played a critical role in preserving and sharing the works of legendary musicians. Served as a jazz historian with a deep knowledge of the genre's evolution and its key figures.

Continue Reading

Dionysios Solomos

Greek poet and translator of 'Hymn to Liberty'
Born
April 8th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1857 168 years ago — 58 years old

A significant figure in Greek literature, this individual played a crucial role in the national revival of Greece during the 19th century. Writing primarily in the Greek language, the poet's most celebrated work is the poem 'Hymn to Liberty', which later became the national anthem of Greece. Engaging with themes of freedom and identity, this individual contributed to the cultural movements of the time through poetry and translations that reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Greek people during their fight for independence from Ottoman rule. His literary legacy continues to influence modern Greek literature.

Continue Reading

Stanisław Taczak

Polish general during World War I
Born
April 8th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1874, a general in the Polish Army served prominently during World War I. Played a significant role in the Greater Poland Uprising against German control, commanding forces that contributed to the liberation of the region. After the war, participated in the establishment of Polish military structures and continued to influence military strategy in the interwar period. Promoted to the rank of general, he was involved in the creation and organization of military units that shaped modern Poland's defense capabilities. Later, he held high-ranking positions in the Polish Army and was a key figure in its developments until retirement.

Continue Reading

Matty Healy

English singer-songwriter and producer, The 1975
Born
April 8th, 1989 36 years ago

Born in 1989, a singer-songwriter and producer associated primarily with the band The 1975. The band gained popularity with their self-titled debut album, which included hit singles. They have produced several successful albums and are known for their energetic performances and blending of various musical styles.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 29th

Wilhelm Maybach

German engineer, founded Maybach brand
Born
February 9th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1929 95 years ago — 83 years old

An influential engineer and businessman, developed the luxury automobile brand Maybach. Contributed significantly to early automotive engineering, collaborating with Gottlieb Daimler in the creation of the high-speed gasoline engine. Established the Maybach brand to produce luxury vehicles that represented the pinnacle of automotive technology in the early 20th century. The brand gained recognition for its elegance and advanced engineering, serving a wealthy clientele. Focus on quality and performance set a standard for luxury automobiles.

Continue Reading

Stephen Bocskai

Prince of Transylvania, military leader
Born
1557 468 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1606 418 years ago — 49 years old

Ruled Transylvania from 1604 to 1606. Played a significant role in the defense of the region against Ottoman control. Engaged in military campaigns that restored the principality's autonomy. Promoted the interests of Protestants in a predominantly Catholic region, leading to the establishment of a degree of religious tolerance. Also known for his diplomatic efforts that sought to balance the influence of the Ottoman Empire and the Habsburgs during his reign.

Continue Reading

Nadezhda Mandelstam

Russian author and educator.
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1980 44 years ago — 81 years old

An author and educator, this individual contributed significantly to literature in Russia, particularly through her memoirs that reflect the Stalinist regime's impact on society. The works, which include 'Hope Against Hope' and 'Hope Abandoned', provide insight into the struggles faced during a period of intense political repression. Teaching also played a central role, influencing students with a commitment to literature and culture. This individual's writings became pivotal in understanding the era's historical context, highlighting personal and collective experiences during challenging times.

Continue Reading

Frank Thring

Australian actor in film and theatre
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1994 30 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in the Australian film and theatre scene, this actor's career spanned several decades. Gained recognition for performances in classic Australian productions and international films. Starred in 'The Wizard of Oz' and 'The Man from Snowy River'. His theatrical work included roles in various Shakespearean plays and Australian dramas.

Continue Reading

Hans Henkemans

Dutch pianist and psychiatrist
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1995 29 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of music and psychiatry. Studied piano at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague. Composed various works, blending academic and emotional elements. Served as a psychiatrist, integrating music therapy into his practice. His compositions were performed internationally, showcasing a unique style that merged classical music with contemporary influences.

Continue Reading

Rosenda Monteros

Mexican actress in classic cinema
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2018 6 years ago — 83 years old

Active in film and theatre, this actress gained recognition for her roles in several prominent films during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. She starred in 'Los Olvidados' directed by Luis Buñuel, which received critical acclaim and remains a significant work in the history of Mexican film. Throughout her career, she showcased her talent in both dramatic and comedic performances, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry. Monteros' contributions to film and her portrayal of complex characters were significant during her time, earning her a place in the history of Mexican cinema.

Continue Reading