Walter Lantz
Animator and creator of Woody Woodpecker
An American animator, director, and producer, contributed significantly to the field of animation throughout the 20th century. Lantz established a successful production studio that produced popular animated shorts. Created the iconic character Woody Woodpecker, who became a staple in animated film and television. Lantz's work helped shape the landscape of American animation, moving from early silent shorts to synchronized sound cartoons, showcasing innovative techniques and storytelling.
Created Woody Woodpecker character
Directed numerous animated short films
Produced films that featured notable characters
Other People Born on April 27th
Casey Kasem
Radio host and voice actor, American Top 40
Born
April 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent radio host and voice actor, played a pivotal role in the development of the modern music countdown format. Co-created the program American Top 40 in 1970, which achieved significant popularity and remained influential in the music industry for decades. Served as the voice of Shaggy in the animated series Scooby-Doo, which began in 1969 and continued for several adaptations. Produced various radio shows and contributed to influential music programming throughout a career spanning several decades. Helped launch the careers of several artists through the platform of his radio shows.
Continue ReadingHans Hartwig von Beseler
German general and politician
Born
April 27th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1921 105 years ago — 71 years old
Served in the Prussian Army and rose to the rank of general. Commanded the German forces in the Siege of Antwerp during World War I. Held political offices, including serving as a member of the German Reichstag. Engaged in military and political strategies that influenced operations during the war.
Continue ReadingAri Graynor
American actress known for 'For a Good Time, Call...'
Born
April 27th, 1983 42 years ago
Born in 1983, this American actress appeared in the series 'The Sopranos' and starred in the film 'For a Good Time, Call...'. Graduated from Barnard College, worked on stage productions, and participated in various television projects. Recognized for both comedic and dramatic roles throughout her career.
Continue ReadingVernon B. Romney
Attorney General of Utah
Born
April 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 14th Attorney General of Utah from 1971 to 1977. Held significant roles in local politics, including state senator and executive director of the Utah Republican Party. Involved in various legal cases and community affairs, contributing to the governance and legal framework of the state. Later, served on the Republican National Committee and participated in multiple statewide campaigns, influencing party strategies in Utah.
Continue ReadingYiorgos Theotokas
Greek author and playwright
Born
April 27th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1966 59 years ago — 60 years old
An influential Greek author and playwright, produced significant literary works that contributed to modern Greek literature. Wrote numerous plays and novels that explored themes of identity, society, and history. Received acclaim for both literary and theatrical contributions, solidifying a prominent position in 20th-century Greek literature.
Continue ReadingChiang Ching-kuo
Politician, President of Republic of China
Born
April 27th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1988 38 years ago — 77 years old
Served as President of the Republic of China from 1978 until death in 1988. Led Taiwan during a period of significant economic growth and modernization. Implemented various social and economic reforms that transformed Taiwan into a major global economy. Focused on improving diplomatic ties with the United States and strengthening national defense. Initiated policies that relaxed martial law and increased political participation, leading to democratic reforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 22nd
Bebo Valdés
Cuban-Swedish pianist and composer
Born
October 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the Latin jazz genre. Developed a distinctive style blending Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz influences. Achieved success in Cuba before relocating to Sweden, where continued musical innovation took place. Collaborated with various artists and received multiple accolades.
Continue ReadingD. S. Senanayake
1st Prime Minister of Sri Lanka
Born
1883 143 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1952 73 years ago — 69 years old
First Prime Minister of Sri Lanka served from 1947 until death in 1952. Played a crucial role in the country’s transition from British colonial rule to independence. Focused on agricultural reforms and economic development, introducing policies that aimed to modernize the agricultural sector. Established the first constitution for independent Ceylon, paving the way for democratic governance. Advocated for national unity and worked on promoting the Sinhala language.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Lully
Composer of French opera and ballet music
Born
November 28th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1687 338 years ago — 54 years old
An Italian-French composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of French opera in the 17th century. Lully became the court composer and director of music for King Louis XIV, establishing a style that combined French musical elements with Italian techniques. He founded the French opera tradition with the creation of several celebrated works, including 'Armide' and 'Atys'. Lully also played a crucial role in the ballet de cour genre, writing music for many court ballets performed at the royal court. His influence extended beyond composition, as he also established the Académie Royale de Musique, laying the groundwork for future operatic institutions in France.
Continue ReadingGemini Ganesan
Indian film actor in Tamil cinema
Born
November 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old
An acclaimed actor in Tamil cinema, he gained recognition for contributions to the industry from the 1940s to the 1990s. Gained popularity through romantic roles in numerous films. Worked in more than 200 films, establishing a significant legacy. Collaborated with prominent directors and shared screen space with leading actresses of the time.
Continue ReadingAgostino Carracci
Italian painter and educator
Born
August 16th, 1557 468 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1602 423 years ago — 44 years old
A key figure in the Italian Baroque period, this artist contributed significantly to the development of the Bolognese school of painting. Engaged in both painting and teaching, founded an influential academy that trained several prominent artists. The works often displayed a blend of realism and emotion. Collaborated with family members to create notable frescoes and religious paintings, influencing future generations of artists. This individual's works are characterized by their vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, reflecting the transitional style of the late 16th century.
Continue ReadingSamuel Courtauld
English businessman known for silk industry
Born
1793 233 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1881 144 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent English businessman, contributed significantly to the silk industry during the 19th century. Established the Courtaulds textile company, which became a key player in the production of silk fabrics. Pioneered advancements in the production processes, leading to the company's immense growth. The company played a major role in the industrialization of textile manufacturing in England. His leadership and vision helped shape the future of the silk industry and set standards for quality and innovation.
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