Wilfrid Hyde-White
English actor in film and television
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An accomplished English actor, a prominent figure in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in film adaptations such as 'My Fair Lady' and 'The Ladykillers'. Demonstrated versatility in character roles across various genres including drama and comedy. Made notable appearances in television series, including the role of Colonel Pickering in the acclaimed adaptation of 'Pygmalion'.
Appeared in 'My Fair Lady' as Colonel Pickering
Starred in 'The Ladykillers' as Major Claude
Featured in 'Pygmalion' on television
Other People Born on May 12th
Emperor Shōkō of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Muromachi period
Born
May 12th, 1401 624 years ago
Died
1428 597 years ago — 27 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1412 and ruled during a turbulent period marked by the onset of the Sengoku period. His reign witnessed the challenges of power struggles between various clans within Japan. The central authority weakened as regional daimyōs gained power, diminishing the imperial influence. Played a symbolic role as the head of state despite limited political power. The era was characterized by the emergence of new cultural practices and the continuation of the feudal system. His reign lasted until 1428 when he abdicated, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the political complexities of the time.
Continue ReadingDante Gabriel Rossetti
Poet and Painter of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
Born
May 12th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1882 143 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, this individual contributed significantly to poetry and visual art during the 19th century. Renowned for an emphasis on medieval themes, the individual created vivid works that incorporated lush color and intricate detail. Poetry often reflected personal experiences and emotional depth, with major collections including 'The Early Poems' and 'The Ballad and the Rose'. In addition to poetry, the individual produced many notable paintings, often featuring themes of love and desire, and was involved in art criticism, influencing contemporaries. The contributions to both art and literature were integral to establishing a distinct aesthetic movement that sought to challenge the artistic conventions of the time.
Continue ReadingJesús Franco
Filmmaker and horror genre pioneer
Born
May 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
A Spanish director, screenwriter, producer, and actor, recognized for contributions to the horror genre. Directed over 200 films, spanning various styles and themes. Developed a unique style characterized by low budgets and provocative content. Collaborated with notable actors, including Christopher Lee and Soledad Miranda. Gained a cult following through films that often blended eroticism with horror. His works included titles such as 'Count Dracula', 'The Awful Dr. Orlof', and 'Vampyros Lesbos', which have garnered attention in film studies and retrospectives.
Continue ReadingIan Dury
English Singer-Songwriter and Actor
Born
May 12th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2000 25 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in the English music scene, this individual gained recognition in the late 1970s. His style combined elements of rock and punk, often infused with a distinctly British sensibility. The album 'New Boots and Panties!!' featured the hit singles 'Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick' and 'Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3'. As an actor, roles included appearances in films and television, contributing to a multifaceted career. A polio survivor, he often addressed themes of disability and resilience in his work.
Continue ReadingLouis de Buade de Frontenac
Governor General of New France
Born
May 12th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1698 327 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the third Governor General of New France, overseeing the colony during a significant period of conflict and expansion. Played a crucial role in defending the territory against British incursions and strengthened relations with Indigenous nations. Initiated numerous military campaigns and encouraged the growth of settlements. His terms in office were marked by significant development in trade and exploration in the region, contributing to the strengthening of French presence in North America.
Continue ReadingAlejandro Gorostiaga
Chilean Colonel and military leader
Born
May 12th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1912 113 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a prominent military figure in Chile during the 19th century. Participated in the War of the Pacific, which involved conflicts over territories and resources in the region. Held key positions that contributed to military operations and strategies during this period of Chilean history. Played a role in shaping military policies and reforms within the army. His actions influenced the outcomes of battles and the broader conflict involving Peru and Bolivia.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 6th
L. Frank Baum
American novelist and author of Oz
Born
May 15th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1919 106 years ago — 62 years old
Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a novelist wrote children's books, with the most recognized work being 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', published in 1900. This book became a classic in children's literature and led to a series of sequels exploring the Land of Oz. In addition to writing, involvement in theater was significant, contributing to adaptations of the Oz stories for the stage. Various artistic forms, including illustrations and musicals, were influenced by the characters and themes originated in the Oz series.
Continue ReadingAlexander Rodzyanko
Russian general during World War I
Born
August 18th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1970 55 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a general in the Russian Army during World War I. Held the position of Commander of the Petrograd Military District. Played a crucial role in the Russian Revolution of 1917, where leadership decisions significantly influenced the course of events. After the fall of the Tsarist regime, moved to the United States and continued to be active in expatriate affairs.
Continue ReadingErnest MacMillan
Canadian conductor and composer
Born
August 18th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent conductor and composer, this figure played a significant role in Canadian music. In the early 20th century, served as the principal conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and founded the Toronto Conservatory of Music. Compositions included orchestral works, choral pieces, and songs. Actively promoted Canadian music and composers through conducting and teaching. Served as the president of the Canadian Music Council, influencing the development of music in Canada.
Continue ReadingMaria Dulęba
Polish actress known for Polish theater
Born
October 17th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1959 66 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1881 in Poland, this actress gained prominence in the early to mid-20th century. Performing extensively in theater, she became a distinguished figure in Polish cultural life. The actress was associated with several renowned theatrical productions and contributed to the development of Polish performing arts during her career. Her work included both classic and contemporary plays, showcasing a range of characters and styles.
Continue ReadingMaria Montessori
Physician and educator, Montessori method
Born
August 31st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1952 73 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed extensively to education with a focus on child development. Developed the Montessori method, emphasizing self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play. Established the first Casa dei Bambini in Rome in 1907, which served as a prototype for Montessori schools worldwide. Promoted the importance of a prepared environment and individualized learning for children. Published numerous works discussing educational theory and practice, influencing teaching methods across the globe.
Continue ReadingGeorge Pérez
Comic book artist and writer, Crisis on Infinite Earths
Born
June 9th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2022 3 years ago — 67 years old
An influential comic book artist and writer, contributed significantly to the comic book industry. Created iconic characters and storylines for major publishers, including Marvel and DC Comics. Art style characterized by detailed figures and dynamic compositions. Played a key role in the development of Teen Titans and Wonder Woman. Contributed to the groundbreaking limited series Crisis on Infinite Earths, which reshaped the DC Universe.
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