William A. Wellman
American film director and producer
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Esteemed film director and producer contributed significantly to early American cinema. Directed the classic film 'Wings,' which won the first Academy Award for Best Picture in 1929. Also known for the western 'The Ox-Bow Incident' and the drama 'A Star Is Born.' His career spanned several decades, during which he worked with numerous stars and explored various genres, including war films and musicals.
Directed 'Wings,' the first Best Picture Oscar winner
Produced 'A Star Is Born' (1937 version)
Directed 'The Ox-Bow Incident'
Other People Born on February 29th
Dee Brown
Historian and author of 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee'
Born
February 29th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 94 years old
An American historian and author, contributed significantly to the documentation of Native American history and experiences. Published 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee' in 1970, which presented a detailed account of the injustices faced by Native Americans during westward expansion. The book utilized a narrative style, incorporating primary sources and eyewitness accounts, which elevated the discourse on Native American issues. Also authored several other works on American history and the plight of indigenous peoples.
Continue ReadingTyrese Haliburton
Basketball player for Indiana Pacers
Born
February 29th, 2000 25 years ago
Born in 2000, a professional basketball player emerged as a key player in the NBA. After playing college basketball at Iowa State University, achieved recognition for exceptional skills and playmaking ability. Drafted by the Sacramento Kings in the 2020 NBA Draft, quickly developed a reputation as a rising star. In 2022, traded to the Indiana Pacers, continued to excel, leading the team in assists and points per game.
Continue ReadingSaeed Poursamimi
Iranian actor in theater and film
Born
February 29th, 1944 81 years ago
Born in 1944, a prominent Iranian actor engaged in theater and cinema. Active in the performing arts, contributed significantly to various stage productions and films. Gained recognition through compelling performances and distinct roles within these mediums. Notable for participation in several influential Iranian films that reflect the socio-cultural landscape of Iran during pivotal periods.
Continue ReadingEmmeline B. Wells
American journalist and women's rights activist
Born
February 29th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1921 104 years ago — 93 years old
An influential journalist and poet, involved in women's suffrage and other social issues. Edited the 'Woman's Exponent,' a publication that advocated for women's rights, particularly in the context of the Mormon community. Actively participated in the National Woman Suffrage Association and worked alongside prominent suffragists. Played a significant role in promoting education for women and advocating for their voting rights.
Continue ReadingTerrence Long
American baseball player, Oakland Athletics
Born
February 29th, 1976 49 years ago
A professional baseball outfielder, played in the Major Leagues from 1998 to 2005. Significant career spent with the Oakland Athletics, contributing to the team's success during the early 2000s. Also played for the New York Mets, San Diego Padres, and Cincinnati Reds. Participated in both the 2000 and 2001 seasons as an everyday player, showcasing consistent performance at the plate and in the field. Infamous for his 2001 season when he achieved a batting average of .325.
Continue ReadingSaul Williams
Singer-songwriter and poet
Born
February 29th, 1972 53 years ago
An American singer-songwriter and poet, known for blending elements of hip-hop, rock, and spoken word in creative works. Gained prominence with the debut album 'Amethyst Rock Star' in 2001, showcasing a unique voice and style. Authored several books of poetry, including 'Said the Shotgun to the Head'. Engaged in various projects across music, theater, and film, collaborating with a range of artists and contributing to soundtracks. Notable for performances at major music festivals and cultural events, he has fostered a strong connection to social commentary through art.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Robert Baldwin
Canadian politician and lawyer
Born
May 12th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1858 167 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the third Premier of Canada West from 1848 to 1851. Played a significant role in the introduction of responsible government in Canada. Contributed to the establishment of public education in Canada West. Advocated for civil liberties and democratic reforms.
Continue ReadingTeofilo Folengo
Italian monk and poet, 'Leccon' creator
Born
November 8th, 1491 534 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1544 481 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1491, a monk and poet contributed significantly to Italian literature during the Renaissance. Folengo is celebrated for creating the macaronic poem 'Orlandino', which combines Italian and Latin languages. His works are characterized by playful language and a critical view of contemporary society. Folengo's literary career began after entering a Benedictine monastery, where he diverged from traditional forms of poetry. He published under the pseudonym Merlin Cocai, gaining attention for innovative poetic styles and humor. His writings influenced later generations of poets, merging serious themes with comic elements.
Continue ReadingGustaf Dalén
Swedish physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 30th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1937 88 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1869, a physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the development of gas absorption and automatic regulation systems. Established the AGA company, which pioneered the production of gas lamps, including those used for lighthouses. Achieved recognition in 1912 with the Nobel Prize in Physics for inventions related to gas lamps and the development of the sun valve, which enabled automatic operation of lighthouses. His work had a substantial influence on maritime navigation safety through improved lighthouse technology.
Continue ReadingMalcolm IV of Scotland
Scottish King and monarch during turmoil
Born
1141 884 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1165 860 years ago — 24 years old
Ascended to the throne at a young age, ruling Scotland from 1153 until death in 1165. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen royal authority amidst ongoing conflicts with both internal barons and external threats from England. His rule experienced significant challenges, including maintaining control over Scotland's feudal nobles. Some attempts were made to assert Scottish independence during his reign. Malcolm IV also established a grant of lands to the Abbey of Dunfermline, which strengthened the church's influence.
Continue ReadingRalph Bunche
Diplomat and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 7th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1971 54 years ago — 67 years old
Significant contributions to diplomacy and conflict resolution occurred during the mid-20th century. Played a crucial role in negotiating the 1949 Armistice Agreements between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Became the first African American to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1950 for efforts in mediating peace in the Middle East. Held various academic and governmental positions, including serving as a faculty member at Howard University and as Under-Secretary-General for Special Political Affairs at the United Nations.
Continue ReadingDanny Blanchflower
Northern Irish footballer and manager
Born
February 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1993 32 years ago — 67 years old
Played as a right half for Tottenham Hotspur and represented Northern Ireland in international competitions. Managed several clubs following retirement from playing. Achieved success in both roles, contributing significantly to football during the mid-20th century.
Continue Reading