William B. Bankhead

American politician, 47th House Speaker

William B. Bankhead - Leaders & Politicians born April 12th, 1874
Born
Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1874, served as a lawyer before entering politics. Elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1917, representing Alabama. Held multiple leadership roles, including Majority Leader and finally as the 47th Speaker of the House from 1936 until his death in 1940. Championed various New Deal initiatives and helped navigate significant legislative changes during a crucial period in American history.

Served as the 47th Speaker of the House

Represented Alabama in the House of Representatives

Other People Born on April 12th

John Dunsworth

Canadian actor in Trailer Park Boys
Born
April 12th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1946, an actor and comedian contributed to Canadian television with a memorable role in the series 'Trailer Park Boys'. The character Jim Lahey, a drunken former police officer, became a defining figure in the show's narrative. Dunsworth's performance added depth and humor to the series, which gained a cult following. Besides acting, Dunsworth was involved in theatre and radio, showcasing his broad range of talents. He spent years honing his craft, eventually becoming a recognizable face on Canadian television.

Continue Reading

Germinal Pierre Dandelin

Mathematician; Dandelin Spheres in Geometry
Born
April 12th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1847 179 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematics and engineering, particularly in the field of geometry. Developed the Dandelin spheres, which provide a geometrical proof of the relationship between conic sections and ellipses. Engaged in research involving the properties of geometric figures and their applications in engineering. Published works that influenced the understanding of conic sections and their properties.

Continue Reading

Louis Beel

Dutch politician and Prime Minister
Born
April 12th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1977 49 years ago — 74 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1958 to 1963. Held various positions within the government, including Minister of Education, Arts, and Sciences. Actively participated in the development of Dutch education policy during his tenure. Contributed to post-war reconstruction efforts in the Netherlands.

Continue Reading

William Cookworthy

Pharmacist and porcelain manufacturer
Born
April 12th, 1705 320 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1780 245 years ago — 75 years old

Service as a minister preceded a significant career in pharmacy and porcelain manufacturing. After studying pharmacy, established a successful business in Plymouth, providing remedies and medicines. Founded the first factory in England to successfully produce true porcelain, utilizing kaolin clay sourced from Cornwall. Contributed to the introduction of porcelain to England and enhanced the local economy through this innovative industry.

Continue Reading

Pietro Nardini

Italian violinist and composer
Born
April 12th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1793 232 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Italy in 1722, a prominent violinist and composer contributed significantly to the Baroque music tradition. Studied under various renowned musicians and published several works, including violin concertos and sonatas. Held the position of concertmaster at the Medici court in Florence, influencing the development of violin techniques and styles during the 18th century. His compositions continued to be performed and studied, reflecting the musical trends of the time.

Continue Reading

Charles Napier

American actor in 'The Blues Brothers'
Born
April 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 5th, 2011 14 years ago — 75 years old

An actor active in film and television from the 1960s until 2011. Gained recognition for roles in various television series and films. Played in 'The Blues Brothers' as Captain Beepers and appeared in 'Rambo: First Blood Part II' as Marshall Murdock. Guest-starred on numerous shows including 'Miami Vice' and 'The A-Team'. His performances spanned over four decades, contributing to numerous cinematic and television productions.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 15th

Guy Green

Film director and screenwriter
Born
November 5th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1913, a filmmaker recognized for contributions to British and American cinema. Directed films such as 'The End of the Affair' and 'The Green Years'. Also worked as a cinematographer on notable projects during the mid-20th century. Transitioned from cinematography to directing in the 1950s and was active in the industry for several decades, demonstrating versatility in storytelling. Later earned an Academy Award for Best Cinematography for his work on 'The Mark' in 1961.

Continue Reading

Milton Sills

American actor and screenwriter
Born
January 12th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1930 95 years ago — 48 years old

An actor and screenwriter active during the silent film era and early sound films. Achieved acclaim for performances in films such as 'The Man Who Lost Himself' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Worked in numerous productions, contributing both in front of and behind the camera. Transitioned from stage to film, participating in early Hollywood's development.

Continue Reading

Frances Bay

Actress in 'Happy Gilmore' and 'The X-Files'
Born
January 23rd, 1919 107 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1919, this Canadian-American actress appeared in numerous television shows and films. Best recognized for roles in 'Happy Gilmore' and the series 'The X-Files', she contributed to projects spanning various genres, showcasing her versatility in character portrayal. Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, her career included performances in theatre before transitioning to film and television. She garnered attention for her ability to portray both comedic and dramatic roles effectively, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

Continue Reading

Francisco Morazán

Guatemalan general and Central American leader
Born
1792 234 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1842 183 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent general, lawyer, and politician, played a significant role in the political landscape of Central America in the 19th century. Served as the President of the Federal Republic of Central America from 1830 to 1834 and again from 1839 to 1842. Advocated for liberal reforms and national unification in a region marked by fragmentation and civil strife. Engaged in numerous military campaigns to uphold the federation's integrity and to promote progressive policies amidst opposition from conservative factions.

Continue Reading

Thomas Wolfe

American novelist, Look Homeward, Angel
Born
October 3rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1938 87 years ago — 37 years old

A prominent American novelist, this figure explored the human experience through lyrical prose and expansive narratives. Born in 1900, the individual gained recognition for capturing the essence of early 20th-century America. The debut novel, 'Look Homeward, Angel,' published in 1929, showcased a semi-autobiographical approach that drew upon personal experiences. Additionally, works like 'Of Time and the River' further established literary credentials, often reflecting deep philosophical insights. Throughout a brief yet impactful career, this author contributed significantly to the American literary landscape until passing in 1938.

Continue Reading

Fernando Botero

Colombian painter and sculptor
Born
April 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2023 2 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Colombia, this artist developed a distinctive style characterized by the use of exaggerated proportions and vibrant colors. Botero's works often address social and political themes through humor and irony. His early artistic influences included Colombian folk art, which shaped his unique perspective. Throughout a prolific career, he produced numerous paintings, sculptures, and drawings, enabling him to garner international recognition. Botero's art is displayed in major museums globally, with significant exhibitions in the United States and Europe, underscoring his lasting legacy within the global art scene.

Continue Reading