Wolfgang Reitherman

Animator and director for Disney films

Wolfgang Reitherman - Animator and director for Disney films
Born

June 26th, 1909
115 years ago

Died

May 22nd, 1985
39 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An animator, director, and producer, contributed significantly to animation at Walt Disney Productions. Began career as an animator on classics such as 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' and 'Pinocchio'. Directed acclaimed films including 'The Jungle Book' and 'The Aristocats', showcasing talent in storytelling and character development. Played a pivotal role in shaping the Disney animated feature style during the mid-20th century. Oversaw many successful projects, leaving a lasting legacy in the animation industry.

Directed 'The Jungle Book'

Directed 'The Aristocats'

Animator on 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs'

Animator on 'Pinocchio'

Other People Born on June 26th

Bronisław Żurakowski

Pilot and engineer of Polish aviation
Born
June 26th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1911, a notable Polish pilot and engineer contributed significantly to the field of aviation through various aircraft designs and test flights. Worked primarily with the Polish Air Force and later engaged with experimental aircraft projects. Participated in the development of the TS-11 Iskra jet trainer, which became an important aircraft in the training of pilots in Poland. Emigrated to Canada and continued his work in aviation engineering, influencing aircraft technology and safety protocols. Made contributions to several aviation organizations and remained active in the aviation community until his later years.

Continue Reading

George Hainsworth

Ice hockey player and politician
Born
June 26th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1950 74 years ago — 55 years old

A notable ice hockey player and politician, played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League. Achieved significant success while with the Montreal Canadiens. Later transitioned into politics, serving in various capacities, including as a Member of Parliament.

Continue Reading

Jason Kendall

Baseball catcher, All-Star Game participant
Born
June 26th, 1974 50 years ago

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball for teams including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Oakland Athletics, and Chicago Cubs. Debuted in 1996 and played until 2010. Achieved two All-Star selections during his career. Noted for a strong defensive skill set and the ability to effectively handle pitchers. Recorded over 2,400 hits and was respected for his approach to the game throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Catherine Samba-Panza

Interim President of Central African Republic
Born
June 26th, 1956 68 years ago

Served as the interim president of the Central African Republic from January 2014 to March 2016. During this term, focused on stabilizing the country amidst ongoing conflict and worked towards national reconciliation. Previously held various roles in public administration and played a significant part in non-governmental organizations, advocating for women's rights and participation in political processes.

Continue Reading

Laurie Lee

English author and poet
Born
June 26th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1914, this English author and poet gained recognition for lyrical prose and vivid depictions of rural life. The semi-autobiographical work 'Cider with Rosie' detailed childhood experiences in a Gloucestershire village, becoming a classic of English literature. The author also produced essays, poetry, and further memoirs, contributing significantly to 20th-century British literature.

Continue Reading

Jan Paweł Lelewel

Polish painter and engineer
Born
June 26th, 1796 228 years ago
Died
1847 178 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1796, a painter and engineer contributed to the cultural landscape of Poland. Educational pursuits in art and engineering led to a blend of skills that influenced various artistic movements. Engaged in numerous projects, a unique style emerged that combined realism with romanticism. This individual's work reflected the social and political context of Poland during a period of turmoil, often emphasizing national themes and local history.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 22nd

Christopher Stone

English radio host and broadcaster
Born
September 19th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1965 59 years ago — 82 years old

Engaged in radio broadcasting primarily in England, particularly recognized for pioneering techniques in host presentation and audience interaction. Established a reputation through various radio shows, contributing to the growth of radio as a popular medium in the early 20th century. Played an influential role in shaping broadcasting standards during a formative time for the industry, becoming a voice for public discourse across multiple platforms.

Continue Reading

Dong Zhuo

Chinese warlord and politician
Died
May 22nd, 192 1832 years ago — None years old

Born in 138, this figure played a significant role during the late Eastern Han dynasty in China. Rising to power as a military general, the figure seized control of the capital, Luoyang, in 189. Known for ruthless governance, the figure wielded tremendous influence over the imperial court and manipulated political affairs to maintain authority. The reign was marked by heavy-handed tactics and violent suppression of opposition. The figure's rule attracted numerous enemies, leading to a coalition of warlords determined to challenge the authority. The eventual downfall occurred in 192 when the figure was assassinated by one of his own followers, marking a significant shift in the power dynamics of the era.

Continue Reading

Thurl Ravenscroft

Voice actor and singer of Disney fame
Born
February 6th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2005 19 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent voice actor and singer contributed to numerous animated films and projects. Best recognized for voicing Tony the Tiger in the Kellogg's Frosted Flakes commercials, the voice extended over several decades, becoming a recognizable character for many. Also contributed vocal talents to Disney productions, including roles in 'The Haunted Mansion' and various animated films. With a background in music, performed as a singer in the 'The Singing Dogs' and in other musical projects that showcased a rich baritone voice.

Continue Reading

Albert Claude

Belgian biologist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 24th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1983 41 years ago — 83 years old

A Belgian biologist contributed significantly to cell biology and microscopy. Achievements included pioneering methods in electron microscopy, which enabled detailed views of cellular structures. Research focused on the cytology of normal and cancerous cells, leading to a deeper understanding of cellular organization and pathology. Became a professor at the University of Brussels and played an essential role in advancing biological sciences. Honored with the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1974 for discoveries concerning the structure and function of organelles in cells.

Continue Reading

Julius Plücker

Mathematician and physicist, projective geometry
Born
June 16th, 1801 223 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1868 156 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics. Developed the foundations of projective geometry and made advancements in the study of algebraic functions. Conducted pioneering work in physics, particularly in cathode rays and spectrophotometry. Published many papers and was influential in shaping future research in both disciplines.

Continue Reading

Ewald Friedrich von Hertzberg

Prussian Foreign Minister and diplomat
Born
1725 300 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1795 229 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a prominent Prussian politician during the late 18th century. Held the position of Foreign Minister of Prussia from 1776 until 1791, playing a crucial role in shaping Prussian foreign policy during a transformative period in Europe. Advocated for diplomatic solutions and sought to navigate the complexities of international relations, particularly with Austria and Russia. Engaged in negotiations that aimed at strengthening Prussia's position in the face of shifting power dynamics in Europe. Contributed to internal reforms within the Prussian government, emphasizing modernization and efficiency in state affairs.

Continue Reading