Zita of Bourbon-Parma
Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary
Held the title of Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, serving during a tumultuous time marked by World War I. Zita became the last Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary from the House of Habsburg. After the defeat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, went into exile alongside her family. Spent years in Switzerland and other countries before returning to Austria for a visit in 1987. Died in 1989 at the age of 96, remembered for her commitment to her family's legacy and work during crises.
Served as Empress of Austria from 1916 to 1918
Actively supported the Austro-Hungarian war effort during WWI
Promoted charitable works during and after her reign
Other People Born on May 9th
Jake Long
American football player, NFL Pro Bowler
Born
May 9th, 1985 40 years ago
This player was a professional American football offensive tackle. He played college football at the University of Michigan, where he earned multiple awards including the Lombardi Award. In the 2008 NFL Draft, he was selected as the first overall pick by the Miami Dolphins. During a successful career, he was named to the Pro Bowl multiple times and recognized as an All-Pro. He also played for the St. Louis Rams and the Atlanta Falcons, contributing to the teams' offensive lines during his tenure.
Continue ReadingMarek Jankulovski
Czech footballer and UEFA Euro 2004 finalist
Born
May 9th, 1977 48 years ago
Marek Jankulovski played professional football as a left-back in Europe, primarily for AC Milan and the Czech national team. Jankulovski started his career at Baník Ostrava before moving to Italy, where he gained recognition during his time with Udinese. His tenure at AC Milan included winning multiple Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2007. Jankulovski was an integral part of the Czech national team, participating in the UEFA Euro 2004, where the team reached the final.
Continue ReadingSvein Tuft
Canadian Cyclist; National Time Trial Champion
Born
May 9th, 1977 48 years ago
Born in 1977, this Canadian cyclist specialized in road racing and time trials. Competed primarily in professional cycling events throughout his career. Won multiple Canadian National Time Trial Championships and participated in prestigious international competitions, including the Tour de France. Achieved notable success with professional teams, demonstrating a strong performance in time trial events and stage races.
Continue ReadingDan Burn
Footballer, played for Newcastle United
Born
May 9th, 1992 33 years ago
A footballer, played as a defender, represented various clubs in the English Football League system. Began professional career at Darlington, later signed with Birmingham City and had a loan spell at various clubs. Achieved significant recognition during time with Brighton & Hove Albion, contributing to the team's performances in the Premier League. Subsequently joined Newcastle United in 2022, playing a key role in the squad's defensive lineup. Known for height and aerial ability on the pitch, became a reliable figure in the teams represented throughout career.
Continue ReadingSteve Yzerman
Ice hockey player and general manager
Born
May 9th, 1965 60 years ago
Played for the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL from 1983 to 2006, serving as team captain for over two decades. Achieved significant success, including three Stanley Cup championships in 1997, 1998, and 2002. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a management role, becoming the general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning and leading the team to a Stanley Cup title in 2020. Recognized for leadership both on and off the ice.
Continue ReadingGrant Hackett
Olympic swimmer and world record holder
Born
May 9th, 1980 45 years ago
This swimmer specialized in long-distance freestyle events and achieved considerable success in international competitions. Competed in the 2000, 2004, and 2008 Olympics, winning multiple gold medals. Dominated the World Championships with several titles and set world records in the 1500 meters freestyle. Career highlighted by outstanding performances at national and global levels, showcasing talent and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 14th
Busby Berkeley
Film director and choreographer of musicals
Born
November 29th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1976 50 years ago — 80 years old
An American director and choreographer, recognized for innovative and elaborate musical numbers in films. Pioneered the artistic use of geometric patterns and kaleidoscopic imagery in dance sequences. Contributed significantly to the Hollywood musical genre during the 1930s and 1940s. Directed acclaimed films including '42nd Street,' 'Footlight Parade,' and 'Gold Diggers of 1933.' Developed a distinct visual style that influenced future musical productions.
Continue ReadingHoward Ashman
Playwright and composer of musical theatre
Born
May 17th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1991 35 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent playwright and lyricist, contributions included crafting the lyrics for beloved Disney animated films. Collaborated with Alan Menken on productions that achieved significant acclaim. Worked on projects such as 'The Little Mermaid', 'Beauty and the Beast', and 'Aladdin', leaving a lasting impact on musical theatre. Ashman's work was characterized by poignant lyrics and memorable melodies.
Continue ReadingFred Zinnemann
Film director of 'From Here to Eternity'
Born
April 29th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1997 29 years ago — 89 years old
An Austrian-American director and producer, influential in the film industry from the 1940s to the 1990s. Directed several acclaimed films, focusing on themes of personal and moral conflict. Achieved significant recognition for 'From Here to Eternity', which received eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Other notable films include 'A Man for All Seasons', which won six Academy Awards, and 'The Day of the Jackal'. Known for meticulous attention to detail and strong character development.
Continue ReadingPierre Schoendoerffer
French film director and screenwriter
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2012 14 years ago — 84 years old
A French director and screenwriter primarily focused on war films. Notable works include the acclaimed film 'The 317th Platoon' which depicted the experiences of French soldiers during the First Indochina War. Schoendoerffer served in the French army as a war correspondent, providing firsthand accounts of the conflicts he portrayed on screen. His unique perspective brought authenticity to his films and helped to shape the narrative around the experiences of soldiers in difficult circumstances.
Continue ReadingBen Shahn
Painter and illustrator, focused on social themes
Born
September 12th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1969 57 years ago — 70 years old
A Lithuanian-American painter and educator, this individual was active in the 20th century and contributed significantly to American art. His works often reflected social issues and historical events. He illustrated many books and taught at various institutions, influencing a generation of artists and students. His style incorporated elements of realism and modernism, often aiming to provoke thought regarding societal matters. The artist's murals adorned public buildings, and his pieces have been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums across the United States.
Continue ReadingCarl Ritter von Ghega
Italian engineer, Semmering railway architect
Born
January 10th, 1802 224 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1860 166 years ago — 58 years old
An Italian engineer was instrumental in the design of the Semmering railway, one of the first mountain railways in the world. This engineering feat, completed in 1854, distinctly showcased innovative construction techniques adapted for challenging terrains. The railway became a pivotal development in railway transportation, connecting the regions of Vienna and Trieste, and significantly contributed to the expansion of the rail network in Europe during the 19th century. His work also influenced subsequent civil engineering projects in mountainous areas.
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