What Happened This Year 1934

Born in 1934

J. Quinn Brisben

Educator and American politician
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2012 14 years ago — 78 years old

Started a career in education before entering politics, Brisben held various educational positions that influenced policy and reform. Served as a prominent member of the political landscape in local and state government, focusing on education-related legislation. Actively engaged in community development and initiatives aiming to improve educational standards and access.

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Arthur Mitchell

Ballet dancer & choreographer of Porgy
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2018 7 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent ballet dancer and choreographer, made significant contributions to ballet in America. Co-founded Dance Theatre of Harlem, which was the first professional ballet company of African Americans. Served as a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, showcasing works by George Balanchine. Created choreography that celebrated African American culture and performed leading roles in ballets including 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' and 'Porgy and Bess.' Received numerous accolades for artistic achievements and dedication to diversity in ballet. These efforts solidified a lasting legacy in the dance world.

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Maryse Condé

Guadeloupean novelist and playwright
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 2 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent novelist, critic, and playwright, contributions span several decades. Notable works include "Windward Heights," "The Story of the Cannibal Woman," and "I, Tituba: Black Witch of Salem." Condé's literature often explores themes of identity, history, and the complexities of the Caribbean experience. In addition to fiction, contributions to literary criticism and analysis reflect insights into postcolonial literature. Recognition includes the 2018 New Academy Prize in Literature, awarded in lieu of the Nobel Prize that year. The writer's academic career included teaching positions at various universities around the world.

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Miroslav Ondříček

Czech cinematographer of 'Amadeus'
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2015 11 years ago — 81 years old

A Czech cinematographer, contributions spanned several decades in film. Collaborated with prominent directors, particularly Milos Forman. Captured striking visuals for acclaimed films such as 'Amadeus' and 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'. Received multiple awards for cinematography, recognized for creating compelling imagery that enhanced storytelling.

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Philip Madoc

Welsh-English actor, most famous for 'The Siege of Jadotville'
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2012 14 years ago — 78 years old

An accomplished actor with a career spanning several decades, performed in numerous television series and films. Gained recognition for roles in 'Doctor Who', 'The Drought', and 'The Siege of Jadotville'. Also had notable appearances in British television classics such as 'The Sweeney' and 'Midsomer Murders'. Participated in the Royal Shakespeare Company, showcasing a strong theatre background. Contributed to the arts until the end of life, with various roles highlighting his versatile acting skills.

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Del Close

American actor and improv educator
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1999 27 years ago — 65 years old

An actor and influential figure in improvisational theater, contributed to the development of modern improv techniques. Served as a teacher and mentor at Second City and wrote the influential book 'Truth in Comedy'. Worked extensively with various comedy groups and is connected to notable comedians who emerged from the improv scene.

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