November 23 birthdays and deaths:

Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl, born in 1916, was a renowned British author, celebrated for his imaginative children's books like "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "Matilda." His whimsical storytelling and memorable characters have left a lasting impact on literature and popular culture.

Deathyear: 1990

Alexander Litvinenko

Alexander Litvinenko, born 1962, was a Russian spy and defector. He exposed corruption within the Russian government, leading to his assassination in 2006 using radioactive polonium-210. His death sparked international controversy and highlighted Russia's covert operations.

Deathyear: 2006

Larry Hagman

Larry Hagman, born in 1931, was a renowned American actor, director, and producer. He gained fame for his role as J.R. Ewing in the iconic TV series "Dallas." Hagman's versatile career spanned over five decades, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. He passed away in 2012.

Deathyear: 2012

Klaus Kinski

Klaus Kinski, born in 1926, was a German-American actor and director known for his intense performances and eccentric personality. He starred in iconic films like "Taxi Driver" and "Stroszek," leaving a lasting impact on cinema. Despite his troubled life, Kinski's artistic legacy endures.

Deathyear: 1991

Merle Oberon

Merle Oberon, born in British India, was a renowned British actress. She rose to fame in the 1930s, winning an Academy Award for her role in "The Dark Angel." Her striking beauty and captivating performances made her a Hollywood icon. She passed away in 1979.

Deathyear: 1979

Jagadish Chandra Bose

Jagadish Chandra Bose, born 1858, was a pioneering Indian polymath. A physicist, biologist, botanist, and archaeologist, he made groundbreaking contributions to radio and microwave optics, plant physiology, and early wireless communication. His work laid foundations for modern science.

Deathyear: 1937

Eadred

Eadred, born in 923, was an English king who reigned from 946 to 955. Known for his efforts in consolidating power, he faced Viking invasions, strengthened the Church, and promoted law and order. His reign, though short, left a lasting impact on England's medieval history.

Deathyear: 955

Louis Malle

Louis Malle, born in 1932, was a renowned French-American director, producer, and screenwriter. He gained international acclaim for films like "Elevator to the Gallows" and "Au Revoir Les Enfants," exploring complex human emotions and societal issues. Malle's unique storytelling and visual style left a lasting impact on cinema.

Deathyear: 1995

Andrew Sachs

Andrew Sachs, born in 1930, was a renowned German-born British actor, best known for his iconic role as Alfred P. Doolittle in Monty Python's Flying Circus. His talent and charm left a lasting impact on British comedy and television.

Deathyear: 2016

Marion Barry

Marion Barry, born 1936, was an influential American lawyer and politician. As the 2nd Mayor of the District of Columbia, he championed civil rights and urban development. Despite controversies, his legacy includes significant contributions to the city's growth and empowerment of African-American communities.

Deathyear: 2014

Sessue Hayakawa

Sessue Hayakawa, born in 1889, was a pioneering Japanese actor, director, and producer. He gained international fame in the early 20th century, breaking barriers as one of the first Asian stars in Hollywood. Hayakawa's versatile performances and contributions to cinema remain influential.

Deathyear: 1973

William III of the Netherlands

William III of the Netherlands, born in 1817, was a significant figure in European history. As King of the Netherlands and Grand Duke of Luxembourg, he played a crucial role in the unification of the Netherlands and the Netherlands-Belgium union. His reign marked a period of political and social transformation.

Deathyear: 1890

Mary Whitehouse

Mary Whitehouse (1910-2001) was an influential English educator and activist. She founded the National Viewers and Listeners Association, advocating for broadcasting standards and combating perceived indecency in media. Her efforts significantly impacted British television and radio regulations.

Deathyear: 2001

Perkin Warbeck

Perkin Warbeck, born circa 1474, was a pretender to the English throne, claiming to be Richard of Shrewsbury, Duke of York. His claim sparked a rebellion against King Henry VII, leading to his capture and execution in 1499. Warbeck's life remains a captivating tale of deception and political intrigue.

Deathyear: 1499

Hawley Harvey Crippen

Hawley Harvey Crippen, born in 1862, was an American physician convicted of murdering his wife, Cora Henrietta Crippen. His gruesome crime shocked the early 20th-century world, leading to his execution in 1910. Crippen's case remains a notorious example of domestic violence and criminal justice.

Deathyear: 1910

Elbridge Gerry

Elbridge Gerry, born 1744, was an influential American merchant and politician. As the 5th Vice President, he contributed to early U.S. governance. Known for the "Gerrymander," his political legacy includes shaping electoral boundaries. His life reflects the complexities of early American politics.

Deathyear: 1814

Roy Acuff

Roy Acuff, born in 1903, was a legendary American singer-songwriter and fiddler. Known as "The Father of Country Music," Acuff's distinctive style and numerous hits, including "Wanderin' Boy," solidified his status as a country music icon. His contributions significantly shaped the genre's development.

Deathyear: 1992

Judee Sill

Judee Sill, born in 1944, was an influential American singer-songwriter and guitarist. Her unique blend of folk, rock, and jazz created timeless classics like "Jesus Was a Cross Maker." Sill's tragic early death in 1979 left a lasting impact on music.

Deathyear: 1979

Thomas Tallis

Thomas Tallis, an esteemed English composer born circa 1505, revolutionized choral music. His intricate polyphonic compositions, including the famous "Spem in alium," showcased his mastery of harmony and counterpoint, leaving a lasting impact on the Renaissance music era.

Deathyear: 1585

Yusof Ishak

Yusof Ishak, Singapore's first President (1959-1970), was a respected journalist and politician. Born in 1910, he championed national unity, advocating for multiracialism and progressive policies. His legacy endures in Singapore's harmonious society and national identity.

Deathyear: 1970

Margaret of York

Margaret of York, born in 1446, was a prominent English noblewoman. She was the sister of Edward IV and Richard III, and played a crucial role in the Wars of the Roses. Married to Charles the Bold, she became Duchess of Burgundy, leaving a lasting impact on European politics.

Deathyear: 1503

André Malraux

André Malraux, born 1901, was a renowned French author, theorist, and Minister of Cultural Affairs. His works, including "Man's Fate" and "The Voices of Silence," explore existentialism, art, and politics, leaving a lasting impact on French literature and intellectual thought.

Deathyear: 1976

Junior Walker

Junior Walker, born in 1931, was an influential American singer and saxophonist. Known for his smooth vocals and soulful saxophone playing, he pioneered the "jump blues" genre. His iconic song "Shotgun" remains a timeless classic. Walker's unique style and contributions to music continue to inspire generations.

Deathyear: 1995

Tarun Gogoi

Tarun Gogoi, born in 1934, served as the Chief Minister of Assam, India, from 2001 to 2016. A prominent leader, he championed Assam's development, focusing on education, infrastructure, and social welfare, leaving a lasting impact on the state's progress.

Deathyear: 2020

Willie Pep

Willie Pep, born in 1922, was a legendary American boxer and referee. Known for his agility and speed, he held the world record for most consecutive wins in the featherweight division. Pep's career spanned over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Deathyear: 2006

Ladislaus the Posthumous

Ladislaus the Posthumous, Hungarian king (1440-1457), was a child king, ruling briefly after his father's death. His reign was marked by political instability, leading to his untimely demise at 17. Despite his short rule, he symbolizes the challenges of dynastic succession in medieval Europe.

Deathyear: 1457

Joe Esposito (author)

Joe Esposito, born in 1938, was a renowned road manager for Elvis Presley. He played a pivotal role in managing Presley's tours, ensuring smooth operations, and maintaining the iconic performer's image. Esposito's dedication contributed significantly to Elvis's legendary career.

Deathyear: 2016

Jorge Mas Canosa

Jorge Mas Canosa, born 1939, was a Cuban-American entrepreneur and philanthropist. Founder of the Cuban American National Foundation, he championed U.S.-Cuba relations and immigration reform. A prominent figure in Miami's business community, Mas Canosa's legacy endures through his charitable contributions and advocacy.

Deathyear: 1997

Art Barr

Art Barr, born in 1966, was a renowned American professional wrestler, known for his high-flying moves and charismatic persona. He tragically passed away in 1994, leaving a lasting impact on the wrestling world. Barr's legacy continues to inspire aspiring wrestlers.

Deathyear: 1994

Anita O'Day

Anita O'Day, born in 1919, was an influential American jazz singer known for her distinctive voice and improvisational style. She collaborated with legends like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong, leaving a lasting impact on the jazz genre. O'Day's career spanned over six decades, earning her numerous accolades.

Deathyear: 2006

Claude Lorrain

Claude Lorrain, born in 1604, was a renowned French-Italian painter and engraver. His landscape paintings, characterized by their idealized beauty and dramatic lighting, significantly influenced the Baroque and Rococo periods. Lorrain's works continue to inspire artists worldwide.

Deathyear: 1682

Philippe Noiret

Philippe Noiret, born in 1930, was a renowned French actor, celebrated for his versatile performances in films and theatre. His exceptional talent earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards. Noiret's memorable roles left a lasting impact on French cinema. He passed away in 2006, leaving behind a rich legacy.

Deathyear: 2006

Hack Wilson

Hack Wilson, born in 1900, was a legendary American baseball player. A powerhouse hitter for the Chicago Cubs, he set numerous records, including the single-season RBI record in 1930. Wilson's prowess on the field earned him the nickname "The Man with the Golden Arm." His career was marked by exceptional talent and memorable achievements.

Deathyear: 1948

Robert Vesco

Robert Vesco, born 1935, was a notorious American-Cuban financier. Known for his controversial business dealings, Vesco faced legal troubles, including charges of fraud and money laundering. His life was marked by dramatic escapes and a mysterious disappearance in 1982.

Deathyear: 2007

Louis I, Duke of Orléans

Louis I, Duke of Orléans, born in 1372, was a French prince and regent. Known for his political acumen, he played a crucial role in the Hundred Years' War. His patronage of arts and culture significantly influenced the French Renaissance. He died in 1407.

Deathyear: 1407

Waheed Murad

Waheed Murad, Pakistani actor, producer, and screenwriter, born 1938, gained fame for his versatile roles in Urdu cinema. Known for his charismatic performances, he contributed significantly to the industry's growth and left a lasting legacy in Pakistani film history.

Deathyear: 1983

Pat Quinn (ice hockey)

Pat Quinn, born in 1943, is a renowned Canadian ice hockey player and coach. He led the Chicago Blackhawks to two Stanley Cup victories and coached the Canadian national team to gold at the 2002 Winter Olympics. Quinn's legacy in hockey remains influential and inspiring.

Deathyear: 2014

Idries Shah

Idries Shah, an influential Indian author, thinker, and Sufi teacher, introduced readers to the rich world of Sufism through his books. His teachings emphasized the importance of inner transformation and universal wisdom, inspiring countless individuals to explore spiritual growth and self-discovery.

Deathyear: 1996

Bronzino

Bronzino, born in 1503, was an Italian Mannerist painter and poet. Renowned for his elegant portraits, he masterfully depicted the sophisticated courtly life of the Medici family. His artistic style, characterized by graceful poses and intricate details, remains influential in the world of art.

Deathyear: 1572

Johnston McCulley

Johnston McCulley, born in 1883, was an influential American author and screenwriter. He created the iconic character Zorro, inspiring numerous adaptations in literature, film, and television. McCulley's works contributed significantly to the development of the swashbuckler genre. His creative legacy endures in popular culture.

Deathyear: 1958

Ralph Branca

Ralph Branca, born in 1926, was a talented American baseball player. He played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants, known for his powerful fastball. Branca's career was marked by memorable moments, including the infamous "Shot Heard 'Round the World." He passed away in 2016, leaving a lasting legacy in baseball history.

Deathyear: 2016

Jean-Baptiste Jourdan

Jean-Baptiste Jourdan, born 1762, was a distinguished French general and politician. He played a pivotal role in the French Revolutionary Wars, earning the title "The Liberator of Italy." As Minister of Foreign Affairs, he contributed significantly to France's diplomatic relations.

Deathyear: 1833

Marie Wilson (American actress)

Marie Wilson, born in 1916, was a talented American actress known for her versatile roles in film and television. She starred in numerous productions, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with her memorable performances and dedication to her craft.

Deathyear: 1972

Betty Comden

Betty Comden, born in 1917, is a renowned American actress, singer, and screenwriter. She co-wrote iconic Broadway musicals like "On the Town" and "Wonderful Town," collaborating with her partner Adolph Green. Her work significantly influenced American musical theater.

Deathyear: 2006

Ichiyō Higuchi

Ichiyō Higuchi, a renowned Japanese writer, was born in 1872. Her works, often exploring themes of poverty and women's lives, reflect the societal challenges of her time. Higuchi's literary contributions significantly influenced modern Japanese literature.

Deathyear: 1896

Richard Hakluyt

Richard Hakluyt, an influential English priest and author (1552-1616), advocated for English colonization. His seminal work, "Divers Voyages," promoted exploration and trade, shaping England's maritime history and global influence. Hakluyt's visionary ideas laid the groundwork for England's colonial expansion.

Deathyear: 1616

Miguel Pro

Miguel Pro, born in 1891, was a Mexican priest and martyr. He dedicated his life to serving the poor and marginalized, ultimately sacrificing his life for his faith. Pro's unwavering commitment to social justice and his ultimate martyrdom have made him a revered figure in Mexican history.

Deathyear: 1927

Douglass North

Douglass North, born 1920, was a renowned American economist and Nobel laureate. His groundbreaking work in institutional economics revolutionized our understanding of economic development, emphasizing the role of institutions in shaping economic performance and societal progress. North's contributions continue to influence economic theory and policy.

Deathyear: 2015

Seán T. O'Kelly

Seán T. O'Kelly, born 1882, was an influential Irish politician and diplomat. As the 2nd President of Ireland (1945-1959), he championed Irish neutrality, promoted cultural heritage, and played a pivotal role in Ireland's post-war reconstruction and modernization.

Deathyear: 1966

Constance Cummings

Constance Cummings, born in 1910, was a renowned American-English actress. She starred in numerous films, including "The Bitter Tea of General Yen" (1933) and "The Prisoner of Zenda" (1937). Cummings' versatile performances and captivating screen presence made her a memorable figure in early Hollywood.

Deathyear: 2005

Thomas Henry Ismay

Thomas Henry Ismay, born 1837, was an influential English businessman who founded the prestigious White Star Line. His vision and leadership led to the creation of iconic ocean liners, including the ill-fated Titanic, shaping maritime history and global travel.

Deathyear: 1899