Nicosia, Cyprus. July 23 has seen major political developments, cultural milestones and the deaths of prominent figures, from 1948 to 2005.
1948 to 1955
In 1948, American director D. W. Griffith, known for the silent film epics “Birth of a Nation” and “Intolerance”, died.
In 1951, Marshal Philippe Petain died in prison. Celebrated in France for his command during World War One, he later led the Vichy government that collaborated with German occupiers during World War Two and was sentenced to life imprisonment.
In 1952, a military coup led by General Neguib overthrew and banished King Farouk in Egypt.
In 1955, Cordell Hull, U.S. secretary of state from 1933 to 1944, died. He received the 1945 Nobel Peace Prize for his work in establishing the United Nations.
1997 to 1999
In 1997, Slobodan Milosevic stepped down as Serbia’s president and was sworn in as Yugoslavia’s federal head of state.
In 1999, Morocco’s King Hassan died of a heart attack after 38 years in power and was succeeded by his son, Mohammed.
Also in 1999, Walt Disney studios’ animated film “Tarzan” was shown in the United States using filmless projection systems, becoming the first film produced and shown entirely with digital technology.
2004 and 2005
In 2004, Bollywood comedian Mehmood died aged 71. He appeared in more than 300 films during a career spanning two decades.
In 2005, Lance Armstrong won the Tour de France for a record seventh time. In 2012, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency stripped him of his titles and banned him from the sport for life.