Origins & Early Life

William Oliver Stone (born September 15, 1946) is an American filmmaker and author. An acclaimed director who tackled subjects ranging from the Vietnam War and American politics to musical biopics and crime dramas, Stone has received numerous accolades including three Academy Awards (plus ten career nominations), a BAFTA Award, a Primetime Emmy, a Satellite Award, a Sant Jordi Award, three Jupiter Awards, three Independent Spirit Awards, and six Golden Globe Awards. Stone was born in New York City and later briefly attended Yale University. In 1967, Stone enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He served from 1967 to 1968 in the 25th Infantry and 1st Cavalry Divisions and was twice wounded in action. For his service, he received military honors including a Bronze Star with "V" Device for valor, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster (to denote two wounds), an Air Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge. His service in Vietnam became the foundation for the stark portrayals of war and its aftermath in his work. Stone began his career as a screenwriter for films such as Midnight Express (1978), for which he won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, Conan the Barbarian...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Adam Michnik — Contemporary (Born in 1946) (1946): Prominent Polish intellectual, dissident, and journalist advocating for democracy.
• Al Green — Contemporary (Born in 1946) (1946): Iconic American soul singer, songwriter, and pastor celebrated for his timeless vocal artistry.
• Alan Rickman — Contemporary (Born in 1946) (1946): Iconic English actor celebrated for his distinctive voice and powerful stage presence.
• Agatha Christie — Shared historical date (09-15 · Born) (1890): The 'Queen of Crime,' a master of the mystery genre, best-selling author of all time.
• André Le Nôtre — Shared historical date (09-15 · Died) (1700): Master French landscape architect, famed for the formal gardens of Versailles.
• André the Giant — Historical peer (Born in 1946) (1946): French wrestler and actor, famed for his colossal size and wrestling career.
• Bill Clinton — Historical peer (Born in 1946) (1946): 42nd U.S. President, known for 'Clintonism' and transforming the Democratic Party.
• Akshay Kumar — Historical peer (Born in 1967) (1967): Veteran Indian actor and producer known for action roles and prolific career.
• Aleksandr Karelin — Historical peer (Born in 1967) (1967): Dominant Greco-Roman wrestler, nicknamed the "Russian Bear", celebrated for unmatched Olympic success.
• Ajay Devgn — Historical peer (Born in 1968) (1968): Veteran Indian actor and filmmaker known for diverse roles in Hindi cinema.
• 1946 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1946
• September 15 (09-15) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on September 15