Carl Laemmle

Carl Laemmle, a remarkable entertainment industry pioneer, incorporated the Universal Film Manufacturing Company, later known as Universal Pictures, on April 30, 1912. Born in Laupheim, Germany in 1867, he immigrated to America at age 17 and, despite hardship in his early years, became one of Hollywood's most successful film producers. During his tenure, Universal produced some of its greatest early motion pictures, including Foolish Wives, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Phantom of the Opera, All Quiet on the Western Front, Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, Imitation of Life, and Show Boat. His vision extended beyond celluloid as he established Universal City, California as a destination and became the first to invite the public to watch Universal productions being filmed on the studio's backlot. His novel ideas gave birth to the Universal brand name and to the studio's recreation business, both recognized globally today. In his later years, he also worked tirelessly to help German Jews escape Nazi Germany and is credited with sponsoring over 300 affidavits for people to come to the United States.

California · United States