Happy Birthday, Bela.

123 years ago today (!), Be’la Ferenc Dezso Blasko was born in what was then Austria-Hungary. Following political strife of a sort unknown in this country, he fled his homeland and ended up in America, where he produced a body of work that has brought continuing pleasure to millions, before going broke, becoming addicted to drugs and dying in sad circumstances.

Rest in Peace, Mr. Lugosi. And thank you.