The Sicilian-born Frank Capra graduated from the California Institute of Technology (Throop Institute) as a Chemical Engineering student. Capra worked part-time in film as a temporary job, but soon worked his way up to full-time, successful employment, eventually becoming a renowned director. His films range from drama to comedy and were noted for their accessibility to a broad range of audiences. His films include It Happened One Night (1934), Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939), and It's A Wonderful Life (1946). He passed away in 1991.