Swedish actress Greta Garbo is best known for her career in both silent and talking films before World War II. Greta Garbo Was Born On September 18, 1905, In Stockholm, Sweden A reclusive star, Garbo began her career in Europe before coming to the United States to work for MGM when she was 19. Her sensual, mysterious look made her a hit with American audiences, both in silent and sound films before World War II, and she was nominated for four Oscars, later winning an honorary award. She died in New York City on April 15, 1990.