Akseli Gallen-Kallela
Finnish painter and muralist
An artist active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, created works inspired by Finnish mythology and nature. He gained recognition for contributions to the national identity of Finland through art. Gallen-Kallela participated in the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, which solidified his reputation in Europe. His work often featured themes from the Kalevala, Finland's national epic. He also designed the mural for the Finnish Pavilion at the 1905 World Exposition in Liège, Belgium, showcasing Finnish culture.
Painted major works like 'The Defense of the Sampo'
Created illustrations for the Kalevala
Designed murals for the Finnish Pavilion in 1905
Other People Born on April 26th
Claudine Auger
French actress in 'Thunderball'
Born
April 26th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 78 years old
Started career as a model before transitioning to film. Gained recognition for significant roles in European cinema, especially in the 1965 James Bond film 'Thunderball'. Portrayed the character Domino Vitali, showcasing talent and beauty. Continued acting in various films throughout the 1960s and 1970s, solidifying a presence in international cinema. Also appeared in television series, further expanding reach within the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPeter II of Portugal
King and Monarch of Portugal
Born
April 26th, 1648 377 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1706 319 years ago — 58 years old
Ruled as king from 1683 until death in 1706. Oversaw a period of political challenges, including conflicts with France. Strengthened alliances with England and other European powers. Was involved in the War of the Spanish Succession, aligning Portugal with Britain against France and Spain. Achieved significant territorial gains in Brazil during the reign. Worked on reforms within the administration, focusing on improving governance and economic stability.
Continue ReadingFrederick Law Olmsted
Landscape architect, co-designed Central Park
Born
April 26th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1903 122 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent landscape architect and journalist, co-designed Central Park in New York City, which opened in 1858. Contributed to the design of numerous other parks and urban spaces across the United States. Advocated for the preservation of natural landscapes and the creation of public parks as essential to urban life. Influenced the field of landscape architecture through writings and designs that emphasized the integration of human and natural environments.
Continue ReadingJohn Isner
American tennis player and Wimbledon record holder
Born
April 26th, 1985 40 years ago
Professional tennis career spanned over a decade. Achieved fame through significant performances in major tournaments. Won the 2018 Atlanta Open, marking his fourth title at this event. Notable for participation in the longest match in tennis history at the 2010 Wimbledon Championships, lasting 11 hours and 5 minutes. Competed for the United States in the Davis Cup, contributing to the team's success.
Continue ReadingHack Wilson
Baseball player, Chicago Cubs star
Born
April 26th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1948 78 years ago — 48 years old
A professional baseball player, Wilson played as an outfielder primarily for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball. He gained recognition for his powerful hitting and exceptional performance during the 1930 season, where he set a National League record for runs batted in, achieving 191 RBIs in a single season. Wilson contributed significantly to the Cubs' success in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Throughout a career that spanned over a decade, Wilson was known for his ability to hit home runs and maintain a high batting average, leading to several All-Star selections. After retiring from playing, Wilson remained involved in baseball, contributing to the sport in various capacities.
Continue ReadingCharles Farrar Browne
American author and humorist
Born
April 26th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1867 158 years ago — 32 years old
Became a prominent American author and humorist in the 19th century. Created the character Artemus Ward, gaining widespread popularity through humorous sketches published in newspapers and magazines. Contributed to the literary scene with a unique satirical style that critiqued contemporary issues. Educated in various institutions, Browne also influenced comedic writing and performance during his time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 7th
Margaret Douglas
Scottish noblewoman and courtier
Born
October 8th, 1515 510 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1578 447 years ago — 62 years old
Born in October 1515, a prominent figure in 16th-century Scotland. Daughter of Archibald Douglas and Margaret Tudor, she held significant political influence during a turbulent time. Margaret's connections included her relation to the Tudor dynasty through her mother, which shaped her role at court. Unmarried for much of her life, her relationships with powerful figures positioned her as a key player in the intrigues of the Scottish nobility and royal succession. Her status allowed her to act as a mediator and advocate for various political alliances, reflecting the complexities of Scottish and English relations at the time. Margaret lived through the political machinations of the Reformation and its impact on Scotland.
Continue ReadingKirill Kondrashin
Russian conductor with notable orchestras
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1981 44 years ago — 67 years old
A significant conductor associated with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, contributed to the international classical music scene through performances and recordings. Worked closely with the Bolshoi Theatre and led numerous tours in Europe and the United States. Guest-conducted with major orchestras worldwide, enhancing cultural exchanges through music. Instrumental in performing works from renowned composers, prominently featuring the music of Dmitri Shostakovich. Conducted several recordings that remain influential in classical music.
Continue ReadingCool Papa Bell
Baseball player and Negro Leagues star
Born
May 17th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old
A baseball player excelled in the Negro Leagues during the 1920s and 1930s. Played primarily for the Homestead Grays and the Pittsburgh Crawfords. Renowned for exceptional speed and base running abilities, earned a reputation as one of the fastest players in baseball history. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974, recognizing contributions to the sport and achievements during a segregated era. Continued to influence the game even after retirement by sharing experiences and insights about baseball.
Continue ReadingJohn Box
Production designer for award-winning films
Born
1920 106 years ago
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March 7th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old
Worked as a production designer and art director in the film industry. Collaborated with renowned directors and contributed to the visual style of numerous films, enhancing narrative through design. Received multiple awards for contributions to film production design and played a significant role in shaping the aesthetic of notable cinematic works. His design work has been influential in the world of filmmaking across various genres.
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King of Brittany and military leader
Died
March 7th, 851 1174 years ago — None years old
Ascended to power as a prominent leader in Brittany during the early medieval period. Established the Breton kingdom's independence from the Frankish Empire and played a crucial role in its consolidation. Notable for leading several military campaigns against the Franks and successfully defending Breton autonomy. His reign marked a significant shift in the balance of power in the region and laid the groundwork for future Breton kings.
Continue ReadingRavi
South Korean rapper and songwriter
Born
February 15th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 19 years old
Born in 1993, this artist began his career in the South Korean music scene as a member of the hip-hop group VIXX, debuting in 2012. He demonstrated talent as a songwriter and lyricist, contributing to the group's hit songs. In addition to group activities, this individual pursued a solo career, releasing multiple EPs and singles that showcased a blend of rap and diverse musical styles. The artist founded the label Groovl1n, promoting the creation of original music. Collaborations with various artists and participation in television programs further expanded recognition.
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