Alan Hovhaness
Composer of symphonies and choral works
Born in 1911, this Armenian-American composer produced a significant body of work that ranges from symphonies to choral compositions. Trained at the New England Conservatory of Music, focused on incorporating Eastern and Western musical elements. Achieved prominence with the release of over 60 symphonies and many chamber works. Aspiring to represent spiritual themes through music, collaborated with various performers throughout his career. The music shows influences from his Armenian heritage, reflecting experiences and cultural motifs within compositions. Continued to create music until his passing in 2000.
Composed over 60 symphonies
Wrote choral works including 'And God Said'
Incorporated Armenian musical themes
Other People Born on March 8th
Lynn Redgrave
English-American actress and singer
Born
March 8th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2010 15 years ago — 67 years old
An English-American actress and singer, contributions spanned stage and screen with significant acclaim. Starred in the film 'Georgy Girl,' which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Worked extensively in theatre, including roles in plays like 'The Constant Wife' and 'The Royal Family.' Also known for performances in television, including 'As Time Goes By.'
Continue ReadingIgnacy Łukasiewicz
Inventor of the Kerosene lamp
Born
March 8th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1882 144 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1822, an inventor and businessman developed the kerosene lamp, which revolutionized lighting and energy use during the 19th century. Łukasiewicz's innovations laid the groundwork for the modern petroleum industry. He opened the first modern oil well in Bóbrka, Poland, and initiated the large-scale distillation of kerosene from crude oil, significantly impacting energy production at the time. His work contributed to the growth of the oil industry, leading to advancements in various applications of petroleum.
Continue ReadingRui Machida
Professional basketball player - Japan
Born
March 8th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in Japan, this basketball player has excelled in the sport, particularly in women's leagues. A standout at Tachikawa Gakuen High School, she later played for the Fujitsu Red Wave in the Women's Japan Professional Basketball League. Achievements include leading the league in assists multiple seasons and earning accolades for her playmaking ability. Internationally, she represented Japan in several tournaments, further showcasing her skills on a global stage.
Continue ReadingYakov Borisovich Zel'dovich
Physicist and astronomer, created cosmology
Born
March 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1987 38 years ago — 73 years old
Contributions to cosmology and astrophysics included theoretical models explaining black holes and the Big Bang. Played a significant role in the development of the theory of gravitational collapse. Worked on the design of nuclear weapons during the Soviet era. Authored over 300 scientific papers and contributed to the Soviet space program, including the development of rocket propulsion systems.
Continue ReadingDick Allen
Baseball player; 1972 American League MVP
Born
March 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 78 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a first baseman and designated hitter. Had a significant career in Major League Baseball, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Atlanta Braves. Acclaimed for powerful hitting and unique style on and off the field. Achieved the American League MVP award in 1972 while playing for the White Sox, leading the league in multiple offensive categories. Inducted into various halls of fame and recognized for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingMilana Vayntrub
Actress and comedian, AT&T commercials
Born
March 8th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in Uzbekistan and raised in the United States, she gained recognition for the role of Lily Adams in a series of AT&T commercials. The character brought humor and relatability, contributing to the brand's advertising campaign. Additionally, work included appearances in the television series "This Is Us" and the lead role in the web series "Let's Talk About Something More Interesting." Beyond acting, an active presence on social media has been established, connecting with audiences through comedic content, personal stories, and advocacy for various causes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 21st
Al-Muhtadi
Muslim caliph and political leader
Died
June 21st, 870 1155 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the caliphate in 869, Al-Muhtadi managed a period of political and military challenges within the Abbasid Empire. His reign lasted until 870 when he died under uncertain circumstances. His leadership was marked by efforts to stabilize the caliphate amidst internal strife and external threats. Al-Muhtadi's rule also involved military campaigns against the Byzantine Empire and managing the complexities of various provincial leaders' allegiances.
Continue ReadingMadman Muntz
Engineer and founder of Muntz Car Company
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1987 38 years ago — 73 years old
An American engineer and businessman founded the Muntz Car Company, known for producing unique vehicles in the mid-20th century. The company emphasized innovation and distinct automotive designs, attracting attention in the automotive industry. Muntz also played a significant role in the development of the television industry, manufacturing televisions in the 1950s. The brand was characterized by eccentric marketing and a commitment to quality, establishing a niche in both automotive and electronic markets.
Continue ReadingWinnie Ewing
Scottish politician and lawyer
Born
July 10th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2023 2 years ago — 93 years old
Ewing served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Hamilton constituency and later for the Highlands and Islands. She was instrumental in the revival of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and played a key role in the establishment of the Scottish Parliament. Ewing also engaged in legal work and activism throughout her career, championing issues related to Scottish independence and women's rights. She gained recognition for her efforts in advocating for Scotland’s political autonomy and her contributions to parliamentary debates.
Continue ReadingMichael Schwerner
American civil rights activist
Born
November 6th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1964 61 years ago — 24 years old
An American civil rights activist advocated for racial equality and social justice. Schwerner was involved in efforts to integrate schools and support voting rights for African Americans in the South during the Civil Rights Movement. In 1964, he helped organize the Freedom Summer campaign in Mississippi, which aimed to increase voter registration among African Americans. Schwerner, along with two other activists, was murdered by members of the Ku Klux Klan while working to register black voters. His death drew national attention to the struggles faced by civil rights workers and spurred legislative action.
Continue ReadingFrances Adeline Seward
American political spouse and activist
Born
1824 202 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1865 160 years ago — 41 years old
Wife of William H. Seward, served as a political partner throughout his career. Actively supported Seward's work as Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln, particularly during the Civil War. Engaged in social and political advocacy, including issues related to abolition. Managed the family's estate in New York while contributing to public discourse through her letters and writings. Remained a significant figure in her own right, influencing her husband's policies through her correspondence and guidance.
Continue ReadingYozo Ishikawa
Japanese Minister of Defense
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a politician in Japan and held the position of Minister of Defense. Played a significant role in Japan's defense policy and military strategy during the 2000s. Engaged in discussions regarding Japan's self-defense forces and international security agreements. Contributed to various defense reforms and policies aimed at enhancing Japan's military capabilities.
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