Alessandro Stradella
Italian composer of Baroque music
Born
1639
386 years ago
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Italy
Links & References
An influential composer during the Baroque period, produced numerous operas, oratorios, and sacred music. Active primarily in the late 17th century, his compositions showcased innovative harmonic techniques and expressive melodies. Worked in various cities including Rome and Venice, where he collaborated with prominent musicians and was involved in the development of early opera. Despite a tumultuous life marked by personal conflicts and struggles, left a significant legacy in Italian music, influencing later composers.
Composed around 40 cantatas and numerous operas
Wrote the oratorio 'San Giovanni Battista'
Influenced the development of opera with works like 'Il Tigrane'
Other People Who Died on February 25th
Robert Hayden
American poet and academic
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 66 years old
This poet served as a professor and was the first African American to be appointed as a consultant in poetry to the Library of Congress. His writings often explored themes of African American identity, history, and culture. Key works include the poetry collections 'Words in the Mourning' and 'The Lion and the Unicorn.' His poem 'Those Winter Sundays' is widely regarded and is often studied in American literature.
Continue ReadingDon Bradman
Cricketer; world record batting average holder
Born
August 27th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2001 24 years ago — 92 years old
One of the greatest cricketers in history, this athlete represented Australia in international cricket from 1928 to 1948. Achieving an extraordinary batting average of 99.94, the highest in Test match cricket, earned lifelong recognition and admiration. This player was a key figure in the Australian cricket team during the interwar period and the immediate post-war era. Alongside numerous records, this cricketer contributed significantly to the sport's popularity in Australia. His exceptional skill, especially in stroke play, and strategic batting approach set new standards in cricket.
Continue ReadingBill Paxton
Actor in Titanic and Aliens
Born
May 17th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2017 8 years ago — 61 years old
An American actor and filmmaker, recognized for performances in significant films and television series. In the film 'Aliens', played the role of Private Hudson, delivering memorable lines and contributing to the movie's cult status. Starred in 'Titanic' as Brock Lovett, participating in a major box office success. Appeared in the television series 'Big Love' as Bill Henrickson, showcasing a powerful performance across multiple seasons. Directed the film 'Frailty', which received critical acclaim. Garnered a reputation for versatility across genres, from action to drama.
Continue ReadingTheodor Svedberg
Swedish chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 30th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1971 54 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physical chemistry, focusing on colloids and the behavior of particles in solutions. Developed the ultracentrifuge for measuring the molecular weight of proteins and other macromolecules. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1926 for work on disperse systems. Served as a professor at Uppsala University, where research intensified understanding of colloidal chemistry.
Continue ReadingWilliam IV
Grand Duke of Luxembourg
Born
April 22nd, 1852 173 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1912 113 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as Grand Duke of Luxembourg from 1905 until his death in 1912. Served as military leader during World War I, overseeing the defense of the country. Actively involved in the administration and development of Luxembourg's infrastructure and culture, promoting education and economic growth during his reign.
Continue ReadingAlexander Archipenko
Ukrainian sculptor and illustrator
Born
May 30th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1964 61 years ago — 76 years old
A significant figure in modern sculpture and a pioneer of the Cubist movement, contributions included innovative use of materials and forms. Developed a unique style that combined sculpture with painting, often integrating two-dimensional elements into three-dimensional works. Studied in Ukraine and later in Paris, where he interacted with leading figures of the avant-garde. His artistic journey included work in various mediums such as ceramics and printmaking, but sculpture remained central to his output. Later years were spent in the United States, where he continued to create and teach until death.
Continue Reading