Alexander II of Russia
Russian Emperor, Emancipated the Serfs
Ruled as Emperor of Russia from 1855 until assassination in 1881. Implemented significant reforms including the emancipation of serfs in 1861, which freed millions from bondage and aimed to modernize Russia. Introduced judicial reforms that established a more equitable legal system. Started the process of military reform, which improved discipline and organization within the army. Promoted education and public health initiatives during reign.
Emancipated the serfs in 1861
Introduced judicial reforms
Reformed the military
Other People Born on April 29th
Bob McClure
Baseball player and coach
Born
April 29th, 1952 73 years ago
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1975 to 1987. Teams included the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and the New York Yankees. Transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of various pitchers in the minor and major leagues. Worked with the Milwaukee Brewers and has experience as a pitching coach for several major league teams.
Continue ReadingElmer Kelton
American journalist and author of Western fiction
Born
April 29th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2009 16 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to the Western genre through novels and short stories. Wrote over forty books, many depicting the American West and its culture. Won multiple prestigious awards throughout his career, including the Western Heritage Award and the Spur Award from the Western Writers of America. Served as a writer and columnist for newspapers in Texas and contributed articles on various topics, including ranching, agriculture, and the lives of everyday people in the West.
Continue ReadingInfanta Sofía of Spain
Spanish princess and royal family member
Born
April 29th, 2007 18 years ago
Born into the Spanish royal family, an heiress to the throne, has participated in various official events and royal engagements. Recently involved in various charitable initiatives, representing the royal family at social functions and ceremonies. Engaged in educational pursuits and public appearances, reflecting royal duties as part of the monarchy.
Continue ReadingDuke Ellington
Jazz musician and composer
Born
April 29th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1974 51 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in the history of jazz, contributed significantly to the genre as a pianist, composer, and bandleader. Led the Duke Ellington Orchestra, which became a major force in jazz and performed for decades. Developed a distinctive style that incorporated elements of blues and classical music, and composed numerous pieces that became standards in the jazz repertoire. Notable performances at the Cotton Club in Harlem and the Newport Jazz Festival showcased the orchestra's talent.
Continue ReadingCarl Millöcker
Austrian composer of operettas
Born
April 29th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
1899 126 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1842, an Austrian composer and conductor specialized in operettas. His most celebrated works include 'Der Bettelstudent' and 'Die Dubarry', which garnered significant popularity in the operatic repertoire of the 19th century. Millöcker's compositions often showcased rich melodies and lively orchestration, contributing to the operetta genre's evolution during his era. He also conducted various performances of his works, influencing the musical scene in Vienna and beyond.
Continue ReadingRod McKuen
Singer-songwriter and poet
Born
April 29th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent singer-songwriter and poet, contributed significantly to popular music and literature during the 20th century. Best known for poetic lyrics in albums such as 'The Sea' and 'Listen to the Warm'. Garnered acclaim for melodic compositions in the folk and pop genres. Authored numerous poetry collections, which further solidified a reputation as a respected literary figure. Collaborated with various artists and achieved commercial success in both music and publishing, leaving a lasting legacy in American culture.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 13th
William Hurt
American actor in cinema and theater
Born
1950 75 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2022 3 years ago — 72 years old
An award-winning actor with a career spanning over four decades. Gained prominence for roles in films such as 'Kiss of the Spider Woman', 'The Big Chill', and 'A History of Violence'. Recognized for a distinct gravitas in performances across a variety of genres. Furthered the craft in both independent and mainstream cinema, showcasing versatility and depth. Contributed to theater performances as well, reflecting a robust foundation in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingMarvelous Marvin Hagler
Professional Boxer, Middleweight Champion
Born
May 23rd, 1954 71 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2021 4 years ago — 66 years old
Renowned as a professional boxer, achieved notable success in the middleweight division. Holds the record for the longest reign as the undisputed middleweight champion from 1980 to 1987. Fought in legendary bouts against opponents such as Thomas Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard. Retired with an impressive record, highly regarded within the boxing community.
Continue ReadingEmily Nasrallah
Lebanese writer and women's rights activist
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2018 7 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Lebanese writer and women's rights activist contributed significantly to literature and social advocacy. Authored multiple novels that explore themes of identity, exile, and gender. Her novel, 'The Tiller of Waters,' received recognition for its narrative on the hardships faced by women in traditional societies. Engaged in activism focused on women's rights and empowerment, frequently addressing issues of gender inequality in her works and public appearances. Actively participated in literary festivals and initiatives promoting women's voices in the Arab world.
Continue ReadingRobert C. Baker
Businessman and chicken nugget inventor
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2006 19 years ago — 85 years old
An American businessman, contributed significantly to the food industry by inventing the chicken nugget, which became a popular menu item in fast-food establishments. Developed and patented several innovative food processing techniques, particularly in poultry and meat processing. Authored multiple publications related to food science, sharing knowledge and expertise with the industry. Served as a professor at Cornell University, influencing future generations in the field of food technology.
Continue ReadingHenry Shrapnel
English general and artillery innovator
Born
1761 264 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1842 183 years ago — 81 years old
Served as an artillery officer in the British Army. Developed the shrapnel shell, which allowed for a more effective lethality on the battlefield. This invention was first used successfully during the Napoleonic Wars. Participated in multiple military campaigns including the Duke of Wellington's campaigns in the Peninsular War and the Battle of Waterloo. Contributed significantly to artillery tactics and the modern conception of explosive projectiles.
Continue ReadingVittorio Jano
Italian automotive engineer and designer
Born
April 22nd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1965 60 years ago — 73 years old
An influential automotive engineer contributed to the design and development of several successful racing cars. Played a key role at Alfa Romeo, where significant innovations in automotive engineering took place during the 1920s and 1930s. Designed the 158 and 159 Grand Prix cars, which secured numerous championships for Alfa Romeo in the pre-World War II era. Emphasized performance and aerodynamics in automotive design, establishing benchmarks for future vehicles.
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