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
Malcolm Sargent
Conductor of the London Philharmonic
Born
April 29th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1967 58 years ago — 72 years old
An English organist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the musical landscape of the 20th century. Served as the principal conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra and conducted the Proms concerts in London. Established a reputation for bringing classical music to a broader audience through innovative programming and engaging performances. Held esteemed positions at various orchestras and festivals, showcasing a wide range of repertoire. Composed several works and arrangements that continued to be performed long after his time.
Continue ReadingFrancis Lee
English footballer and businessman
Born
April 29th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2023 2 years ago — 79 years old
A former professional footballer, played as a forward, primarily for Manchester City and Derby County. Achieved significant success in club football, contributing to Manchester City's FA Cup victory in 1969 and winning the Football League title in 1972 with Derby County. Transitioned into business after retiring from professional play, involving himself in various business ventures. Served as a director at several companies post-retirement.
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 ReadingBob 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 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 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on March 13th
Emily 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 ReadingRockwell Kent
American painter and illustrator
Born
June 21st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1971 54 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent painter and illustrator, contributed to American visual arts with bold landscapes and striking imagery. Worked extensively in various media, including oil painting, lithography, and illustration. Gained recognition for the illustrations in classic literature, marrying visual art with text. Involved in the Works Progress Administration, supporting artistic initiatives during the Great Depression. Travelled to remote locations that influenced artistic style, including Alaska and Greenland.
Continue ReadingMurray Walker
Motorsport commentator during F1 races
Born
October 10th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2021 4 years ago — 97 years old
Engaged in motorsport commentary for several decades, building a reputation as one of the leading voices in Formula One. Worked for the BBC and ITV, providing live commentary and analysis during races. Contributed significantly to the popularization of Formula One in the UK and beyond through insightful and enthusiastic commentary. Authored a book detailing experiences in motorsport and was inducted into the British Sports Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingGarson Kanin
American director and screenwriter
Born
November 24th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1999 26 years ago — 86 years old
Director and screenwriter contributed significantly to film and theater throughout the 20th century. Worked on classics such as 'Born Yesterday' and 'The Deep Blue Sea'. Besides directing, engaged in screenwriting, with notable films like 'Roman Holiday'. Also involved in television, producing and directing various productions. Recognized for a distinctive style that blended humor with serious themes.
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 Reading