Alexej von Jawlensky
Russian-German painter of abstract art
A painter with roots in both Russia and Germany focused on expressionist and abstract styles. Initially influenced by Russian folk art and music, transitioned to a more geometric approach. Cofounded the expressionist group Der Blaue Reiter, active in establishing modern art perspectives. Developed a unique painting technique characterized by vibrant colors and simplified forms. His works reflect a spiritual quest, integrating themes of color and emotion.
Cofounded Der Blaue Reiter group
Created the 'Head' series of paintings
Other People Born on March 13th
John Griffin
Field Marshal, 4th Baron Howard de Walden
Born
March 13th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1797 228 years ago — 78 years old
Held the title of 4th Baron Howard de Walden and served as an English field marshal and politician. Acted as the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, overseeing the county's administration during a significant part of the 18th century. Commanded military forces and participated in various military activities that contributed to the governance of England. Involved in political discussions that shaped local and national policies. Represented the aristocracy in military and civilian spheres, adhering to the responsibilities of a peer during this period.
Continue ReadingHugh Walpole
New Zealand-English author and educator
Born
March 13th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1941 84 years ago — 57 years old
Born in New Zealand and later moving to England, the individual became a well-regarded author and educator. The literary career included many novels and works that captured the social landscape of the early 20th century. Key novels included 'Rogue Herries', 'The Cathedral', and 'The Dark Forest'. The individual also held a significant role in education, contributing to the academic community through lecturing and mentoring aspiring writers.
Continue ReadingYonatan Netanyahu
American-Israeli colonel and military leader
Born
March 13th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 30 years old
Served as a colonel in the Israel Defense Forces and led the elite Sayeret Matkal special forces unit. Participated in several key military operations during the 1970s, including the counter-terrorism operation at Entebbe Airport in 1976. Demonstrated leadership in various critical situations and was involved in training future commanders of the IDF. Passed away during an operation in 1976 while rescuing hostages.
Continue ReadingSammy Kaye
Saxophonist and bandleader of Swing music
Born
March 13th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1987 38 years ago — 77 years old
An American saxophonist, songwriter, and bandleader, this musician emerged in the big band era, leading a popular orchestra in the 1940s and 1950s. The orchestral style combined swing with smooth vocal harmonies. A signature program, 'Sammy Kaye and His Orchestra', featured performances that included both instrumental and vocal arrangements. The band achieved popularity through radio broadcasts and live performances, contributing to the Swing music movement. Many of the band's hits became standards of the genre, further cementing a legacy in American music.
Continue ReadingFritz Busch
German conductor and director of opera
Born
March 13th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1951 74 years ago — 61 years old
Involved in the world of classical music, contributed significantly as a conductor and directed numerous operas. Led major orchestras in Europe and the United States, gaining recognition for interpretations of works by Mozart, Wagner, and Strauss. Held positions such as music director of the Berlin State Opera. Played a crucial role in the development of orchestral and operatic arts during the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingScatman John
Singer-songwriter and scat performer
Born
March 13th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1999 26 years ago — 57 years old
An American musician gained prominence in the mid-1990s with a unique blend of scat singing and dance music. Debuted with the song 'Scatman (Ski-Ba-Bop-Ba-Dop-Bop)', which became a global hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Released the album 'Scatman's World', which included several successful tracks and showcased a distinctive style combining jazz and pop elements. Contributed to the visibility of stuttering in popular culture through his own experiences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 15th
Tom Harmon
Football player and sportscaster
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1990 35 years ago — 71 years old
An American football player and later a sportscaster, achieved prominence in the 1940s. Played as a halfback for the University of Michigan, leading the team to a national championship in 1947. Received the Heisman Trophy in 1940. After college football, transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, notably covering sports events. Gained recognition for insightful commentary and analysis during broadcasts.
Continue ReadingCurtis Gans
Political Scientist and Author
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed to the field of political science with a focus on elections and voter behavior. Authored influential works that analyzed civic engagement and public opinion. Conducted extensive research on the relationship between democracy and voter turnout. Served as a director at the Committee for the Study of the American Electorate.
Continue ReadingWalter V
Count of Brienne and military leader
Died
March 15th, 1311 714 years ago — None years old
Walter V served as the Count of Brienne during the early 14th century. He was involved in military campaigns in France and played a key role in the conflicts surrounding the Hundred Years' War. His leadership in battles demonstrated significant tactical skills.
Continue ReadingSylvia Anderson
Voice actress and producer of Thunderbirds
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent voice actress and television producer, significant contributions included co-creating and producing the hit television series 'Thunderbirds'. Collaborated with her husband on various projects, establishing a distinctive style of puppetry and storytelling in children's programming. Besides 'Thunderbirds', produced other series such as 'Joe 90' and 'Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons', pioneering the use of marionettes in television. Involved in multiple aspects of production, including scriptwriting and voice characterizations, which helped define an iconic genre in British television.
Continue ReadingHenry Bessemer
Engineer who developed the Bessemer process
Born
January 19th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1898 127 years ago — 85 years old
An English engineer and businessman developed the Bessemer process, a method for producing steel from pig iron that revolutionized steelmaking. This process allowed for the mass production of steel, making it stronger and cheaper, which contributed significantly to the development of railways and construction during the Industrial Revolution. Bessemer also held various patents related to steel manufacturing and was involved in the establishment of the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad. His innovations facilitated advancements in industrial technology, shaping modern engineering practices and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingBarbara Maier Gustern
Vocal coach and singer
Born
February 10th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2022 3 years ago — 87 years old
A vocal coach and singer, she contributed significantly to the music industry through training and mentoring numerous artists. Gustern was a prominent figure in the world of vocal instruction, participating in various prestigious music events and performances. Her career spanned decades, during which she worked with both classical and contemporary vocalists, helping to develop their techniques and artistry. She also performed in musical theater productions, showcasing her talent on stage while nurturing the next generation of singers.
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