Antônio Carlos Gomes
Brazilian composer of opera
Born in 1836 in Brazil, this composer gained recognition for operatic works that blended Brazilian themes with European styles. He studied music in Italy, where he composed several successful operas. The opera "O Guarani" premiered in 1870 and showcased his ability to integrate Brazilian culture into classical music. Other significant works include "Salvador" and "Fosca," both of which contributed to his reputation in the operatic tradition. His efforts helped pave the way for future composers in Brazil, establishing a unique national identity in the world of music.
Composed the opera 'O Guarani'
Successfully premiered several operas in Italy
Integrated Brazilian themes in classical compositions
Other People Born on July 11th
Gough Whitlam
Australian politician and Prime Minister
Born
July 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 98 years old
Served as the 21st Prime Minister of Australia from 1972 to 1975. Implemented significant social reforms and expanded the welfare state. Introduced policies for universal healthcare and access to education. Instrumental in abolishing the death penalty in Australia and reforming tax and social security systems.
Continue ReadingErna Flegel
German nurse in Führerbunker during WWII
Born
July 11th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 95 years old
A German nurse served in the Führerbunker during World War II, providing medical care to wounded soldiers and officials. Remaining during the final days of the war, witnessed the capture of the bunker by Soviet troops. Her experiences reflected the tumultuous events of the closing days of the Third Reich.
Continue ReadingPeggy Shippen
American Revolutionary War spy
Born
July 11th, 1760 265 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1804 221 years ago — 44 years old
An influential figure during the American Revolutionary War, acquired a notable reputation as a spy. Married Benedict Arnold, a pivotal general who later defected to the British side. Played a role in Arnold's treasonous plans, providing him with intelligence that assisted the British. Her actions and associations were scrutinized during and after the war, contributing to the historical narrative of espionage and loyalty during this tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingN. E. Brown
English plant taxonomist specializing in succulents
Born
July 11th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1934 91 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of botany, particularly in the taxonomy of succulent plants. Authored several influential publications that helped classify numerous genera and species. Established the genus Aichryson and contributed to the understanding of Crassulaceae. Held a position at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where significant botanical research was conducted.
Continue ReadingJean-François Marmontel
French historian and author of Bélisaire
Born
July 11th, 1723 302 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1799 225 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent French historian and author, produced influential literary and historical texts during the 18th century. His work included a variety of essays, as well as a well-received series of tales known as 'Contes moraux'. The most notable accomplishment includes the historical novel 'Bélisaire', which critiqued intolerance and depicted the struggles of its titular blind general. Marmontel also contributed to the Encyclopédie and engaged in intellectual circles of Enlightenment thinkers.
Continue ReadingRudolf Abel
Colonel and espionage figure
Born
July 11th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1971 54 years ago — 68 years old
A colonel in the KGB, played a pivotal role in Cold War espionage. Managed operations that involved spying on the United States and its allies. Captured in 1957 during a covert assignment in New York City, led to a high-profile trial in the United States. His conviction resulted in a ten-year prison sentence before being exchanged for U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers in a notable spy swap in 1962. Returned to the Soviet Union where he continued his work in intelligence.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 16th
W. P. Kinsella
Novelist of 'Shoeless Joe' fame
Born
May 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 81 years old
A Canadian novelist and short story writer who gained recognition for literary contributions centered around baseball and rural life. The novel 'Shoeless Joe', published in 1982, inspired the film 'Field of Dreams' in 1989. Kinsella's work often explored themes of nostalgia, community, and the relationship between humans and nature. Numerous stories reflect a deep appreciation for the sport of baseball and its cultural significance. The author's unique voice and vivid storytelling earned him a significant place in Canadian literature.
Continue ReadingEdward Albee
Playwright known for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Born
March 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1928, this playwright made significant contributions to American theater. His career spanned several decades, with notable plays that explored complex themes of identity, relationships, and human behavior. 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?', premiered in 1962, is one of his most recognized works, showcasing the tumultuous marriage between George and Martha. The playwright also received several prestigious awards throughout his career, including three Pulitzer Prizes for Drama.
Continue ReadingMarcelo Rezende
Brazilian journalist and television host
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent Brazilian journalist and television host, gained recognition for investigative reporting and hosting popular news programs. Worked at television networks such as TV Record and Rede Globo, contributing significantly to the field of journalism in Brazil. Also hosted programs focused on crime and social issues, drawing large viewership and public interest. Published books on crime and investigated various cases, reflecting the complexities of Brazilian society.
Continue ReadingGabriele Amorth
Italian priest and renowned exorcist
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a prominent Roman Catholic priest and exorcist throughout a significant portion of his life. Gained attention for public discussions about spiritual warfare and the practice of exorcism. Authored several books on the subject, with notable works including 'An Exorcist Tells His Story'. Actively involved in conducting exorcisms, addressing both spiritual and psychological concerns related to demonic possession. Contributed to the dialogue about exorcism within the Catholic Church and broader society.
Continue ReadingGustav Bauer
German politician and Chancellor
Born
January 6th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1944 81 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 11th Chancellor of Germany from 1919 to 1920 during the Weimar Republic. Promoted policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and addressing social issues in post-World War I Germany. Known for leading the government during a period marked by political turbulence and economic challenges. His leadership involved navigating the complexities of peace treaties and reparations imposed on Germany following the war.
Continue ReadingJames Burdette Thayer
American brigadier general
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 98 years old
Served as a brigadier general in the United States Army. Participated in key military operations throughout a career spanning several decades. Contributed to military strategy and training initiatives. Had a significant role in the development of army doctrine.
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