Augusta Holmès
Composer of orchestral and choral music
A French composer and pianist contributed significantly to late 19th-century music. Studied under notable musicians and gained recognition for compositions that blended romantic elements with influences from various cultures. Composed symphonic poems, operas, and choral works that showcased lyrical melodies and orchestral color. Maintained a prominent presence in Parisian musical life and was associated with the Schola Cantorum.
Composed 'L'orgue et les chœurs'
Wrote 'Les Argonautes', an opera
Other People Born on December 18th
Malcolm Kirk
Rugby player and wrestler
Born
December 18th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1987 38 years ago — 50 years old
Born in England in 1936, an athlete achieved recognition in both rugby and wrestling. Played for the English national rugby team, contributing significantly to the sport during the 1960s. Transitioned to professional wrestling after retiring from rugby, competing in various promotions. Captured the attention of wrestling fans with a unique style that integrated techniques from rugby.
Continue ReadingCharles Griffin
American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.
Continue ReadingGladys Cooper
English actress and singer
Born
December 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
An English actress and singer achieved acclaim in both film and theater. Career began in the early 1900s on stage, transitioning to film in the 1910s. Notable stage works included performances in 'The Royal Family' and 'What Every Woman Knows'. In cinema, key roles were in 'The Letter', 'Mary of Scotland', and 'My Fair Lady'. Recognized for her remarkable versatility and strong presence, also performed extensively on radio and television later in her career.
Continue ReadingRay Liotta
American actor in crime dramas
Born
December 18th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2022 3 years ago — 67 years old
An American actor gained prominence for performances in crime dramas and thrillers. Best recognized for the role of Henry Hill in the film 'Goodfellas,' directed by Martin Scorsese. Other notable performances include the portrayal of Shoeless Joe Jackson in 'Field of Dreams' and participation in the television series 'Shades of Blue.' Established a reputation for intense character portrayals, particularly in roles associated with organized crime.
Continue ReadingDaniel Cleary
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 18th, 1978 47 years ago
Born in 1978, a Canadian professional ice hockey player played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams, prominently on the Detroit Red Wings. Originating from Kingston, Ontario, played junior hockey with the Belleville Bulls. Drafted in 1997, played for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Edmonton Oilers before joining the Red Wings in 2005. Contributed significantly to the team's success, helping secure the Stanley Cup in 2008.
Continue ReadingArchduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria
Austrian archduke and military leader
Born
December 18th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
1914 112 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1863, served as the heir presumptive to the Austro-Hungarian throne. Held the title of Archduke of Austria and was involved in military matters, significantly shaping military strategy. His visit to Sarajevo in 1914 led to his assassination, an event that triggered World War I. His death had profound implications for European politics and stability.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 28th
Signe Toly Anderson
American singer with Jefferson Airplane
Born
September 15th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2016 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent American singer, a founding member of the rock band Jefferson Airplane, contributed significantly to the psychedelic rock scene in the 1960s. Anderson provided lead vocals on the band's debut album, 'Takes Off,' which featured the hit single 'It's No Secret.' Anderson's unique vocal style helped shape the early sound of the band, which became a significant influence on the rock genre. After her departure from Jefferson Airplane in 1966, she pursued a solo career and continued to perform with various groups. Anderson's contributions to music continued until her later years, and she remained a figure in the rock community until her passing.
Continue ReadingW. B. Yeats
Irish poet and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 13th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1939 87 years ago — 73 years old
An influential Irish poet and playwright contributed significantly to the literary revival in Ireland. Published works include collections such as 'The Tower' and 'The Winding Stair.' Played a vital role in the establishment of the Abbey Theatre, fostering new Irish drama. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923 for poetic expression characterized by symbolism and mysticism. Engaged deeply with themes of nationalism, identity, and the spiritual in his writings.
Continue ReadingNikolai Luzin
Mathematician, founder of functional analysis
Born
December 9th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1950 76 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in the fields of functional analysis and topology. Developed the concept of Luzin spaces and made advancements in measure theory. Held a professorship at Moscow State University and published several influential papers. Played a crucial role in the development of mathematical education in the Soviet Union. Engaged in various academic and administrative roles throughout career.
Continue ReadingOldřich Kulhánek
Czech painter and stage designer
Born
February 26th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent Czech painter, illustrator, and stage designer, played a significant role in the Czech art scene. Worked extensively in the fields of graphic arts and theatre design. Created a range of illustrations for children's books and adult literature. Collaborated with various theatre companies, contributing to stage designs for many productions. Developed a distinctive style that blended traditional techniques with modern themes.
Continue ReadingAstrid Lindgren
Swedish author, creator of Pippi Longstocking
Born
November 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2002 24 years ago — 94 years old
An author and screenwriter, this individual was a prolific writer of children's literature. The series featuring Pippi Longstocking emerged as a significant contribution to the literary world, offering tales of adventure and independence. Other notable works include 'Emil of Lönneberga' and 'The Brothers Lionheart'. The storytelling style combined whimsical narratives with elements of realism, resonating with audiences worldwide. Additionally, this individual engaged in activism for children's rights and environmental issues, influencing cultural conversations beyond literature. The works have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into films and television series, solidifying a legacy that continues to enchant readers.
Continue ReadingJoseph Brodsky
Poet and essayist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 24th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1996 30 years ago — 55 years old
Born in Leningrad, Brodsky emerged as a prominent poet and essayist in the 1960s. After facing persecution in the Soviet Union for his literary work, he emigrated to the United States in 1972. Brodsky taught at several prestigious universities, including Mount Holyoke College and the University of Michigan. The Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded to him in 1987 for his lyrical poetry and profound essays. His works often reflect themes of exile, love, and the human experience. Brodsky's legacy continues to influence contemporary poetry and prose.
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