B.B. King
Blues musician and songwriter
A significant figure in the blues genre, contributed to popularizing the musical style worldwide. Developed a unique guitar playing technique and soulful vocal style. Released several influential albums throughout a lengthy career, including the acclaimed 'Live at the Regal.' Received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, for musical contributions. Continued to perform well into the later years, maintaining a strong connection with audiences.
Released the influential album 'Live at the Regal'
Awarded multiple Grammy Awards
Popularized the blues genre globally
Other People Born on September 16th
Sheila Quinn
English nurse and educator specializing in nursing ethics
Born
September 16th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent figure in nursing education, contributions included the establishment of curricula that integrated ethical considerations into nursing training. Worked extensively to improve standards of nursing practice and education in the United Kingdom. Involved in various committees focused on nursing policy and education, influencing future generations of nurses. Authored several important texts on nursing and healthcare ethics, widely used in nursing programs across the country.
Continue ReadingEric Vail
Ice hockey player and sportscaster
Born
September 16th, 1953 73 years ago
Played professional ice hockey in the NHL. Competed with the Atlanta Flames and the Toronto Maple Leafs during the 1970s and 1980s. Transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting following retirement from professional play. Contributed commentary and analysis on various sports programs.
Continue ReadingPedro V of Portugal
Monarch of Portugal and constitutional reformer
Born
September 16th, 1837 189 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1861 164 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1837, ascended the throne in 1853 following the death of his father, Miguel I. He supported constitutional monarchy and social reforms in Portugal. During his reign, efforts were made to modernize the country, particularly regarding education and infrastructure. Health issues plagued his reign, and he died in 1861 under circumstances that raised concerns of the state of the monarchy at the time. His contributions to the transformation of Portugal into a modern state are notable during a period marked by political tumult.
Continue ReadingGuy Hamilton
Film director and screenwriter for Bond films
Born
September 16th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 94 years old
Directed several James Bond films, including 'Goldfinger' and 'Diamonds Are Forever'. Established a career in filmmaking after working in television. Collaborated with prominent actors and production teams, contributing to the popularity of the spy genre in cinema. Directed other notable films, enhancing the landscape of British and international film throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingRobert H. Schuller
Pastor and author of 'Hour of Power'
Born
September 16th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2015 11 years ago — 88 years old
Founded the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California. Created and hosted the television program 'Hour of Power', which became one of the most-viewed religious programs in the world. Authored numerous books, including 'Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People Do!' and 'Moving Mountains'. Schuller promoted positive thinking and the possibility of personal transformation through faith. Established the Schuller Institute for Successful Aging.
Continue ReadingAllen Funt
Television producer of Candid Camera
Born
September 16th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1999 27 years ago — 84 years old
A television producer and director, contributed significantly to the prank genre of entertainment through the creation of a popular hidden camera show. Initiated production of 'Candid Camera' in the late 1940s, showcasing real-life reactions of unsuspecting individuals to humorous situations. This innovative approach transformed television comedy and influenced numerous formats and shows that followed. Funt also held a prominent role in promoting the television industry during its formative years, working as a writer and producer across various platforms. His contributions to entertainment left a lasting legacy in comedy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
Darwyn Cooke
Writer and artist, graphic novels.
Born
November 16th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2016 10 years ago — 53 years old
A Canadian writer and artist specialized in graphic novels and comic books, creating a distinct style that garnered critical acclaim. Achievements included work on 'DC: The New Frontier', a celebrated miniseries that adapted the character of Green Lantern and showcased the early days of the Justice League. Also contributed to various projects for DC Comics and other publishers, affecting the direction of the medium with innovative storytelling and art. Recognized for a unique blend of design and narrative that influenced contemporary comic artistry.
Continue ReadingWillem Drees
Dutch Prime Minister (1948-1958)
Born
July 5th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1988 38 years ago — 101 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1948 to 1958. Played a significant role in post-war reconstruction and economic recovery. Led the Labour Party and was a key figure in Dutch politics during the period of rebuilding after World War II. Oversaw social reforms and the establishment of the welfare state in the Netherlands, contributing to the modernization of Dutch society.
Continue ReadingWilliam Randolph Hearst Jr.
Journalist and publisher of Hearst
Born
January 27th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1993 33 years ago — 85 years old
Worked as a journalist and publisher, contributing to the legacy of the Hearst media empire. Served as the president of Hearst Corporation and played a pivotal role in the expansion and modernization of the company's operations. Influenced American journalism and publishing industries through innovative practices and widespread distribution of print media. Supported various philanthropic initiatives and contributed to the arts.
Continue ReadingPowers Boothe
American actor in films and television
Born
June 1st, 1948 78 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2017 9 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1948, an American actor had an extensive career in film and television. The performance in the miniseries 'True Grit' garnered significant attention, solidifying a reputation in dramatic roles. Received an Emmy Award for his role in the 1995 miniseries 'Into the West.' Appeared in films such as 'Tombstone' and 'The Last Supper,' demonstrating versatility across genres. Voiced characters in animated series, including 'Justice League' and 'The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes.'
Continue ReadingMorvin Simon
New Zealand conductor and historian
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2014 12 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent historian and musician, contributed to the understanding of New Zealand's musical heritage. Served as conductor for various orchestras, enhancing the cultural scene. Created and arranged numerous compositions that reflect the rich traditions of New Zealand music.
Continue ReadingThomas Simpson
Mathematician known for numerical methods
Born
August 20th, 1710 316 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1761 265 years ago — 50 years old
Engaged in the field of mathematics, contributed to the development of numerical analysis. Developed Simpson's Rule, a method for numerical integration that approximates the definite integral of a function. Worked extensively on the calculus of finite differences and made advancements in the theory of approximation. Also served in academic roles, influencing education in mathematics.
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