Bebo Valdés
Cuban-Swedish pianist and composer
A prominent pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the Latin jazz genre. Developed a distinctive style blending Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz influences. Achieved success in Cuba before relocating to Sweden, where continued musical innovation took place. Collaborated with various artists and received multiple accolades.
Founded the influential band Sabor de Cuba
Won a Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album
Contributed to the soundtrack of the film 'Chico & Rita'
Other People Born on October 9th
Hank Pfister
American tennis player and doubles champion
Born
October 9th, 1953 72 years ago
Professional tennis career spanned from the 1970s to the 1980s. Competed primarily in singles and doubles tournaments on the ATP tour. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 23 in 1982. Won the men's doubles title at the 1980 US Open alongside partner and fellow American player. Participated in multiple Grand Slam tournaments, including Wimbledon and the French Open, showcasing consistent performance in both singles and doubles formats.
Continue ReadingJacques Tati
French actor and filmmaker of 'Mon Oncle'
Born
October 9th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 75 years old
An influential figure in cinema, this individual was an actor, director, and screenwriter. Renowned for creating visually innovative comedies, developed a unique style emphasizing visual gags and minimal dialogue. The character Monsieur Hulot, featured in films like 'Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot' and 'Mon Oncle', became iconic for its charm and humor. Tati's work often reflected a critique of modernity and urban life, showcasing the contrast between tradition and progress. Received the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for 'Mon Oncle'.
Continue ReadingEugene Bullard
Pilot and World War I veteran
Born
October 9th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1895, this individual became the first African American military pilot. After moving to France, served in the French Foreign Legion during World War I. Flew combat missions with the Lafayette Flying Corps, achieving recognition for bravery. Following the war, involved in various professions including boxing and as a nightclub owner in Paris. Returned to the United States after World War II, where contributions to aviation and military history were acknowledged.
Continue ReadingJoseph Friedman
American inventor of the straw
Born
October 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 82 years old
Invented the flexible straw in 1937, revolutionizing the beverage industry. Developed a design that allowed for sipping drinks with ease, which gained popularity in various dining environments. Held several patents related to his innovations. Worked on various projects throughout his career that impacted food and beverage consumption.
Continue ReadingClifford M. Hardin
American Secretary of Agriculture
Born
October 9th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 17th United States Secretary of Agriculture from 1969 to 1971. Contributed to various agricultural policies and programs during the Nixon administration. Involved in academia, holding significant positions at various universities, including the University of Nebraska.
Continue ReadingFrancis Wayland Parker
Education reform theorist and leader
Born
October 9th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
1902 123 years ago — 65 years old
A key figure in the development of progressive education, contributed to the establishment of innovative teaching methods. Advocated for experiential learning and child-centered education models. Served as the principal of the Cook County Normal School in Chicago and later founded the Francis W. Parker School. Promoted the belief that education should develop a child's character and intellect through active participation and engagement. Published works on pedagogy that influenced educational theory in the United States.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 22nd
Stepas Butautas
Lithuanian basketball player and coach
Born
August 25th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old
Played professional basketball in Lithuania and transitioned to coaching after retirement. Gained recognition as a successful coach in various Lithuanian basketball teams. Served as a national team coach, contributing to the development of basketball in Lithuania.
Continue ReadingCarlo Parola
Italian footballer and manager
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2000 25 years ago — 79 years old
A notable figure in Italian football, contributed as both a player and manager. Played for Juventus from 1944 to 1954, winning three Serie A titles. Transitioned to management after retirement, leading several clubs, including Casale and Catania. Had a significant influence on youth development in Italian football, emphasizing training and mentorship. Served as a respected coach, guiding teams in various leagues.
Continue ReadingMatthew White Ridley
English politician and academic leader
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 4th Viscount Ridley and held various positions in academia and public service. Acted as the Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, overseeing ceremonial duties and representing the monarchy. Contributed to discussions on politics and science, emphasizing the importance of rational discourse in public policy. Engaged in writing, providing commentary on modern scientific issues and their societal implications.
Continue ReadingRay Williams
Basketball player and coach, NCAA titles
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 59 years old
A basketball player and coach, contributed to the sport at both collegiate and professional levels. Played for the University of Minnesota, leading them to an NCAA Final Four appearance in 1972. Played in the NBA for teams including the New York Knicks and the Utah Jazz. Transitioned into coaching, where several teams benefited from expertise in developing young talent and game strategies. His legacy includes impactful contributions to the sport and the mentoring of future athletes.
Continue ReadingU. G. Krishnamurti
Philosopher and educator
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2007 18 years ago — 89 years old
An Indian-Italian philosopher and educator, explored the nature of enlightenment and consciousness. Developed a unique philosophy that rejected traditional spiritual concepts. Authored several books and gave talks on self-inquiry, often challenging established ideas of spirituality and self-improvement. His thoughts included discussions on the relationship between thought and reality, emphasizing the importance of direct experience over conceptual understanding.
Continue ReadingSteve Olin
Baseball player for the Cleveland Indians
Born
October 4th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1993 32 years ago — 27 years old
Played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Cleveland Indians from 1988 to 1993. Olin's career was marked by effective performance on the mound, showcasing a strong ability to close out games and contribute to his team's success. His career was tragically cut short due to his untimely death in a boating accident in 1993.
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