Bernard Herrmann
Film composer and conductor of Psycho
A prominent composer and conductor in the film industry, contributed significantly to the development of film scoring. Best recognized for collaborations with director Alfred Hitchcock, including the score for "Psycho," which features the iconic shower scene music. Also worked with directors such as Orson Welles on "Citizen Kane" and Martin Scorsese on "Taxi Driver." Created music for various radio programs and concert works, showcasing a unique compositional style that blended classical techniques with innovative approaches.
Composed the score for 'Psycho'
Scored music for 'Citizen Kane'
Created the soundtrack for 'Taxi Driver'
Other People Born on June 29th
George Washington Goethals
American general overseeing Panama Canal
Born
June 29th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1928 98 years ago — 69 years old
An American general and engineer played a pivotal role in the construction of the Panama Canal. Appointed as the chief engineer of the Panama Canal project, led efforts that successfully completed the canal, an engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Oversaw the transition from French to American construction efforts and implemented significant health measures to control diseases such as yellow fever and malaria that plagued workers. Was appointed as the first governor of the Panama Canal Zone after the canal's completion, managing its operations and governance.
Continue ReadingAaron Schoupp
Rugby league player for the Dragons
Born
June 29th, 2001 24 years ago
A rugby league player participated in the National Rugby League (NRL) for St. George Illawarra Dragons. Gained recognition for versatility on the field. Made a strong debut in the top league in 2020. Showed potential as a winger and center, contributing to the team's performance throughout seasons.
Continue ReadingJohn Toland
American historian and author of WWII works
Born
June 29th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2004 22 years ago — 91 years old
Significant contributions to historical literature included works focusing on World War II. Authored acclaimed books, providing detailed accounts and analyses of events and figures. Gained recognition for thorough research and engaging narrative style. Awards included the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography.
Continue ReadingPetronilla of Aragon
Queen of Aragon and Navarre
Born
June 29th, 1136 889 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1173 852 years ago — 37 years old
Born in Aragon, Petronilla was the daughter of Ramiro II of Aragon. She became queen consort of Navarre through her marriage to King Sancho VI of Navarre. This union facilitated the dynastic ties between the Kingdom of Aragon and the Kingdom of Navarre. Petronilla's reign was notable for her role in the political affairs of both kingdoms. Her reign spanned a time of consolidation and conflict among the Iberian kingdoms.
Continue ReadingAlan Blumlein
English engineer and audio pioneer
Born
June 29th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1942 83 years ago — 38 years old
An English engineer contributed significantly to the development of modern sound recording and reproduction technologies. Blumlein invented stereo recording and binaural sound, transforming the auditory experience in music and film. His work laid the groundwork for the future of sound engineering. He held numerous patents in audio technology. Tragically, his life was cut short during World War II.
Continue ReadingTerry Wyatt
English physicist and academic researcher
Born
June 29th, 1957 68 years ago
Contributed significantly to the field of physics with a focus on neutrino research and particle physics. Served as a professor at various academic institutions, mentoring students and advancing scientific knowledge. Published numerous academic papers and worked on significant collaborative projects in high-energy physics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 24th
Johnny Oates
Baseball manager and player
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2004 21 years ago — 58 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball, featuring for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres. Transitioned into coaching and managing, leading the Texas Rangers as a manager. Guided the team to several successful seasons and playoff appearances during the 1990s. Oates also served as a batting coach for the Baltimore Orioles before taking on managerial roles.
Continue ReadingAdolphe d'Archiac
Paleontologist and geologist
Born
September 24th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1868 157 years ago — 66 years old
A French paleontologist and geologist contributed extensively to the study of fossils and geological formations. Worked on the classification of fossil species and the understanding of the stratigraphy of various regions in France. Published works on paleontology that influenced geologic studies in the 19th century. Served as a member of the French Geological Society and participated in various geological investigations in France.
Continue ReadingHeather Menzies
Actress in The Sound of Music
Born
December 3rd, 1949 76 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2017 8 years ago — 68 years old
An actress gained recognition for a prominent role in the film "The Sound of Music" as Louisa von Trapp. The performance showcased significant talent in musical theater and film. Menzies also appeared in various television series, including "Beachcombers" and "The Muppet Show." Throughout her career, she took part in a variety of productions that highlighted her acting skills and dedication to the craft.
Continue ReadingRichard Adams
English author of 'Watership Down'
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 96 years old
An English author gained recognition for writing 'Watership Down', a fantasy novel featuring a group of rabbits on their quest for a new home. Published in 1972, the book received critical acclaim and became a classic in children's literature. The narrative combines elements of adventure, nature, and mythology, captivating both young and adult readers. The story's themes of survival and leadership resonate throughout the narrative. Adams also authored other works, including 'Shardik', 'Plague Dogs', and adaptations of 'Watership Down' into film and animation. His literary contributions extended beyond fiction, as he engaged in various social and environmental issues during his lifetime.
Continue ReadingRichard Bowes
American science fiction author
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2023 2 years ago — 79 years old
An American author specialized in science fiction, produced a substantial body of work over several decades. His writing often explored themes of identity and reality, contributing uniquely to the genre. Bowes received recognition within the science fiction community for his innovative storytelling and complex characters. Worked as an editor for several literary publications, further shaping the landscape of speculative fiction. His novel 'Minions of the Moon' stands out as a significant contribution to the genre. Additionally, Bowes produced numerous short stories that garnered acclaim and were featured in prestigious anthologies.
Continue ReadingTroy Dargan
Rugby league footballer for Cook Islands
Born
1997 29 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2023 2 years ago — 26 years old
Began professional rugby league career in Australia, playing as a halfback. Represented the Cook Islands national team in international competitions. Played for various clubs in the National Rugby League (NRL) including the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the St George Illawarra Dragons. Contributed to the growth of rugby league in the Cook Islands through participation in international matches.
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