Charles Mingus

Bassist and composer of jazz music

Charles Mingus - Bassist and composer of jazz music
Born

April 22nd, 1922
103 years ago

Died

January 5th, 1979
46 years ago — 56 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader, who played a pivotal role in the evolution of jazz music. Mingus's work encompassed a broad spectrum of styles, integrating elements of blues, classical music, and avant-garde. He formed numerous bands throughout his career, including the Mingus Big Band, which continued to perform his compositions after his passing. His compositions often featured intricate arrangements and strong emotional undercurrents, reflecting personal and social themes. Albums such as 'Mingus Ah Um' and 'The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady' received critical acclaim and are considered significant contributions to the genre. Mingus's influence extended beyond his performances, as he advocated for artistic freedom and social justice within the music world.

Released 'Mingus Ah Um' in 1959

Created iconic piece 'Goodbye Pork Pie Hat'

Formed influential Mingus Big Band

Other People Born on April 22nd

Richard Diebenkorn

American painter of the Bay Area School
Born
April 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1993 32 years ago — 70 years old

An influential American painter, contributions spanned several decades and movements. The works reflect a blend of abstraction and representation. Developed the Ocean Park series during the late 1960s and 1970s, celebrated for its innovative color and composition. Additionally, previously engaged in the figurative painting style, showcasing the human form in various environments. The artistic journey transitioned through different periods, showcasing evolution in style and technique. The work has been exhibited widely, and recognition includes significant gallery exhibitions.

Continue Reading

Giuseppe Torelli

Italian violinist and composer of concertos
Born
April 22nd, 1658 367 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1709 316 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in the Baroque music era, this violinist and composer contributed significantly to the development of instrumental music. Torelli's compositions emphasized the violin's capabilities, particularly through the concerto form. His innovative techniques and stylistic developments influenced many subsequent composers. Torelli spent much of his career in Italy, where he served as a musician in various courts and churches, gaining recognition for his contributions to orchestral music. His works laid the groundwork for the later rise of the concerto as a significant genre in classical music.

Continue Reading

Julius Sterling Morton

3rd U.S. Secretary of Agriculture
Born
April 22nd, 1832 193 years ago
Died
1902 123 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the 3rd Secretary of Agriculture from 1894 to 1895. A prominent advocate for agriculture and conservation, contributed to the establishment of Arbor Day, promoting the planting of trees across the United States. Participated in various agricultural reforms during tenure in government, focusing on the importance of forestry and land use.

Continue Reading

Otto Rank

Psychologist and author of 'The Trauma of Birth'
Born
April 22nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1939 85 years ago — 55 years old

Austrian-American psychologist focused on psychoanalytic theory and the psychological significance of birth. Rank studied under Sigmund Freud and contributed to the field with innovative concepts, emphasizing the impact of early experiences on personality development. His major work, 'The Trauma of Birth', explored the psychological implications of birth and its aftermath, reshaping ideas about the origins of anxiety and neurosis. Rank also played a crucial role in the founding of the New School for Social Research in New York, where he taught and influenced many students in psychology and the humanities. Later in his career, he diverged from traditional psychoanalytic views and developed his theories on creativity and art.

Continue Reading

Norman Steenrod

Mathematician and academic with significant contributions
Born
April 22nd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 61 years old

Became influential in the field of mathematics, particularly in topology and algebra. Contributed to the development of homology theory and cohomology theory, which are fundamental concepts in topology. Authored important texts, including 'The Topology of Fibre Bundles'. Served as a professor at Princeton University, shaping the academic landscape for numerous mathematicians.

Continue Reading

Bernhard Gregory

Chess player and author
Born
April 22nd, 1879 146 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1939 86 years ago — 59 years old

Estonian-German chess player played a significant role in the chess community during the early 20th century. He made contributions to chess literature, authoring several books on the game. Gregory competed in numerous tournaments, showcasing his skills at both national and international levels. His analytical approach to chess strategy influenced many players.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 5th

John Neumann

Czech-American bishop and saint
Born
March 28th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1860 165 years ago — 48 years old

A Czech-American bishop significantly contributed to the Catholic Church in the United States during the 19th century. Ordained as a priest in Europe, he immigrated to the United States, where he served in various parishes. He became the fourth bishop of Philadelphia, focusing on education and the establishment of Catholic schools. His pastoral work emphasized the importance of spiritual and educational development within the community. Canonized as a saint in 1977, he is commemorated for his dedication and commitment to the Church and the immigrant population.

Continue Reading

Mike Rinder

Former Scientologist, prominent critic
Born
April 10th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2025 0 years ago — 69 years old

A former member of the Church of Scientology, engaged in the organization for over 40 years, holding significant positions including spokesperson. After leaving the church, took on a critical role by exposing abuses and controversial practices within Scientology through various media outlets. Contributed to documentaries such as 'Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief,' which analyzed the church's inner workings. Engaged in public speaking and writing about personal experiences within the church, advocating for the rights of former members.

Continue Reading

Joseph Lelyveld

Journalist and executive editor, The New York Times
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old

An American journalist served as executive editor of The New York Times. Lelyveld began his career in journalism at The New York Times, contributing as a reporter and editor for several decades. He focused on foreign affairs and held positions as the chief of the newspaper's bureau in several international locations. Under his leadership, the newspaper won numerous awards, including Pulitzer Prizes. After retiring from daily journalism, he authored books that examined important historical and social issues, further contributing to public discourse through his writing.

Continue Reading

Calvin Coolidge

30th President of the United States
Born
July 4th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1933 92 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the 30th President of the United States from 1923 to 1929. Initially took office following the death of Warren G. Harding. Implemented economic policies that favored business interests and emphasized limited government involvement in the economy. Advocated for tax reductions and maintained a hands-off approach to economic issues during the Roaring Twenties. Focused on maintaining peace and stability in the post-World War I era. His administration is often associated with the significant economic growth of the 1920s. Elected to a full term in 1924.

Continue Reading

Victor Hope

Scottish politician and Governor-General of India
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1952 73 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 46th Governor-General of India from 1936 to 1943. Oversaw India during critical years leading up to World War II. Played a role in the Indian independence movement, managing relations with Indian leaders. Had a military background as a colonel and previously served as a member of the House of Lords.

Continue Reading

Tip O'Neill

U.S. Politician and House Speaker
Born
December 9th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1994 31 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a prominent American lawyer and politician. Elected to the United States House of Representatives for Massachusetts in 1952, held leadership positions including Majority Leader before becoming the 55th Speaker of the House in 1977. Advocated for various policies during a career that spanned nearly four decades. Retired from Congress in 1987 and authored a memoir detailing his experiences in government. Passed away in 1994.

Continue Reading