Claudio Monteverdi
Composer of operas and sacred music
Born in 1567, this Italian priest and composer played a pivotal role in the development of opera and sacred music during the late Renaissance. Monteverdi's work marked the transition from the Renaissance style to Baroque music. He served as a musician at the court of Mantua and later became the maestro di capella at St. Mark's Basilica in Venice. His operas, especially "L'Orfeo" and "Il ritorno d'Ulisse in patria," are regarded as foundational works of the operatic genre. Monteverdi's compositions also encompassed a variety of vocal and instrumental music, which greatly influenced future generations of composers.
Composed the opera 'L'Orfeo' in 1607
Created the opera 'Il ritorno d'Ulisse in patria'
Served as maestro di capella at St. Mark's Basilica
Other People Born on May 15th
Arthur Jackson
American lieutenant and target shooter
Born
May 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2015 11 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Armed Forces and excelled in target shooting competitions. Achieved notable success in various shooting events, contributing to the military's marksmanship programs. Worked extensively in training and mentoring upcoming shooters in the discipline. Held various leadership positions within the shooting community, promoting the sport and enhancing competitive standards.
Continue ReadingMaximilian Hell
Astronomer and priest, observation of transits
Born
May 15th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1792 233 years ago — 71 years old
An astronomer and priest contributed to the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Most recognized for conducting observations of the transit of Venus in 1769 from northern Siberia. Conducted extensive research and produced studies on various celestial phenomena. Operated a celestial observatory in Vienna, which fostered astronomical studies. His work facilitated a better understanding of the solar system and helped in measuring the distance of the sun.
Continue ReadingJohn Storey
Australian politician, 20th Premier
Born
May 15th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1921 104 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent Australian politician, served as the 20th Premier of New South Wales from 1920 to 1921. Entered politics through the Labor Party and represented the electoral district of Newtown. Focused on social reform, including labor rights and public infrastructure. Played a significant role in the New South Wales government during the post-World War I period, addressing economic recovery and social issues. Resigned in 1921 and remained active in public life until his death in 1931.
Continue ReadingMikhail Bulgakov
Russian novelist and playwright
Born
May 15th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1940 85 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent Russian novelist and playwright, he produced significant works during the Soviet era. The novel 'The Master and Margarita' is one of the key literary works of the 20th century, blending fantasy, romance, and political satire. Other notable plays include 'The Days of the Turbins', which depicts the Russian Civil War through the lens of a Ukrainian family loyal to the Tsar. His writing faced censorship and was often published posthumously, gaining acclaim for its complex narrative techniques and rich character development.
Continue ReadingMadhuri Dixit
Indian actress in Bollywood cinema
Born
May 15th, 1967 58 years ago
An acclaimed actress in Indian cinema, gained prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s. Starred in memorable films such as 'Dil', 'Tezaab', 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!', and 'Devdas'. Recognized for exceptional dance performances and versatility in portraying a range of characters. Earned numerous awards including Filmfare Awards and received the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors.
Continue ReadingHilda Bernstein
Author and activist for social justice
Born
May 15th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old
Born in England and later residing in South Africa, an author and activist focused on anti-apartheid efforts and human rights. Contributed to various publications, bringing attention to social injustices. Engaged in activism for the South African Congress of Democrats, which aimed to fight for equality. Authored 'The World That Was' and 'In the Name of the People,' emphasizing the struggles against oppressive regimes. Involved in the South African Liberation Movement and spent time in exile due to political activities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Daniel Gélin
French actor and director, 'The Bridge of the River Kwai'
Born
May 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2002 23 years ago — 81 years old
Born in France, this actor, director, and screenwriter began a film career in the 1940s. Gained recognition in various films during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' directed by David Lean. Besides acting, also took on directing and screenwriting roles throughout the career. Worked in both French and international cinema, maintaining a significant presence in the film industry into the 21st century.
Continue ReadingRalph Bellamy
American actor, 'His Girl Friday'
Born
June 17th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old
An American actor with a career spanning over six decades. Gained recognition in the 1930s and starred in numerous films and television shows. Achieved prominence in the film 'His Girl Friday' and received an Academy Award nomination for 'The Front Page'. Appeared in films such as 'The Awful Truth', 'Again', and 'The Secret of My Success'. Transitioned successfully to television, earning acclaim for roles on series like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Love Boat'.
Continue ReadingDorothy Day
American journalist and social activist
Born
November 8th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1980 45 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent journalist and social activist, involvement in social justice issues spanned several decades. Co-founded the Catholic Worker Movement in 1933, which aimed to provide hospitality to the needy and promote social justice through nonviolent means. Edited the Catholic Worker newspaper, focusing on issues of poverty, labor rights, and pacifism. Advocated for workers' rights and played a vital role in the 1960s anti-war movement, organizing protests against the Vietnam War.
Continue ReadingGene Rayburn
Game show host of Match Game
Born
December 22nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old
A game show host and actor hailed for contributions to television entertainment. Served as the host of the popular game show "Match Game" from 1973 to 1982, which featured a unique blend of humor and celebrity participation. Additionally appeared in various television series and films, showcasing versatility in performance. Career spanned several decades, with a strong presence in the entertainment industry during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
Continue ReadingPercy Williams
Canadian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 19th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 74 years old
Achieved significant acclaim as a sprinter representing Canada. Competed in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, securing two gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Dominated Canadian sprinting in the late 1920s, setting national records and becoming a prominent figure in athletics. His Olympic victories contributed to Canada's success in the event, showcasing sprinting talents on an international stage.
Continue ReadingS. Sivanayagam
Sri Lankan journalist and author
Born
September 7th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2010 15 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed extensively to journalism in Sri Lanka, primarily through articles and writings that addressed issues affecting the Tamil community. Served as a founding editor of the 'Tamil Times', a pioneering publication that catered to the Tamil diaspora. Engaged in advocacy for Tamil rights and social justice, bringing attention to the political and ethnic tensions in Sri Lanka through informative and poignant storytelling.
Continue Reading