Cole Porter
American composer and songwriter
A significant figure in American music, became a prominent composer and songwriter in the early to mid-20th century. Created numerous classic songs and musicals that remain influential. His work spanned various forms, including Broadway and film. Many compositions incorporated sophisticated lyrics and compelling melodies. Collaborated with various performers and productions, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Composed the musical 'Kiss Me, Kate'
Wrote songs like 'Night and Day' and 'I've Got You Under My Skin'
Other People Born on June 9th
Frank Norton
Baseball player and team member
Born
June 9th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 75 years old
A baseball player active during the late 19th century. Played primarily as an outfielder. Competed in Major League Baseball, specifically for the Chicago White Stockings and other teams. Participated in a total of 167 games across his career. Contributions to the game included involvement in the early days of professional baseball.
Continue ReadingJanric Craig
English politician, 3rd Viscount Craigavon
Born
June 9th, 1944 81 years ago
Born in 1944, held the title of 3rd Viscount Craigavon and contributed to British politics as a member of the House of Lords. Worked in the field of accountancy and represented the Conservative Party in various capacities. Engaged in discussions regarding legislation and public policy, particularly during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingJohn Gillespie Magee Jr.
Pilot and poet, author of 'High Flight'
Born
June 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1941 84 years ago — 19 years old
An Anglo-American pilot and poet, Magee wrote the poem 'High Flight' while serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. The poem reflects the exhilaration of flying and has become one of the most celebrated pieces of aviation literature. Magee's short life was marked by his commitment to flying and his literary talent. He died in a mid-air collision in 1941, shortly after his 19th birthday, while on a training mission. The lasting legacy of his work is felt in both aviation and poetry communities.
Continue ReadingHerman Sarkowsky
Businessman and co-founder of Seahawks
Born
June 9th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
A businessman and philanthropist who played a significant role in the establishment of professional sports teams in the Pacific Northwest. Co-founded the Seattle Seahawks in 1976, contributing to the growth of the National Football League in the region. Engaged in various business ventures throughout life, including real estate and development. Involved in philanthropic efforts to support community initiatives and youth programs.
Continue ReadingAaron M. Johnson
Jazz Saxophonist and Composer
Born
June 9th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, a jazz saxophonist gained recognition in the American jazz scene. Played in various ensembles and clubs, showcasing improvisational skills and unique compositions. Released several albums that combined traditional jazz with contemporary elements. Collaborated with notable musicians and contributed to various jazz festivals across the country.
Continue ReadingLuigi Fagioli
Italian race car driver and Mille Miglia winner
Born
June 9th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1952 73 years ago — 54 years old
Debuted in Grand Prix racing during the 1920s. Achieved success in various European racing events, particularly in Italy. Competed for Alfa Romeo and Ferrari, achieving notable victories. Won the inaugural Mille Miglia in 1927, establishing a reputation as a skilled driver. Continued to race through the 1930s and contributed to the development of racing technology during a transformative period in motorsport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 15th
Pope Urban VI
Pope and Church leader during turmoil
Born
1318 707 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1389 636 years ago — 71 years old
Elected Pope in 1378, Urban VI faced immediate challenges, including opposition from a faction of cardinals that led to the Western Schism. Urban's papacy was marked by his efforts to reform the Church and restore ecclesiastical authority. Combatting corruption and promoting moral conduct within the clergy were central to his agenda. His election reinforced the Papal authority in Rome amid significant political and ecclesiastical turmoil. Urban VI's reign highlighted the complexities of Church politics during the late medieval period. The Great Schism that followed his election resulted in multiple claimants to the papacy, complicating the Church's unity and governance during subsequent decades.
Continue ReadingLipót Fejér
Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1959 66 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to functional analysis, particularly in the study of bounded linear operators. Worked extensively on the theory of orthogonal functions and series. Established results related to Fourier series and provided insights into the convergence of such series. Served as a professor in Budapest and influenced the field through both teaching and research.
Continue ReadingZdeněk Fibich
Czech composer, known for Poem
Born
December 21st, 1850 175 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1900 125 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent Czech composer and poet, contributions spanned opera, symphonic, and chamber music. Major works include the opera 'Šárka' and the symphonic poem 'Poem', which showcased the lyrical qualities of the Czech musical landscape. Worked alongside musical circles in Prague, influencing the transition from Romanticism to early Modernism in Czech music. His compositions often integrated dramatic narratives and folkloric elements, reflecting contemporary trends and personal expression.
Continue ReadingPat O'Brien
American actor in classic films
Born
November 11th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1983 42 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor emerged in the early 20th century, becoming prominent in Hollywood. Main roles included portrayals in films such as 'Knute Rockne, All American', where the actor played the titular character, and 'The Front Page', showcasing notable performances. Active from the 1920s through the 1970s, contributions to the film industry included work in both dramas and comedies, establishing a longstanding presence in cinema. The actor also participated in various war bond drives during World War II, showcasing patriotism during turbulent times.
Continue ReadingEdie Adams
Actress and singer from Broadway shows
Born
April 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2008 17 years ago — 81 years old
An American actress and singer gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved recognition for performances in musicals, television shows, and films. Starred in the Broadway production of "Bells Are Ringing" and appeared in the television series "The Ed Sullivan Show" multiple times. Also received acclaim for her appearances in films such as "The Apartment," which won an Academy Award for Best Picture. Worked alongside numerous notable figures in the entertainment industry and showcased vocal talents through various recordings. Later in career, engaged in philanthropy and active support of educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingRudy Minarcin
Baseball player and coach
Born
March 25th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
Played professional baseball as a pitcher from 1953 to 1961. Contributed to the major leagues, specifically with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Athletics. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, guiding various teams at different levels of baseball. Served as a mentor to many young players throughout his coaching career.
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