Dennis Rader

Serial killer and BTK murderer

Dennis Rader - Thinkers & Philosophers born March 9th, 1945
Born
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A former compliance officer, committed a series of murders in Kansas between 1974 and 1991. Rader evaded capture for decades, taunting law enforcement and the media with letters detailing his crimes. He was arrested in 2005 after DNA evidence linked him to the murders. Rader was convicted in 2006 and received ten consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole.

Murdered ten people in Kansas

Sent taunting letters to police

Utilized the moniker BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill)

Other People Born on March 9th

Mickey Spillane

Crime Novelist with Mike Hammer Series
Born
March 9th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1977 49 years ago — 59 years old

An American crime novelist published a series of hardboiled detective novels featuring the character Mike Hammer. The first novel, 'I, the Jury,' released in 1947, established a new standard in the genre with its visceral style and complex plots. Spillane's work gained immense popularity, selling millions of copies. His writing style combined graphic violence and a focus on moral ambiguity, appealing to a broad audience. The character of Mike Hammer became iconic in American fiction, influencing both literature and film. Spillane also ventured into screenwriting and created adaptations of his works for film and television, further cementing his legacy in the crime genre.

Continue Reading

Keely Smith

American singer and actress known for 'The Tonight Show'
Born
March 9th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1928, a prominent American singer and actress achieved recognition through a successful career in music and television. Smith gained fame as a vocalist in the 1950s, particularly for her partnership with Louis Prima. The duo's performances blended jazz and popular styles, with Smith's powerful voice complementing Prima's energetic showmanship. Smith's appearances on national television, especially on 'The Tonight Show' during the 1960s, contributed to her widespread acclaim. She also recorded several acclaimed albums showcasing her vocal ability. Her career spanned decades, during which she became known for her exceptional skills in both singing and performing. Smith continued to entertain audiences until her later years.

Continue Reading

Ornette Coleman

Innovative jazz saxophonist and composer
Born
March 9th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2015 11 years ago — 85 years old

A pioneering figure in the jazz genre, this musician revolutionized the way jazz was perceived and played. Renowned for the development of free jazz, the approach to improvisation emphasized spontaneous performance without predetermined chord progressions. In 1959, released the influential album 'The Shape of Jazz to Come,' which challenged conventional jazz norms and introduced a new level of creative freedom. Collaborated with various artists and formed the group 'Ornette Coleman Quartet,' notable for their innovative sound and improvisational style. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1994 for the album 'Sound Grammar,' solidifying a significant position in American music history.

Continue Reading

Walter Mercado

Astrologer and television personality
Born
March 9th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2019 6 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Puerto Rico, a prominent astrologer gained widespread popularity through a daily astrology segment broadcast across Latin America and the United States. This individual became a cultural icon, recognized for flamboyant style and unique predictions. Over the years, the television personality authored several books about astrology and spirituality, further establishing a loyal following. Renowned for insightful horoscopes and a distinctive approach to astrology, left a lasting legacy in the realm of metaphysical guidance.

Continue Reading

Bernard Landry

Canadian politician and Premier of Quebec
Born
March 9th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2018 7 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Quebec politics, holding influential roles in various capacities including the Premier of Quebec from 2001 to 2003. Played a vital role in the sovereignty movement and supported the Quebec sovereignty association. Worked as a lawyer prior to entering politics, contributing to legal and governmental projects. Participated in economic development initiatives and was involved with the Parti Québécois, pushing for policies aligned with Quebec nationalism.

Continue Reading

Josef Mysliveček

Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 9th, 1737 289 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1781 245 years ago — 43 years old

Born in Prague, this composer contributed significantly to the Classical music era. Primarily associated with operas and symphonies, works often showcased melodic creativity and harmonic innovation. Studied under various influential instructors and traveled extensively across Europe, particularly in Italy, where the music scene greatly influenced the composer's style. His operas were performed in prominent theaters and gained recognition for their emotional depth and lyrical beauty. Left behind a notable legacy of compositions that continued to influence later generations of musicians and composers.

Continue Reading