Domenico Cimarosa
Italian composer and educator
A significant figure in the development of opera, Cimarosa produced numerous works during the late 18th century. His most celebrated composition, the comic opera "Il matrimonio segreto," premiered in 1792 and received acclaim across Europe. Cimarosa also contributed to symphonic music and chamber works, showcasing a blend of Italian melodic style and theatricality. Throughout his career, he held several important positions, including serving as the conductor at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples and composing a variety of operas that enriched the Italian operatic tradition.
Composed the opera 'Il matrimonio segreto'
Served as conductor at Teatro San Carlo
Other People Born on December 17th
Brad Davis
Basketball player and coach
Born
December 17th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 35 years old
Played as a point guard in professional basketball, primarily for the Dallas Mavericks from 1980 to 1992. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and sportscasting. Contributed to the development of young athletes and offered insights on basketball through various media channels.
Continue ReadingMohammad Hidayatullah
Indian Chief Justice and Vice President
Born
December 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1992 33 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the 11th Chief Justice of India from 1968 to 1970, significantly impacting the Indian legal system. Held the position of the sixth Vice President of India from 1979 to 1984, participating in legislative functions and presidential duties. Contributed to legal education and wrote extensively on various legal topics. Actively involved in politics and addressed key judicial reforms during tenure.
Continue ReadingCraig Kielburger
Canadian activist and author of books
Born
December 17th, 1982 43 years ago
An activist focused on children's rights, founded the organization Free the Children at age 12. Authored several books emphasizing social issues and youth advocacy. Established WE Charity, which aimed to alleviate poverty and improve education globally. Engaged in numerous speaking events and initiatives promoting volunteerism and ethical living.
Continue ReadingIrving Petlin
American painter and academic
Born
December 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 84 years old
An American painter and academic focused on figurative art, explored themes of struggle and resilience. Worked extensively in various media, including painting and printmaking. Contributed to art education through teaching positions at multiple institutions. Exhibited work in numerous galleries and museums, showcasing a unique artistic vision.
Continue ReadingDave Madden
Actor on The Partridge Family
Born
December 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2014 12 years ago — 82 years old
An actor gained recognition for portraying manager Reuben Kincaid on the television series The Partridge Family. Started career in the 1960s and made numerous television guest appearances, often in comedic roles. Also lent voice to characters in animated series, including the cartoon version of The Partridge Family. Acted in films and theater, showcasing versatility.
Continue ReadingJohn Greenleaf Whittier
American poet and abolitionist
Born
December 17th, 1807 218 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1892 133 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1807, a prominent American poet and abolitionist emerged as a leading voice in the anti-slavery movement. His literary career began with the publication of numerous poems that addressed social issues, particularly focusing on abolitionism and peace. His most celebrated work, 'Snow-Bound', is a narrative poem reflecting on rural life. Throughout the years, engagement with social reforms stemmed from a deep-rooted Quaker upbringing, advocating for civil rights and humanitarian causes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 11th
Jean-Baptiste de Boyer
French philosopher and author of essays
Born
June 24th, 1704 321 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1771 255 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent philosopher and author, contributed significantly to the intellectual landscape of the 18th century. Published numerous essays that explored various themes including religion, morality, and society. Engaged with Enlightenment ideas, promoting rational thought and empirical evidence. Corresponded with leading figures of the time and completed several important works that reflected the spirit of the age. Held the title of Marquis d'Argens, which symbolized social status within French nobility. His writings often challenged traditional beliefs and advocated for a more informed approach to philosophy and ethics.
Continue ReadingBeulah Bondi
American actress in classic films
Born
May 3rd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1981 45 years ago — 91 years old
An accomplished actress, celebrated for a career that spanned over five decades in film, television, and theater. Made significant contributions to the industry beginning in the 1920s, frequently collaborating with prominent filmmakers. Recognized for roles in notable productions such as 'Make Way for Tomorrow' and 'It's a Wonderful Life', which showcased her ability to portray warm and caring maternal figures. Continued to work in various television series into the 1970s, demonstrating versatility and dedication to the craft.
Continue ReadingAureliano Pertile
Italian tenor and renowned vocal educator
Born
November 9th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1952 74 years ago — 66 years old
Famed tenor and educator contributed significantly to the operatic world in the early 20th century. Pertile performed leading roles in major operas and gained recognition for his outstanding vocal technique and interpretation. In addition to a successful singing career, he dedicated time to teaching, influencing many young singers. His performances included renowned roles in operas such as 'Tosca' and 'La Bohème'. Later in life, Pertile took on educational roles, shaping future generations of vocalists through his instructional methods.
Continue ReadingTheodor Schwann
German physiologist and biologist
Born
December 7th, 1810 215 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1882 144 years ago — 71 years old
A German physiologist and biologist contributed significantly to the field of cellular biology. Schwann formulated the cell theory, which posits that all living organisms are composed of cells. This theory was foundational in understanding the structure and function of organisms. In addition to advancements in cell theory, Schwann conducted research on muscle tissue and discovered Schwann cells, which play a critical role in the peripheral nervous system. His work laid the groundwork for later developments in histology and neurology, influencing future research and study in biology.
Continue ReadingThomas Hardy
English novelist and poet
Born
June 2nd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1928 98 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent English novelist and poet, produced significant literary works in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explored themes of social constraint, rural life, and human despondency through intricate narrative and character development. Notable works include novels such as 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' and 'Jude the Obscure'. Poetry often reflected a melancholic outlook on life and nature, with collections such as 'Moments of Vision' showcasing lyrical prowess. Hardy's departure from Victorian traditions and incorporation of naturalism influenced subsequent literary movements.
Continue ReadingFrancis Scott Key
Lawyer and author of The Star-Spangled Banner
Born
August 1st, 1779 246 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1843 183 years ago — 63 years old
An American lawyer and songwriter played a significant role in the War of 1812. During the bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814, wrote a poem titled 'Defence of Fort M'Henry' which later became the national anthem, 'The Star-Spangled Banner'. Key was also involved in various legal cases and served as a district attorney in Washington D.C.
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