Duke Ellington
Jazz musician and composer
A prominent figure in the history of jazz, contributed significantly to the genre as a pianist, composer, and bandleader. Led the Duke Ellington Orchestra, which became a major force in jazz and performed for decades. Developed a distinctive style that incorporated elements of blues and classical music, and composed numerous pieces that became standards in the jazz repertoire. Notable performances at the Cotton Club in Harlem and the Newport Jazz Festival showcased the orchestra's talent.
Composed 'Mood Indigo'
Led the Duke Ellington Orchestra
Performed at the Newport Jazz Festival
Other People Born on April 29th
James Faulkner
Australian cricketer and ODI World Cup winner
Born
April 29th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in 1990, played for the Australian national cricket team as an all-rounder. Made significant contributions in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 formats. Achieved notable success in the 2015 Cricket World Cup, where Australia won the tournament. Represented teams like Tasmania and the Melbourne Renegades in domestic competitions. Recognized for his bowling skills and ability to perform under pressure, particularly in crucial match situations.
Continue ReadingDale Earnhardt
NASCAR driver and seven-time champion
Born
April 29th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
February 18th, 2001 24 years ago — 49 years old
Achievements included winning the NASCAR Cup Series Championship seven times, tying for the most in the sport's history. Earnhardt drove for Richard Childress Racing, earning a reputation as a fierce competitor. Major victories included the Daytona 500 in 1998. His career spanned from 1975 until his death in 2001, greatly influencing the sport's popularity.
Continue ReadingJonathan Toews
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
April 29th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, this Canadian ice hockey player became a prominent center for the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League (NHL). After being selected third overall in the 2006 NHL Draft, contributions to the Blackhawks included leadership as team captain from 2008 to 2021. Achievements featured multiple playoff appearances, culminating in three Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013, and 2015. This player also represented Canada in international competition, winning gold medals at the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics.
Continue ReadingMisaki Doi
Japanese tennis player and competitor
Born
April 29th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional tennis player from Japan, had a successful career primarily on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour. Achieved highest singles ranking of No. 30 in February 2016. Competed in multiple Grand Slam tournaments, including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Part of the Japanese national team and participated in the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingChris Johnson
Basketball player and All-Star athlete
Born
April 29th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional basketball player excelled in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Hornets and the Atlanta Hawks. Achieved recognition for outstanding performance in various seasons, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. His skills in scoring and defense earned a selection to the NBA All-Star team. Known for his speed and agility, he became a key player, demonstrating exceptional athleticism throughout his career.
Continue ReadingTaoufik Makhloufi
Middle-distance runner Olympic gold medalist
Born
April 29th, 1988 37 years ago
An accomplished middle-distance runner, this athlete gained international recognition in the 1500 meters. Achievements include winning the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, which established a prominent place in the athletics community. Participation in multiple World Championships and other major events throughout the career contributed to a strong competitive presence on the global stage. Results in various competitions reflected consistent performance and dedication to the sport, establishing a lasting legacy in Algerian athletics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 24th
Kabosu
Internet meme celebrity dog
Born
2005 20 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2024 1 years ago — 19 years old
A Shiba Inu dog became widely recognized as the face of the 'Doge' meme, gaining immense popularity on social media in the early 2010s. The meme featured a photo of the dog with multicolored text in Comic Sans font representing the dog's inner thoughts. This image led to a significant cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless adaptations, merchandise, and even a cryptocurrency named Dogecoin. Kabosu's owner, a Japanese woman, shared images and updates on social media, further contributing to the dog's fame. Kabosu has appeared in various forms of media, solidifying its status in internet culture until its passing in 2024.
Continue ReadingDean Carroll
Rugby player for England and Leeds Rhinos
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2015 10 years ago — 53 years old
Played rugby league in the professional ranks, primarily with Leeds Rhinos. Contributed significantly to the team during his career, helping to secure multiple championships. After retirement, remained involved in rugby through coaching and mentorship roles.
Continue ReadingAbu al-Hasan Ali ibn Othman
Moroccan Sultan and military leader
Born
1297 728 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1351 674 years ago — 54 years old
Ruled as sultan of the Marinid dynasty in Morocco. Led military campaigns against the Castilian and Aragonese forces during the Reconquista. Expanded Moroccan territory and influence in North Africa. Presided over a period marked by both military engagements and cultural patronage.
Continue ReadingDavid Allen
English cricketer and Test player
Born
October 29th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Played first-class cricket primarily for Essex and represented England in Test matches. Made significant contributions as a medium-fast bowler and a lower-order batsman. Participated in the 1958-59 Ashes series and achieved notable successes in domestic cricket, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Career spanned over two decades during which he developed a reputation for consistent performances in both batting and bowling.
Continue ReadingNikolai von Meck
Russian engineer and railroad planner
Born
April 28th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1929 96 years ago — 66 years old
An engineer and railroad planner, contributed significantly to the development of the Russian railway system. Specialized in the design and construction of railway lines, emphasizing efficient routes and modern engineering techniques. Held various positions within the railway industry, leading projects that enhanced transportation infrastructure.
Continue ReadingFreddie Frith
English motorcycle road racer
Born
May 30th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1988 37 years ago — 78 years old
Acclaimed as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of his time, significant achievements occurred during the Isle of Man TT races. Competed in the 1930s and 1940s, showcasing remarkable skill and determination. Achieved multiple victories and set records that stood for years, contributing to the legacy of road racing.
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