Ed Derwinski
U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Born
1926
99 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as an American soldier before entering politics, holding the position of the first Secretary of Veterans Affairs in the United States. Worked to improve services and benefits for veterans during a period of significant reform. Represented Illinois in the House of Representatives from 1983 to 1993, focusing on veterans' issues and military service. Contributed to establishing policies and programs aimed at supporting former service members.
First Secretary of Veterans Affairs
U.S. Representative for Illinois
Other People Who Died on January 15th
Junior Wells
American blues singer and harmonica player
Born
December 9th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this artist gained recognition for vibrant performances and a unique vocal style. Wells started recording in the late 1950s and collaborated with various musicians throughout his career. Notable works include the influential album 'Hoodoo Man Blues,' which is regarded as a classic in the blues genre. His ability to blend vocal and harmonica performances set him apart and influenced many blues artists.
Continue ReadingPaolo Sarpi
Italian lawyer and historian
Born
August 14th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1623 402 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a lawyer and historian in Venice during the late Renaissance. Focused on ecclesiastical and civil issues while advocating for the separation of church and state. Authored influential works on history and theology, including 'The History of the Council of Trent', which critiqued the Catholic Church and its practices. Engaged in debates on religious and political matters, earning a reputation as a significant intellectual figure of his time. Sarpi's views contributed to the intellectual landscape of early modern Europe.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Wirtinger
Mathematician and theory creator
Born
July 15th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1945 80 years ago — 79 years old
Worked primarily in the field of mathematics, contributing significantly to the development of complex analysis and topology. Established the Wirtinger theorem, which aids in the study of functions of complex variables. Contributed to the theory of differential equations and mathematical physics. Published numerous papers and worked on various mathematical problems during his career, influencing subsequent research in these areas.
Continue ReadingRobert V. Bruce
Historian and author of influential works
Born
December 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2008 17 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of history through authored works and academic research. Specialized in early American history and the development of American society and culture. Served as a professor, focusing on historical writing and methodology. His scholarship helped to shape understanding of various historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of primary sources in research. Led initiatives in academic discourse and published several significant texts that have been utilized in historical study.
Continue ReadingHarry Nilsson
American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
June 15th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1994 31 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent figure in the music industry, this artist gained fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Notable works include the hit songs 'Without You' and 'Coconut'. The unique vocal style and innovative musical compositions contributed to a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to soundtracks, further diversifying musical contributions. The artist's work has continued to influence many contemporary musicians.
Continue ReadingDoris Fisher
American singer-songwriter, 'You Go To My Head'
Born
May 2nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2003 22 years ago — 87 years old
Doris Fisher was an American singer-songwriter recognized for contributions to popular music during the mid-20th century. Collaborating with her husband, she created many songs that became standards. One of her most famous works is 'You Go To My Head', recorded by numerous artists. Fisher's songwriting career included collaborations with prominent figures in the music industry, contributing to an enduring legacy in American music. She continued to influence future generations of artists through her extensive catalog.
Continue Reading