Fats Waller
Pianist and composer of 'Ain't Misbehavin''
An influential American pianist and composer emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, contributing significantly to the jazz genre. Combining humor and virtuosity, played in numerous nightclubs in New York City. Composed memorable pieces, many of which became standards in jazz repertoire. Gained recognition for performances both in person and on radio broadcasts, showcasing a playful style that blended elements of stride piano with popular music. Became a prominent figure in Harlem's music scene and influenced countless musicians.
Composed 'Ain't Misbehavin''
Performed in the Broadway musical 'Keep Shufflin''
Influenced the development of swing music
Other People Born on May 21st
Princess Stéphanie of Belgium
Belgian Royal Family member
Born
May 21st, 1864 161 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 81 years old
Born into Belgian royalty, Stéphanie became the daughter of King Leopold II and Queen Marie-Henriette. In 1881, she married Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria, the only son of Emperor Franz Joseph I. The marriage was tumultuous and ended with Rudolf's death in 1889 under tragic circumstances. After this event, she lived in Belgium and later returned to Austria. Stéphanie was involved in various social initiatives, particularly focusing on welfare and education, reflecting her royal duties.
Continue ReadingEdson Buddle
Soccer player and MLS star
Born
May 21st, 1981 44 years ago
A professional soccer player who primarily played as a forward, achieved recognition in Major League Soccer. Played for several teams including the Los Angeles Galaxy, with whom won the MLS Cup in 2012. Competed for the United States national team and participated in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingCarl Johnson
American long jumper with Olympic title
Born
May 21st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 34 years old
Competed in the long jump and achieved significant success in the sport during the early 20th century. Won a gold medal at the 1920 Summer Olympics held in Antwerp. Set multiple records in long jump during competitive career, demonstrating exceptional athletic ability. Participated in various national and international competitions, making notable contributions to the field of athletics.
Continue ReadingRobert Welch
English silversmith and designer
Born
May 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 71 years old
A notable English silversmith and industrial designer contributed significantly to 20th-century design. Established a successful design studio in the 1950s, focusing on functional yet aesthetically pleasing products. His work encompassed a range of items, particularly in cutlery and tableware, combining practicality with elegance. Welch's designs were characterized by their clean lines and craftsmanship, gaining recognition in domestic and commercial markets. The establishment of the 'Robert Welch Designs' brand marked a significant development in contemporary British manufacturing. He also received the Royal Designers for Industry award in 1968, highlighting contributions to design excellence in Britain.
Continue ReadingJoseph Fouché
French politician and police chief
Born
May 21st, 1759 266 years ago
Died
1820 205 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1759, a prominent lawyer and politician played a significant role during the French Revolution and subsequent regimes. Initially a supporter of the Revolution, shifted allegiances as political tides changed. Served as Minister of Police under Napoleon Bonaparte, where established a vast network of surveillance and control. Also played a crucial part in the establishment of the Bourbon Restoration, maneuvering through the political landscape of France.
Continue ReadingWilliam Babington
Anglo-Irish physician and mineralogist
Born
May 21st, 1756 269 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1833 192 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed to the field of mineralogy and medicine during the early 19th century. Worked as a physician and was involved in scientific research. Published significant findings in the field of mineralogy and is credited with enhancing the understanding of various minerals and their applications. Engaged in the study of geological formations and their properties. Involved with the Royal Society, influencing the scientific community of the time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 15th
Wolfgang Pauli
Physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 25th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1958 67 years ago — 58 years old
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to quantum mechanics and theoretical physics. Pauli formulated the Pauli exclusion principle, which states that no two fermions can occupy the same quantum state within a quantum system. In 1945, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for the discovery of the exclusion principle. Worked at institutions such as the University of Zurich and the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, where influences in physics were widely acknowledged. His theories have had lasting implications in quantum theory and particle physics.
Continue ReadingCrawford Vaughan
Australian politician, 27th Premier
Born
July 14th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1947 78 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the 27th Premier of South Australia from 1930 to 1933. Held various positions in government including Minister for Education and Minister for Industry. Contributed to the development of public education policies and worked towards improving infrastructure in the state. Engaged in active politics throughout the early to mid-20th century, shaping the legislative landscape of South Australia.
Continue ReadingAnatole Litvak
Film director of 'The Snake Pit'
Born
May 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1974 51 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Ukraine, a significant figure in American cinema, directing a variety of influential films. Early career included work in European theater and cinema before relocating to the United States. Gained recognition for directing 'The Snake Pit', which addressed mental health issues and featured a groundbreaking performance by the lead actress. Also directed various other successful films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the film noir genre and creating works that incorporated social themes.
Continue ReadingCraig Sager
Sportscaster and sideline reporter
Born
June 29th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2016 9 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent sportscaster specialized in basketball coverage. Worked for Turner Sports where provided sideline reporting for NBA games. Recognized for colorful style and unique, flamboyant suits during live broadcasts. Covered numerous NBA playoffs and final games, contributing to the broadcasting field with a distinctive voice. Faced a personal battle with leukemia, which he documented through various media outlets, gaining attention to his health journey while continuing to work.
Continue ReadingKeith Arbuthnott
Scottish soldier and peer
Born
August 21st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1966 59 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1897, served in the British Army during World War I and World War II. Advanced to the rank of Major General. Involved in military operations with notable leadership during key campaigns. Held the title of 15th Viscount of Arbuthnott.
Continue ReadingShneur Zalman
Rabbi and founder of Chabad
Born
1745 280 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1812 213 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent Russian rabbi and author, established the Chabad movement. The movement emphasized Jewish mysticism and outreach to Jews worldwide. Created the Tanya, a foundational text for the Chabad philosophy. His leadership contributed to the spread of Hasidism in Eastern Europe and laid the groundwork for future religious scholarship.
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