Fritz Löhner-Beda
Austrian librettist and lyricist
Austrian librettist, lyricist, and writer, contributed significantly to the operetta genre in the early 20th century. Worked predominantly with composer Franz Lehár, writing notable libretti for works such as 'The Merry Widow' and 'Giuditta'. His literary career included a wide array of theatrical works and he utilized his creative talents in various capacities, enhancing the operetta scene. His career was interrupted by the rise of the Nazi regime, leading to his persecution due to Jewish heritage. Eventually, he was arrested and deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp, where he perished.
Wrote the libretto for 'The Merry Widow'
Collaborated with Franz Lehár on multiple operettas
Other People Born on June 24th
Frank Waller
American middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
June 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1941 84 years ago — 57 years old
Won a silver medal in the 800 meters at the 1908 Olympic Games held in London. Competed in the 1906 Intercalated Games, securing a gold medal in the 800 meters. Represented the United States in multiple international competitions, achieving significant recognition in middle-distance running during the early 20th century. Contributed to the development of the sport through participation in prestigious events.
Continue ReadingJames B. Edwards
American Politician & 3rd Secretary of Energy
Born
June 24th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2014 10 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1927, a career spanned dentistry, military service, and politics. Served as the 3rd United States Secretary of Energy from 1981 to 1982 under President Ronald Reagan. Edwards was the Governor of South Carolina from 1975 to 1979, overseeing state initiatives and healthcare reforms. Also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, served in the Korean War.
Continue ReadingWayne Cashman
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
June 24th, 1945 80 years ago
Played as a left winger in the NHL primarily for the Boston Bruins from 1964 to 1983. Contributed to the Bruins' Stanley Cup victory in 1970. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving in various roles, including assistant coach for the Bruins. His extensive career in both playing and coaching has been significant in the development of ice hockey strategies.
Continue ReadingErika Andreeva
Russian tennis player with WTA title
Born
June 24th, 2004 21 years ago
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Continue ReadingWilhelm Cauer
Mathematician known for functional analysis
Born
June 24th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1945 80 years ago — 44 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in the area of functional analysis and approximation theory. Worked on problems related to integral equations and developed Cauer's theorem, which is a key result in the theory of continued fractions. Served as a professor and influenced the academic community through both teaching and extensive research. His work laid foundations for modern analysis and had implications in various applied fields.
Continue ReadingNuno Álvares Pereira
Portuguese general and military leader
Born
June 24th, 1360 665 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1431 594 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent general during the Portuguese crisis of 1383-1385, leading forces to victory against Castilian forces at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. Played a crucial role in establishing Portuguese independence. His military strategies and leadership contributed to the consolidation of the kingdom during a turbulent period. He also became a revered figure in Portuguese history, remembered for skillful tactics and dedication to the crown.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 4th
Princess Birgitta of Sweden
Swedish royal and public figure
Born
January 19th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
Born into the Swedish royal family, a younger sister of the current King Carl XVI Gustaf. Actively participated in various royal engagements and charity events throughout her life, representing the Swedish monarchy. Known for her work in cultural and humanitarian activities, including promoting Swedish traditions and arts. She lived in Germany for many years, contributing to cultural exchanges between Sweden and Germany.
Continue ReadingShashi Kapoor
Indian actor and film producer, starred in films
Born
March 18th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 79 years old
An Indian actor and film producer, active in Indian cinema, featured prominently in Bollywood. Gained recognition in the 1970s and 1980s for performances in significant films. Worked extensively in Hindi and English films, participating in numerous international co-productions. Received acclaim for roles in works such as 'Deewar,' 'Kabhi Kabhie,' and 'Namak Halaal.' Contributed to the establishment of the Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai, a crucial platform for nurturing theatrical talent.
Continue ReadingHannah Arendt
Political theorist and philosopher
Born
October 14th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1975 50 years ago — 69 years old
Born in Germany, a major 20th-century political theorist. Emigrated to the United States in the late 1930s. Writings focus on totalitarianism, authority, and the nature of power. Authored influential works including 'The Origins of Totalitarianism' and 'The Human Condition'. Contributed to public discourse on political philosophy and ethics throughout the latter half of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingSonia Pierre
Human Rights Activist in Dominican Republic
Born
July 4th, 1963 62 years ago
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December 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1963, a human rights activist focused on the issues facing Haitian immigrants in the Dominican Republic. Founded the Movement of Haitian-Dominican Women to advocate for the rights of individuals of Haitian descent. Worked tirelessly to address discrimination and violence against this community. Involved in numerous campaigns for legal reforms and against deportations targeting individuals of Haitian ancestry. Authored reports and spoke widely on the violations of human rights faced by Haitian-Dominicans, contributing to international awareness of their struggles.
Continue ReadingHubert Sumlin
Blues guitarist and singer-songwriter
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November 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 80 years old
Originated from Chicago, a prominent figure in the blues genre, contributed to the development of electric blues music. Collaborated extensively with Howlin' Wolf, providing the signature guitar riffs that defined many of Wolf's recordings. Released solo albums, showcasing personal interpretations and the depth of blues music. His innovative guitar techniques influenced numerous musicians and contributed to the evolution of guitar playing in modern blues.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Britten
Composer known for 'Peter Grimes'
Born
November 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
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December 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 63 years old
A significant figure in 20th-century classical music, this English composer, pianist, and conductor created a body of work that reflected contemporary themes and explored complex emotional landscapes. Notable works include operas, orchestral pieces, and song cycles, which often featured explorations of innocence, war, and human interaction. The composer founded the Aldeburgh Festival in 1948, establishing a vital platform for new music. Collaborations with poet W.H. Auden and singer Peter Pears characterized many compositions. This individual's contributions to music pedagogy also helped foster a new generation of musicians.
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