Fritz Reiner
Conductor and music director
Born in Hungary, a prominent conductor established a successful career in the United States. Conducted the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, where significant contributions to orchestral music were made. Renowned for interpretations of classical repertoire, particularly works by composers such as Mahler and Strauss. Also served as music director for the New York Philharmonic and had a notable career in opera, leading productions at the Metropolitan Opera. Recorded extensively, leaving a legacy of distinguished performances.
Conducted the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Led the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Directed the New York Philharmonic
Other People Born on December 19th
Lorie Kane
Professional golfer and LPGA Tour winner
Born
December 19th, 1964 61 years ago
A professional golfer with a successful career on the LPGA Tour, contributed to Canadian golf history with multiple tournament victories. Entered the professional ranks in the 1990s and achieved considerable success over the years, securing status as one of Canada’s top female golfers. Competed in numerous major championships and held vital roles in promoting the sport in Canada.
Continue ReadingRobert Urich
Television actor and producer
Born
December 19th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2002 24 years ago — 55 years old
An American actor and producer, this individual gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with a successful career in television. Stars in the series 'Vega$' and 'Spenser: For Hire' established a memorable presence in the crime drama genre. Work included guest appearances on various popular television shows, showcasing versatility across different characters. Active in film as well, roles spanned a range of genres. The actor's contributions to the television landscape were significant, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.
Continue ReadingChito Martínez
Belizean-American baseball player
Born
December 19th, 1965 60 years ago
A former baseball player, primarily played as an infielder in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1991 with the New York Mets and also played for the Montreal Expos and the Cincinnati Reds. Concluded playing career in the late 1990s, contributing to various teams in a utility role.
Continue ReadingMartin Luther King Sr.
American pastor and civil rights leader
Born
December 19th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1984 41 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent American pastor and civil rights leader, he served as a preacher for the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. He advocated for social justice, equality, and racial harmony, often addressing inequalities faced by African Americans. His influence extended through his role as the father of Martin Luther King Jr., playing a key part in the civil rights movement and shaping the values of a generation. Active in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, he worked alongside notable figures to address systemic issues of racism and promote nonviolent protest as a means of achieving civil rights.
Continue ReadingJennifer Beals
Model and actress from Flashdance
Born
December 19th, 1963 62 years ago
Born in Chicago, a successful model and actress achieved prominence in the 1983 film Flashdance, playing the role of Alex Owens. The film received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Additionally, a notable role in the television series The L Word showcased contributions to LGBTQ+ representation in media. Started modeling at a young age, appearing in various magazines and campaigns. Also involved in humanitarian efforts, supporting causes related to education and equality.
Continue ReadingKen Marino
Actor and director known for 'Party Down'
Born
December 19th, 1968 57 years ago
An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Best recognized for contributing to the television series 'Party Down' as well as co-creating and starring in 'Children's Hospital' on Adult Swim. Also worked in the films 'Wet Hot American Summer' and its sequels, participating in both the original film and the Netflix series revival. In addition to acting, directed episodes for various TV shows, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 15th
Jean-Baptiste Say
French economist and author of Say's Law
Born
January 5th, 1767 259 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1832 193 years ago — 65 years old
An influential economist, contributed significantly to classical economics. Best known for formulating Say's Law, which asserts that supply creates its own demand. His work 'Traité d'Économie Politique' established foundational concepts in economic theory. Engaged in various academic roles, helping to shape modern economic thought during the early 19th century.
Continue ReadingMose Allison
American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
November 11th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz and blues music genres, this artist blended elements of both styles throughout a prolific career. The distinctive vocal style and sharp lyrics drew inspiration from experiences and societal observations. Albums such as 'Back Country Suite' and 'Mose Allison Sings' showcased a unique fusion of jazz and blues, earning critical acclaim. The artist contributed significantly to the music scene from the 1950s onward, influencing countless musicians.
Continue ReadingGrace Hartigan
Painter and educator, Abstract Expressionism
Born
March 28th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2008 17 years ago — 86 years old
An American painter and educator, this individual played a significant role in the Abstract Expressionism movement. Educated at the Maryland Institute College of Art, an early connection with several artists in New York's Art scene led to notable exhibitions and recognition. The art style often incorporated vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, revealing the emotional intensity of the subject matter. This individual contributed to various artistic movements through teaching and mentorship, influencing generations of artists. The involvement in group shows like the Howl Festival and the inclusion in exhibitions at the Whitney Museum established a strong presence in the American art world.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Raabe
German author known for literary works
Born
September 8th, 1831 195 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1910 115 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1831, this individual became a significant figure in German literature and painting. He authored numerous novels, stories, and essays, often exploring themes of social issues and human behavior. His writing style blended realism with a profound understanding of character development. Works such as 'Chronik der Sperlingsgasse' and 'Der Schinderhannes' reflect the cultural and societal structures of his time. Aside from literature, his passion for painting further contributed to his artistic profile. This individual spent much of his life in various cities across Germany, influencing the literary scene until his death in 1910.
Continue ReadingCharles Thomson Rees Wilson
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 14th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1959 66 years ago — 90 years old
A Scottish physicist and meteorologist contributed to the understanding of particle physics through the invention of the cloud chamber. This device allowed for the observation of ionizing radiation, which advanced experimental physics significantly. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1927 for the work on cloud chambers, the invention has become a fundamental tool for many future experiments in high-energy physics. The research also played a role in the development of nuclear physics.
Continue ReadingWilliam Knibb
Baptist minister and Jamaican missionary
Born
September 7th, 1803 223 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1845 180 years ago — 42 years old
Born in England, served as a Baptist minister and a missionary in Jamaica during the 19th century. Played a significant role in the abolition of slavery in Jamaica. Advocated for the education of enslaved individuals and established several schools. Worked closely with the Baptist Missionary Society to promote religious education and social reform in Jamaica, making notable contributions to both the spiritual and social lives of the local population.
Continue Reading