George Balanchine
Choreographer of 'The Nutcracker'
A prominent choreographer in ballet, created many influential works that shaped modern dance. Co-founded the New York City Ballet and served as its artistic director. Developed a unique style integrating classical ballet with contemporary themes. Worked with composers like Igor Stravinsky and Leonard Bernstein to create innovative ballets. 'The Nutcracker' remains one of the most performed ballets worldwide, and his other significant works include 'Apollo' and 'Serenade'.
Founded the New York City Ballet
Choreographed 'The Nutcracker'
Developed 'Serenade' and 'Apollo'
Other People Born on January 22nd
Theo Robinson
English footballer with notable club career
Born
January 22nd, 1989 36 years ago
Born in 1989, an English footballer played as a forward. Began professional career at Derby County, contributing to multiple seasons. Joined teams such as Millwall and Huddersfield Town, showcasing skills in League One and Championship levels. Played for the national under-19 team, representing England internationally. Achievements include scoring decisive goals in critical matches, influencing team performances and standings.
Continue ReadingShane Long
Irish footballer with Premier League experience
Born
January 22nd, 1987 38 years ago
This professional footballer was born in County Tipperary, Ireland. Long started his career with the youth team of Cork City before moving to England to join Reading FC in 2005. He made his first-team debut in 2006 and contributed to the club's promotion to the Premier League in 2006-2007. Long played for several clubs, including West Bromwich Albion and Southampton. At Southampton, he achieved notable success, scoring a memorable goal against Manchester City in the 2018-2019 season. Long also represented the national team, earning over 80 caps and participating in the UEFA European Championship in 2016.
Continue ReadingDouglas Corrigan
Aviator with transatlantic flight
Born
January 22nd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1995 30 years ago — 88 years old
An American pilot and engineer gained attention for a solo transatlantic flight from New York to Ireland in 1938. Initially intended to travel to Los Angeles, navigational errors led to an unexpected landing in Dublin. This flight earned the nickname 'Wrong Way' Corrigan, sparking public interest and curiosity about aviation. The event coincided with a period of growing interest in air travel and showcased the adventurous spirit of the time.
Continue ReadingPaul Bew
Northern Irish historian and academic
Born
January 22nd, 1950 75 years ago
Specialized in modern Irish history, with a focus on political issues in Northern Ireland. Contributed to the understanding of Irish nationalism and the complexities of the peace process. Published numerous works that explored the historical context of social and political movements in the region. Served as a professor of politics at Queen's University Belfast, shaping the academic discourse on contemporary Irish affairs.
Continue ReadingHelen Hoyt
Poet known for 'The New Poetry' anthology
Born
January 22nd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1972 53 years ago — 85 years old
Born on January 22, 1887, this American poet and author contributed significantly to 20th-century poetry. The early education took place in various institutions, ultimately leading to a degree from Smith College. The literary career included numerous publications in prestigious magazines such as The New Republic and Poetry. An influential anthology titled 'The New Poetry,' published in 1918, showcased prominent and contemporary poets. Additionally, collections of poetry, including 'A Change of Time' and 'The Long Way,' reflected themes of nature and human experience. Aside from poetry, edited and contributed to literary journals, thereby fostering emerging voices in the literary community. The literary contributions established a noteworthy position in American literature.
Continue ReadingIbrahima Sonko
Footballer and former player of Stade Rennais
Born
January 22nd, 1981 44 years ago
This individual played as a defender in professional football. Career started with Stade Rennais in France, followed by stints with several clubs in England, including Reading and Hull City. The career spanned over a decade, playing in various leagues in France and England, contributing significantly in defensive roles. Notably participated in the English Football League and became recognized for strong performances during club tenures.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 30th
Eva Braun
German photographer and assistant
Born
February 6th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1945 80 years ago — 33 years old
A German photographer and assistant, involved with Adolf Hitler from the late 1920s. Joined him in public life, often photographed by him. Hid her personal ambitions behind the constraints of her relationship with Hitler, which was kept largely private. Married Hitler shortly before their deaths in 1945 and died by suicide in the Führerbunker in Berlin. Remnants of her legacy include the photographs and films she captured during her life with Hitler.
Continue ReadingTabinshwehti
Burmese king and military leader
Born
April 16th, 1516 509 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1550 475 years ago — 34 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1531, established the Taungoo dynasty. Initiated numerous military campaigns to unify Burma, including successful conquests over Ava and Prome. Implemented administrative reforms that strengthened the central government and improved trade. His reign marked a significant period of expansion and consolidation in the territory that would become modern-day Myanmar.
Continue ReadingOnogawa Kisaburō
Sumo wrestler, 5th Yokozuna
Born
1758 267 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1806 219 years ago — 48 years old
Became the 5th Yokozuna in the history of sumo wrestling. Gained recognition for exceptional strength and skill in the sport during the Edo period. Competed in various tournaments and achieved significant victories against leading opponents. His wrestling style and techniques influenced the sport's development and training methods.
Continue ReadingRobert FitzRoy
English admiral and meteorologist
Born
July 5th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1865 160 years ago — 59 years old
Served as an admiral in the Royal Navy and made significant contributions to meteorology and oceanography. Commanded the HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin's famous voyage, allowing for crucial scientific observations that influenced evolutionary theory. Became the second Governor of New Zealand, overseeing early colonial governance and interactions with the Māori people. Advocated for scientific research and created the first system of weather forecasting in the United Kingdom.
Continue ReadingRoland Ratzenberger
Race car driver; Formula One competitor
Born
July 4th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1994 31 years ago — 33 years old
Competed in Formula One during the early 1990s. Participated in 16 Grand Prix races, driving for teams such as March and Simtek. Sadly, a tragic accident occurred during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, resulting in a fatal crash. His legacy continues to influence safety improvements in motorsport following this incident.
Continue ReadingLuis Muñoz Marín
Politician and first Governor of Puerto Rico
Born
February 18th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1980 45 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent political figure in Puerto Rico, served as the first Governor from 1949 to 1965. Played a significant role in establishing Puerto Rico's political status and advocating for its economic development. Contributed to the creation of Operation Bootstrap, aimed at industrializing the island. Engaged in poetry and wrote extensively on political and social issues, making lasting contributions to the cultural landscape of Puerto Rico.
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