Giacomo Meyerbeer
Composer of grand operas
Born in Germany, a prominent composer and pianist emerged in the 19th century. Made significant contributions to the development of grand opera, which fused elaborate music with dramatic storytelling. Education included studying in Berlin and Paris, where the influence of Italian opera and French theatrical styles were embraced. Composed several successful operas, with 'Les Huguenots' and 'The Prophet' among the most recognized. Worked closely with notable singers of the era and was involved in the musical life of Paris. Held influential positions within the opera and became a significant figure in the world of European music.
Composed 'Les Huguenots'
Composed 'The Prophet'
Influential in the development of grand opera
Other People Born on September 5th
Bill Mazeroski
Professional baseball player and coach
Born
September 5th, 1936 89 years ago
A professional baseball player and coach, recognized for playing as a second baseman. Played for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1956 to 1972. Achieved legendary status by hitting a game-winning home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series against the New York Yankees, leading the Pirates to victory. Later served as a coach for the Pirates and managed various minor league teams.
Continue ReadingFlorence Eldridge
American actress in theatre and film
Born
September 5th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 87 years old
Active in film and theatre, this actress appeared in notable productions from the 1920s through the 1950s. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Eternal Road' and 'The Last Letter'. Worked with prominent figures in the industry and contributed to various stage productions. Served as a prominent figure in the dramatic arts during her career.
Continue ReadingThomas Mikal Ford
American actor with notable TV roles
Born
September 5th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 52 years old
An American actor gained prominence for roles in television and film. Best recognized for portraying Thomas 'Tommy' Strawn on the sitcom 'Martin' from 1992 to 1997. Appeared in several other television series including 'The Jamie Foxx Show' and 'Think Like a Man'. In addition to acting, held a career in directing and producing.
Continue ReadingJosué de Castro
Brazilian physician and activist
Born
September 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1973 52 years ago — 65 years old
A physician and geographer focused on public health and nutrition. Specialized in the study of hunger and food security, advocating for social reform policies to combat poverty. Contributed significantly to the field of geography with research emphasizing the relationship between health and environmental factors. Served as a senator in Brazil, promoting human rights and health advancements. Published influential works, including 'Geografia da Fome' (Geography of Hunger), which analyzed the causes and effects of hunger in Brazil.
Continue ReadingMurray Mexted
Rugby player and sportscaster
Born
September 5th, 1953 72 years ago
A rugby player from New Zealand, competed at the international level during the 1970s and 1980s. Represented the national team, the All Blacks, and participated in notable tours, including the 1979 British Lions series. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retiring from professional play, contributing to rugby coverage on television and radio.
Continue ReadingPaul Breitner
German footballer and World Cup winner
Born
September 5th, 1951 74 years ago
A professional footballer, played primarily as a midfielder and defender. Had a significant career in top-tier leagues in Germany, primarily with Bayern Munich. Achieved notoriety for contributions to the German national team during the 1970s, particularly during the 1974 FIFA World Cup. After a successful club career, transitioned into sports journalism and commentary, sharing insights on football.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Guy Carawan
American singer and musicologist
Born
July 27th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Carawan contributed significantly to the folk music revival, especially in the 1960s. A key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, he popularized the song 'We Shall Overcome' through his performances and arrangements. His work focused on preserving and promoting traditional folk music and songs, encouraging cultural appreciation and awareness. As a musicologist, Carawan conducted research on Southern Appalachian music and other regional folk traditions. He also taught music at various institutions, sharing knowledge and enthusiasm for folk music with new generations.
Continue ReadingErnest Starling
English physiologist and academic
Born
April 17th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1927 98 years ago — 61 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physiology, particularly through the establishment of the Starling Law of the Heart, which describes the relationship between the heart's filling and its contraction strength. His research included the role of hormones in bodily functions and the development of techniques for measuring blood pressure and heart functions. Starling conducted extensive studies on the actions of the thyroid gland and the role of the pancreas in digestion, helping to lay the groundwork for future research in these areas.
Continue ReadingEberhard Anheuser
American businessman, co-founder of Anheuser-Busch
Born
1805 220 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 145 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Anheuser-Busch, a major brewery in the United States. Established a successful beer company that grew to become one of the largest in the world. Contributed significantly to the expansion of the American brewing industry during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingClara Immerwahr
Chemist and peace activist
Born
June 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1915 110 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1870, a chemist and academic specialized in physical chemistry. Engaged in scientific research while opposing the militarization of science. Served as a lecturer at the Technical University of Berlin. Advocated for pacifism and disarmament, particularly in the context of her husband's work on explosives. Her commitment to peace influenced several movements during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingClarrie Grimmett
Cricketer and leg-spin bowler
Born
December 25th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1980 45 years ago — 88 years old
One of the leading leg-spin bowlers of his time, played international cricket for Australia after initially debuting for New Zealand. Established a reputation for exceptional skill and accuracy. Made a significant mark in Test cricket during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming a key player for Australia. Achieved remarkable figures in matches, particularly notable for his ability to take wickets consistently. Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame for outstanding contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingAndré Moynet
French soldier and race car driver
Born
July 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1993 32 years ago — 71 years old
Served in the French military during World War II and became a notable figure in the racing community. Achieved recognition in the 1950s for participation in various auto races, including the Le Mans 24 Hours, where performance gained attention. Transitioned into politics, serving in local and national offices, advocating for infrastructure development and motor sports. Contributed to the promotion of racing in France through various initiatives.
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