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
Maurice Challe
French General and military strategist
Born
September 5th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent French general, played a significant role in the Algerian War from 1954 to 1962. Commanded the French forces during critical military operations and was involved in implementing counter-insurgency strategies. Contributed to the development of modern aerial warfare tactics and was pivotal in the introduction of air mobility in military operations. Served as the Chief of Staff of the French Air Force and upheld a notable career within the military establishment of France.
Continue ReadingGeorge Huntington Hartford
American businessman and founder of A&P
Born
September 5th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1917 108 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent American businessman, established the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company (A&P) in the late 19th century. The company became one of the first supermarket chains in the United States. Under leadership, A&P expanded significantly, creating a new retail model that revolutionized grocery shopping. The company was known for its innovative marketing strategies, including the introduction of self-service shopping. Hartford also invested in various business ventures beyond A&P, contributing to the growth of the retail industry.
Continue ReadingJoaquín Nin-Culmell
Pianist and composer with classical works
Born
September 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 96 years old
Born in Germany and later becoming an American citizen, contributed significantly to the field of classical music through composition and performance. Studied under notable musicians including Manuel de Falla and continued to engage with music throughout his life. His works incorporate elements of both his European heritage and American influences, showcasing a blend of styles. In addition to composing, served on the faculty of several music institutions, imparting knowledge and skills to aspiring musicians.
Continue ReadingJean Dalrymple
American playwright and producer
Born
September 5th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent playwright, producer, and publicist, contributions significantly influenced American theater. Established successful productions on Broadway, particularly during the mid-20th century. Managed numerous theater companies and events, showcasing various talent and productions. Engaged in raising awareness for the arts through numerous initiatives and programs. Received several accolades and awards for contributions to theater and arts management.
Continue ReadingNap Lajoie
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
September 5th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1959 67 years ago — 84 years old
Played professional baseball from 1896 to 1916, primarily as a second baseman. Managed the Philadelphia Phillies and served as a player-manager for the Cleveland Naps, a team later named after him. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937. Excelled in batting, garnering numerous league titles and accolades throughout his career, contributing to the development of the game.
Continue ReadingOtto Erich Deutsch
Austrian musicologist and scholar
Born
September 5th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1967 59 years ago — 84 years old
Austrian musicologist and scholar contributed significantly to the understanding of music history and literature. Focused on the works of Franz Schubert, providing critical editions and studies that remain essential resources for scholars and performers. Authored numerous publications, including 'The Schubert Reader', which compiled writings about the composer and his music. Engaged in musicology as a field, influencing its methodologies and approaches through rigorous scholarship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Joseph McCarthy
American politician and lawyer
Born
November 14th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1957 68 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1947 to 1957. Gained prominence during the Red Scare for asserting that numerous communists were infiltrating the U.S. government and other institutions. His aggressive investigations and hearings, known as McCarthyism, were marked by accusations without proper evidence, leading to widespread fear and controversy. McCarthy faced opposition from various political figures and media. Eventually, the Senate conducted a censure against him in 1954, which significantly diminished his influence. Died on May 2, 1957.
Continue ReadingLars Oftedal
Norwegian priest and social reformer
Born
December 27th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1900 125 years ago — 61 years old
A Norwegian priest and politician, Oftedal served as a prominent figure in social reform throughout the late 19th century. He played a key role in advocating for the rights of the poor and working class, emphasizing education and social justice. Often utilized journalism as a platform for reforming society, editing several newspapers that promoted his ideas. In 1877, founded the Norwegian Workers' Association in Oslo, which sought to improve labor conditions and support social welfare initiatives. His influence extended to the political realm, where he was elected to the Norwegian parliament, effecting change in legislation that supported social issues.
Continue ReadingErnie Field
Boxer with notable championship reigns
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old
Career spanned several years in professional boxing. Competed in the lightweight division and achieved significant recognition for skills and performances in the ring. Fought in multiple championship bouts, gaining a reputation for his technical abilities and endurance. After retiring from the sport, maintained involvement in boxing as a trainer and mentor for younger fighters.
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 ReadingMarilyn French
American author and feminist advocate
Born
November 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 79 years old
An author and academic influenced by feminist ideology. French wrote extensively on women's issues and the patriarchy. The novel 'The Women's Room' explored the struggles of women's liberation and garnered significant attention. She taught at institutions including the University of Maryland and gained recognition for her writings highlighting the challenges faced by women in society. French's work often reflected her belief in the importance of feminist discourse and the need for societal change.
Continue ReadingGuy 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.
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