Gil Evans
Composer and bandleader of jazz music
Born
Died
1988
37 years ago — 76 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Canada
Links & References
Contributions included pioneering arrangements in the jazz genre, particularly through collaborative works with musicians such as Miles Davis. Worked extensively in the jazz fusion style and was integral in the development of orchestral jazz. Created influential recordings, including 'Miles Ahead' and 'Sketches of Spain'. Led the Gil Evans Orchestra, which showcased innovative compositions and arrangements. Received multiple Grammy Awards for work in music, cementing a legacy in jazz history.
Collaborated on 'Miles Ahead' and 'Sketches of Spain'
Led the Gil Evans Orchestra
Received Grammy Awards for music
Other People Born on May 13th
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Liberian politician and president
Born
May 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1980 45 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 20th President of Liberia from 1971 until his assassination in 1980. Focused on agricultural reform and education during presidency. Attempted to improve relations with the United States and sought to attract foreign investment to Liberia. His administration faced criticisms regarding human rights and freedom of expression, eventually leading to political unrest. Overthrown in a military coup, which marked a significant turning point in Liberian history.
Continue ReadingSteve Mildenhall
English footballer and goalkeeper
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May 13th, 1979 46 years ago
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Continue ReadingPope Pius IX
Pope with the longest reign in history
Born
May 13th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1878 147 years ago — 85 years old
Became pope in 1846 and served until death in 1878, leading the Catholic Church through significant events such as the First Vatican Council which defined papal infallibility. Oversaw the loss of the Papal States, leading to a decrease in temporal power. Advocated for the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, declared in 1854. His reign was marked by political turmoil in Italy and Europe, which shaped the Church's modern role.
Continue ReadingHarry Schwarz
Anti-apartheid diplomat and lawyer
Born
May 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent lawyer and anti-apartheid leader, played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Served as the 13th South African Ambassador to the United States, contributing to diplomatic efforts during a pivotal period in South African history. Engaged in legal practices and advocacy aimed at dismantling apartheid legislation and promoting human rights. Also involved in various civil society organizations that worked toward equality and justice.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Papanikolaou
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Born
May 13th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1962 63 years ago — 78 years old
A Greek-American pathologist contributed significantly to cancer screening techniques through the invention of the Pap smear, a revolutionary method for detecting cervical cancer. After receiving his medical degree from the University of Athens, Papanikolaou emigrated to the United States, where he started working at New York Hospital. The Pap smear was introduced in 1943 and became a standard procedure in gynecological examinations, significantly reducing cervical cancer mortality rates. Throughout his career, he conducted extensive research on reproductive biology and the cellular changes associated with cancer.
Continue ReadingRonald Ross
Physician who discovered malaria's vector
Born
May 13th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1932 93 years ago — 75 years old
A physician and mathematician emerged as a prominent figure in the study of malaria. Conducted groundbreaking research on mosquito-borne diseases while working in India. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902 for discovering the life cycle of the malaria parasite within Anopheles mosquitoes. The work laid the foundation for malaria control and prevention methods, significantly influencing public health efforts worldwide. His contributions extended to various aspects of disease transmission and vector control, marking a milestone in the understanding of infectious diseases.
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