Giovanni Battista Pergolesi
Italian composer of comic opera
An Italian composer, violinist, and organist. Composed several operas and sacred music, with a focus on the emerging opera buffa genre. Best recognized for the intermezzo 'La serva padrona' and the religious work 'Stabat Mater'. His compositions influenced the development of Italian opera during the 18th century.
Composed 'La serva padrona'
Wrote 'Stabat Mater'
Other People Born on January 4th
Jacob Grimm
Philologist and mythologist, Grimms' Fairy Tales
Born
January 4th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1863 162 years ago — 78 years old
A philologist and mythologist contributed extensively to the study of Germanic languages and folklore. Along with a brother, compiled and published a collection of popular folk and fairy tales that grew to include numerous stories such as 'Cinderella', 'Hansel and Gretel', and 'Snow White'. Engaged in extensive linguistic research, laid foundations for comparative philology and historical linguistics through significant works on German grammar and etymology. Also contributed to the study of German folklore and mythology, publishing essays and studies that analyzed the cultural significance of traditional stories.
Continue ReadingChen Cheng
Chinese Politician, Vice President
Born
January 4th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1965 60 years ago — 68 years old
Involved in the political landscape of the Republic of China, served as Vice President from 1954 to 1960. Played a significant role in various governmental reforms and military affairs during his tenure. His early career included military service during the Second Sino-Japanese War, and he rose to prominence in the nationalist government. Engaged in post-war reconstruction efforts and foreign relations, particularly with the United States. Contributed to the development of policies aimed at stabilizing the Taiwanese economy during a pivotal period. Oversaw military strategies as the head of the Central Military Commission.
Continue ReadingJasmine Paolini
Italian tennis player with notable titles
Born
January 4th, 1996 29 years ago
Competed in professional tennis with significant achievements on the WTA tour. Secured titles in both singles and doubles formats, exhibiting strong performance consistently. Achieved a career-high singles ranking within the top 50 players in the world. Represented Italy in various international competitions, contributing to the national team's efforts.
Continue ReadingWilliam Deane
Australian Governor-General and judge
Born
January 4th, 1931 94 years ago
Served as the 22nd Governor-General of Australia from 1996 to 2001. Before this role, worked as a prominent judge on the High Court of Australia from 1982 to 1995. Contributed to significant legal decisions and engaged with various public issues during tenure as Governor-General.
Continue ReadingRussell Martin
Footballer and manager, Norwich City
Born
January 4th, 1986 39 years ago
A former professional footballer and current manager, played as a defender and had a significant career in the English Football League. Began his career at Wycombe Wanderers before moving to Luton Town and then to Peterborough United, where impressive performances led to a transfer to Norwich City. Captained Norwich City, contributing to the team's promotion to the Premier League. Transitioned to management after retirement, combining footballing experience with coaching.
Continue ReadingSarah Nurse
Ice Hockey Player, Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
January 4th, 1995 30 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player competed internationally for the national team. Achieved significant success, earning a gold medal at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. Played in the 2018 Winter Olympics, winning a silver medal. Demonstrated strong performance in various tournaments and leagues, contributing to the growth of women's ice hockey.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 16th
Selma Lagerlöf
Swedish author, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 20th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1940 85 years ago — 81 years old
An influential Swedish author, produced a variety of works that combined elements of fantasy and realism. First woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909, awarded for 'The Saga of Gösta Berling.' Other notable works include 'The Wonderful Adventures of Nils.' Also engaged in promoting education and women's rights. Contributed to Swedish cultural heritage and literary tradition.
Continue ReadingEddie Shore
Ice hockey player; Hart Trophy winner
Born
November 25th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1985 40 years ago — 82 years old
A Canadian-American ice hockey player, played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League. Shore spent the majority of his career with the Boston Bruins. His aggressive playing style and skill contributed to his team's success throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Recognized for exceptional performance, he won the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player four times. Shore's contributions to the Bruins included leading the team to two Stanley Cup championships.
Continue ReadingConstantin Brâncuși
Sculptor known for modernist works
Born
February 19th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1957 68 years ago — 81 years old
A Romanian-French sculptor, painter, and photographer, this artist revolutionized modern sculpture with a focus on simplification and abstraction. Many works reflect the search for essence and form. The work 'The Kiss' exemplifies this approach, blending naturalism and abstraction. Another significant piece, 'Bird in Space,' challenged conventional notions of sculpture and contributed to the evolution of artistic expression. Throughout the career, contributions to modern art transcended traditional boundaries. In addition to sculpting, also engaged in painting and photography.
Continue ReadingLouise Slaughter
U.S. House Representative from New York
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York for over 30 years, representing the 28th congressional district. Played a significant role in health care reform and women’s rights legislation. Advocated for the development of policies impacting research and funding for health initiatives. Contributed to various committees including the Committee on Rules, which sets the terms for debate on the House floor. Actively participated in numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of constituents, especially regarding education and health.
Continue ReadingLaura Adams Armer
American author and photographer
Born
January 12th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1963 62 years ago — 89 years old
An author and photographer, contributed significantly to children's literature. Published an acclaimed book titled 'Waterless Mountain,' which won the Newbery Honor Award in 1931. Photographed various Native American cultures, capturing their traditions and lifestyles. Promoted cultural understanding through literary and photographic works, reflecting the experiences of the American West.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Wadsworth
American minister and academic leader
Born
1670 355 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1737 288 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent minister and academic, contributed significantly to the development of early American education. Served as the president of Harvard College from 1725 to 1737, facilitating its growth during the colonial period. Played a key role in establishing the institution's academic standards and curriculum. His works included theological writings and essays that addressed societal issues of the time.
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