Giuseppe Bonno
Austrian composer of operas
Born in 1711, significant contributions to the genre of opera took place. Served as a composer and conductor in the court of Empress Maria Theresa. Created several operas, notably 'Il mondo della luna', which received acclaim in its time. Participated actively in the theatrical culture of Vienna during the 18th century. His works characterized by lyrical melodies and engaging narratives became a part of the operatic repertoire of the period.
Composed the opera 'Il mondo della luna'
Served as a conductor for the Viennese court
Other People Born on January 29th
Katharina von Bora
Reformer and Wife of Martin Luther
Born
January 29th, 1499 526 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1552 473 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1499, a nun who fled her convent, later married Martin Luther in 1525. She managed the household and raised six children. Played a significant role in the Reformation, supporting her husband's work and promoting his ideas. Demonstrated financial acumen in managing the family's household and properties, contributing to their stability amid the tumultuous changes of the Reformation. Katharina became a prominent figure in the movement, exemplifying the role of women in the Reformation and offering a model of partnership in marriage. Died in 1552, leaving a lasting legacy in religious history.
Continue ReadingJair Jurrjens
Baseball pitcher, All-Star selection
Born
January 29th, 1986 39 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher from Curaçao contributed significantly to Major League Baseball. Made debut in 2006 with the Detroit Tigers and went on to play for the Atlanta Braves. In 2011, earned an All-Star selection, demonstrating outstanding performance during that season. Known for a strong right pitching arm and effective strikeout ability, maintained an influential presence on the mound throughout career.
Continue ReadingSydney Chapman
Mathematician and geophysicist
Born
January 29th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1970 55 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to mathematics and geophysics included significant work on the theory of the upper atmosphere and the interaction of the solar wind with the Earth's magnetosphere. Developed the Chapman function, extensively applied in atmospheric science. Also, researched the conditions and theories related to the stratosphere and ionosphere.
Continue ReadingBarnett Newman
American painter, Color Field artist
Born
January 29th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1970 55 years ago — 65 years old
Significant figure in abstract expressionism, focused on color and line in art. Developed a distinct style characterized by large fields of color and simple forms. Pioneered the use of the 'zip', a vertical line that divides color fields. Created works that explored themes of space and scale. Influenced the direction of modern art.
Continue ReadingOprah Winfrey
Talk show host and media executive
Born
January 29th, 1954 71 years ago
Started a career in media as a news anchor in Nashville, before creating a nationally syndicated talk show that ran for 25 years. Established a production company, Harpo Productions, which produced films and television programs. Acted in the film 'The Color Purple' and received an Academy Award nomination. Became a prominent figure in publishing and launched the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), a cable channel devoted to lifestyle programming.
Continue ReadingLelio Sozzini
Italian humanist and religious reformer
Born
January 29th, 1525 500 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1562 463 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1525, this individual contributed to the Protestant Reformation through theological debate and the dissemination of anti-Trinitarian beliefs. He played a prominent role in the development of Socinianism, a non-Trinitarian Christian doctrine. His major works included publications that challenged established religious norms and promoted rational thought in theology. He engaged in discussions with leading Reformers and left a lasting influence on subsequent religious movements. Later life was spent in Poland, where he established a community that embraced his antitrinitarian views, ultimately shaping the future of Unitarian beliefs in Europe.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 15th
Wallace Beery
American actor in silent films and talkies
Born
April 1st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1949 76 years ago — 64 years old
This actor started his career in silent films and transitioned successfully to talkies. Notable roles include the title character in 'The Champ,' which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The actor also starred in 'Treasure Island' and 'The Big House,' showcasing versatility across various genres. Over the years, received acclaim for performances and became a prominent figure during Hollywood's Golden Age.
Continue ReadingMichael Pataki
Actor in 'Night of the Living Dead'
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2010 15 years ago — 72 years old
An American actor and director, this individual had a significant career in film and television. His work spanned several decades, with notable appearances in horror and comedy genres. Contributions included performances in the cult classic horror film 'Night of the Living Dead' and guest roles in various television series. Directing projects also showcased talent behind the camera, resulting in a versatile portfolio in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingJean-François Paillard
French conductor of classical music
Born
April 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France in 1928, a prominent conductor dedicated to classical music. Paillard established the Orchestre de Chambre Jean-François Paillard and gained recognition for innovative interpretations of Baroque music. Conducted numerous recordings and performances, collaborating with various distinguished orchestras and artists. Emphasized the importance of both orchestral precision and expressive playing.
Continue ReadingEmma Morano
Italian supercentenarian, last 1800s born
Born
November 29th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2017 8 years ago — 117 years old
Lived from November 29, 1899, to April 15, 2017. Emigrated from Italy and resided in Verbania. Achieved recognition as the last verified person born in the 1800s. Over the years, detailed experiences of life spanning over a century, including surviving both World Wars and the changes in society throughout her lifetime. Lived independently for many years, maintaining a diet that included raw eggs and various foods. The longevity of life sparked interest in studies related to aging.
Continue ReadingRosalba Carriera
Italian painter known for pastels
Born
January 12th, 1673 352 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1757 268 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1673, this artist became a prominent figure in the Venetian painting scene, specializing in pastel portraits. She gained recognition for her innovative use of pastels, which showcased her ability to capture the essence of her subjects. Carriera's works reflected the beauty and elegance of the Rococo style, earning her a significant place in art history. Her popularity extended beyond Italy, influencing a number of artists across Europe. She also produced a number of decorative works and took part in various exhibitions, solidifying her status as one of the leading female artists of her time.
Continue ReadingHarvey Postlethwaite
English engineer and F1 technical director
Born
March 4th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1999 26 years ago — 55 years old
An English engineer specialized in motorsport engineering, significantly contributed to Formula One racing. Served as chief designer for several teams, transforming vehicle performance and design strategy. Worked with notable teams such as Tyrell and March before becoming the technical director for Benetton Formula. Instrumental in the development of championship-winning cars during the 1990s. Passed away in 2012, leaving a legacy in the field of automotive engineering.
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