Goffredo Petrassi
Italian composer and conductor
A prominent 20th-century composer and conductor, contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Conservatorio di Santa Cecilia in Rome. Served as a conductor for various orchestras in Europe. Petrassi developed a distinctive musical style that integrated elements of classical traditions with modern compositions. Held a professorship at the Santa Cecilia Conservatory and influenced generations of musicians. Composed several major works, including operas, orchestral pieces, and chamber music.
Composed the opera 'Il cordovano'
Conducted the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia
Received the prestigious Italian Music Critics Prize
Other People Born on July 16th
Dick Thornburgh
American Attorney General and politician
Born
July 16th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 76th Attorney General of the United States from 1988 to 1990. Held the position of Governor of Pennsylvania from 1979 to 1987, implementing various legislative reforms. Worked as a partner at a prominent law firm following public service, focusing on regulatory and public policy issues. Achieved recognition for contributions to public administration and legal practice, influencing a range of policies during and after tenure in public office.
Continue ReadingDonald M. Payne
American businessman and politician
Born
July 16th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman from New Jersey, representing the 10th congressional district from 1989 until death in 2012. Advocated for educational reform, health care access, and environmental issues. Played a significant role in introducing the 2008 legislation for the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act, aimed at addressing the fallout from the financial crisis. Contributed to various committees, including the Committee on Foreign Affairs, focusing on international issues.
Continue ReadingCharles Ray Hatcher
American serial killer
Born
July 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 55 years old
In the late 20th century, a serial killer operated in multiple states in the United States. Convicted of murdering several individuals, this person was notorious for the brutal methods employed. Arrested in 1982, subsequent investigations linked to multiple cold cases revealed a long pattern of violent crime. Sentenced to multiple life terms, the actions led to increased public awareness and discussions about serial homicides, criminal profiling, and the justice system.
Continue ReadingDave Treen
American politician, 51st Governor of Louisiana
Born
July 16th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 51st Governor of Louisiana from 1980 to 1984. Advocated for fiscal conservatism and education reform during the tenure. Prior to governorship, practiced law and held positions in the Louisiana House of Representatives. Played a significant role in Republican politics within Louisiana, contributing to the party's growth in the state during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingTomás Eloy Martínez
Argentine journalist and author
Born
July 16th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Rosario, Martínez became a prominent Argentine journalist and writer. His work encompassed both journalism and fiction, with a particular focus on the complexities of Argentine history and identity. He contributed to various newspapers and magazines throughout his career, creating a legacy of insightful commentary. Martínez is also recognized for his novels, which often explore themes of memory and history. His most acclaimed works include 'The Tango Singer' and 'Santa Evita', which delve into the life surrounding Eva Perón, generating significant discussion. Martínez's writings frequently reflected the tumultuous socio-political climate of Argentina, solidifying his position as a critical voice in contemporary Argentine literature.
Continue ReadingNorm Sherry
Baseball player and manager
Born
July 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
Played in Major League Baseball as a catcher, making significant contributions primarily with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Transitioned into coaching and management, notably serving as the manager for the Chicago White Sox. Worked as a coach for several teams, including the California Angels, where developed young talent.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 3rd
John Frederick I
Elector of Saxony and Protestant leader
Born
June 30th, 1503 522 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1554 471 years ago — 50 years old
Served as Elector of Saxony from 1532 until death in 1554. Played a significant role in the establishment of Protestantism during the Reformation. Led the resistance against the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, particularly at the Battle of Mühlberg in 1547. Became a key political figure in the Lutheran alliance, known for his staunch defense of the Lutheran faith against counter-reformist pressures.
Continue ReadingAlbert Sabin
Virologist and developer of polio vaccine
Born
August 26th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1993 32 years ago — 86 years old
A Polish-American physician and virologist developed the oral poliovirus vaccine, which became a significant tool in the effort to eradicate poliomyelitis. The vaccine was introduced in the early 1960s and replaced the earlier injected vaccine developed by Jonas Salk. Sabin's work in vaccine development contributed to the dramatic reduction of polio cases worldwide and facilitated mass immunization campaigns. His research also extended into other viral diseases, including mumps and rubella, enriching the field of virology and public health.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gilman
Businessman, founder of A&P grocery chain
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1901 124 years ago — 75 years old
Established The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, which became one of the first supermarket chains in the United States. This venture focused on grocery distribution and retail, significantly shaping the food market in America during the late 19th century. Under leadership, the company expanded rapidly, influencing consumer habits and retail practices. Gilman's business strategies and innovations in food distribution contributed to the layout and operational methods of modern supermarkets.
Continue ReadingSewall Wright
Biologist and geneticist, 'adaptive landscape'
Born
December 21st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1988 37 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent American biologist and geneticist, contributed significantly to population genetics. Developed the concept of adaptive landscapes, which conceptualized how populations evolve under natural selection. His work laid foundational principles for understanding genetic drift and inbreeding. Wright's research included studies on the effects of natural selection on species and populations, which helped shape the field of evolutionary biology. Wright also played a role in the early integration of genetics into the broader biological sciences.
Continue ReadingJohn Krol
American cardinal and church leader
Born
October 26th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 85 years old
Played a significant role in the Catholic Church as an American cardinal. Served as the Archbishop of Philadelphia from 1961 to 1988. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, influencing church reforms. Contributed to various social issues including education and civil rights during his tenure.
Continue ReadingJames Strong
CEO of Qantas Airways
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 69 years old
Served as CEO of Qantas Airways from 1993 to 2001. During tenure, guided the airline through significant changes, including fleet modernization and expansion into international markets. Implemented strategies that improved operational efficiency and enhanced customer service. Played a crucial role in navigating challenges such as economic downturns and industry deregulation.
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