Gottfried van Swieten

Librarian and diplomat in Vienna

Gottfried van Swieten - Librarian and diplomat in Vienna
Born

1733
292 years ago

Died

March 29th, 1803
222 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Austria

Links & References

Served as a librarian and diplomat in Vienna during the late 18th century. Contributed to the cultural life of the city through the promotion of music and literature. Played a significant role in the musical careers of prominent composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Haydn. Established the Austrian National Library, enhancing access to literary works.

Established the Austrian National Library

Promoted the works of Mozart and Haydn

Other People Who Died on March 29th

Johann Heinrich Voss

German poet and translator of Homer
Born
February 20th, 1751 274 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1826 199 years ago — 75 years old

Recognized as a prominent poet and translator, significant contributions included poetic works as well as the German translations of Homer's 'Iliad' and 'Odyssey'. Active in the literary circles of his time and involved with the Göttingen School of Poets, engaged in discussions about aesthetics and literature. Held a professorship at the University of Heidelberg, influencing future generations of poets and scholars through both teachings and writings.

Continue Reading

Helge Ingstad

Norwegian lawyer and Arctic explorer
Born
December 30th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2001 24 years ago — 101 years old

Contributed significantly to the exploration of Arctic regions. Engaged in archaeological work that led to the discovery of Viking settlements in North America. Conducted research on the Norse settlements in Greenland and Newfoundland, showcasing the extent of Viking exploration. Held academic positions and contributed to legal studies, emphasizing the importance of Arctic policy and research. Additionally, authored several books detailing his explorations and findings.

Continue Reading

Slava Raškaj

Croatian painter of landscapes and flowers
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1906 119 years ago — 28 years old

A prominent Croatian painter, specialized in landscape and still life painting during the late 19th century. Raškaj developed a unique style characterized by impressionistic techniques, capturing the essence of the Croatian countryside. Studied under renowned artists, cultivated a deep appreciation for light and color. Exhibited works prominently in various galleries across Croatia and received several accolades for artistic contributions. Raškaj's paintings reflect a profound connection with nature and the rural environment of Croatia. Significant works continue to be appreciated in contemporary collections.

Continue Reading

Bill Travers

Actor in 'Born Free' and director
Born
January 3rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1994 31 years ago — 72 years old

An English actor, director, and screenwriter, this individual gained prominence for the film 'Born Free' which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The career spanned several decades, covering roles in both film and television, with a notable emphasis on wildlife and animal themes. Directorial work included collaborative efforts on projects that highlighted conservation. Contributions to the arts led to recognition within the film industry and beyond, establishing a legacy in storytelling that brought attention to environmental issues.

Continue Reading

Otto Hermann Kahn

German banker and philanthropist
Born
February 21st, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1934 91 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Germany, one of the most significant figures in American finance and the arts during the early 20th century. Kahn served as a partner at the investment bank Kuhn, Loeb & Co., where he played a pivotal role in financing the construction of the Panama Canal and the development of various railroads. A prominent philanthropist, he contributed substantially to cultural institutions, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, where he served as a trustee. Kahn's contributions to the arts extended to supporting music and education in numerous ways throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Carl Orff

German composer known for Carmina Burana
Born
July 10th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 86 years old

A German composer and educator, developed a unique approach to music education through the Orff Schulwerk method. This method emphasizes creativity and participation, integrating music, movement, and speech. Best known for the cantata 'Carmina Burana', composed in 1936, which remains a staple in choral and classical music. Also contributed to the development of music pedagogy, influencing generations of music teachers and students worldwide.

Continue Reading