Heitor Villa-Lobos
Brazilian composer and guitarist
A prominent Brazilian composer and guitarist, contributed significantly to the development of Brazilian classical music. Composed a vast array of works including orchestral pieces, chamber music, and choral music that integrated Brazilian folk elements. Studied under notable mentors and became a key figure in modern classical music in Brazil. Served as the director of the Department of Music of the Ministry of Education and Culture in Brazil. Internationally recognized for bringing Brazilian music to the global stage.
Composed the 'Bachianas Brasileiras' series
Created 'Choros' series
Introduced Brazilian folk music to classical compositions
Other People Born on March 5th
Henry II of England
King of England and reformer
Born
March 5th, 1133 893 years ago
Died
1189 837 years ago — 56 years old
Ruled as King of England from 1154 to 1189, significantly influencing the establishment of English common law. His reign saw the consolidation of royal power in England and the development of a legal system that emphasized the rule of law. Initiated the Plantagenet dynasty and expanded the Anglo-Norman domains in France. Engaged in conflicts with Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, leading to significant events in church-state relations.
Continue ReadingMartin Axenrot
Swedish drummer with Opeth acclaim
Born
March 5th, 1979 47 years ago
Born on March 5, 1979, this Swedish drummer gained recognition within the metal music scene. Joined the band Opeth in 2006, contributing to their unique sound. Played on critically acclaimed albums including 'Ghost Reveries' and 'Watershed'. Collaborated with various artists and participated in numerous tours, further establishing a presence in the progressive metal genre.
Continue ReadingSaint Kinga of Poland
Saint and historical figure of Poland
Born
March 5th, 1224 802 years ago
Died
1292 734 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1224, a Hungarian princess who married Bolesław V the Chaste, Duke of Kraków, played a significant role in the Christianization of Poland. After her husband’s death, she dedicated her life to charity and monastic life. Emphasized the importance of the salt mines in Wieliczka, reportedly dropping her engagement ring into a mine, which led to discovery of salt deposits. Recognized as a saint in the Catholic Church, her feast day is celebrated on July 24.
Continue ReadingEmmanuel Mudiay
Professional basketball player
Born
March 5th, 1996 30 years ago
A basketball player who played college basketball at the University of the Pacific. Entered the NBA Draft in 2015 and was selected 7th overall by the Denver Nuggets. Mudiay played for several teams, including the New York Knicks and the Dallas Mavericks. He has also represented the Democratic Republic of the Congo in international competitions.
Continue ReadingTom Butler
English bishop, former Bishop of Leicester
Born
March 5th, 1940 86 years ago
Served as the Bishop of Leicester from 1998 to 2009. Played a significant role in church leadership and community outreach during tenure. Took part in various interfaith dialogues and initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and cooperation among different religious groups. Contributed to discussions on social justice and the church's role in society.
Continue ReadingMike Squires
American baseball player and scout
Born
March 5th, 1952 74 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a first baseman and outfielder, primarily for the Chicago White Sox from 1975 to 1980. Transitioned to a career as a scout after retiring from professional play. Contributed to player development and scouting for various teams, leveraging extensive knowledge of the game.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 17th
Paul Derringer
Baseball player, 2-time All-Star pitcher
Born
October 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old
Began a professional baseball career in 1926. Played primarily as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for teams such as the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved significant success during the 1930s and 1940s, recognized for skillful pitching and strategic gameplay. Selected as an All-Star in 1943 and 1944. Retired from professional play after the 1945 season.
Continue ReadingMervyn Peake
English author and illustrator of Gormenghast
Born
July 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1968 57 years ago — 57 years old
An English author and illustrator, gained recognition for the Gormenghast series, which includes the novels 'Titus Groan' and 'Gormenghast'. The intricate and gothic-style world created in these works displayed both literary and artistic talent. Peake also contributed to the field of children's literature through various illustrated stories. His illustrations reflected a distinctive style that complemented his writing, showcasing a unique blend of imagination and depth.
Continue ReadingJames Ferguson
Scottish astronomer and author of books
Born
April 25th, 1710 316 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1776 249 years ago — 66 years old
Birth occurred in 1710 in Scotland. Ferguson specialized in astronomy and wrote several influential books on the subject. His notable works include 'Astronomy Explained Upon Sir Isaac Newton's Principles' and 'The Use of the Globes', which provided valuable insights into celestial mechanics and navigation. Ferguson also contributed to the popularization of astronomical concepts through lectures and demonstrations. He was an early advocate for the use of instruments in observational astronomy, and his writings helped educate the public about astronomical phenomena.
Continue ReadingCharles W. Chesnutt
American novelist and short story writer
Born
June 20th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1932 93 years ago — 74 years old
Chesnutt was an American writer primarily active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He wrote novels and short stories addressing issues of race and identity in the post-Civil War era. Major works include 'The Conjure Woman' and 'The Marrow of Tradition', which explore the African American experience. Chesnutt's works were among the first to offer a complex portrayal of black life in America, blending folklore and social commentary.
Continue ReadingAnte Trumbić
Croatian lawyer and politician
Born
May 17th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1938 87 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician who served as the 27th Mayor of Split. Advocated for Croatian rights during the early 20th century and played an essential role in regional politics. Contributed to the establishment of various civic initiatives and was involved in the Croatian National Council. His legal expertise and political acumen shaped local governance in Split during a period of significant change.
Continue ReadingCharles de Sainte-Maure
French general and duc de Montausier
Born
October 6th, 1610 415 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1690 335 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1610, a French general and noble distinguished in military service. Held the title of duc de Montausier. Participated in the Thirty Years' War, showcasing strategic military leadership. Served notably during the Franco-Spanish War. His contributions to military campaigns led to various successes, particularly in defending cultural and territorial interests of France during turbulent times.
Continue Reading