Helen O'Connell
American singer with big band acclaim
Born in 1920, a prominent singer gained fame in the big band era through performances with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. Gained popularity with renditions of "Green Eyes" and "Tangerine," showcasing exceptional vocal talent. Transitioned to a successful solo career, recording numerous albums and appearing on television programs. Contributed to the music industry through both recordings and live performances over several decades.
Performed with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra
Sang hit songs like 'Green Eyes' and 'Tangerine'
Other People Born on May 23rd
Charles Barry
Architect, designer of Palace of Westminster
Born
May 23rd, 1795 230 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1860 165 years ago — 64 years old
An English architect played a pivotal role in the development of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed the Palace of Westminster in London after the original building was destroyed by fire in 1834. Completed the iconic structure in 1876, establishing a landmark of British politics. Also designed Upper Brook Street Chapel in Manchester, showcasing neoclassical elements.
Continue ReadingHélène Boucher
French aviator and record-holder
Born
May 23rd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1934 91 years ago — 26 years old
Achieved significant milestones in aviation as a pioneering French pilot. Competed in the Coupe Deutsch de la Meurthe and set multiple speed records in the 1930s. Became the first woman to fly a series of races, showcasing remarkable skill and determination. Her contributions to aviation were cut short by a tragic accident in 1939, yet her legacy remains influential in the history of women in aviation.
Continue ReadingKovelamudi Raghavendra Rao
Indian film director and screenwriter
Born
May 23rd, 1942 83 years ago
A prominent figure in Telugu cinema, contributions spanned directing, screenwriting, and choreography. Directed numerous commercially successful films and introduced innovative storytelling techniques. Collaborated with leading actors and produced films that garnered critical acclaim. Established a notable style in the industry.
Continue ReadingEmperor Qinzong of Song
Emperor of the Song Dynasty
Born
May 23rd, 1100 925 years ago
Died
1161 864 years ago — 61 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1126 during a tumultuous period for the Song Dynasty. The reign marked by military struggles against the Jurchen-led Jin dynasty. Captured in 1127 during the invasion by the Jin forces, leading to the fall of the Northern Song capital, Bianjing. Exiled and eventually became a figurehead with limited power. Spent years in captivity and was later relocated to the Jin capital, where he lived until his death in 1161.
Continue ReadingRobert Moog
Pioneer of electronic music synthesis
Born
May 23rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in the development of electronic music, this individual founded Moog Music in 1953, which became essential in the creation of synthesizers. The invention of the Moog synthesizer revolutionized music production and performance. Throughout the 1960s and beyond, the synthesizer became a vital instrument in various music genres, particularly in progressive rock, pop, and experimental music. Collaborations included working with prominent artists and bands, influencing the sound of an era. This individual's contributions to music technology earned a prominent place in the history of modern music.
Continue ReadingPhilip I of France
King of France during the Investiture Controversy
Born
May 23rd, 1052 973 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1108 917 years ago — 56 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1059 until death in 1108. His reign was marked by conflicts involving the papacy and the monarchy known as the Investiture Controversy. Engaged in various territorial disputes and involvement in the First Crusade. Consolidated royal power in France and strengthened the Capetian dynasty. Philip's rule saw the gradual increase of the king's authority amidst ongoing conflicts with both nobility and the church.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 9th
Arie de Vroet
Football manager and player in Netherlands
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old
A former footballer and manager, played as a midfielder. Had a significant playing career in the Dutch leagues before transitioning into management. Managed several clubs within the Netherlands after retirement. Achieved notable success during managerial stints.
Continue ReadingStéphane Mallarmé
French Symbolist poet and critic
Born
March 18th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1898 127 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1842, a prominent figure in the Symbolist movement, produced poetry characterized by aspiration and abstraction. Worked as a literary critic and contributed significantly to French literature. Most recognized for the poem 'The Afternoon of a Faun', which has influenced both literature and music, particularly the ballet by Claude Debussy that was inspired by the poem. Engaged in the promotion of modern poetry, Mallarmé organized the first performance of 'The Theatre of Mr. Mallarmé', showcasing his belief in the importance of visual poetry and the performance aspect of literature.
Continue ReadingEdward Teller
Physicist and 'father of the hydrogen bomb'
Born
January 15th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2003 22 years ago — 95 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of nuclear weapons and was a prominent figure in the establishment of the hydrogen bomb. Participated in the Manhattan Project during World War II, which led to the first atomic bomb. Later, aided in the development of the thermonuclear bomb at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Involved in policy discussions regarding nuclear energy and systems of defense. After retirement, continued to influence scientific debate and paid particular attention to the implications of nuclear power and its regulations.
Continue ReadingGraham Joyce
English author and educator
Born
October 22nd, 1954 71 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 59 years old
An English author and educator, contributions spanned across various genres primarily focusing on fantasy and horror. Gained recognition through novels such as 'The Silent Land' and 'Some Kind of Fairy Tale'. Joyce's writing style often blended the fantastical with the real, earning him a dedicated readership. In addition to novels, he was involved in teaching creative writing, sharing insights and experiences with aspiring writers. His literary contributions were acknowledged within the literary community, reflecting a commitment to storytelling and education.
Continue ReadingMontserrat Abelló i Soler
Spanish poet and translator of works
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish literature, focused on poetry and translation. Contributed significantly to bringing the works of international authors to Spanish-speaking audiences. Published multiple poetry collections, exploring themes of identity, love, and nature. Translation work included significant works from Catalan to Spanish, enriching the literary landscape. Actively engaged in promoting Catalan culture through literature.
Continue ReadingMike Scarry
American football player and coach
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Played college football at the University of Notre Dame, contributing to the team's success. Coached at various levels, including high school and college football. Developed training programs and strategies that were adopted by coaching peers. Served as a mentor to many players who later pursued professional careers in the NFL.
Continue Reading