Helge Ingstad
Norwegian lawyer and Arctic explorer
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.
Discovered Viking site at L'Anse aux Meadows
Authored works on Norse exploration
Other People Born on December 30th
Sylvio Lazzari
French-Austrian composer and conductor
Born
December 30th, 1857 167 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1857, this composer and conductor worked primarily in France and contributed significantly to the music scene. Composing operas, orchestral works, and chamber music showcased a blend of French and Austro-German styles. The composer served in various prestigious positions, including as conductor for orchestras and operatic companies. His works often highlighted lyrical melodies and rich harmonies, reflecting the influences of his background and training. The composer gained recognition in musical circles during his lifetime, earning critical acclaim for both compositions and performances.
Continue ReadingVincenzo da Filicaja
Italian poet famous for lyric poetry
Born
December 30th, 1642 382 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1707 318 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Florence, this poet contributed significantly to Italian literature during the Baroque period. He focused heavily on lyric poetry, reflecting themes of love, nature, and the human experience in intricate verse. His works were characterized by their emotional depth and vivid imagery. Although many of his poems remained unpublished during his lifetime, they were later recognized for their artistic merit. His legacy includes influencing subsequent generations of Italian poets through his style and thematic choices.
Continue ReadingTheodor Fontane
German author and poet of novels
Born
December 30th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1898 127 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1819, a prominent German author and poet emerged as a significant literary figure in the 19th century. Active in various literary circles, this writer focused on novel writing, creating a specific genre of literature that combined realism and psychological insight. The most notable works include 'Effi Briest' and 'Der Stechlin', which reflect social issues and human emotions in the context of German society. Through detailed character studies and immersive storytelling, a substantial contribution to German literature was made, influencing future generations of writers.
Continue ReadingJohn W. Geary
16th Governor of Pennsylvania
Born
December 30th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 54 years old
Elected as the 16th Governor of Pennsylvania, serving from 1867 to 1873. Prior to his governorship, managed the Pennsylvania Railroad and held various military ranks during significant conflicts, including the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. Involved in Republican Party politics and played a role in the post-war reconstruction efforts in Pennsylvania.
Continue ReadingSylvester Jordan
Austrian-German lawyer and politician.
Born
December 30th, 1792 232 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1861 164 years ago — 68 years old
Graduated in law and practiced as a lawyer. Held significant political positions within the German Confederation. Contributed to legal and administrative reforms during the mid-19th century. Advocated for legal consistency and modernization in governance. Played a key role in legislative discussions and was involved in efforts promoting justice and legal equality.
Continue ReadingWilliam Aberhart
Canadian politician and Premier of Alberta
Born
December 30th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the seventh Premier of Alberta from 1935 to 1943. Founded the Social Credit Party, which advocated for economic reform and social credit policies. Was an influential evangelist, leading a significant religious movement in Alberta. Pioneered the use of radio broadcasting for public communication, using it to spread both religious messages and political ideas. His government implemented various social programs during the Great Depression.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 29th
Nikos Petzaropoulos
Greek Footballer with AEK Athens
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1979 46 years ago — 52 years old
Played as a prominent footballer in the Greek league during the mid-20th century. Represented AEK Athens, contributing significantly to the team's success. Participated in international competitions representing Greece, showcasing skills that earned recognition in his era. Retired from professional football and left a legacy within the sport in Greece.
Continue ReadingJoe Diffie
Country music singer and Grammy Award winner
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 62 years old
A country music singer achieved significant success in the 1990s. Gained popularity with a distinctive voice and storytelling ability in lyrics. Released several chart-topping hits and albums during a prolific career. Won a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for the song 'Same Old Train.' Part of the Grand Ole Opry and contributed to the genre through songwriting as well. Continued to perform and release music until the later years.
Continue ReadingCharles Villiers Stanford
Irish composer and conductor
Born
September 30th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1924 101 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent composer and conductor from Ireland, contributed significantly to both sacred and secular music. Stanford studied at the Royal Irish Academy of Music and later at Trinity College, Cambridge. He was a key figure in the development of British music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with compositions spanning various genres including symphonies, chamber music, and choral works. Served as a professor at the Royal College of Music in London, where he influenced a generation of British composers. His compositions often incorporated elements of folk music and showcased rich harmonic language.
Continue ReadingSarah Onyango Obama
Kenyan educator and philanthropist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 100 years old
Served as an educator and philanthropist. Advocated for education, especially for girls, and supported various community development initiatives. Established the Sarah Obama Foundation to provide educational opportunities to underprivileged children. Played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange and awareness. Recognized for contributions to education and her efforts in improving living standards within her community.
Continue ReadingAlan Merrill
Musician and songwriter, co-wrote 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll'
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 69 years old
An American musician and songwriter, played guitar and provided vocals for the band The Restless Hearts. Co-wrote the iconic song 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll', which gained immense popularity after being covered by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. Contributed to the music industry as a prominent figure in the glam rock movement during the 1970s. Throughout his career, collaborated with various artists and bands, leaving a lasting mark on rock music.
Continue ReadingAlexander Obolensky
Rugby player and WWII pilot
Born
February 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1940 85 years ago — 24 years old
Played rugby for England and made a significant contribution during World War II as a pilot. Achieved recognition for his performance in rugby union matches, notably in the 1939 match against Wales, where he scored two tries. His athletic career was cut short by the war, during which he served in the Royal Air Force and lost his life during a mission in 1943.
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