Henri Berger
Composer and bandleader, wrote marches
Born in 1844, a German composer and bandleader contributed significantly to military and concert band repertoire. His compositions, particularly marches, became standards in band literature. Many of his works were performed by military bands and concert ensembles and remain popular in the United States. Berger served as a bandmaster in the Hawaiian Kingdom, helping to establish a strong musical tradition in the islands. He left a lasting legacy through his extensive catalog of compositions.
Composed hundreds of marches and waltzes
Served as bandmaster in the Hawaiian Kingdom
Influenced military and concert band music
Other People Born on August 4th
Bernard Rose
Film director, screenwriter, cinematographer
Born
August 4th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 36 years old
Active since the 1980s, this English director and screenwriter gained prominence for directing the horror film 'Candyman' in 1992. 'Candyman' is often regarded as a significant entry in the horror genre and has garnered a cult following. The director's work spans various genres, with contributions to both film and television, often exhibiting a distinct style. Apart from filmmaking, also ventured into cinematography, showcasing technical skills in visual storytelling. Several of his films have received critical attention and fostered discussions on cultural themes.
Continue ReadingJohn Gormley
Irish politician, environment minister
Born
August 4th, 1959 66 years ago
Served as a significant political figure in Ireland with a focus on environmental policy. Held the position of Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. Played a key role in shaping Ireland's environmental legislation and governance during tenure in government. Engaged extensively in discussions regarding climate change and sustainable development.
Continue ReadingKlaus Schulze
German electronic music pioneer
Born
August 4th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2022 3 years ago — 74 years old
A pioneer in electronic music, contributed significantly to the genre with innovative compositions and performances. Made a name as a leading figure in the krautrock movement during the 1970s. Utilized a range of synthesizers and sequencers, exploring different soundscapes. Founded the influential group Ash Ra Tempel and released numerous solo albums, marking a transformative period in electronic music history.
Continue ReadingHelen Thomas
Journalist and author at UPI
Born
August 4th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a White House correspondent for United Press International (UPI) for nearly five decades. Covered ten consecutive presidencies from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama. Authored several books, including 'Watchdogs of Democracy? The Omnivorous Press' and 'Front Row at the White House'. Played a significant role in shaping political journalism and was a prominent figure in the White House press corps. Advocated for press freedoms throughout her career and became a pioneer for women in journalism.
Continue ReadingLouis Vuitton
Fashion designer, founded Louis Vuitton
Born
August 4th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1892 133 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent French fashion designer established a luxury brand recognized globally. Founded a leather goods company in 1854 which became synonymous with expert craftsmanship and high-quality materials. The brand expanded into various sectors including bags, clothing, and accessories, catering to an elite clientele. Innovations in travel trunk design contributed significantly to the brand's early success, setting a standard in the fashion industry.
Continue ReadingDavid Raksin
Composer known for 'Laura' score
Born
August 4th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2004 21 years ago — 92 years old
A significant American composer and educator, contributions spanned film and concert music. Raksin's most recognized work, the score for the 1944 film 'Laura,' became a standard in American cinema. Raksin also composed music for other films, including 'Too Late for Tears' and 'The Bad and the Beautiful.' In addition to film scores, Raksin was an influential educator, teaching composition and music theory at various institutions, impacting numerous students in the field of music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 14th
Lee Wan-koo
South Korean politician, Prime Minister
Died
October 14th, 2021 4 years ago — None years old
Held the position of the 39th Prime Minister of South Korea from February to April 2015. Focused on economic reforms during the tenure and worked on improving the country's welfare systems. Contributed to various economic initiatives aimed at stimulating growth. Resigned amid political controversy, which marked a significant moment in South Korean politics.
Continue ReadingArlen Specter
American politician and attorney
Born
February 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, spent over 30 years as a United States Senator from Pennsylvania. Served as a Republican and later as a Democrat, contributing to significant legislative efforts, particularly in areas such as judicial nominations, health care, and civil rights. Also took part in landmark investigations, including the Warren Commission's inquiry into President John F. Kennedy's assassination. Was a key voice in various Senate committees, influencing policies on national security, justice, and more.
Continue ReadingWally Bell
Baseball umpire and player
Born
1965 60 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 48 years old
Played in Major League Baseball and served as an umpire from 1992 until 2013. Officiated games in the American League and later the combined MLB. Worked in numerous postseason games, including the 1997 World Series. Bell faced health challenges, being diagnosed with a heart condition, which ultimately affected his career. He continued to work in the league despite these issues, demonstrating dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingKäty van der Mije-Nicolau
Chess player; Women's World Champion
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 73 years old
Achieved prominence in international chess as a competitor. Won the Women's World Chess Championship in 1974, representing Romania. Contributed to chess not only through competitive play but also in the promotion and development of the game in various countries. Participated in multiple European and World championships throughout the career, facing off against some of the best players of the time.
Continue ReadingHelen Kelly
New Zealand trade union leader
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2016 9 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent trade union leader in New Zealand, played a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights and workplace safety. Served as the President of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions from 2007 until 2015. Focused on equal pay, job security, and improving working conditions across various industries. Engaged in campaigns that raised awareness about labor rights and protections for vulnerable workers. Advocated for the rights of those in precarious employment situations and worked towards legislative changes that benefited workers nationwide.
Continue ReadingRadhakrishna Hariram Tahiliani
Indian admiral and naval officer
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
An admiral in the Indian Navy, held key leadership positions including the Chief of the Naval Staff. Played a significant role in modernizing and transforming naval operations in India. Served during critical periods, influencing naval strategy and policies. Led various missions and initiatives to enhance India's maritime capabilities. Contributed to international naval relations and represented India in various defense forums.
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