Henry Lawes
English composer of madrigals and songs
An English composer, contributed significantly to the development of music during the early 17th century. Focused on vocal music, particularly madrigals and songs, with a remarkable ability to blend lyrical poetry with melodic lines. Collaborated with notable poets of the time, including Robert Herrick and John Milton, enhancing the expressive potential of English song. Familiar for compositions that exhibit clarity and emotional depth. Served as a court musician for notable patrons, which elevated his status in the music community. Maintained a significant influence on the music that followed.
Composed the songs for Milton's 'L'Allegro' and 'Il Penseroso'
Wrote numerous madrigals and songs
Other People Born on December 5th
Arthur Currie
Canadian general and military leader
Born
December 5th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1933 92 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent Canadian military leader, served with distinction during World War I. Became the first Canadian commander of the Canadian Corps in 1917. Oversaw several significant battles, including the Battle of Vimy Ridge, which occurred in April 1917. Instrumental in the development of tactics that utilized combined arms and innovation in warfare. Played a vital role in the Hundred Days Offensive, leading to the end of the war. Post-war, emphasized the importance of military training and preparation.
Continue ReadingEduard Seler
German anthropologist and ethnohistorian
Born
December 5th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
1922 104 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of Mesoamerican culture and languages, focusing on the history and mythology of ancient Maya civilization. Worked extensively on the interpretation of iconography and inscriptions. Published numerous works that offered insights into the cultures of Mexico and Central America, including studies on codices and regional histories. Engaged with various academic institutions and garnered respect for linguistic and ethnographical research.
Continue ReadingGeorge Armstrong Custer
American Civil War general
Born
December 5th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1876 149 years ago — 36 years old
A cavalry commander during the American Civil War, led troops at significant battles including Gettysburg and participated in various campaigns against Native American tribes in the Great Plains. Custer is most remembered for his defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, where he and his forces were overwhelmed by a coalition of Native American tribes. Prior to his military career, Custer graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1861.
Continue ReadingArnold Sommerfeld
Physicist known for atomic structure theory
Born
December 5th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1951 74 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to quantum mechanics and atomic theory have been significant in the field of physics. Introduced the Sommerfeld fine-structure constant, enhancing the understanding of spectral lines. Served as a professor at the Technical University of Munich, influencing many prominent physicists. Wrote several influential textbooks on theoretical physics, helping to shape future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingGershom Scholem
Historian of Jewish mysticism
Born
December 5th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1982 43 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent historian and philosopher focused on Jewish mysticism, Scholem established the field of Kabbalistic studies in modern academia. His seminal work, "Major Trends in Jewish Mysticism," articulated the historical development and significance of Kabbalah. He served as a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he contributed to the study of Jewish thought and culture. Scholem's interpretations of mystical texts reshaped understanding of Jewish spiritual traditions, emphasizing their historical and cultural contexts.
Continue ReadingCarl Ferdinand Cori
Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
December 5th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 87 years old
This individual was a biochemist and pharmacologist who made significant contributions to the understanding of carbohydrate metabolism. Together with his wife, also a biochemist, conducted extensive research on the Cori cycle, describing how glycogen is converted to glucose in the body. Their work advanced knowledge in metabolic processes and laid foundations for further research in biochemistry. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1947 for discoveries in the field of carbohydrate metabolism, this individual positively influenced medical and biological research.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 21st
Antoni Dobrowolski
Polish educator and historian
Born
1904 122 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 108 years old
An educator with a focus on history and cultural studies, contributed significantly to the field of education in Poland. Authored numerous works on the history of Poland, particularly regarding the 20th century. Involved in various educational reforms and initiatives that aimed to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in the country. Played a vital role in preserving Polish cultural heritage through education.
Continue ReadingBobby Charlton
Football player and manager; World Cup winner
Born
October 11th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2023 2 years ago — 86 years old
Played as a midfielder and forward, achieving prominence in English football. Was a key player for Manchester United from 1953 to 1973. Contributed to Manchester United's success in winning the European Cup in 1968. Played a pivotal role in securing England's only World Cup title in 1966. After retiring as a player, took on a managerial role, impacting the later stages of his football career.
Continue ReadingFrancis W. Sargent
American politician and soldier.
Born
July 29th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1998 27 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 64th Governor of Massachusetts from 1969 to 1975. Prior military service included roles in the U.S. Army during World War II. Before governorship, held positions such as the Massachusetts Secretary of Environmental Affairs. Focused on environmental policies and public safety during time in office, promoting clean energy and conservation efforts.
Continue ReadingEdith Kawelohea McKinzie
Hawaiian genealogist and hula expert
Born
October 22nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
A genealogist and author focused on Hawaiian history and culture. Contributions to the understanding of Hawaiian lineage and customs were significant. Authored books that explored native Hawaiian genealogy and traditions. Engaged in hula as a cultural expression and teaching method, sharing knowledge about its importance within Hawaiian heritage. Worked tirelessly to preserve and promote Hawaiian culture through genealogy and hula.
Continue ReadingBill Black
Bass player and bandleader from America
Born
September 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1965 60 years ago — 39 years old
A prominent American bass player and bandleader, notable for contributions to the development of rock and roll music in the 1950s. Rose to fame as a member of Elvis Presley's original band, providing the iconic bass lines essential to the rockabilly sound. After leaving Presley's group, formed Bill Black's Combo, which achieved success on the charts with instrumental hits. The combo blended elements of rock, country, and rhythm and blues, and garnered popularity in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Continue ReadingSandy West
Singer and drummer of The Runaways
Born
July 10th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2006 19 years ago — 47 years old
Started musical career as the drummer for the all-female rock band The Runaways, which was formed in 1975. The band achieved major success with hit songs including "Cherry Bomb" and "Queens of Noise." After the disbandment of The Runaways in 1979, pursued a solo career and played with various other bands. Also engaged in songwriting during and after her time with The Runaways. Continued performing music until the 1990s.
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