Henry Mancini
Composer of iconic film scores
An American composer and conductor, Mancini gained prominence in the mid-20th century for his innovative film scores. He created music for over 100 films and numerous television shows. His most acclaimed works include the themes for 'Peter Gunn,' 'Breakfast at Tiffany's,' and 'The Pink Panther.' Mancini's compositions often blended orchestral and jazz elements, leading to a unique sound that defined the era's film music. He received multiple Academy Awards and Grammy Awards throughout his career, solidifying his legacy in the world of film music.
Composed the theme for 'The Pink Panther'
Won 4 Academy Awards and 20 Grammy Awards
Created scores for 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' and 'Peter Gunn'
Other People Born on April 16th
Berton Roueché
Journalist and author of medical stories
Born
April 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1994 31 years ago — 84 years old
A journalist and author focused on medical narratives, contributed extensively to The New Yorker from the 1940s to the 1990s. Wrote numerous articles that highlighted various medical phenomena and public health issues, merging storytelling with factual reporting. Authored several books, including 'The Medical Detectives', which compiled investigative pieces into a cohesive format. The works showcased a careful exploration of the intersection between medicine and human behavior.
Continue ReadingKingsley Amis
English novelist and poet
Born
April 16th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1995 30 years ago — 73 years old
An English novelist, poet, and critic rose to prominence in the literary world for contributions that shaped post-war British fiction. Works include the acclaimed novel 'Lucky Jim', which satirized academic life and social pretensions. Amis also produced a variety of poetry and critical essays, exploring language and aesthetics. The blending of humor with a critical eye towards society characterized much of the literary output, establishing a lasting legacy in modern literature. His writing spanned several decades, contributing to both novels and criticism while engaging with contemporary themes and issues.
Continue ReadingErnst Thälmann
German politician and communist leader
Born
April 16th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1944 81 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1886, a German politician and prominent member of the Communist Party of Germany. Participated in anti-fascist activities and was a key opponent of the Nazi regime. Elected as the party's national chairman in 1925, worked to strengthen the party's presence in German politics. Arrested by the Nazis in 1933 and remained imprisoned until execution in 1944. Posthumously recognized as a martyr of the communist movement.
Continue ReadingOsman Achmatowicz
Polish chemist and educator
Born
April 16th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1988 37 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1899, a Polish chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Achmatowicz specialized in the study of natural compounds and their synthesis, particularly focusing on terpenes and resins. His career included influential teaching positions at various universities, where he cultivated future generations of chemists. Achmatowicz published numerous research papers that advanced knowledge in organic chemistry. In recognition of his scholarly work, several scientific accolades were awarded throughout his career.
Continue ReadingGuy Burgess
English-Russian spy during Cold War
Born
April 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1963 62 years ago — 52 years old
Burgess served as an important figure in espionage during the Cold War. Initially working for the British Foreign Office, he was a member of the Cambridge Five, a group of spies who passed information to the Soviet Union. In 1951, amid heightened scrutiny and suspicion, Burgess defected to the Soviet Union with fellow spy Donald Maclean, ultimately settling in Moscow. His actions contributed to significant intelligence leaks during a critical period in history, causing widespread alarm within British intelligence circles. He lived in the Soviet Union until his death in 1963, continuing to work in various capacities for the Soviet government.
Continue ReadingCharles Montagu
Poet and Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
April 16th, 1661 364 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1715 310 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 1st Earl of Halifax and became a significant figure within the English government during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Played a crucial role in financial matters as Chancellor of the Exchequer, managing the economic policies and budget of the nation. Contributed to the literary world as a poet, with works that reflected the political and social issues of the time. Participated in the establishment of the Bank of England, which greatly influenced the country’s financial system.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 14th
John III of Navarre
King of Navarre and Duke of Beaumont
Born
1469 556 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1516 509 years ago — 47 years old
Ruled as King of Navarre from 1512 until death in 1516. Assumed the title of Duke of Beaumont in 1510. Faced significant challenges during the period of the Spanish conquest of Navarre, which culminated in losing territory to Spain. His reign was marked by efforts to maintain autonomy and power amidst external pressures.
Continue ReadingRichard Cotton
Australian geneticist and academic
Born
November 10th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
A geneticist and academic contributed to the study of genetic diseases and the development of new therapies. Worked at the University of Queensland, focusing on the genetic basis of rare conditions. Became a voice in the field of molecular genetics, particularly in understanding the role of gene mutations in human diseases. Published extensively on genetic research and was involved in several collaborative projects aimed at improving diagnostic methods for various hereditary disorders.
Continue ReadingCarlos Reichenbach
Brazilian director and producer
Born
June 14th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 67 years old
A Brazilian director and producer contributed significantly to cinema through the creation of influential films. Worked extensively in Brazilian cinema during the 1970s and 1980s. Directed works that reflected social issues and cultural themes of Brazil. Reichenbach's films often featured a unique narrative style and visual storytelling. His dedication to the craft led to a career marked by both critical recognition and a loyal following among film enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingPeter Archer
English lawyer and Solicitor General
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
An English lawyer and politician served as Solicitor General for England and Wales. Created a life peer in 1997 as Baron Archer of Sandwell. Contributed to the legal field through various roles in public service. Engaged in matters of law and politics throughout a lengthy career. Involved with legislative processes and legal reforms, representing the interests of justice and public welfare.
Continue ReadingJacob Kroger
Goldsmith executed for jewel theft
Died
June 14th, 1594 431 years ago — None years old
A goldsmith from Germany, engaged in the craft of jewelry making, committed theft targeting a high-profile royal collection. The theft involved the jewels of Anne of Denmark, which led to his apprehension and subsequent trial. Found guilty, faced execution by hanging in Edinburgh. The case became notable due to the high status of the victim and the nature of the crime, drawing attention to issues surrounding theft and justice in the era.
Continue ReadingPeggy Ashcroft
English actress, renowned for 'The Home and the World'
Born
December 22nd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 83 years old
An English actress with a prominent career in theater and film. Debuted in the 1920s and gained recognition for versatility in varied roles. Achieved acclaim for performances in productions such as 'The Home and the World' and 'The Seagull'. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the film 'Lilies of the Field'. Cultivated a strong association with the Royal Shakespeare Company and contributed significantly to British stage and cinema.
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