Henry Purcell
English organist and composer of opera
An English composer and organist, contributed significantly to the Baroque music era. Served as the organist of Westminster Abbey and composed various sacred music, operas, and instrumental works. Purcell is notable for his opera 'Dido and Aeneas', recognized as one of the earliest English operas. His works exhibit a deep emotional thrust and innovative use of harmony, influencing subsequent generations of composers.
composed the opera 'Dido and Aeneas'
served as organist at Westminster Abbey
wrote over 100 songs and sacred choral works
Other People Born on September 10th
Thomas Sydenham
English physician and medical author
Born
September 10th, 1624 401 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1689 336 years ago — 65 years old
This physician contributed significantly to the understanding of medicine in the 17th century. He emphasized clinical observation and careful documentation of patient symptoms. His work laid foundational principles for modern clinical medicine. An important text, 'Observationes Medicae', detailed descriptions of diseases and provided insights into their treatment, influencing the field for generations. His approach advocated for a more systematic and empirical study of medicine, moving away from prevailing theories of the time.
Continue ReadingBessie Love
American actress from the silent era
Born
September 10th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1986 39 years ago — 87 years old
Active mainly during the silent film era, an American actress gained prominence in the early 20th century. Starred in films such as 'The Great Gatsby' and 'The Love Light.' Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for the film 'The Love Light' in 1921. Transitioned to sound films but remained best remembered for her silent film performances.
Continue ReadingBeryl Cook
English painter and illustrator of humor
Born
September 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2008 17 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1926, an English painter and illustrator specialized in depicting humorous and lively scenes of everyday life. Best known for vibrant and whimsical portrayals of people, often celebrating their joy and eccentricities. Gained recognition in the 1970s, utilizing bold colors and exaggerated forms. Works displayed in many galleries, showcasing the charm and humor of contemporary life. Authored several books featuring illustrations that further demonstrate artistic style. Continued to create art until her later years, influencing a distinctive approach to observational painting.
Continue ReadingCyril Connolly
English author and literary critic
Born
September 10th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1974 51 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1903, this author and critic became a prominent figure in 20th-century literature. Connolly founded the influential literary magazine Horizon, which published works from numerous notable writers and critics. His book, 'Enemies of Promise', offered a critical examination of the literary landscape, exploring the conflict between artistic ambitions and the realities of life. He also wrote various essays and critiques that shaped literary discourse during his time. Connolly's reflections on literature and society have been studied for their insights into the challenges faced by writers.
Continue ReadingFranz Werfel
Austrian-Bohemian author and playwright
Born
September 10th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1890, an author and playwright emerged from Austria-Hungary, contributing significantly to literature in the early to mid-20th century. Notable works include 'The Forty Days of Musa Dagh', a novel depicting the Armenian genocide, and 'The Song of Bernadette', a story about the life of Saint Bernadette Soubirous. His writing often reflected on themes of spirituality and morality against the backdrop of sociopolitical turmoil. Forced to flee Europe during the rise of Nazism, he eventually settled in the United States, where he continued writing until his death in 1945.
Continue ReadingCarl Clinton Van Doren
Critic and biographer of American literature
Born
September 10th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1950 75 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1885, the subject contributed significantly to American literary criticism and biography. A graduate of Columbia University, served as a professor there. Wrote extensively on various authors, most notably the biography of Benjamin Franklin. Also recognized for contributions to literary criticism, emphasizing the significance of American writers. Worked as an editor and journalist, influencing literary discourse in the 20th century. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 1939 for 'Daniel Webster.'
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 21st
Jan Brożek
Polish mathematician and astronomer
Born
November 1st, 1585 440 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1652 373 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1585, this mathematician, physician, and astronomer contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and astronomy during the Renaissance. Studied at various European universities, including Padua, and became a member of the scientific community in Poland. Emphasized the importance of mathematical methods in astronomy, particularly in his works that included studies on celestial mechanics. Engaged in the teaching of mathematics and sciences, influencing the education of future scholars.
Continue ReadingFranz Joseph I of Austria
Austrian Emperor and monarch
Born
August 18th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1916 109 years ago — 86 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1848 until death in 1916. Oversaw significant events such as the Austro-Prussian War, the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, and World War I. His reign faced various national movements within the empire, leading to challenges in maintaining control over diverse ethnic groups. Aimed to modernize the empire while balancing power struggles with neighboring nations.
Continue ReadingHeinrich XXVII
Prince and Head of the Reuss Younger Line
Born
November 10th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1928 97 years ago — 70 years old
Born into German nobility, served as the head of the Reuss Younger Line. Succeeded his father as prince in 1902, overseeing family affairs and representing the lineage in various ceremonial functions. Actively engaged in local governance and contributed to cultural and social initiatives within the region. Involved in World War I, played a role in military and administrative matters pertaining to his principality.
Continue ReadingCount Leopold Berchtold
Austrian-Hungarian diplomat, Joint Foreign Minister
Born
April 18th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1942 83 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the Joint Foreign Minister of Austria-Hungary during a pivotal time leading up to World War I. Played a significant role in the diplomatic maneuvers that followed the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Was involved in shaping the foreign policy of Austria-Hungary and had a critical role in the tensions that escalated into the war. Advocated for a hardline response to Serbia and influenced the decisions made by the Austro-Hungarian government.
Continue ReadingCarl Hubbell
American baseball pitcher, Hall of Famer
Born
June 22nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1988 37 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent baseball pitcher, achieved recognition during a career largely spent with the New York Giants. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1928 and played until 1943. Earned the nickname 'King Carl' for his dominant performance on the mound. Secured two MVP awards and participated in six All-Star games. Won a total of 253 games and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1947, solidifying his legacy as one of the sport's greatest pitchers.
Continue ReadingMax Baer
Boxer and actor; heavyweight champion
Born
February 11th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1959 66 years ago — 50 years old
An accomplished boxer and actor, achieved recognition as the World Heavyweight Champion in 1934. Fought notable matches against prominent boxers including Joe Louis and Tony Galento. Transitioned to acting, appearing in films such as "The Prizefighter and the Lady," showcasing a successful dual career in both boxing and entertainment. Engaged in charitable activities, including supporting the war effort during World War II.
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