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
Robert Wise
Film director and producer of classics
Born
September 10th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
Directed and produced acclaimed films across various genres. Gained recognition for work in the science fiction and musical genres. Won Academy Awards for directing 'West Side Story' and 'The Sound of Music'. Contributed significantly to the editing of 'Citizen Kane', one of the most influential films in cinema history.
Continue ReadingRoger Maris
Baseball player, 1961 home run champion
Born
September 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1985 40 years ago — 51 years old
A Major League Baseball player, achieved significant acclaim during a career primarily with the New York Yankees. In 1961, set a then single-season home run record by hitting 61 home runs, surpassing the previous record held by Babe Ruth. Maris won the American League MVP award in the same year. Also played for the Kansas City Royals late in his career. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of young players in the sport.
Continue ReadingCorban Knight
Professional ice hockey player
Born
September 10th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional ice hockey player from Canada, played center in the National Hockey League (NHL). Played for the Florida Panthers during the 2013-2014 season. In addition to his time in the NHL, contributed significantly to several teams in lower leagues, building a reputation for solid two-way play and offensive contributions. After a professional playing career, transitioned to coaching and player development roles.
Continue ReadingMaria Theresa of Spain
Spanish Queen Consort of France
Born
September 10th, 1638 387 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1683 342 years ago — 44 years old
From 1660 to 1683, served as Queen Consort of France through marriage to Louis XIV. As a member of the Habsburg dynasty, played a significant diplomatic role in European politics. Her marriage was pivotal in strengthening the ties between Spain and France, marking her as an important figure in the dynastic alliances of that era. Died in 1683, leaving a legacy tied to the Bourbon monarchy.
Continue ReadingCharles Collett
Engineer and designer of locomotives
Born
September 10th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 81 years old
An engineer, key in the design and development of steam locomotives for the Great Western Railway. Collett joined the railway as a chief mechanical engineer and held the position from 1922 until retirement in 1941. Contributions included the creation of the Castle class locomotives which became a framework for future designs. His work improved efficiency and performance of trains during the steam era.
Continue ReadingAlva R. Fitch
American general during World War II
Born
September 10th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1989 36 years ago — 82 years old
Extended military career spanned over three decades. Held key roles during World War II, commanding troops in significant campaigns. Contributed to post-war military strategy and operations. Achieved the rank of Major General in the United States Army.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 21st
Winifred Carney
Irish suffragist and trade unionist
Born
December 4th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1943 82 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1887, became deeply involved in the Irish suffrage movement and trade union activities. Played a significant role in advocating for women's rights and workers' rights in Ireland. Actively participated in the 1916 Easter Rising, supporting the fight for Irish independence. Worked with various organizations to promote social change and equality for women in Ireland.
Continue ReadingThomas Pelly
American lawyer and politician
Born
August 22nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1973 52 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a lawyer and politician in the United States. Pelly represented Washington's 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1945 to 1947. During his tenure, he focused on issues related to the Pacific Northwest and contributed to various legislative efforts. Prior to his congressional service, he engaged in local governance and participated in community development initiatives.
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 ReadingRobert Benchley
Humorist and Actor known for 'The Spy',
Born
September 15th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1945 80 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent humorist and newspaper columnist, contributed significantly to American literature and entertainment during the early to mid-20th century. Wrote a series of humorous essays that appeared in publications such as The New Yorker. Gained recognition for the ability to blend wit with poignant observations of everyday life. Also acted in several films, including the adaptation of his own work titled 'The Spy'. His style influenced many writers and comedians who followed.
Continue ReadingLou Cutell
American actor in film and television
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
Acted in numerous television shows and films, drawing recognition for unique character roles. Gained attention for performance in the sitcom 'Seinfeld' as the character Dr. Anthony. Also appeared in the film 'Pee-wee's Big Adventure' as the character Large Marge. Engaged in a variety of guest roles on shows such as 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'The Golden Girls'. Worked extensively in theater productions, contributing to a robust performance background over several decades.
Continue ReadingLarry Shields
Clarinet player and bandleader
Born
September 13th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1953 72 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1893, this clarinet player contributed significantly to the jazz genre during the early 20th century. Leading the New Orleans Rhythm Kings, he played a pivotal role in popularizing jazz music. His musical style blended elements of traditional New Orleans jazz with improvisational techniques, influencing later generations of musicians. His performances with various bands highlighted his virtuosity on the clarinet. He recorded numerous tracks throughout his career, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of jazz music.
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