Hugo Wolf
Austrian composer known for art songs
Austrian composer contributed significantly to the art song repertoire, crafting over 250 Lieder. Influenced by Richard Wagner, incorporated complex harmonies and emotional depth in compositions. Worked extensively in creating song cycles, with 'Mörike-Lieder' and 'Goethe-Lieder' being notable examples. His works are characterized by lyrical melodies and innovative piano accompaniments. Despite struggles with mental health and a relatively short life, produced an enduring body of work that is still performed today. Spent much of his life in Vienna, where he engaged with various cultural and musical circles.
Composed the 'Mörike-Lieder' cycle
Created the 'Goethe-Lieder' song cycle
Influenced the development of German Lied
Other People Born on March 13th
George MacKay
English actor best known for 1917
Born
March 13th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, an English actor gained recognition for roles in film and television. Appeared in the film '1917', which received critical acclaim and various awards. Starred in the film 'Pride', which focused on the true story of LGBTQ+ activists supporting striking miners. Additionally featured in the movie 'The Outcast', based on the novel by Sadie Jones. His performances have garnered attention for their depth and emotional resonance, establishing a reputation within the film industry.
Continue ReadingJohn Griffin
Field Marshal, 4th Baron Howard de Walden
Born
March 13th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1797 228 years ago — 78 years old
Held the title of 4th Baron Howard de Walden and served as an English field marshal and politician. Acted as the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, overseeing the county's administration during a significant part of the 18th century. Commanded military forces and participated in various military activities that contributed to the governance of England. Involved in political discussions that shaped local and national policies. Represented the aristocracy in military and civilian spheres, adhering to the responsibilities of a peer during this period.
Continue ReadingSammy Kaye
Saxophonist and bandleader of Swing music
Born
March 13th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1987 38 years ago — 77 years old
An American saxophonist, songwriter, and bandleader, this musician emerged in the big band era, leading a popular orchestra in the 1940s and 1950s. The orchestral style combined swing with smooth vocal harmonies. A signature program, 'Sammy Kaye and His Orchestra', featured performances that included both instrumental and vocal arrangements. The band achieved popularity through radio broadcasts and live performances, contributing to the Swing music movement. Many of the band's hits became standards of the genre, further cementing a legacy in American music.
Continue ReadingCaryl Phillips
Caribbean-English author and playwright
Born
March 13th, 1958 67 years ago
Born in 1958, this Caribbean-English author and playwright has explored themes of race, identity, and belonging in works spanning multiple genres. Education received at the University of Kent and immediate literary contributions established a significant presence in contemporary literature. Major works include 'Crossing the River,' which won the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for Best Book. The individual's plays, such as 'Blues for an Alabama Sky,' draw attention to social issues and cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingRoy Haynes
American jazz drummer and composer
Born
March 13th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent jazz drummer and composer with a career spanning over seven decades. Began performing in the 1940s and gained recognition for innovative techniques and unique rhythmic styles. Collaborated with legendary artists such as Charlie Parker, Thelonious Monk, and Chick Corea. Played with various ensembles and led his own groups, significantly influencing the evolution of jazz drumming. Recorded numerous albums, showcasing a blend of modern jazz and traditional elements. Continued to perform actively into advanced age, contributing to the art form.
Continue ReadingWalter Annenberg
Publisher and U.S. Ambassador to UK
Born
March 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2002 23 years ago — 94 years old
Annenberg served as a publisher and diplomat. In 1969, appointed as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, he held the position until 1974. During his career, he established the Annenberg Foundation, which focused on education, arts, and communication. His work in publishing included ownership of the Triangle Publications, which published TV Guide and Seventeen magazine. Significant contributions were made to various educational and cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 22nd
Rémi Ochlik
Photographer recognized for conflict coverage
Born
1983 42 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 29 years old
Worked predominantly as a war photographer and photojournalist. Documented various conflicts and humanitarian crises, with significant focus on the Syrian civil war. Contributed to major publications and received accolades for investigative photography. Was a finalist for the World Press Photo award in 2012, which highlighted the impact of his work in documenting the realities of war and its consequences.
Continue ReadingJonas Savimbi
Angolan general, founded UNITA
Born
August 3rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 67 years old
Founded the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) in 1966. Led UNITA as a prominent faction during the Angolan Civil War, which lasted from 1975 to 2002. Engaged in conflict against the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). Played a crucial role in the resistance against the Angolan government, which influenced regional dynamics in Southern Africa.
Continue ReadingChristoph Probst
German activist and member of the White Rose
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago — 24 years old
A key member of the White Rose resistance group, played a role in challenging the Nazi regime through anti-war pamphlets. Probst was a medical student and contributed to the group's efforts to expose the atrocities committed by the Nazis. Arrested in 1943, faced trial, and executed shortly thereafter. The White Rose is remembered for its courage in speaking out against totalitarianism.
Continue ReadingFritz Schmenkel
German anti-Nazi partisan leader
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1944 81 years ago — 28 years old
Joined the Soviet partisans during World War II, actively resisting Nazi forces in Germany. Involved in guerrilla warfare against the Nazis, contributing to the fight for liberation from fascism. Participated in various operations that targeted Nazi supply lines and military installations. Significant involvement in planning and executing sabotage missions which supported Allied efforts on the Eastern Front. Died in combat on February 22, 1944, while engaging German troops.
Continue ReadingJean Chapelain
French poet and literary critic
Born
December 4th, 1595 430 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1674 351 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent figure in 17th-century French literature, contributed to the development of French poetry and criticism. Served as a member of the French Academy, influencing literary standards of the time. Wrote the epic poem 'La Pucelle', which gained attention for its themes and form. Championed a new approach to the poetic structure that emphasized clarity and elegance.
Continue ReadingKasturba Gandhi
Indian activist and social reformer
Born
1869 156 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1944 81 years ago — 75 years old
An Indian activist, involved in the Indian independence movement alongside her husband. Worked tirelessly for social reforms, women's rights, and sanitation issues. Participated in various protests and campaigns for civil rights, including the Champaran and Kheda movements. Died in prison during the freedom struggle, continuing to inspire generations for her commitment to nonviolent resistance.
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