Jean-Baptiste Lully
Composer of French opera and ballet music
An Italian-French composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of French opera in the 17th century. Lully became the court composer and director of music for King Louis XIV, establishing a style that combined French musical elements with Italian techniques. He founded the French opera tradition with the creation of several celebrated works, including 'Armide' and 'Atys'. Lully also played a crucial role in the ballet de cour genre, writing music for many court ballets performed at the royal court. His influence extended beyond composition, as he also established the Académie Royale de Musique, laying the groundwork for future operatic institutions in France.
Composition of 'Armide'
Composition of 'Atys'
Establishment of the Académie Royale de Musique
Other People Born on November 28th
Jarvis Landry
American football wide receiver
Born
November 28th, 1992 33 years ago
Played college football at LSU, earning All-American honors. Entered the NFL in 2014, selected by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the draft. Achieved Pro Bowl selections in 2015, 2016, and 2017. Known for exceptional receiving skills and work ethic, set numerous franchise records with the Dolphins. Later joined the Cleveland Browns, continuing to excel as a key offensive player.
Continue ReadingAdam Hicks
American actor and musician
Born
November 28th, 1992 33 years ago
Early career included roles in Disney Channel's series, particularly in 'Zeke and Luther' and 'How to Rock'. Transitioned to film with appearances in 'Freaky Friday' and 'Teen Beach Movie'. Also contributed to music, releasing original tracks and collaborating with other artists. Hicks faced legal challenges in recent years, involving arrests that affected career trajectory.
Continue ReadingChase Elliott
NASCAR driver and championship winner
Born
November 28th, 1995 30 years ago
A prominent American race car driver, prominent in the NASCAR Cup Series. Achieved success in the 2014 NASCAR Nationwide Series, winning the championship. Secured the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series championship, marking a significant milestone in racing. Built a reputation for skill and consistency on various tracks, gaining a substantial fan following. Known for driving the No. 9 car for Hendrick Motorsports, demonstrating exceptional talent in high-pressure situations.
Continue ReadingStefan Zweig
Austrian author and playwright
Born
November 28th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1942 83 years ago — 60 years old
An Austrian journalist, author, and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Works explored themes of identity, culture, and existential crisis. Gained prominence in the literary world with works such as 'The World of Yesterday,' an autobiographical reflection on pre-war Europe, and 'Letter from an Unknown Woman,' a poignant novella highlighting unrequited love. Fled Austria during the rise of Nazism, leading to a life of exile. Eventually settled in Brazil, where the later years were marked by his despair over the destruction of European culture.
Continue ReadingWilliam Weston
Australian politician, 3rd Premier of Tasmania
Born
November 28th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1888 137 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 3rd Premier of Tasmania from 1887 until 1888. Political career included leadership roles in the Tasmanian Legislative Council. Played a significant role in shaping early Tasmanian politics and governance.
Continue ReadingDavid Nofoaluma
Rugby league player, Wests Tigers star
Born
November 28th, 1993 32 years ago
A rugby league player, became prominent while playing for the Wests Tigers in the National Rugby League (NRL). Starting his career with the Wests Tigers in 2013, consistently demonstrated skills as a winger and center. Achieved significant recognition in the NRL for his performances, culminating in being selected for the New South Wales State of Origin squad. Represents Samoa in international competition, contributing to the team during the Rugby League World Cup.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 22nd
William of Norwich
Child murder victim in 12th century England
Died
March 22nd, 1144 881 years ago — None years old
A young boy was found murdered in Norwich, England, in March 1144. The case received significant attention, leading to widespread speculation and accusations against the Jewish community in the area. This incident played a role in escalating tensions between Christians and Jews during this period, contributing to the establishment of blood libel myths. The aftermath of the murder sparked violence against Jews and influenced perceptions of Jewish communities in medieval Europe. The case was interwoven with the socio-political climate, reflecting the complexities of religious and cultural relations.
Continue ReadingBilly Williamson
American guitarist of The Grand Ole Opry
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1996 29 years ago — 71 years old
Pioneered the use of steel guitar in country music. Joined The Grand Ole Opry in the late 1940s as a member of Roy Acuff's band, contributing significantly to the sound of country music. Played a key role in popularizing the steel guitar through performances and recordings. Worked with several notable artists during a career that spanned decades. Available recordings include classic country hits and collaborations that showcased the instrument's versatility.
Continue ReadingD. S. Senanayake
1st Prime Minister of Sri Lanka
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1952 73 years ago — 69 years old
First Prime Minister of Sri Lanka served from 1947 until death in 1952. Played a crucial role in the country’s transition from British colonial rule to independence. Focused on agricultural reforms and economic development, introducing policies that aimed to modernize the agricultural sector. Established the first constitution for independent Ceylon, paving the way for democratic governance. Advocated for national unity and worked on promoting the Sinhala language.
Continue ReadingNeil L. Whitehead
Anthropologist and author of key works
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 56 years old
An anthropologist and author focused on indigenous peoples and cultural studies. Achievements include extensive field research in South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin. Contributions to the study of cultural and biological diversity have been noted in various academic circles. Whitehead's writings explored topics surrounding shamanism, ritual, and social change among indigenous communities. Engaged in the academic community through lectures and publications, sharing insights into the complexities of cultural practices.
Continue ReadingGeorge of Poděbrady
King of Bohemia and political leader
Born
April 23rd, 1420 605 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1471 554 years ago — 50 years old
Ruled as the King of Bohemia from 1458 until death in 1471. Initiated diplomatic relations among European states and sought to establish peace during a period of conflict. Advocated for the Hussite movement, promoting a national identity distinct from the Catholic Church. His reign was characterized by efforts to strengthen the Bohemian crown and maintain autonomy from external influences.
Continue ReadingJanet Akyüz Mattei
Astronomer and leader in stellar research
Born
January 2nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2004 21 years ago — 61 years old
An accomplished astronomer with significant contributions to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of variable stars. Served as the director of the AAVSO (American Association of Variable Star Observers), fostering international collaboration and data collection in the observation of variable stars. Authored numerous publications that advanced the understanding of stellar variability and worked extensively on public outreach to promote amateur astronomy. Advocated for the inclusion of women in science throughout a career that spanned several decades until passing in 2004.
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