Johann Mattheson
German composer and music theorist
Contributed significantly to music theory and lexicography in the Baroque period. Authored several key works, including 'Der vollkommene Capellmeister,' which explored compositional techniques and the role of the conductor. Composed operas and vocal music, notably 'Boris Gudunov,' which gained attention during his lifetime. Facilitated discussions on music and aesthetics through writings and his involvement in musical circles.
Wrote 'Der vollkommene Capellmeister'
Composed notable operas including 'Boris Gudunov'
Other People Born on September 28th
Frankie Jonas
American actor, singer, and songwriter
Born
September 28th, 2000 25 years ago
Born on September 28, 2000, an American actor, singer, and songwriter rose to prominence as a voice actor in animated series and films. Gained early recognition as the youngest member of the Jonas family. Voiced the character Axl in the animated film 'Ponyo' and appeared in the series 'Jonas'. Released music that contributed to his growing presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingBob Carr
American politician and former governor
Born
September 28th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 40th governor of New South Wales from 1995 to 2005. Held a prominent role in Australian politics, focusing on economic development and environmental issues. Was also the Minister for Foreign Affairs, contributing to Australia's foreign relations. After leaving politics, continued to engage in public life through various roles, including academics and authorship.
Continue ReadingBen E. King
Singer-songwriter of 'Stand By Me'
Born
September 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and record producer, contributed significantly to the music scene from the 1950s onward. Gained fame as a member of The Drifters, serving as the lead singer on hits like 'There Goes My Baby' and 'Save the Last Dance for Me'. Launched a successful solo career with the release of 'Stand By Me' in 1961, a song that became a classic and has been covered by numerous artists. Continued to write and perform throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry until passing away in 2015.
Continue ReadingAiden Moffat
British race car driver, BTCC competitor
Born
September 28th, 1996 29 years ago
This individual is a British race car driver who has competed in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Starting racing at a young age, involvement in various junior categories laid the foundation for a professional career in touring car racing. Achieving notable success in the BTCC, this driver became one of the prominent figures in the series, recognized for both talent and performance on track. The year 2021 marked a significant milestone when this driver secured the first championship win for a car manufacturer in a British Touring Car Championship event, contributing to further development in the sport and manufacturer representation.
Continue ReadingMariya Kiselyova
Russian swimmer and Olympic participant
Born
September 28th, 1974 51 years ago
Participated in competitive swimming events. Achieved significant success in various championships during the 1990s. Competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics representing Russia. Notably excelled in freestyle and individual medley events. Held multiple records in national and international competitions.
Continue ReadingKayla Day
Tennis player with junior Grand Slam title
Born
September 28th, 1999 26 years ago
Achieved recognition as a professional tennis player. Won the Wimbledon Junior Championships in 2016, marking a significant milestone in a budding career. Competed in various professional tournaments, including the US Open and Australian Open, showcasing talent on an international stage. Reached a career-high ranking of world No. 48 in singles in 2017. Played in several doubles events, contributing to overall rankings and experience.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 17th
Aimé Césaire
Caribbean-French poet and politician
Born
June 26th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent poet and politician, this individual contributed significantly to the negritude literary movement, emphasizing African culture and identity. In 1939, a first acclaimed work, 'Cahier d'un retour au pays natal' (Notebook of a Return to My Native Land), was published, showcasing the themes of exile and identity. This person also served as the Mayor of Fort-de-France and was a member of the French National Assembly for over 50 years. His works often blended poetic expression with political advocacy, reflecting deep roots in Martinican culture and a commitment to social justice.
Continue ReadingAl-Walid II
Umayyad caliph and architect of expansion
Died
April 17th, 744 1281 years ago — None years old
Became caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate in 743. Focused on military campaigns, aiming to expand the empire into Central Asia and the Byzantine territories. Established significant infrastructure projects, contributing to the development of cities and trade routes. His reign was marked by internal strife and challenges from rival factions within the Umayyad dynasty. Experience in governance included managing a vast territory that stretched from Spain to India. Ruled until death in 744 amid power struggles.
Continue ReadingDoris Roberts
American actress, 'Everybody Loves Raymond'
Born
November 4th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
An American actress with a career spanning several decades, celebrated for roles in television and film. Featured prominently in the sitcom 'Everybody Loves Raymond' as Marie Barone, a mother figure. Other notable appearances included 'Remington Steele' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Received multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for her performances, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Continue ReadingProclus
Greek philosopher and mathematician
Born
February 8th, 412 1614 years ago
Died
April 17th, 485 1540 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in Neoplatonism during the 5th century, contributed extensively to mathematics and philosophy. Served as the head of the Academy in Athens. Wrote commentary on Plato’s works, developing metaphysical ideas and influencing later philosophers. Established a synthesis of Platonic traditions, emphasizing the significance of the One and the hierarchical structure of reality.
Continue ReadingKateri Tekakwitha
Native American saint and missionary
Born
1656 370 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1680 345 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1656, a Mohawk woman lived in what is now New York. Raised in the traditional beliefs of her tribe, she converted to Christianity in her teenage years, primarily influenced by Jesuit missionaries. Faced with opposition from her community, she sought safety and acceptance among the Christian community in Canada. Known for deep devotion to her faith and dedication to a life of prayer, she became a symbol of holiness for Native Americans. She is venerated as the first Native American saint by the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingSamuel Morey
Engineer and early steam engine inventor
Born
October 23rd, 1762 263 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1843 182 years ago — 80 years old
Developed a successful steam engine and invented a steam-powered boat. Worked on various engineering projects that contributed to advancements in transportation technology. Designed the first steam boat to operate on the Connecticut River. Also engaged in the production of early gas-lighting systems, highlighting innovation in multiple areas of engineering.
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