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
Doris Singleton
American actress with iconic TV roles
Born
September 28th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
An American actress appeared primarily in television. Notable roles in 'I Love Lucy' as an advertising executive and 'The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour' showcased her talent in comedic performances. Her career spanned several decades, contributing to various television series and movies in the 1950s and 1960s. Frequent performances in sitcoms solidified her status within the television landscape of that era, making her a familiar face to audiences.
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 ReadingPeter Finch
Actor in 'Network' and 'The Trial'
Born
September 28th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1977 49 years ago — 60 years old
An English-Australian actor recognized for a significant career in film and theatre. Achieved critical acclaim for performances in 'Network', which earned an Academy Award for Best Actor posthumously, and 'The Trial', directed by Orson Welles. Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Nun's Story' and 'The Death of a President'. Finch's work extended to stage performances, notably in the West End. His contributions to the film industry are marked by a strong presence in both British and Australian cinema, influencing future generations of actors.
Continue ReadingAugustus FitzRoy
Prime Minister of Great Britain
Born
September 28th, 1735 290 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1811 215 years ago — 75 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1768 to 1770, overseeing a period marked by political instability. Managed the government during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Facilitated legislative measures and attempted to maintain British interests in the American colonies, facing significant challenges due to colonial unrest. Held the title of 3rd Duke of Grafton and was a member of the Whig party, contributing to the political landscape of the time. Engaged in various administrative roles prior to premiership, including serving as a Lord of the Treasury and as a Secretary of State for the Southern Department.
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 ReadingHiranuma Kiichirō
Japanese Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
September 28th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1952 74 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 35th Prime Minister of Japan from 1939 to 1940. Had a legal background, contributing to various legal reforms during the Taishō and Shōwa eras. Played a crucial role in national politics during a turbulent period in Japanese history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 17th
Samuel Morey
Engineer and early steam engine inventor
Born
October 23rd, 1762 263 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1843 183 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.
Continue ReadingDoris Roberts
American actress, 'Everybody Loves Raymond'
Born
November 4th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2016 10 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 ReadingEarl King
American blues guitarist and songwriter
Born
February 7th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2003 23 years ago — 69 years old
Originated in New Orleans, a prominent musician in the blues genre, contributed significantly to the evolution of the music style. Worked as a guitarist and bandleader, influencing many artists. Produced several albums and collaborated with key figures in the industry. Wrote many songs that became classics in the blues repertoire, showcasing a unique blend of New Orleans rhythms and deep lyrical themes.
Continue ReadingChyna
Professional wrestler and actress
Born
December 27th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2016 10 years ago — 46 years old
Began wrestling career in the late 1990s, gaining recognition in World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Became the first woman to hold the Intercontinental Championship, a title won in 1999. Also appeared in other promotions and had roles in films, including 'One Night in China.' Worked in reality television, including the series 'Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.' Career ended after public struggles and personal challenges.
Continue ReadingJean Baptiste Perrin
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 30th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1942 84 years ago — 71 years old
A physicist and chemist, contributions focused on the determination of Avogadro's number and the discovery of the Brownian motion. Worked extensively on the nature of matter and the kinetic theory of gases. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1926 for work on the discontinuous structure of matter. Later became a member of the French Academy of Sciences, influencing the fields of physics and physical chemistry.
Continue ReadingKateri Tekakwitha
Native American saint and missionary
Born
1656 370 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1680 346 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.
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