Johann Sebastian Bach
Baroque composer and organist
Born in 1685, a German composer and musician, he played a crucial role in the development of Western music. His works encompass various forms, including cantatas, concertos, and fugues, showcasing intricate counterpoint and harmony. Employed as a court organist and later as the director of music at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, he contributed to the establishment of the cantata as a musical form. His significant compositions include 'The Well-Tempered Clavier', 'Brandenburg Concertos', and 'Mass in B minor', which remain staples in the classical repertoire. The influence of this composer's work on future generations has been profound.
Composed 'The Well-Tempered Clavier'
Created 'Brandenburg Concertos'
Wrote 'Mass in B minor'
served as director of music at St. Thomas Church
Other People Born on March 21st
Salvador Lutteroth
Wrestling promoter, founded CMLL
Born
March 21st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 90 years old
A wrestling promoter established an influential wrestling promotion in Mexico. The organization became the oldest professional wrestling promotion in the country, significantly contributing to the popularity of lucha libre. Collaboration with various wrestlers and the promotion of unique wrestling styles led to the establishment of a robust wrestling culture. After founding the Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre, the organization gained a reputation for high-profile events and training talented wrestlers who would become household names in the sport. Efforts in promoting wrestling have been recognized as a pivotal moment in Mexican sports culture.
Continue ReadingJoseph Fourier
Mathematician known for Fourier series
Born
March 21st, 1768 257 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1830 195 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributed significantly to the study of heat transfer and vibrations. Developed Fourier series, which express functions as sums of sines and cosines, enabling solutions in various fields including engineering, physics, and signal processing. Authored 'The Analytical Theory of Heat,' establishing the basis for heat conduction analysis. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sciences and was involved in the political sphere during the French Revolution, including governance in Egypt under Napoleon.
Continue ReadingCharmaine Dragun
Australian journalist and news presenter
Born
March 21st, 1978 47 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 29 years old
Born in Australia in 1978, a career in journalism spanned several prominent news organizations. Coverage of significant events and issues led to contributions in television news and current affairs. Served as a news presenter and reporter, achieving recognition for engaging reporting styles. Worked for major Australian networks, where storytelling and a clear communication style resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Waismann
Austrian philosopher and mathematician
Born
March 21st, 1896 129 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1959 66 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1896, a significant figure in the Vienna Circle, contributed to the philosophy of language, and was involved in logical positivism. Waismann focused on the foundations of mathematics and the philosophy of mathematics, emphasizing the logical structure of mathematical theories. His work explored the relationship between language and reality, critiquing the limits of language and the meaning of mathematical statements. Waismann's ideas also intersected with scientific discourse, particularly in the realms of physics and mathematics, drawing connections between empirical observation and theoretical constructs.
Continue ReadingHugo Koblet
Swiss cyclist and Tour de France winner
Born
March 21st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1964 61 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Switzerland, a professional cyclist achieved significant success in the 1940s and 1950s. Won the prestigious Tour de France in 1951, becoming the first Swiss rider to earn this title. Displayed remarkable talent in road racing and time trials, securing multiple national championships. Renowned for a graceful riding style and strong capabilities in mountainous terrains, contributing to popularity in the sport.
Continue ReadingWalter Tewksbury
American runner and Olympic champion
Born
March 21st, 1876 149 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1968 57 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent American runner and hurdler, Tewksbury distinguished himself in the early 20th century athletic scene. Competing primarily in the sprints and hurdles, he participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris, where he achieved remarkable success. Tewksbury's athletic prowess was showcased in various competitions, making him a leading figure in American track and field during his time. His contributions to the sport were significant, elevating the standards and performance levels of runners and hurdlers. After retiring from competitive athletics, Tewksbury continued to be involved in the sport in various capacities, promoting running and training athletes for future competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 28th
Ersilio Tonini
Italian cardinal and church leader
Born
July 20th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 99 years old
Ersilio Tonini served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and held various ecclesiastical positions throughout his career. He was ordained as a priest in 1939 and became the bishop of Faenza in 1975. In 1985, he was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope John Paul II. Tonini actively participated in the Second Vatican Council and contributed to the church's modernization efforts. His pastoral work focused on youth, education, and social issues within the church's mission. He retired in 1997 and continued to be involved in church activities until his death in 2018.
Continue ReadingMahasweta Devi
Indian Bengali fiction writer and activist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent Bengali fiction writer and socio-political activist, focused on the struggles of marginalized communities. Authored numerous short stories, novels, and plays, often highlighting the plight of tribal people in India. Works like 'Mother of 1084' and 'Aranyer Adhikar' explore themes of social injustice and the fight for rights. Engaged in extensive activism for tribal rights and women’s issues, collaborating with various organizations to advocate for marginalized voices.
Continue ReadingÉmile Derlin Zinsou
Beninese politician and former president
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 98 years old
Served as the President of Benin from 1968 to 1969. Involved in politics during a turbulent period in Benin's history, participating in several government administrations. Held the position of Prime Minister before ascending to the presidency. His leadership style emphasized stability and governance amidst national challenges. Led efforts to improve economic conditions in Benin but faced political opposition during his tenure.
Continue ReadingArcher John Porter Martin
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry 1952
Born
March 1st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2002 23 years ago — 92 years old
English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chromatography. Developed the techniques of partition chromatography, which advanced methods of separation and analysis of chemical compounds. His research provided critical tools for chemical analysis across various disciplines. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1952, sharing the award with another chemist for developing the method of partition chromatography. Held several academic positions and was influential in the education of future chemists.
Continue ReadingStanley Rother
American Roman Catholic priest and missionary
Born
March 27th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1981 44 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1935, a Roman Catholic priest served as a missionary in Guatemala. Focused on providing pastoral care and advocating for indigenous rights in the region. Worked in the archdiocese of Los Angeles before being sent to Guatemala. Encountered violence and oppression during the civil unrest in the country. Gave life while fulfilling the mission in 1981, becoming a martyr for the faith unique to the challenges faced in Central America. Beatified in 2017, recognized for dedication to social justice and faith.
Continue ReadingKarl Gotch
Wrestler and trainer in professional wrestling
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 83 years old
A Belgian-American wrestler and trainer, Gotch gained recognition for contributions to professional wrestling, particularly in the world of catch wrestling. In the mid-20th century, he became a prominent figure in the wrestling scene in the United States. Gotch trained many future stars in professional wrestling and advocated for the technical side of the sport. He became a notable figure in the wrestling world, influencing generations of wrestlers with his grappling techniques and training methods. His legacy continues through the wrestlers he mentored and the techniques he popularized within the sport.
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