John Cage
Composer of avant-garde music
An American composer and music theorist, contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Developed innovative techniques in composition, including the use of chance operations and non-standard instruments. Wrote influential works such as '4'33''', which challenges traditional notions of music and silence. Advocated for experimental approaches in music, blending various art forms and traditions.
Created the silent composition '4'33'''
Pioneered prepared piano techniques
Developed concepts of indeterminacy in music
Other People Born on September 5th
Matthias Sammer
Footballer and manager, UEFA Euro 1996
Born
September 5th, 1967 58 years ago
A professional footballer and manager, excelled as a midfielder and played for teams such as VfB Stuttgart and Borussia Dortmund. Significant contributions included winning the UEFA Euro 1996 as part of the German national team. Transitioned into management after retirement, notably serving as the sporting director for the German Football Association. Built a reputation for tactical acumen and leadership on and off the pitch.
Continue ReadingFrank Shuster
Canadian actor and comedian in sketch comedy
Born
September 5th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in Canadian entertainment, this individual collaborated with partner Johnny Wayne to create a successful comedy duo. Their work spanned radio, television, and stage, becoming a staple of Canadian variety shows. The duo's most recognized television program was 'The Wayne and Shuster Show', which aired for several decades and received multiple awards. Additionally, their sketches often lampooned contemporary culture and politics. The comedian also had a successful solo career and contributed to Canadian television beyond sketch comedy.
Continue ReadingBrad Wilk
Drummer for Rage Against the Machine
Born
September 5th, 1968 57 years ago
Completed a prominent career as a drummer, contributing to the alternative metal band Rage Against the Machine. The band released several influential albums, including 'Evil Empire' and 'The Battle of Los Angeles'. Also performed with Audioslave, showcasing versatility in music styles. Wilk's drumming has been recognized for its powerful sound and intricate rhythms, influencing the genre's direction.
Continue ReadingVictor Davis Hanson
Historian and journalist with a focus on warfare
Born
September 5th, 1953 72 years ago
A historian and journalist specializing in ancient warfare and modern military strategies. His work frequently analyzes the parallels between historical conflicts and contemporary issues. Also an author, contributed notably to the discourse on classical history and its relevance in today's context. Served as a professor, providing insights on military history and foreign policy. Engaged in public commentary through various platforms, offering critical perspectives on current events.
Continue ReadingDennis Scott
Basketball player, sportscaster, and analyst
Born
September 5th, 1968 57 years ago
Born in 1968, this American former professional basketball player played for several teams in the NBA, with the majority of his career spent with the Orlando Magic. He gained recognition for his exceptional three-point shooting ability. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into sports broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary on basketball. He played a pivotal role in popularizing the three-point shot during his career.
Continue ReadingFrank Thomas
Voice Actor, Animator, Screenwriter
Born
September 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2004 21 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent figure in animation, contributed to the iconic film 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' and worked extensively with Disney from the 1930s to the 1980s. Participated in the creation of memorable characters and sequences, showcasing exceptional skill in animation and storytelling. Co-authored the influential book 'Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life', which detailed the principles and techniques of animation. His work laid foundations for future generations of animators and the evolution of animated cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
Étienne Louis Geoffroy
French entomologist and pharmacist
Born
October 12th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1810 215 years ago — 84 years old
An influential figure in entomology, contributions included early studies in insect classification and development of the field. Published significant works on the anatomy and physiology of insects. Served as a pharmacist, blending expertise in medicine and natural history. Advancements in understanding insect life cycles laid foundations for future entomological research.
Continue ReadingKarl Ziegler
Chemist, Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry
Born
November 26th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1973 52 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1898, a German chemist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of polymer chemistry. Developed the Ziegler process, which enabled the production of high-density polyethylene. This innovation revolutionized plastic manufacturing and has widespread applications in various industries. The recipient of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1963, shared the award for advancements in polymerization techniques, further solidifying a legacy in chemical research and industrial applications.
Continue ReadingEnos Slaughter
Major League Baseball player and manager
Born
April 27th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1916, a professional baseball player achieved prominence as an outfielder. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals, also played for the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox during a career spanning 19 seasons. Contributed significantly to the Cardinals' 1942 and 1944 World Series victories. Transitioned to managing after retirement, overseeing minor league teams and later serving as a coach. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1985, recognizing outstanding achievements in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingTom Driberg
British politician and journalist
Born
May 22nd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1976 49 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1905, this individual served as a British Member of Parliament for the Labour Party from 1942 to 1974. The person also worked as a journalist and authored several books. The individual was known for involvement in various social issues and was active in the anti-apartheid movement. Additionally, played a role in the campaign for civil liberties and supported policies that aligned with leftist ideologies.
Continue ReadingMeshulim Feish Lowy
Rabbi and author of Jewish texts
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
A rabbi and author, contributed significantly to Jewish literature and education. Raised in Hungary, relocated to Canada, where continued religious leadership and community building. Focused on Jewish texts and traditions, advocating education and scholarship within the community. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting Jewish knowledge.
Continue ReadingKim Kahana
Actor and stunt performer
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent actor and stunt performer with a career spanning multiple decades. Gained recognition for participation in numerous film and television projects, often performing complex stunts. Contributed to the entertainment industry through a variety of roles that demonstrated expertise in physical performance. Worked on several notable film productions and television series, showcasing a strong dedication to the craft of stunt work alongside acting.
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