Joseph Dudley
English politician, Governor of Massachusetts
Served as a prominent politician in colonial New England. Governed the Province of Massachusetts Bay from 1702 to 1715, during a time of political turbulence and change. Played a pivotal role in the transitions between the colony's royal charter and its eventual incorporation into the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Involved in military and political affairs, influencing the governance of the province and its relationship with British authorities. His tenure included efforts to navigate the complexities of colonial administration and local governance.
Governed the Province of Massachusetts Bay
Served as Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Colony
Other People Born on September 23rd
Hilly Kristal
Founder of legendary punk club CBGB
Born
September 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 75 years old
A businessman established a music venue in New York City that became a cornerstone of the punk rock and new wave movements. Opened CBGB in 1973, creating a space for emerging bands to perform. The club hosted iconic groups including The Ramones, Blondie, and Talking Heads, shaping the city's music scene. Closed in 2006 due to landlord disputes, the club’s legacy continued to influence artists and musicians. Passed away in 2007.
Continue ReadingEmperor Kōkaku of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Edo period
Born
September 23rd, 1771 254 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1840 185 years ago — 69 years old
Reigned from 1779 to 1817, emphasized cultural development and administration reform. Guided the nation through a period characterized by stability and relative peace, known as the Edo period. Oversaw significant changes in Japanese society, including art, literature, and the economy. Advocated for the growth of traditional Japanese arts and encouraged interaction with Western cultures, leading to gradual modernization. After abdication, continued to influence the imperial court.
Continue ReadingPrincess Marie Elisabeth of Saxe-Meiningen
German Princess and Royal Figure
Born
September 23rd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1853, a member of the Saxe-Meiningen dynasty. Engaged in charitable work, focusing on the welfare of children and women. Contributed to various social causes throughout life, particularly emphasizing education and healthcare improvements. Involved in royal events and represented the dynasty in public affairs. Known for participation in cultural and social initiatives.
Continue ReadingMohamed Hassanein Heikal
Egyptian journalist and author
Born
September 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed extensively to the understanding of Arab politics through analytical writings. Served as the editor of Al-Ahram, one of the leading newspapers in Egypt, for several decades. Authored multiple influential books that explored Egyptian and Arab history, politics, and society. His insights into the events of the 1952 Egyptian Revolution and his relationships with key figures such as Gamal Abdel Nasser shaped public discourse in the region.
Continue ReadingTiny Bradshaw
American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
September 23rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1907, this musician contributed significantly to the rhythm and blues genre. Active during the mid-20th century, he was a prominent figure in the development of jump blues and played a key role in shaping the sound of early rock and roll. His musical career included work as a bandleader and recording artist, with a distinctive approach that influenced many others in the industry.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Curtis
Guitarist and songwriter of School of Seven Bells
Born
September 23rd, 1978 47 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2013 11 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1978, contributed to the music scene as a guitarist, drummer, and songwriter. Played in the band Secret Machines and co-founded the duo School of Seven Bells, which gained attention for its ethereal sound and innovative use of electronics. The duo released several albums, including 'Alpinisms' and 'Disconnect from Desire', which received critical acclaim. Curtis also collaborated with various artists, expanding his creative repertoire.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 2nd
Bud Shank
Saxophonist and Flute Player with a Jazz Legacy
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 83 years old
An American musician, primarily recognized for contributions to the jazz genre as a saxophonist and flute player. In the 1950s, created a significant presence in the West Coast jazz scene and collaborated with many notable musicians. Instrumental in the founding of the group, the Bud Shank Quartet, and released numerous albums throughout the career, showcasing an innovative approach to improvisation and arrangement. Also played in various big bands, further contributing to the jazz landscape. Continued performing and recording until the late stages of life, influencing many artists and musicians in the genre.
Continue ReadingLevi Celerio
Filipino composer and songwriter of hits
Born
April 30th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 91 years old
A prolific composer and songwriter in the Philippines. Celerio wrote more than 4,000 songs across multiple genres, securing a prominent place in Filipino music. He gained recognition for creating music for films, radio, and television. Celerio became the only person to produce music using a leaf, which earned him a place in the Guinness World Records. His work contributed significantly to the Filipino cultural landscape.
Continue ReadingMaryse Condé
Guadeloupean novelist and playwright
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent novelist, critic, and playwright, contributions span several decades. Notable works include "Windward Heights," "The Story of the Cannibal Woman," and "I, Tituba: Black Witch of Salem." Condé's literature often explores themes of identity, history, and the complexities of the Caribbean experience. In addition to fiction, contributions to literary criticism and analysis reflect insights into postcolonial literature. Recognition includes the 2018 New Academy Prize in Literature, awarded in lieu of the Nobel Prize that year. The writer's academic career included teaching positions at various universities around the world.
Continue ReadingSimon Bainbridge
British composer with influential works
Born
August 30th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2021 4 years ago — 68 years old
A British composer, recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music. Worked extensively in various formats, including orchestral and chamber music. Collaborated with prominent ensembles and received commissions from prestigious institutions. Explored themes and techniques that advanced the modern compositional landscape. Educated at notable institutions and held academic positions, fostering a new generation of composers.
Continue ReadingLarry Lucchino
Baseball executive, former Orioles CEO
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old
An attorney and executive in the baseball industry, played a significant role in the operations of several Major League Baseball teams. Served as the CEO of the Baltimore Orioles from 1994 to 2001, during which the team experienced notable success. Later, served as the president and CEO of the Boston Red Sox from 2002 to 2015, contributing to the team's historical World Series victories in 2004, 2007, and 2013. Instrumental in the renovation of Fenway Park, enhancing its facilities and fan experiences. Known for establishing a successful business model in sports management, focusing on both competitive success and financial sustainability.
Continue ReadingJohn C. Haas
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2011 14 years ago — 93 years old
A businessman and philanthropist, significant contributions were made to the chemical industry and the arts. Served as CEO of Rohm and Haas Company, which was co-founded by his family. Played a crucial role in expanding the company's operations into various sectors. Involved with numerous philanthropic efforts, particularly in support of arts and education. Actively participated in various cultural institutions and served on boards to promote community development.
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