Ken Darby
American composer and conductor of film music
A prominent composer and conductor, contributed significantly to film music from the 1940s to the 1970s. Collaborated with major studios and worked on a variety of popular films. Composed scores for notable projects including 'The King's Thief' and 'The Robe'. Conducted orchestras for various cinematic productions and was involved in musical direction for television programs. Received several awards for contributions to film music, highlighting a successful career in the industry.
Composed music for 'The Robe'
Conducted orchestras for film scores
Won an Academy Award for Best Original Song
Other People Born on May 13th
Maria Theresa
Holy Roman Empress and reformer
Born
May 13th, 1717 308 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1780 245 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions and the last Holy Roman Empress. Ascended to the throne in 1740 following the death of her father. Implemented significant administrative, military, and economic reforms. Her reign included the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War, which challenged her authority. Established a centralized state and improved the education system. Promoted the welfare of the monarchy and the rights of her subjects during her reign, lasting until 1780.
Continue ReadingCount Johann Hartwig Ernst von Bernstorff
Danish politician and diplomat
Born
May 13th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1772 253 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the Danish foreign minister from 1744 to 1751. Played a significant role in shaping Danish foreign policy during a transformative period in Northern Europe. Negotiated treaties and maintained relationships with other nations, impacting Denmark's position within European politics. Advocated for a neutral stance amidst conflicts, prioritizing trade and national interests.
Continue ReadingMary Wells
American singer-songwriter with 'My Guy'
Born
May 13th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1992 33 years ago — 49 years old
A celebrated singer-songwriter, gained prominence in the 1960s. Achieved significant success with the hit single 'My Guy', which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Associated with the Motown label, released several albums that featured a blend of pop and soul music. Contributed to the genre with a distinctive voice and style, influencing the sound of many artists that followed. Inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in 2016, honored for contributions to music and culture. Her career included struggles with health issues later in life, but she remained an important figure in music history.
Continue ReadingFakhruddin Ali Ahmed
Indian politician, 5th President of India
Born
May 13th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1977 48 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 5th President of India from 1974 until 1977. Represented the Indian National Congress and held various key positions in government before presiding over the country. Oversaw a significant period in India's political history during presidency. Focused on issues such as social justice and government reform while in office.
Continue ReadingSebastião José de Carvalho e Melo
1st Marquis of Pombal, Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
May 13th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1782 243 years ago — 82 years old
Held the office of Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777. Implemented significant reforms in education, economics, and administration following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Advocated for the reduction of the power of the Church and centralized royal authority, thereby modernizing the state. Initiated infrastructure projects and promoted trade, contributing to Portugal's recovery and growth in the 18th century.
Continue ReadingWilliam R. Tolbert Jr.
Liberian politician and president
Born
May 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1980 45 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 20th President of Liberia from 1971 until his assassination in 1980. Focused on agricultural reform and education during presidency. Attempted to improve relations with the United States and sought to attract foreign investment to Liberia. His administration faced criticisms regarding human rights and freedom of expression, eventually leading to political unrest. Overthrown in a military coup, which marked a significant turning point in Liberian history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 24th
Amedeo Modigliani
Italian painter and sculptor
Born
July 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1920 106 years ago — 35 years old
Amedeo Modigliani was an Italian painter and sculptor active in the early 20th century. He is recognized for portraits and nudes characterized by elongated forms and a distinctive, expressive style. Modigliani's work reflects influences from various artistic movements, including Cubism and Expressionism. Despite limited commercial success during his lifetime, his pieces gained significant attention posthumously. Modigliani lived most of his life in Paris, where he became associated with a circle of artists and writers. His life was marked by struggles with poverty and illness, which contributed to his early death.
Continue ReadingMaximilian Bircher-Benner
Swiss physician and nutritionist
Born
August 22nd, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1939 87 years ago — 71 years old
A Swiss physician and nutritionist, a pioneer in the field of modern nutrition. Founded the first Bircher-Brenner clinic in Zurich, promoting a raw food diet based on fruits and vegetables. Developed the famous muesli dish, emphasizing the importance of plant-based nutrition. Authored several works on nutrition and health, contributing to the understanding of dietary practices.
Continue ReadingCaresse Crosby
Fashion designer and publisher
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1970 56 years ago — 79 years old
An American fashion designer and publisher, co-founded the Black Sun Press, a notable art press that published works by various influential artists and authors in the early 20th century. Played a significant role in the Parisian literary scene, promoting avant-garde literature and design. Established a reputation for innovative and artistic book design, collaborating with prominent figures in the art and literary world.
Continue ReadingPernell Roberts
American actor known for Bonanza
Born
May 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2010 16 years ago — 81 years old
An American actor gained prominence through a role as Adam Cartwright in the television series 'Bonanza'. Starred in the series from 1959 to 1965, becoming a significant figure in the show's early success. Later, portrayed the character Trapper John in 'Trapper John, M.D.' from 1979 to 1986, which solidified a later career in television. Engaged in theater and advocated for various social causes throughout his life.
Continue ReadingIris Cummings
Swimmer and aviator
Born
December 21st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2025 1 years ago — 104 years old
Accomplished in both swimming and aviation, Cummings made a significant mark in both fields. In swimming, participation in national championships showcased exceptional skills. A notable achievement includes winning several gold medals at the National Women's Championships. In aviation, Cummings broke barriers as one of the early female aviators, obtaining a pilot's license and contributing to the promotion of women in aviation. Cummings' dual career illustrates the blend of athleticism and adventurous spirit, paving the way for future generations in both sports and aviation.
Continue ReadingJames Collinson
English painter of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
Born
May 9th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1881 145 years ago — 55 years old
Collinson was a prominent English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, an art movement that sought to reform the artistic standards of their time by returning to the detail, intense colors, and complex compositions of medieval and early Renaissance art. His early works included themes based on literature and religion, often infused with symbolism. Participation in group exhibitions showcased his talent alongside fellow artists. The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's dedication to nature and humanity influenced many of his pieces, leading to landscape and genre paintings characterized by meticulous attention to detail. Later in life, he became more involved with Christian iconography, reflecting a deep spiritual commitment in his art.
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