Leo Ornstein
Pianist and composer of modern music
Born in Ukraine, this pianist and composer emigrated to the United States at a young age. He began composing music in the early 20th century and was a prominent figure in the world of modern music. His innovative techniques and stylistic approaches significantly influenced music in the early 1900s. Throughout a career spanning several decades, he performed extensively and was known for his virtuosic piano playing. His music often incorporated elements of dissonance and emphasized rhythm. He held various teaching positions, sharing his knowledge with aspiring musicians until the later years of his life.
Composed 'Piano Sonata No. 4'
Performed at major venues including Carnegie Hall
Other People Born on December 11th
Robert Koch
Microbiologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 11th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1910 115 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent microbiologist and physician contributed significantly to the field of bacteriology. Discovered the causative agents of tuberculosis, cholera, and anthrax. Developed techniques for isolating bacteria, which paved the way for advancements in microbiological research. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1905 for work on tuberculosis, which remains a major health concern worldwide.
Continue ReadingHector Berlioz
Composer of Symphonie fantastique
Born
December 11th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1869 156 years ago — 65 years old
A French composer, conductor, and music critic, this individual played a significant role in the development of orchestral and operatic music. His seminal work, 'Symphonie fantastique,' debuted in 1830 and showcased his innovative use of orchestral colors and bold storytelling through music. Active in the 19th century, this composer also contributed to the field of music criticism and published several influential essays on music. His operas, including 'Benvenuto Cellini' and 'The Damnation of Faust,' highlighted his advanced harmonic language and imaginative orchestration, further establishing his legacy in the world of classical music.
Continue ReadingGilbert Roland
Actor in 'The Seahawk' and 'The Torch', singer
Born
December 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1994 31 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1905, this Mexican-American actor enjoyed a prolific career in film and television. Roland became a prominent figure in Hollywood, frequently appearing in Westerns and adventure films. His breakout role came with 'The Seahawk' in 1940, where he showcased his charisma and talent. In addition to his acting career, he also pursued singing, contributing to his versatile presence in the entertainment industry. Roland's career spanned several decades, and he remained active in film and television until the late 1970s.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Algarotti
Italian poet and philosopher
Born
December 11th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1764 261 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1712, a prominent Italian poet, philosopher, and critic made significant contributions to literature and enlightenment thought. Algarotti gained recognition for works that bridged science and philosophy, emphasizing the importance of empirical observation. His literary style blended poetic elegance with philosophical inquiry, influencing subsequent thinkers. Notably, Algarotti wrote 'Newtonianism for Ladies,' which popularized Newtonian physics among the educated elite, making complex scientific ideas accessible. His engagements with leading intellectuals of the Enlightenment further established his reputation as a thinker who fostered dialogue between rational thought and the arts.
Continue ReadingGeorgi Plekhanov
Russian Marxist philosopher and theorist
Born
December 11th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1918 107 years ago — 61 years old
Contributed significantly to Marxist theory and the development of revolutionary ideas in Russia. Played a key role in establishing the Russian Social Democratic Labor Party. Authored influential texts, including 'Fundamentals of Marxism' and 'The Development of the Monist View of History'. Advocated for the integration of Marxist philosophy with Russian social conditions and emphasized the importance of social movements in achieving revolutionary change.
Continue ReadingGerd Arntz
Modernist artist, co-creator of Isotype
Born
December 11th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 88 years old
An artist associated with the modernist movement, contributed significantly to visual communication through the development of the Isotype (International System of Typographic Picture Education). The Isotype aimed to present information visually, utilizing simple and clear symbols to convey complex ideas. This system became influential in various fields, including education, sociology, and design. Arntz's work was characterized by bold graphics and a commitment to clarity, reflecting the ideals of the modernist aesthetic during the early to mid-20th century. Collaborated with other artists and thinkers to promote the use of visual language in presenting statistical data and social information.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 24th
Con Martin
Footballer and manager; played for Ireland
Born
March 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
A footballer and manager, played as a defender during the early and mid-20th century. Represented the national team of Ireland in international competitions. Transitioned to a managerial role, contributing to football development at various clubs. Played for clubs including Dublin's Shamrock Rovers and Cork City. Garnered respect for commitment to the sport both on and off the field.
Continue ReadingOliver Wrong
Nephrologist and academic physician
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of nephrology. Served as a consultant nephrologist and held academic positions in medical education. Authored numerous studies focusing on kidney disease and its treatments. Played a crucial role in advancing the understanding of renal pathology and therapy.
Continue ReadingCharles Howard
English general and politician
Born
1629 396 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1685 340 years ago — 56 years old
Charles Howard served as the 1st Earl of Carlisle and held significant political and military positions in England during the 17th century. He was appointed Lord Lieutenant of Cumberland, overseeing military and administrative duties in the region. Engaging in several military campaigns, he contributed to the defense and governance of the area. Howard's political influence extended to the royal court, aligning with the interests of the monarchy and managing local affairs.
Continue ReadingCharles III of Naples
Monarch of Naples and King of Sicily
Born
1345 680 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1386 639 years ago — 41 years old
Ruled as King of Naples and Sicily during the late 14th century. Ascended the throne in 1382 after a series of conflicts and power struggles. Commanded military campaigns against rival factions and sought to strengthen the monarchy through strategic marriages and alliances. His reign faced challenges from neighboring states and internal unrest. The assassination in 1386 marked a significant turning point in the region's history, leading to further instability in Naples.
Continue ReadingBobby Moore
Footballer and manager, World Cup winner
Born
April 12th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1993 32 years ago — 51 years old
A distinguished footballer and manager, Moore's career spanned from the early 1960s to the late 1970s, primarily associated with West Ham United. He captained the England national team to victory in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, the only time England has won the tournament. Following a successful playing career, he transitioned into management, including coaching West Ham United. His leadership on the pitch and his defensive capabilities set him apart as one of the greatest defenders in football history.
Continue ReadingOctavia E. Butler
Science fiction author and educator
Born
June 22nd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 58 years old
An influential science fiction author and educator, recognized for exploring themes of race, gender, and social issues. Awarded the Hugo and Nebula awards for literary excellence. Wrote the acclaimed Patternist series, which examines psychic abilities and societal structures. Created the Parable of the Sower and Parable of the Talents, dystopian novels that highlight environmental and social challenges. Contributed significantly to the genre of speculative fiction and inspired many writers and readers.
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