Les Baxter
Pianist and composer of film music
An American pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre of film music. Gained recognition for the 1950s soundtrack of the film 'The World of Suzie Wong'. Also worked extensively in the 1960s and 1970s on projects that fused orchestral arrangements with popular music styles. Provided musical arrangements for various television shows and stage productions, showcasing a versatile approach to composition. Remembered for his innovative blending of pop and classical music elements.
Composed the score for 'The World of Suzie Wong'
Produced numerous albums in the easy listening genre
Other People Born on March 14th
Magnús Árni Magnússon
Icelandic politician and legislator
Born
March 14th, 1968 57 years ago
Elected to the Althing, Iceland's parliament, served multiple terms and held various leadership positions. Advocated for policies on education and economic development. Involved in local and national discussions regarding Iceland's welfare policies and environmental regulations. Engaged in international diplomatic efforts to enhance Iceland's presence on the global stage.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Schiaparelli
Italian astronomer and historian
Born
March 14th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1910 115 years ago — 75 years old
An Italian astronomer and historian contributed significantly to the study of Mars. Schiaparelli worked at the Brera Observatory in Milan and became the director of the observatory. He published detailed maps of Mars, noted for the accurate depiction of the planet's surface features. His observations led to the introduction of the term 'canali', which was misinterpreted as 'canals' in English, spurring interest in the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Schiaparelli also authored various works on astronomy and history, influencing future research.
Continue ReadingNaoki Matsuda
Japanese footballer and defender
Born
March 14th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 34 years old
A professional footballer played primarily as a defender. Matsuda began his career with Yokohama F. Marinos, where he contributed to multiple J. League successes. Later, he had a stint in the Japanese national team, earning caps and participating in significant tournaments. His career was significant for its duration and the influence he had in Japanese football during the early 2000s. Matsuda's unexpected passing in 2011 after a heart attack shocked the football community.
Continue ReadingSimone Biles
Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
March 14th, 1997 28 years ago
An accomplished gymnast specializing in artistic gymnastics. Achieved a record total of 32 Olympic and World Championship medals, making a significant impact in the sport. Dominated events during the 2016 Rio Olympics, securing four gold medals and one bronze. Also contributed to team success at the 2014 and 2015 World Championships, leading the USA to multiple victories. Known for a pioneering approach in gymnastics that emphasized both athleticism and artistry.
Continue ReadingPieter van den Hoogenband
Dutch Olympic swimmer with multiple medals
Born
March 14th, 1978 47 years ago
Achieved significant success in competitive swimming, focusing on freestyle events. Represented the Netherlands at the Summer Olympics, securing a total of three gold and two silver medals. Established world records in the 100m and 200m freestyle events during his career. Competed in several World Championships, earning multiple titles and accolades, further solidifying a place among the elite swimmers of his time.
Continue ReadingFrançois Sterchele
Belgian footballer with notable goals.
Born
March 14th, 1982 43 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2008 17 years ago — 26 years old
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Began career at Germinal Beerschot and later joined Club Brugge, where notable performances included contributing to the team's successes in domestic leagues. Transferred to the Belgian national team and achieved recognition for skills and scoring ability. Tragically passed away in 2008, cutting a promising career short.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 15th
Yves Tanguy
Surrealist painter, 'Indefinite Divisibility'
Born
January 5th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1955 71 years ago — 55 years old
Born in France, developed an interest in painting at an early age. Relocated to the United States in 1939, where involvement in the Surrealist movement flourished. Tanguy's works feature abstract landscapes filled with unique organic forms and dreamlike imagery. His notable techniques involved intricate brushwork and a distinct color palette. Throughout his career, exhibited widely in both Europe and America. His painting 'Indefinite Divisibility' became emblematic of his artistic style, showcasing his contributions to Surrealism. Helped define the aesthetic of the movement and influenced future generations of artists until his death in 1955.
Continue ReadingCarlo Fruttero
Italian journalist and author, editor
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 14 years ago — 86 years old
An Italian journalist and author, contributed extensively to literature and journalism in Italy. Worked as an editor and wrote numerous novels, essays, and articles. Partnered with another prominent writer to produce several successful works. Many publications featured insights on culture and society, reflecting contemporary issues during the time. Achieved recognition for integrating genres in storytelling, blending elements of mystery and satire.
Continue ReadingBarzan Ibrahim al-Tikriti
Iraqi intelligence officer
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2007 19 years ago — 56 years old
Held prominent roles in the Iraqi intelligence services, serving as director of the General Intelligence Directorate. Integral to the operational strategies during the reign of Saddam Hussein, contributed to national security and intelligence measures. Engaged in internal political maneuverings and counter-intelligence efforts. Post-2003 invasion, faced trials for crimes committed under Saddam’s regime, resulting in a lengthy prison sentence before execution.
Continue ReadingRudolph of France
King of France and Duke of Burgundy
Died
January 15th, 936 1090 years ago — None years old
Became King of the West Franks in 923 and ruled until 936. Prior to this, served as Duke of Burgundy. Leadership focused on the consolidation of royal authority in a fragmented kingdom. Worked to stabilize the region during a time marked by Viking invasions and internal strife. Participated in military campaigns against external threats, contributing to the defenses of the realm. Facilitated the transition of power during a critical period in the establishment of a more unified France.
Continue ReadingCatherine Carey
Lady-in-waiting to Elizabeth I
Born
1524 502 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1569 457 years ago — 45 years old
Served as a lady-in-waiting to Elizabeth I and held a significant position in the court. Catherine was the daughter of the renowned courtier and soldier Henry Carey, 1st Baron Hunsdon. As a close servant to the Queen, she played an essential role in the royal household. Her presence in the court marked her involvement in the intricate social and political fabric of Elizabethan England. Catherine's lineage and court duties connected her to the influential roles of the period, contributing to the dynamics of the Tudor monarchy.
Continue ReadingBerengaria of Barcelona
Queen consort of Castile
Born
1116 910 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1149 877 years ago — 33 years old
Married to Alfonso VII, Berengaria served as queen consort of Castile during the 12th century. This union strengthened political alliances within the Iberian Peninsula. Berengaria's lineage established connections between the crowns of Castile and Barcelona. She bore several children, contributing to the dynastic succession in the region. After her husband's death, she played a role in the governance of the realm until her own passing.
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