Lorenzo Da Ponte
Opera librettist for Mozart's works
An Italian-American priest and poet, contributed significantly to the world of opera through collaborations with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Wrote librettos for several operas including 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'Cosi fan tutte.' After moving to America, engaged in various pursuits, including founding an Italian-language school in New York. His literary contributions continue to be celebrated in the realms of music and literature.
Wrote libretti for 'The Marriage of Figaro'
Collaborated on 'Don Giovanni'
Created the libretto for 'Cosi fan tutte'
Other People Born on March 10th
Clare Boothe Luce
American diplomat and playwright, Ambassador
Born
March 10th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1987 38 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1903, this individual contributed to multiple fields including playwriting, journalism, and diplomacy. As a playwright, authored the acclaimed work 'The Women', which premiered in 1936 and received praise for its innovative portrayal of women's lives. Served as a United States Ambassador to Italy from 1953 to 1956, promoting American interests abroad during a crucial period of the Cold War. Throughout life, involved in various political and social causes, sustaining a significant presence in both arts and politics.
Continue ReadingKarl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel
German philosopher and critic of literature
Born
March 10th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1829 197 years ago — 56 years old
A key figure of German Romanticism, contributed to philosophy and literary criticism. Developed ideas on aesthetics that influenced future thinkers. Co-founded the journal "Athenaeum" with his brother, promoting Romantic literary theories. His translations and interpretations of ancient texts expanded the reach of philosophy and literature. Engaged with various cultural currents of the time, advocating for a synthesis of philosophy, art, and science through a broader human experience.
Continue ReadingNick Bolton
American football linebacker
Born
March 10th, 2000 25 years ago
Played college football at the University of Missouri, where notable performance included leading the team in tackles during multiple seasons. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Contributed to the team's defensive efforts in the NFL, primarily playing linebacker. Achieved significant statistics in tackles throughout professional career, establishing a reputation as a reliable player on defense.
Continue ReadingLillian Wald
Nurse and founder of Henry Street Settlement
Born
March 10th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1940 86 years ago — 73 years old
A pioneering nurse and humanitarian, established the Henry Street Settlement in New York City in 1893. Advocated for social reform and public health initiatives, focusing on immigrant and underprivileged communities. Played a significant role in the development of community nursing and social services. Authored works on social issues, emphasizing the need for healthcare accessibility and women's rights.
Continue ReadingGloria Diaz
Filipino actress, Miss Universe 1969
Born
March 10th, 1951 74 years ago
An acclaimed actress and beauty queen, secured the title of Miss Universe in 1969 while representing the Philippines. Gained recognition in the entertainment industry through various film and television roles. Has continued to be active in acting and hosting in the Philippines, contributing to both television and movie projects over several decades.
Continue ReadingJudith Jones
Literary and cookbook editor influential in cuisine
Born
March 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2017 8 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent figure in the culinary world, contributed significantly to the publishing of cookbooks. Joined Knopf in 1957, where developed a keen eye for culinary literature. Played a crucial role in the success of several renowned cookbooks, including 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' by Julia Child, which introduced French cuisine to American households. Edited works by several notable chefs and food writers, shaping the way recipes and cooking techniques were presented to the public. Continued to champion gastronomic literature throughout a lengthy career, helping to elevate cookbooks to the status of literary works.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Jack Harshman
Baseball player and manager, 1953 All-Star
Born
July 12th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
An American baseball player and manager, played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1951 to 1961. Selected as an All-Star in 1953 while playing for the Chicago White Sox. Also pitched for the Washington Senators, Baltimore Orioles, and San Francisco Giants. Post playing career included managing in the minor leagues and briefly in the major leagues.
Continue ReadingHans Gude
Norwegian-German painter and academic
Born
March 13th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1903 122 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1825, a prominent painter specialized in landscapes, primarily influenced by the Romantic movement. Studied at the Düsseldorf Academy, where the works of Caspar David Friedrich inspired artistic direction. Became an academic, teaching at the Academy of Fine Arts in Berlin. His work primarily captured the beauty of Norwegian scenery, showcasing lakes, mountains, and dramatic skies. Contributed significantly to the Nordic landscape genre, developing a distinct style that emphasized the interplay of light and natural elements. Many of the paintings reflect an intimate connection with nature, often depicting winter scenes and fjords.
Continue ReadingFrederick the Great
Prussian king and military leader
Born
January 24th, 1712 314 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1786 239 years ago — 74 years old
A monarch of the Kingdom of Prussia, led significant military campaigns during the Silesian Wars and the Seven Years' War. His reign is marked by extensive reforms in military, administrative practices, and the promotion of the arts. He established Prussia as a major European power. His interest in philosophy and music also contributed to the cultural life of his court.
Continue ReadingCarloman
mayor of the palace of Austrasia
Died
August 17th, 754 1271 years ago — None years old
Served as mayor of the palace in Austrasia during the 8th century. Played a crucial role in the politics of the Frankish realm, particularly in the transition period leading to the Carolingian dynasty. Notable for managing relations with the church and securing alliances through marriages. His governance helped pave the way for the strengthening of royal authority in a time of significant change in the Frankish territories.
Continue ReadingArthur Fox
English-American fencer and Olympian
Born
September 9th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 79 years old
Competed in fencing during the early 20th century. Achieved significant recognition in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London. Contributed to the fencing community through coaching and advocacy for the sport. His techniques and methodologies influenced future generations of fencers, both in America and abroad.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Fukakusa
Emperor of Japan during the Kamakura period
Born
June 28th, 1243 782 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1304 721 years ago — 61 years old
Became emperor of Japan in 1246 and reigned until 1259. During the reign, significant administrative changes took place within the imperial court. Following abdication, served as a retired emperor, influencing politics behind the scenes. The period saw ongoing conflicts between the imperial court and warrior clans, impacting the political landscape of the time. His reign was part of the Kamakura era, marked by the emergence of the samurai class and a shift in power dynamics.
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