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
Cole Kmet
American football tight end for the Bears
Born
March 10th, 1999 26 years ago
A professional American football player, achieved recognition as a tight end for the Chicago Bears in the National Football League (NFL). Played college football at the University of Notre Dame, where notable performances included a strong showing in the Citrus Bowl. Selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Has contributed to the Bears' offense with receptions and touchdowns in multiple seasons, establishing a reputation as a reliable target in the passing game.
Continue ReadingOlivia Wilde
Actress and director of 'Booksmart'
Born
March 10th, 1984 41 years ago
An actress and director, notable for leading roles in television and film. Achievements include directing the critically acclaimed film 'Booksmart', which received positive reviews for its writing and direction. Participated in the series 'House', portraying the character Thirteen, which gained a significant following. Also appeared in 'Tron: Legacy' and 'Rush'. She has contributed to various humanitarian efforts and advocates for women's rights in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSergey Mozgov
Russian ice dancer with competition titles
Born
March 10th, 1995 30 years ago
Competed in ice dancing and partnered with various skaters in international competitions. Achieved notable placements in the ISU Championships and Grand Prix events. Represented Russia in major championships, showcasing technical skills and artistic expression on the ice.
Continue ReadingMāris Štrombergs
BMX Racer, 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
March 10th, 1987 38 years ago
Competed in BMX racing, achieving significant success in the sport. Won a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in the men's BMX event. Secured the UCI BMX World Championship title twice, first in 2007 and again in 2008. Dominated junior competitions and transitioned to elite races, contributing to the popularity of BMX in Latvia.
Continue ReadingRafe Spall
English actor, starred in 'The Big Short'
Born
March 10th, 1983 42 years ago
Born in 1983, pursued a career in acting and gained recognition for roles in film and television. Notable performances include appearances in 'The Big Short', 'Prometheus', and the series 'Pride and Prejudice'. Developed a reputation for versatile roles across different genres, including comedy and drama. Engaged in stage performances, showcasing skills in theatrical productions. Continues to work in various media, contributing to both mainstream and independent projects.
Continue ReadingEmily Osment
Actress and singer-songwriter
Born
March 10th, 1992 33 years ago
An American actress and singer-songwriter began her career as a child actress. Most recognized for the role of Lilly Truscott in the Disney Channel series 'Hannah Montana,' the individual played a significant role in the show's popularity. In addition to acting, ventured into music, releasing several singles and an EP. Also received accolades for performances in various projects throughout the years.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
William Jervois
Governor of South Australia
Born
September 10th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1897 128 years ago — 75 years old
Born in England, served as an engineer and politician. Held the position of the 10th Governor of South Australia from 1877 to 1883. Prior to governance, contributed to military engineering in various locations, including significant work on fortifications. Oversaw the development of infrastructure and governance frameworks during tenure in South Australia.
Continue ReadingTadeusz Ślusarski
Pole vaulter and Olympic medalist
Born
May 19th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1950, a Polish pole vaulter achieved significant success in athletics, particularly in the 1970s. Competed in multiple international competitions, securing a place as one of the top athletes in this field. Represented Poland in the 1976 Summer Olympics, winning a bronze medal in pole vaulting. Achieved notable performances in European championships and was a qualified participant in world championships.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Leonhard
German historian and author
Born
April 16th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
A German historian and author focused on the history of communism and the Eastern Bloc. Born in 1921, early experiences in the USSR influenced later scholarly work. Emigrated to West Germany in 1948, contributing to the understanding of East Germany and communism in Europe. Wrote extensively, with significant titles including 'The War Within the German Communist Party' and 'Child of the Revolution'.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Zia-ul-Haq
Pakistani general and politician
Born
August 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the sixth President of Pakistan from 1978 until his death in 1988. Initially took power through a military coup in 1977, establishing martial law and assuming the position of Chief Martial Law Administrator. Implemented policies that facilitated the Islamization of Pakistan's legal and societal structures. Oversaw significant political and economic changes, and his tenure was marked by efforts to increase the role of Islamic law in governance. Died in an airplane crash in 1988, which was highly controversial and led to various conspiracy theories.
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 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.
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