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
Toshio Suzuki
Japanese race car driver, Le Mans winner
Born
March 10th, 1955 71 years ago
A prominent race car driver, participated in various endurance races. Achieved significant success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, securing a victory and showcasing exceptional skill in racing. Contributed to the sport through team collaborations and innovative racing strategies. Competed in multiple racing series, establishing a reputation for precision and speed on the track.
Continue ReadingPablo de Sarasate
Spanish violinist and composer
Born
March 10th, 1844 182 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1908 118 years ago — 64 years old
A Spanish violinist and composer rose to prominence in the 19th century. Sarasate studied under the guidance of notable instructors in Spain and later in Paris. He became a significant figure in the classical music scene, celebrated for virtuoso performances across Europe. Sarasate composed several important works for the violin, blending Spanish folk motifs with classical forms. His compositions, such as 'Zigeunerweisen' and 'Carmen Fantasy', remain essential repertoire for violinists today. He also influenced the development of violin technique through his innovative style and interpretations.
Continue ReadingZach LaVine
Professional Basketball Player, NBA All-Star
Born
March 10th, 1995 31 years ago
Played as a shooting guard in the National Basketball Association, primarily with the Chicago Bulls. LaVine began his professional career in 2014 after being selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the 13th overall pick in the NBA Draft. Achieved his first All-Star selection in 2021 with impressive scoring averages. Acclaimed for scoring ability and athleticism demonstrated through multiple slam dunk contest victories.
Continue ReadingSergei Shirokov
Ice Hockey Player, 2008 KHL Champion
Born
March 10th, 1986 40 years ago
Born in Russia, a professional ice hockey player specialized as a winger. Played prominently in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) primarily for the Vancouver Canucks and SKA Saint Petersburg. Represented Russia in international competitions, contributing to the national team's efforts in major tournaments.
Continue ReadingQuincy Pondexter
Professional basketball player and coach
Born
March 10th, 1988 38 years ago
Basketball player and coach played in the NBA, primarily for the New Orleans Pelicans. Played college basketball at the University of Washington, where earned All-Pac-10 honors. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to player development and strategy.
Continue ReadingKwame Brown
Basketball player and first overall draft pick
Born
March 10th, 1982 44 years ago
Played as a center in the NBA after being selected first overall in the 2001 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards. Played for several teams including the Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, and Golden State Warriors. In total, played for 12 seasons in the league, contributing to various teams with his skills in rebounding and defense.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Ira Gershwin
American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born
December 6th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1983 43 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.
Continue ReadingShamsur Rahman
Bangladeshi poet and journalist, wrote 'Joiboti Kobi'
Born
October 23rd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2006 20 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent poet and journalist, contributed significantly to Bengali literature. Worked as an editor for various publications and founded a poetry movement that celebrated the Bengali language and culture. His poetry often reflected the social and political landscape of Bangladesh. Writings explored themes of love, loss, and identity. Engaged actively in the literature of protest during the political turmoil in Bangladesh.
Continue ReadingArthur Fox
English-American fencer and Olympian
Born
September 9th, 1878 148 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1958 68 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 ReadingWilliam Jervois
Governor of South Australia
Born
September 10th, 1821 205 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1897 129 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 ReadingConrad Aiken
American poet and novelist
Born
August 5th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1973 53 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1889, a prominent American poet, novelist, and critic, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Aiken's literary career spanned multiple genres, with poetry as the primary focus. A published author from a young age, received a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1930 for the collection 'Selected Poems.' Aiken explored themes of consciousness and emotion in works such as the novel 'Apprenticeship' and the short story collection 'Great Circle.' His influence extends to various literary movements, and he was associated with the objectivist movement. In his writing, Aiken often employed innovative techniques, blending elements of modernism and romanticism.
Continue ReadingKen Miles
Race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
November 1st, 1918 108 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1966 60 years ago — 47 years old
An English-American race car driver participated in numerous motorsport events during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Ford GT40, contributing significantly to its racing success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable victories in various sports car races, solidifying a reputation within the racing community for precision driving and engineering insight. His collaboration with Ford Racing led to innovative engineering solutions and a deep understanding of vehicle performance. Miles died in a testing accident in 1966, shortly before the completion of the Ford GT40's successful racing campaign.
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