Lou Reed
Singer-songwriter of 'Walk on the Wild Side'
Renowned American singer-songwriter and guitarist played a significant role in the rock music scene. As the frontman of the band The Velvet Underground, contributed to the development of alternative rock music. Reed's solo career included critically acclaimed albums, with 'Transformer' being a standout, featuring the hit single 'Walk on the Wild Side.' His innovative approach to songwriting often explored themes of life in urban settings and relationships. Reed also ventured into acting and served as a producer for various music projects.
Fronted The Velvet Underground
Released the album 'Transformer'
Wrote the song 'Walk on the Wild Side'
Other People Born on March 2nd
Willis H. O'Brien
Animator and director of 'King Kong'
Born
March 2nd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1962 64 years ago — 76 years old
Pioneered stop-motion animation techniques. Worked on major films, including the original 'King Kong' in 1933, setting new standards in visual effects. Collaborated with various studios throughout his career, including RKO Pictures. Contributed to the art of animation and storytelling through innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship.
Continue ReadingMauricio Pochettino
Football manager and former defender
Born
March 2nd, 1972 53 years ago
Played as a central defender, beginning a professional career with Newell's Old Boys. Transitioned to a managerial role after retirement, leading clubs like Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur. Achieved notable success with Tottenham by reaching the UEFA Champions League final in 2019. In 2021, appointed head coach of Paris Saint-Germain.
Continue ReadingMatthew Mitcham
Australian Olympic diver, 2008 Gold Medalist
Born
March 2nd, 1988 37 years ago
Achieved prominence in the sport of diving, particularly noted for success at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Secured a gold medal in the 10-meter platform event, marking a significant achievement as it was Australia's first Olympic gold medal in diving in a century. Competed at various international championships, consistently demonstrating high levels of performance and technical skill. Retired from competitive diving in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in the sport.
Continue ReadingNicholas Pocock
English naval painter, known for naval scenes
Born
March 2nd, 1740 285 years ago
Died
1821 205 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1740, Pocock specialized in naval painting and became known for his detailed depictions of British naval battles. His works primarily focused on the nautical engagements of the British Royal Navy during the 18th century. Pocock's paintings were characterized by their dynamic compositions and meticulous attention to the intricacies of ships and the sea. He worked as an official marine painter for the British Admiralty and captured distinct events from the Napoleonic Wars. His artworks contributed to the documentation and appreciation of maritime history.
Continue ReadingCornelis Speelman
Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies
Born
March 2nd, 1628 397 years ago
Died
1684 342 years ago — 56 years old
Served as Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies from 1663 to 1678. Oversaw the consolidation of Dutch power in the region and effectively managed trade with local kingdoms. Implemented policies that enhanced the profitability of the spice trade while addressing local governance issues. Played a crucial role in expanding Dutch territories and influence in Southeast Asia.
Continue ReadingJeff Kennett
Politician and former Premier of Victoria
Born
March 2nd, 1948 77 years ago
Served as the 43rd Premier of Victoria from 1992 to 1999. Transitioned from a business career to politics, founding the Liberal Party's youth organization in the 1970s. Won the 1992 state election, leading the government in economic reform. Known for implementing significant changes in public policy and healthcare, including the introduction of user fees in public hospitals. After his tenure, continued involvement in various civic and business organizations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 27th
Hans Werner Henze
Composer and educator with operas
Born
July 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
A German composer contributed extensively to contemporary classical music. Focused on operas, orchestral works, and chamber music throughout a prolific career. Studied at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Munich. His compositions often reflected political and social themes, stemming from personal experiences of the Second World War. Henze earned recognition for blending various musical traditions, which shaped his unique sound. Renowned operas included "Elegy for Young Lovers" and "Bashful". As an educator, taught at various institutions and influenced future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingUlugh Beg
Persian astronomer and mathematician
Born
March 22nd, 1394 631 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1449 576 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent Persian astronomer and mathematician, he ruled the Timurid Empire and established an observatory in Samarkand, which became a center for astronomical research. The observatory housed advanced instruments for observing celestial bodies and played a critical role in the development of trigonometry. Notable for compiling the 'Zij-i Sultani,' an influential astronomical zij that provided precise tables for the position of stars. His contributions significantly advanced the field of astronomy during the 15th century, influencing subsequent scholars in the region and beyond.
Continue ReadingThéodore Tuffier
French surgeon specializing in surgery
Born
March 26th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1929 96 years ago — 72 years old
Contributions to the field of surgery included innovations in orthopedic surgery and methods for treating fractures. Developed Tuffier's sign, a clinical test to assess conditions affecting the hip joint. Conducted extensive research on surgical techniques and medical education, influencing future generations of surgeons. Published numerous articles and textbooks on surgical practices, which became essential reading for medical students and professionals.
Continue ReadingJohn Hasbrouck Van Vleck
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics winner
Born
March 13th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1980 45 years ago — 81 years old
Contributions included work in quantum mechanics and solid-state physics. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1977 for contributions to the understanding of the behavior of electrons in magnetic fields. Published extensively, impacting theories related to the magnetic properties of materials and molecular interactions. Served as a professor at Harvard University and held various positions in esteemed scientific societies throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJames McGirr
Australian politician, NSW Premier
Born
February 6th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1957 68 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 28th Premier of New South Wales from 1947 to 1952. Focused on post-war reconstruction and economic development. Advocated for public education and health reforms. Led the Labor Party to victory in state elections, positioning the party as a significant force in New South Wales politics. Managed to navigate challenges such as housing shortages and labor strikes during a period of substantial change in Australia.
Continue ReadingIvan III of Russia
Grand Prince of Moscow, unifier of Russia
Born
January 22nd, 1440 586 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1505 520 years ago — 65 years old
Ruled as Grand Prince of Moscow from 1462 to 1505. Expanded the territory of Moscow, consolidating power and unifying several principalities under a centralized Russian state. Established Moscow as the political and cultural center of Russia. Known for ending the Tatar yoke, allowing greater independence for the Russian territories. Introduced administrative reforms and laid the groundwork for the future Tsardom of Russia.
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