Marie-Claire Alain
Organist and educator, notable for recordings
A prominent organist and educator, contributed significantly to the field of organ music. Taught at the Conservatoire de Paris and published several educational works. Made numerous recordings, showcasing both classical pieces and contemporary works. Participated in international competitions as a juror and awarded multiple accolades for excellence in musicianship.
Recorded over 200 albums
Served on juries for major competitions
Other People Born on August 10th
Gaudencio Rosales
Filipino Cardinal and Archbishop
Born
August 10th, 1932 93 years ago
Ordained as a priest in 1958, served in various capacities within the Catholic Church in the Philippines. Appointed Bishop of Imus in 1993 and later became the Archbishop of Manila in 2003. Elevated to Cardinal in 2006, involved in several significant church initiatives and public discussions concerning social justice and community development. Retired in 2011 but continued to influence the Church's role in Philippine society.
Continue ReadingAnwar Ibrahim
Malaysian politician, 10th Prime Minister
Born
August 10th, 1947 78 years ago
A prominent Malaysian politician and academic, served as the 10th Prime Minister of Malaysia. Over decades, engaged in various governmental roles, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Played a significant role in Malaysian politics and governance, advocating for socio-economic reforms. Following years of political turmoil and imprisonment, returned to power in 2022, focusing on unity and development amidst a challenging political landscape.
Continue ReadingTony Ross
Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
August 10th, 1938 87 years ago
An author and illustrator, best recognized for creating a variety of children's books. Began illustrating in the late 20th century and gained recognition for both humorous and engaging illustrations. Collaborated with many writers, significantly with the series featuring the character 'Little Princess'. Works feature vibrant illustrations and stories that capture the imagination of young readers.
Continue ReadingJames II of Aragon
Aragonese monarch, led the Crown of Aragon
Born
August 10th, 1267 758 years ago
Died
1327 698 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1267, ascended to the throne of Aragon in 1291. Expanded the Crown of Aragon by uniting it with the Kingdom of Majorca and later took control of Sicily after a successful campaign. Involved in the establishment of the Aragonese language and culture, promoting its use during his reign. Played a significant role in the politics of the Mediterranean, particularly through alliances and military ventures against rival kingdoms. His reign marked a period of consolidation for the Crown of Aragon, which became a powerful entity in medieval Spain.
Continue ReadingKeith Duckworth
Engineer and founder of Cosworth
Born
August 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 72 years old
An English engineer, played a significant role in the automotive industry. Established Cosworth, a company well-regarded for its engineering expertise and high-performance engines. Contributed to the development of turbocharged engines that gained prominence in motorsport. Worked closely with teams in Formula One, creating some of the most successful race engines in the sport's history. Influenced the design of engines that were used by various winning teams and manufacturers.
Continue ReadingEusebio Kino
Italian missionary and explorer in Mexico
Born
August 10th, 1645 380 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1711 314 years ago — 65 years old
A Jesuit priest and missionary, contributed significantly to the exploration and evangelization of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Established several missions in what is now Arizona and northern Mexico, facilitating the spread of Christianity among Indigenous populations. Advocated for the rights of Native Americans, opposing the enslavement and mistreatment of Indigenous peoples. His work laid the groundwork for later European settlement in the region.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 26th
Maximilian II Emanuel
Elector of Bavaria and military commander
Born
July 11th, 1662 363 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1726 299 years ago — 63 years old
Served as Elector of Bavaria from 1679 until death in 1726. Oversaw military campaigns during the War of the Spanish Succession as a commander of Bavarian forces. Engaged in political alliances with France and Spain, demonstrating an influential role in European politics of the early 18th century. Commissioned the construction of the Nymphenburg Palace, reflecting baroque architecture.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Häberlin
Swiss politician and National Council President
Born
September 6th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1947 78 years ago — 78 years old
Held the position of President of the Swiss National Council during a significant period in Swiss politics. Contributed to legislative processes and governance in Switzerland. Participated actively in political discourse and decision-making, influencing the direction of national policies. His tenure included critical discussions on topics relevant to Swiss society and international relations.
Continue ReadingAnna Vasa of Sweden
Polish and Swedish princess
Born
May 17th, 1568 457 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1625 400 years ago — 56 years old
Born into the Vasa dynasty, this individual played a significant role in Swedish history through a strategic marital alliance. Marriage to John III of Sweden strengthened ties between Sweden and Poland. This figure had a notable influence on the Swedish court and participated in political affairs. As a queen consort, oversaw various ceremonial and diplomatic activities, shaping cultural and political exchanges between the two nations. The legacy includes contributions to the continuation of the Vasa lineage and the promotion of Catholicism in Sweden.
Continue ReadingBill Hicks
American comedian and social critic
Born
December 16th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1994 31 years ago — 32 years old
A stand-up comedian, whose material included political and social criticism, gained a cult following during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Primarily performed in the United States, often tackled topics such as consumerism, religion, and self-awareness. Featured in several specials, most notably 'Relentless' and 'Sane Man'. His performances were characterized by their dark humor and poignant insights into contemporary society.
Continue ReadingOtto Wallach
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 27th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1931 94 years ago — 83 years old
A chemist and academic made significant contributions to the field of organic chemistry. The work focused extensively on terpenes and their derivatives. Conducted research that identified the structure and synthesis of various organic compounds. Earned the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1910 for these contributions to the study of alicyclic compounds.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Tartini
Italian violinist and composer, creator of 'Devil's Trill Sonata'
Born
April 8th, 1692 333 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1770 255 years ago — 77 years old
An Italian violinist and composer, recognized for contributions to Baroque music. Created the 'Devil's Trill Sonata', a pivotal work in the violin repertoire. Served as concertmaster and developed teaching methods for violin. Founded a violin school in Padua, which influenced future generations of musicians. Wrote several treatises on music theory and composition, which became important resources for violinists and composers.
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