Marin Marais
French viol player and composer
Born
1656
369 years ago
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
France
Links & References
Specialized in the viola da gamba, contributed significantly to the French Baroque music scene. Composed several notable pieces, including chamber music and operas. Served as a musician at the court of Louis XIV. Authored instructional works for the viola da gamba that remain influential.
Composed 'Alcyone', an opera
Published 'Pièces de viole', a collection of viol music
Other People Who Died on August 15th
Harry Harrison
American author and illustrator of science fiction
Born
March 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
An author and illustrator, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. The creation of the 'Bill, the Galactic Hero' series showcased a satirical take on military science fiction. Another notable work, 'Make Room! Make Room!', served as the basis for the film 'Soylent Green', highlighting the challenges of overpopulation. Work also included various short stories and novels that explored futuristic themes and human nature.
Continue ReadingMahadev Desai
Indian author and independence activist
Born
January 1st, 1892 133 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1942 83 years ago — 50 years old
An Indian author and activist contributed significantly to the Indian independence movement. Desai served as a close aide to Mahatma Gandhi and was heavily involved in the non-violent resistance against British colonial rule. He edited the journal 'Young India' and played a major role in the Salt March, which was pivotal in mobilizing public opinion against colonial laws. His writings focused on political and social issues within India, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and education. Desai also advocated for various reforms in the education system in India.
Continue ReadingJulian Bond
American politician and civil rights leader
Born
January 14th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
An influential figure in the civil rights movement, this individual co-founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and played a vital role in organizing voter registration drives in the South. His political career included serving in the Georgia House of Representatives and the Georgia State Senate. This person was also the chairman of the NAACP and advocated for issues related to equality and social justice. In academia, this individual taught at several universities and was a prominent advocate for education and civil rights.
Continue ReadingSune Bergström
Swedish biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 10th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2004 21 years ago — 88 years old
A Swedish biochemist specialized in the fields of lipid biochemistry and the enzymatic processes related to them. Contributed significantly to the understanding of prostaglandins and their role in physiological processes. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 for research in the field of fatty acids and their influence on health. Served as a professor at the Karolinska Institute, engaging in both teaching and research activities.
Continue ReadingJerry Wexler
American music producer and journalist
Born
January 10th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2008 17 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent music producer and journalist in the United States, contributed to the success of numerous artists and helped shape the sound of rhythm and blues. Co-founded Atlantic Records, where played a crucial role in promoting and producing works for artists such as Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin. Wrote for Billboard magazine, providing insights that influenced the music industry. Throughout a career spanning several decades, received multiple Grammy Awards for production and influence in the music sector.
Continue ReadingPierre Bouguer
French mathematician and geophysicist
Born
February 16th, 1698 327 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1758 267 years ago — 60 years old
A mathematician and geophysicist contributed to the development of hydrostatics and geodesy. His work included methods for measuring the shape and density of the Earth, as well as advancements in the understanding of light. Bouguer published 'Essai d'Optique' in 1729, laying foundational concepts in optical science. He also worked on the principles of buoyancy and is regarded as a pioneer in the study of gravity.
Continue Reading