Martha Graham
Dancer and choreographer of modern dance
Pioneered modern dance and developed a unique style characterized by expressive movement. Founded the Martha Graham Dance Company in 1926, which became a vital force in American dance. Created over 180 dance works, with notable pieces including "Appalachian Spring," "Lamentation," and "Night Journey." Received numerous accolades, including the Capezio Dance Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, acknowledging contributions to the art form.
Founded the Martha Graham Dance Company
Created the dance 'Appalachian Spring'
Developed a unique dance technique
Other People Born on May 11th
Andrés Iniesta
Spanish footballer, World Cup champion
Born
May 11th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Spent the majority of career at FC Barcelona, where won numerous titles including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. Represented the national team, contributing to Spain's victory in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2008 and 2012 UEFA European Championships. Regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation.
Continue ReadingHagos Gebrhiwet
Ethiopian long-distance runner, World Champion
Born
May 11th, 1994 31 years ago
A long-distance runner specialized in the 5000 meters, achieved significant success in international competitions. Won the gold medal at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing in the 5000 meters. Set personal bests in various events, showcasing strong performances on the track. Competed in the 2016 Summer Olympics, finishing in the top ranks of the 5000 meters, solidifying standing as one of the leading athletes in the discipline. Grew up in Ethiopia, a country with a rich history of distance running.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich Blumenbach
Physician and anthropologist
Born
May 11th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1840 185 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent German physician, physiologist, and anthropologist. Blumenbach significantly contributed to the fields of anthropology and physiology in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He established a classification system that categorized human races based on skull shape, which played a foundational role in biological anthropology. A key figure in the development of comparative anatomy, he studied various physical characteristics of human populations. His work on the variation of human skulls led to the understanding of racial diversity and human classification. Blumenbach also authored several influential texts that addressed topics in medicine and biology, alongside his contributions to the understanding of human variation and species.
Continue ReadingRose Ausländer
Ukrainian-German poet and author
Born
May 11th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1988 37 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1901 in Ukraine, this poet faced significant challenges during her life, including the impact of war and displacement. Relocating to Germany in the 1920s, she became a prominent figure in the literary scene. Her poetry often dealt with themes of exile, identity, and the human condition. Her works were influenced by her experiences during World War II and the Holocaust. After the war, she returned to Germany, where she continued to write and publish, gaining recognition in German literature until her death in 1988.
Continue ReadingLise de Baissac
SOE agent during World War II
Born
May 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2004 21 years ago — 98 years old
Born in Mauritius, worked as a secret agent for the Special Operations Executive during World War II. Entered occupied France in 1943, where she conducted espionage and sabotage missions. Took part in various operations to disrupt German forces and support the Resistance. Played a role in coordinating the intelligence of the Allies, contributing to the overall war effort. After the war, shifted focus to humanitarian efforts.
Continue ReadingYūki Tsunoda
Japanese racing driver, Formula 1 competitor
Born
May 11th, 2000 25 years ago
Debuted in Formula 1 in 2021 with AlphaTauri after notable performances in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, where a second-place finish was achieved in 2020. Born in 2000, displayed exceptional skills in karting before progressing to single-seater racing. Continued to develop as a driver, contributing to the team’s performance in multiple Grand Prix events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 1st
Leslie Cheung
Singer-songwriter and actor in Hong Kong
Born
September 12th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2003 22 years ago — 46 years old
A prominent figure in the Hong Kong entertainment industry, this individual gained recognition as both a singer and actor during the 1980s and 1990s. He achieved significant success in music, particularly with the hit songs such as 'Chase' and 'Monica', and his acting skills were highlighted in films including 'Happy Together' and 'A Better Tomorrow'. This individual also played a pivotal role in popularizing Cantopop, a genre that emerged from Hong Kong's music scene. A well-respected artist, this figure's influence extended beyond music and film, contributing to discussions on mental health and LGBTQ+ issues in Asia.
Continue ReadingGiuditta Pasta
Italian soprano famous for operatic roles
Born
October 26th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1865 160 years ago — 67 years old
An Italian soprano, significant contributions occurred primarily in the 19th century. Recognized for powerful performances in operas by composers such as Vincenzo Bellini and Giuseppe Verdi. Notable for portraying leading roles in works like 'Norma' and 'La Sonnambula'. Pasta influenced opera by bringing dramatic intensity and vocal technique, shaping the roles for later sopranos. Besides operatic success, also involved in the development of operatic performance style and education.
Continue ReadingCharles Wells
Founder of Charles Wells Ltd Brewery
Born
August 13th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1914 111 years ago — 71 years old
Founded Charles Wells Ltd, a significant British brewery. Established in 1876, this brewing company became well-known for its high-quality ales. Under leadership, the brewery expanded its operations, gaining a reputation for both innovation in brewing techniques and commitment to traditional brewing methods. The company contributed to the local economy and community in Bedford, England. Died in 1914.
Continue ReadingJaime Guzmán
Chilean lawyer and politician
Born
June 28th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician in Chile, played a significant role in drafting the 1980 Chilean Constitution. Founded the Independent Democratic Union (UDI) party in 1983. Served as a senator from 1990 until death in 1991, advocating for conservative policies and reforms. His influence in Chilean politics persisted beyond his death, with his constitutional and political ideas continuing to resonate in the country.
Continue ReadingMiguel de la Madrid
52nd President of Mexico
Born
December 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old
Served as President of Mexico from 1982 to 1988. Implemented economic reforms aimed at addressing the country's financial crisis during the 1980s. Focused on modernizing the economy and reducing the state's role in various sectors. Faced challenges such as the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, which prompted significant reconstruction efforts and emergency measures. After leaving office, engaged in academic and banking roles, contributing to public discussions on governance and economic policy.
Continue ReadingSteven Bochco
Television writer and producer of dramas
Born
December 16th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2018 7 years ago — 74 years old
Contributed significantly to the television landscape as a writer and producer. Created and produced iconic shows such as 'Hill Street Blues', 'L.A. Law', and 'NYPD Blue', which reshaped dramatic storytelling on television. His work received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bochco's style integrated complex characters and socio-political themes into crime and legal dramas, establishing a template for future series.
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