Maurice Béjart
Choreographer of The Rite of Spring
A prominent dancer, choreographer, and director, this individual significantly influenced modern ballet and contemporary dance. Founded the Béjart Ballet Lausanne in 1987, establishing a platform for innovative dance. Created numerous choreographies, including a renowned version of Igor Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring. Developed a unique style that combined classic ballet techniques with modern elements, showcasing the expressive potential of dance.
Founded Béjart Ballet Lausanne
Choreographed The Rite of Spring
Revived various classic ballets
Other People Born on January 1st
James Sinegal
American businessman, Costco co-founder
Born
January 1st, 1936 90 years ago
Co-founded a major membership warehouse club that revolutionized retail shopping. Built the company into one of the largest retailers in the world, known for its unique business model focusing on low prices and high-quality products. Oversaw rapid expansion and significant growth during tenure as CEO. Fostered a corporate culture centered on employee treatment and customer service.
Continue ReadingAndré Marie Constant Duméril
French zoologist and professor
Born
January 1st, 1774 252 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1860 165 years ago — 86 years old
Born in France in 1774, this zoologist and academic made significant contributions to herpetology, the study of reptiles and amphibians. Duméril served as a professor at the Musée d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris, where he focused on the classification and systematic study of various species. He published important works that laid the groundwork for future research in zoology, including multiple volumes on reptiles and their taxonomy. His collaborations with notable contemporaries helped advance the scientific community's understanding of animal biology and diversity.
Continue ReadingJames George Frazer
Anthropologist and cultural theorist
Born
January 1st, 1854 172 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1941 84 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of anthropology, particularly through the publication of 'The Golden Bough'. This work explored myth, ritual, and beliefs across cultures, examining the evolution of religious thought. The scholarship focused on comparing various belief systems and highlighted the similarities between ancient and modern practices. Also served as a prominent academic figure, influencing the field with theories relating to magic, religion, and culture.
Continue ReadingPatrick Anthony Porteous
Scottish Colonel, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
January 1st, 1918 108 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a colonel in the British Army and received the Victoria Cross for gallantry during World War II. His notable action took place at the Battle of Monte Cassino in Italy, where he displayed exceptional valor in the face of enemy fire. This act of bravery led to the awarding of the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor in the British and Commonwealth forces.
Continue ReadingThomas Waddell
Irish-Australian politician and Premier
Born
January 1st, 1854 172 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1940 85 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the 15th Premier of New South Wales, assuming office in 1891. Represented the Labor Party and was notable for his advocacy of workers' rights and land reform. Held various government positions prior to premiership, including Minister for Public Works. His leadership during a time of economic difficulty was marked by efforts to address labor issues and infrastructural development.
Continue ReadingLaMarr Hoyt
Baseball player and 1983 Cy Young Award winner
Born
January 1st, 1955 71 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 66 years old
LaMarr Hoyt was a professional baseball pitcher in Major League Baseball, playing primarily for the Chicago White Sox. Debuting in 1979, Hoyt quickly established himself as one of the top pitchers of his era. He achieved notable success in the 1980s, leading the American League in wins and earning the prestigious Cy Young Award in 1983. Hoyt played a key role in helping the White Sox win the American League West division title that same year. His pitching style, characterized by a strong fastball and effective slider, contributed to his recognition as a leading pitcher during his career. Hoyt concluded his playing days with stints on other teams, including the San Diego Padres and the New York Yankees, before retiring in 1989.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 22nd
René Moawad
Lebanese politician and former president
Born
April 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1989 36 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent political figure, served as the 13th President of Lebanon from November to December 1989. Moawad's presidency was marked by efforts to restore stability and peace during the Lebanese Civil War. Before assuming the presidency, significant roles included being a member of the Lebanese Parliament and serving as the Minister of Youth and Sports. His tenure was cut short when he was assassinated shortly after taking office, leading to a period of national mourning and reflection on the ongoing conflicts in the country. Moawad is remembered for his commitment to national sovereignty and rebuilding Lebanon during tumultuous times.
Continue ReadingJohann Christian Reil
Physician and founder of psychological medicine
Born
February 20th, 1759 266 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1813 212 years ago — 54 years old
A German physician, physiologist, and anatomist contributed significantly to the understanding of psychological processes. Developed the concept of psychological medicine emphasizing the connection between mind and body. Worked at the University of Berlin, where research focused on the nervous system. Founded the first psychiatric clinic in Germany. Authored several important texts in medicine, particularly in neurology and psychiatry, influencing later developments in these fields.
Continue ReadingParley Baer
Actor in radio and television series
Born
August 5th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor became prominent in radio and television during the mid-20th century. Played a significant role in the classic radio series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' and later starred in the television adaptation of the show. Provided the voice for various characters in 'The Jetsons' and appeared in numerous other series, including 'Gunsmoke' and 'The Twilight Zone'. In addition to acting, contributed to the industry as a voice artist, working on commercials and animated series.
Continue ReadingOtto Georg Thierack
German jurist and politician
Born
April 19th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1946 79 years ago — 57 years old
A significant jurist and politician from Germany, served as Minister of Justice from 1942 to 1945 during the Nazi regime. Thierack was involved in the implementation of various legal policies aligned with the government's agenda. In the post-war period, he faced prosecution due to his involvement in the regime's judicial system. Thierack was a member of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP) and contributed to many legal reforms during his tenure. His legal career was marked by controversial decisions that aligned with the state’s policies.
Continue ReadingLorenz Hart
American playwright and lyricist of songs
Born
May 2nd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1943 82 years ago — 48 years old
A celebrated American playwright and lyricist, this individual made significant contributions to musical theater in the early 20th century. Collaborating primarily with composer Richard Rodgers, numerous songs were crafted that became standards in American music. The partnership produced a vast body of work, including celebrated musicals and songs that captured the essence of their era. Notable works include 'Babes in Arms' and 'Pal Joey', which showcased lyrical wit and emotional depth. The collaborations left a lasting legacy in the theater and music industry.
Continue ReadingAnthony Burgess
English author and playwright
Born
February 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1993 32 years ago — 76 years old
An influential English author and playwright, produced a vast body of work that includes novels, essays, and plays. Best recognized for the novel 'A Clockwork Orange', which explores themes of free will and societal control. The work inspired a highly controversial film adaptation directed by Stanley Kubrick. Burgess's writings often incorporated his fascination with language and jazz music, reflecting his own experiences and beliefs. Additionally, contributed to literature as a critic and scholar, holding strong views on the importance of creative expression.
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