Merce Cunningham

Choreographer and dancer, postmodern dance

Merce Cunningham - Choreographer and dancer, postmodern dance
Born

April 16th, 1919
106 years ago

Died

July 26th, 2009
16 years ago — 90 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in the development of modern dance, contributed significantly to the art form through innovative choreography. Founded the Merce Cunningham Dance Company in 1953, which toured extensively and influenced generations of dancers and choreographers. Collaborated with various artists, including composer John Cage, creating a unique integration of music and dance. Utilized chance procedures in choreography, which revolutionized traditional approaches to movement. Explored technology in performance, incorporating film and multimedia elements to enhance the dance experience.

Founded the Merce Cunningham Dance Company

Pioneered chance operations in choreography

Integrated technology into performance

Other People Born on April 16th

Aaron Lennon

English footballer and international player
Born
April 16th, 1987 38 years ago

Played professional football primarily as a winger. Developed through the youth ranks at Leeds United and made a significant impact after joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2005, where contributions included winning the League Cup in 2008. Represented the England national team, earning 21 caps and participating in major tournaments such as the 2006 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012.

Continue Reading

Pedro Ramírez Vázquez

Mexican architect and urban planner
Born
April 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old

An architect and urban planner, this individual made significant contributions to modern Mexican architecture. Designed notable constructions such as the Azteca Stadium, which hosted the FIFA World Cup twice, in 1970 and 1986. Also contributed to the development of the National Museum of Anthropology, a centerpiece for Mexican culture. Designed important public works that improved urban infrastructure and cultural engagement in Mexico City and beyond, showcasing a blend of functionality and aesthetic vision.

Continue Reading

R. E. Foster

English cricketer and footballer
Born
April 16th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1914 111 years ago — 36 years old

Competed as a prominent cricketer and footballer. Foster played first-class cricket for Surrey and was a member of the England national team. Additionally, he played association football for various clubs, including West Ham United. Achieved distinction in both sports, exhibiting exceptional skills that garnered attention during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Jules Hardouin-Mansart

French architect of Versailles
Born
April 16th, 1646 379 years ago

A prominent architect of the Baroque period, this individual significantly contributed to French architecture in the 17th century. This architect completed major projects including the extension of the Palace of Versailles, which included the iconic Hall of Mirrors. In addition to Versailles, the design of the Church of Les Invalides was also attributed to this architect, showcasing a mastery of integrating classical elements with grandiose designs. The architectural style developed during this period has had lasting influences on European architecture.

Continue Reading

Arch A. Moore Jr.

Governor of West Virginia
Born
April 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1923, this individual served as the 28th Governor of West Virginia, holding office from 1969 to 1971 and again from 1985 to 1989. A member of the Republican Party, advocacy for state development and infrastructure characterized his tenure. He pursued a legal career as well, serving as a prominent lawyer prior to his governorship. The political career included addressing various social and economic issues pertinent to West Virginia, shaping several policies during his governance.

Continue Reading

Ponnambalam Ramanathan

Sri Lankan lawyer and politician
Born
April 16th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1930 94 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician from Sri Lanka, served as the third Solicitor General. Actively participated in the legal and political landscape of the late 19th century, advocating for various legal reforms and representing the interests of the Tamil community. Engaged in educational initiatives in Colombo and voiced concerns regarding social and political issues during colonial rule. His work laid the foundation for future political engagement among Tamil leaders.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 26th

Fazlur Rahman Malik

Pakistani philosopher and scholar
Born
September 21st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1988 37 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent philosopher and scholar focused on Islamic thought, contributed significantly to modern interpretations of the Quran. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago and held the position of the director of the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. Emphasized the importance of contextual understanding in religious texts and was influential in the development of contemporary Islamic philosophy. Authored several influential works that addressed fundamental issues in Islam and its relationship with modernity.

Continue Reading

Max Winter

Businessman and sports executive
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 93 years old

A businessman and sports executive in the United States, played a significant role in the growth of professional sports franchises. As the owner and president of the Minnesota Vikings, contributed to the establishment of the team in the NFL. Was influential in the modernization of the organization and helped secure the team's place in the league. Worked to enhance the presence of professional football in Minnesota, developing a strong fan base and promoting sports entertainment in the region.

Continue Reading

James D. Watkins

American admiral, 6th Secretary of Energy
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 6th United States Secretary of Energy from 1989 to 1993. Held the rank of admiral in the United States Navy and was distinguished for contributions to naval operations and policy. Focused on energy policy and nuclear safety during tenure as Secretary. Oversaw the Department of Energy during critical periods of energy regulation and management.

Continue Reading

Robert Todd Lincoln

American lawyer, 35th U.S. Secretary of War
Born
August 1st, 1843 182 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1926 99 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a lawyer and politician, holding the position of the 35th Secretary of War under President James Garfield. Appointed to the position in 1881 and served until 1885. Contributed to military policies and reforms during a time of significant change in the U.S. Armed Forces. Also held various roles including serving as the president of the Pullman Company. Involved in the management of labor relations during a tumultuous period in American industry, particularly during the Pullman Strike of 1894. His lineage includes being the eldest son of Abraham Lincoln.

Continue Reading

Carlos Castillo Armas

Guatemalan authoritarian ruler
Born
November 4th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1957 68 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1914, served as the military officer and president of Guatemala from 1954 until his assassination in 1957. Came to power following a CIA-backed coup that overthrew democratically elected President Jacobo Árbenz, which marked a significant shift in Guatemalan politics. Implemented policies that favored land reform and reestablished the power of the elite, leading to political repression and human rights violations. His regime was characterized by authoritarian practices and suppression of dissent, which had lasting effects on the sociopolitical landscape of Guatemala.

Continue Reading

Sivakant Tiwari

Lawyer and author focusing on legal ethics
Born
December 20th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2010 15 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1945, a prominent lawyer and author, primarily engaged in the fields of legal practice and legal education. Practiced law in both India and Singapore, contributing to various legal frameworks. Authored several publications on legal ethics, corporate law, and human rights, advocating for reforms in legal education and practices in these regions. Served in significant roles within legal associations, promoting collaboration between legal professionals across jurisdictions.

Continue Reading