Merce Cunningham
Choreographer and dancer, postmodern dance

Born
April 16th, 1919
106 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2009
15 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
Lukas Haas
Born in 1976, this American actor and musician began a career in film at a young age, gaining attention for a prominent role in the Academy Award-winning movie 'Witness'. Over the years, appeared in various films and television series, including 'The Revenant' and 'Mars Attacks!'. Besides acting, engaged in music, releasing projects that showcase musical talent. Additionally, has worked on independent films, contributing to modern cinema.
Continue ReadingRafael Benítez
Born in 1960, a Spanish football manager and former player. Managed several clubs, including Valencia, Liverpool, and Real Madrid. Achieved significant success with Valencia, winning La Liga titles and the UEFA Cup. Gained recognition for guiding Liverpool to victory in the UEFA Champions League in 2005 in a dramatic final against AC Milan. Also managed Newcastle United in the Premier League, stabilizing the team during challenging seasons. Known for tactical acumen and strong defensive organization.
Continue ReadingDominique Venner
Contributed to French history and political commentary through journalism. Engaged in historical studies focusing on European identity and heritage. Published significant works aimed at preserving cultural memory and criticized contemporary political movements. Actively involved in various historical and cultural associations, advocating for a return to traditional values.
Continue ReadingHerbie Mann
A prominent American flute player and composer, notable for blending jazz, Latin, and world music styles. Experimentation with various genres led to a unique sound that resonated across different audiences. Released over 40 albums, showcasing versatility as both a player and a bandleader. Pioneered the use of the flute in jazz music, earning recognition within the genre. Contributed to the creation of the 'Head Start' television special focused on early childhood education.
Continue ReadingTaylor Townsend
An accomplished tennis player from the United States, gained recognition for achievements in both singles and doubles competitions. Achieved success as a junior player, winning the 2012 US Open girls' singles title and later transitioning into professional circuits. Known for playing primarily on the WTA tour, where contributed to important victories and showcased versatility on the court. Competed in Grand Slam tournaments, displayed notable performance, and earned respect for skills in doubles events.
Continue ReadingHenri
Born into the House of Orléans, held the title of Count of Paris and was the head of the Orléanist branch of the French royal family. Engaged in royalist activities and advocated for the restoration of monarchy in France. Participated in various commemorative events in honor of the monarchy's history. Maintained strong connections with royalist groups and actively promoted his family's legacy until passing in January 2019.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 26th
Elena Cornaro Piscopia
Graduated from the University of Padua and became the first woman to receive a doctorate in philosophy in 1678. Specialized in mathematics, physics, and philosophy, giving lectures at various universities. Contributed to the fields of mathematics and philosophy during a time when women's education was limited. Her scholarly pursuits and achievements inspired future generations of women in academia.
Continue ReadingRonald Phillips
In 1993, an individual was convicted of the rape and murder of a 3-year-old girl in Ohio. The case received significant media attention due to the crimes' brutal nature and the subsequent trial. Following the conviction, a death sentence was imposed in 1994. Legal appeals delayed execution for many years, with several attempts to challenge the sentencing and conviction on various grounds occurring throughout the years. After years on death row, the individual was executed by lethal injection in July 2017, ending a long legal battle.
Continue ReadingMax Winter
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 ReadingDiane Arbus
An influential American photographer, notable for capturing striking and unconventional portraits of marginalized individuals and communities. Arbus's work often featured subjects such as circus performers, trans individuals, and the mentally ill, challenging societal norms regarding representation and beauty. Her photographs explored themes of identity, difference, and the human condition, often eliciting strong emotional responses. Arbus's notable exhibitions include 'Diane Arbus: A Chronology' and her posthumous feature in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Arbus's legacy continues to influence contemporary photography.
Continue ReadingMary Frith
Mary Frith, also known as Moll Cutpurse, was a prominent figure in early 17th-century England, recognized for her involvement in criminal activities as a highwaywoman and pickpocket. She gained notoriety for wearing men's clothing and presenting herself as a masculine character, challenging societal norms of the time. Frith became more widely known following her trial and subsequent imprisonment for theft. She was associated with various aspects of London’s criminal underworld, often engaging in theft and conning wealthy individuals. The character of Moll Cutpurse was later immortalized in several literary works, emphasizing her place in the folklore of the city. Her actions and the persona she crafted reflected the complexities of gender roles and personal agency in the early modern period.
Continue ReadingAnn Rule
Worked as a police officer before becoming a prolific author of true crime. Authored over 30 books, including the best-selling 'The Stranger Beside Me', which explored the life of Ted Bundy. Contributed to various magazines and appeared on television programs discussing crime-related topics.
Continue Reading