Mikis Theodorakis
Greek composer of iconic film scores
A Greek composer and politician, contributed significantly to music and culture in Greece. Gained international recognition for the score of the film Zorba the Greek. Created numerous works across various genres including symphonies, operas, and chamber music. Played an important role in Greek politics, advocating for democracy during the military junta in the 1960s and 1970s. His compositions often referenced Greek folk music and history, embedding national identity within his works.
Composed the score for Zorba the Greek
Created the song 'Mauthausen Trilogy'
Other People Born on July 29th
Archbishop Iakovos of America
Greek Orthodox Archbishop and leader
Born
July 29th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2005 20 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the Greek Orthodox Archbishop of America from 1959 to 1996. Worked on interfaith dialogue, particularly between Orthodox Christianity and other religions. Participated in the Civil Rights Movement alongside Martin Luther King Jr., advocating for racial equality. Oversaw significant growth of the Greek Orthodox Church in the United States and contributed to the establishment of various educational and philanthropic organizations.
Continue ReadingJakob Mändmets
Estonian writer and journalist
Born
July 29th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1930 95 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1871, this individual contributed significantly to Estonian literature and journalism. Engaged in the cultural movements of the time, produced various works that shed light on the social issues facing Estonia. Played an essential role in fostering literary expression through writing and editing. Became a key figure in the journalistic landscape, providing insights into both local and national affairs. Actively participated in the establishment of literary traditions in Estonia.
Continue ReadingErich Priebke
German military officer involved in WWII
Born
July 29th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 100 years old
A German military officer served as a captain during World War II. Played a significant role in the Italian campaign and was involved in the Ardeatine massacre in Rome, which resulted in the execution of 335 Italian civilians in reprisal for partigiano attacks. After the war, evaded capture for several years before being apprehended in Argentina, where he lived after the conflict. Extradition to Italy occurred in the early 1990s, leading to a trial and conviction for aiding and abetting murder. His death occurred in 2013.
Continue ReadingGerhard Armauer Hansen
Norwegian physician, discovered leprosy bacterium
Born
July 29th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1912 113 years ago — 70 years old
A Norwegian physician conducted groundbreaking research on leprosy, leading to the identification of the Mycobacterium leprae bacterium in 1873. This discovery laid the foundation for understanding the disease and its transmission. Hansen's work was instrumental in challenging the misconceptions surrounding leprosy during the 19th century, contributing to improved medical responses and care for affected individuals. He published numerous scientific papers and was regarded for his meticulous methodology and dedication to his field.
Continue ReadingIrwin Corey
Comedian and actor with distinctive style
Born
July 29th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2017 9 years ago — 102 years old
An influential figure in comedy and entertainment, renowned for an improvisational style and a unique delivery. Achieved fame in the mid-20th century, starred in numerous television shows and stage performances. Gained attention for appearances on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Tonight Show,' showcasing a blend of comedy and social commentary. Also recognized for a long career in theater and film, contributing to both serious and comedic projects. Maintained an active presence in the entertainment industry well into the 21st century.
Continue ReadingWilliam Powell
Actor in The Thin Man series
Born
July 29th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1984 41 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor, renowned for a distinctive style in film and a sophisticated persona. Starred in the 'The Thin Man' series, portraying the character Nick Charles, which became a hallmark of his career. Also earned acclaim for performances in films like 'My Man Godfrey' and 'The Great Ziegfeld'. His career spanned over five decades, starting in the silent film era and transitioning to talkies, showcasing versatility in various genres. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for 'My Man Godfrey'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
N. F. S. Grundtvig
Danish philosopher and educational reformer
Born
September 8th, 1783 242 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1872 153 years ago — 88 years old
A significant figure in 19th-century Denmark, contributed to both education and Danish culture through philosophical writings. Emphasized the importance of folk high schools, promoting education as a means of personal and societal development. Developed a unique approach to education that focused on democratic values, community engagement, and the integration of spirituality into learning. His ideas laid the foundation for the modern Danish folk school system and influenced educational reform across Scandinavia.
Continue ReadingMabel Vernon
American educator and activist for suffrage
Born
September 19th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1975 50 years ago — 91 years old
An educator and activist focused on the women’s suffrage movement. Played a significant role in the National Women’s Party, advocating for women's rights and suffrage legislation. Worked closely with prominent leaders in the movement and organized campaigns to promote equality. Contributed writings to various publications, elucidating the goals and aspirations of women seeking the right to vote. Actively participated in protests and events aimed at garnering support for the 19th Amendment.
Continue ReadingHenry Lawson
Australian poet and author of Balladry
Born
June 17th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1922 103 years ago — 55 years old
A significant figure in Australian literature, contributed extensively through poetry and short stories. Focused on themes of Australian identity, the everyday life of Australians, and the struggles faced by rural communities. Published works include 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke' and 'While the Billy Boils'. His writing reflected the experiences and spirit of the Australian people during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingBarbara McClintock
Geneticist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 16th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1902, a pioneering American geneticist. Developed the theory of transposable elements and conducted extensive research on corn genetics. This work contributed to the understanding of genetic regulation and the mechanisms of inheritance. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983 for discoveries related to mobile genetic elements, marking a significant milestone in genetics research.
Continue ReadingDick Reynolds
Australian footballer and coach
Born
June 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old
Played Australian rules football primarily for Essendon Football Club from 1934 to 1951. Served as the club's captain and later became a coach, leading the team to significant success. Accumulated a total of 317 games, earning recognition as a two-time Brownlow Medal winner. Coached Essendon from 1966 to 1970, contributing to the strategies and development of players in the league.
Continue ReadingAbe Lenstra
Footballer, pivotal in Dutch football history
Born
November 27th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1985 40 years ago — 64 years old
Played as a forward primarily for Heerenveen in the Netherlands. Contributed significantly to Dutch football from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. Competed in the 1954 FIFA World Cup. Also represented the Dutch national team, earning recognition for exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Post-retirement, became involved in football administration and coaching, influencing the next generation of players.
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