Mitchell Parish
Songwriter of popular standards
A Lithuanian-American songwriter, crafted numerous popular songs throughout the 20th century. Wrote lyrics for the timeless standard "Star Dust," originally composed by Hoagy Carmichael. Contributed to the music world with songs such as "The Nearness of You" and "Watermelon Weather," which have become staples in jazz and popular music. Many songs achieved significant success and continue to be covered by various artists.
Wrote lyrics to "Star Dust"
Contributed to "The Nearness of You"
Created "Watermelon Weather"
Other People Born on July 10th
Louis-Napoléon Casault
Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
July 10th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1908 117 years ago — 84 years old
Practiced law in Canada and served in various political roles. Contributed significantly to the legal landscape and governance during the mid-19th century. Actively participated in the establishment of legal frameworks and judicial practices in Canada. Held the position of a judge and played a key role in judicial reforms.
Continue ReadingMildred Benson
Journalist and author of Nancy Drew
Born
July 10th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2002 23 years ago — 96 years old
An influential journalist and author, this individual contributed significantly to literature, primarily through the creation of the Nancy Drew Mystery Stories. The first book, 'The Secret of the Old Clock', was published in 1930 and established a long-running series that captivated young readers. In addition to writing, she worked as a reporter for the 'Akron Beacon Journal' and gained recognition for her investigative journalism. This individual also wrote under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene, becoming a vital part of a literary legacy that has endured for decades. Their work in children's mystery fiction paved the way for future generations of authors and inspired countless readers.
Continue ReadingThomas Gomez
American actor in film and theater
Born
July 10th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1971 54 years ago — 65 years old
An actor engaged mainly in film and theater during the mid-20th century. Started career on stage before transitioning to Hollywood, appearing in both leading and supporting roles. Gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Sign of the Ram' (1948) and 'Key Largo' (1948), and often portrayed complex characters, showcasing a strong screen presence. Continued to work in film and television into the 1960s, leaving a mark in various dramatic roles.
Continue ReadingAdolphus Busch
German brewer, co-founded Anheuser-Busch
Born
July 10th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
1913 113 years ago — 74 years old
A German brewer co-founded Anheuser-Busch, which became a major American beer company. The partnership with Eberhard Anheuser in 1860 led to the brand's expansion and success. Innovations in brewing techniques and marketing strategies differentiated the products in a competitive market. The company introduced the Budweiser brand in 1876, which rapidly gained popularity. Busch's contributions played a significant role in the company's establishment as a household name in the United States.
Continue ReadingKurt Alder
German chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 10th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1958 67 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent chemist contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Alder developed the Diels-Alder reaction, a vital tool in synthetic chemistry for constructing complex molecular structures. His work in this area revolutionized approaches to chemical synthesis and led to advancements in various industries, including pharmaceuticals. In 1950, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry alongside Otto Hahn for contributions to the development of modern chemistry. Alder also served as a professor at multiple universities, guiding a generation of chemists.
Continue ReadingJohn Calvin
Theologian and Reformer of Geneva
Born
July 10th, 1509 516 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1564 461 years ago — 54 years old
A principal figure in the Protestant Reformation, this theologian's work laid the foundations for Reformed Christianity. Led the city of Geneva to become a center of Protestantism. Authored 'Institutes of the Christian Religion,' a seminal text that outlined his theological positions and ecclesiastical governance. His focus on the sovereignty of God and the preaching of the word shaped Reformed doctrine.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 31st
Barbara Rush
American actress in classic films
Born
January 4th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2024 2 years ago — 97 years old
An American actress, she gained prominence in the 1950s, particularly known for prominent roles in films such as 'It Came from Outer Space' and 'The Young Philadelphians'. She received critical acclaim and multiple accolades throughout her career. In addition to film work, she also appeared in several television series, including 'The $64,000 Question' and 'General Hospital'. Rush's career spans several decades, showcasing her versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles.
Continue ReadingNick Newton
Inventor of the Newton Starting Blocks
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2018 8 years ago — 85 years old
An inventor focused on athletic equipment, contributed to the advancement of track and field. Developed the Newton Starting Blocks, which enhanced sprinter performance by providing better footing at the start of races. Collaborated with athletes and coaches to refine the design and functionality of the starting blocks, which have been widely adopted in various competitions. The innovation played a significant role in the optimization of sprinting techniques.
Continue ReadingCarlos Gaviria Díaz
Colombian lawyer and politician
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2015 11 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Colombian lawyer who dedicated life to public service and advocacy. Served as the president of the Constitutional Court of Colombia from 2001 to 2003. Participated in the Constitutional Assembly of 1991, which produced a new constitution aimed at improving democratic structures. Founded the Progressive Movement party and became a significant figure in Colombia's leftist political landscape. Engaged in various legal and political reforms throughout career, focusing on human rights and social justice.
Continue ReadingGilbert Baker
LGBT rights activist and artist
Born
June 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2017 9 years ago — 65 years old
An American artist and activist created the rainbow flag in 1978, a symbol of the LGBTQ+ movement. The original flag featured eight colors, each representing different aspects of the community. Baker utilized his sewing skills to produce the flags and played a significant role in raising awareness for LGBTQ+ rights. Over the years, the rainbow flag evolved to four colors and became a global symbol of pride and acceptance. In addition to the flag, he engaged in various community projects and activism to support LGBTQ+ rights throughout his life.
Continue ReadingCharles Best
Physiologist who co-discovered insulin
Born
February 27th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1978 48 years ago — 79 years old
A physiologist and biochemist contributed significantly to the discovery of insulin. Collaborated with Frederick Banting during experiments that led to the purification and isolation of insulin from the pancreas of dogs. This groundbreaking work had profound implications for diabetes treatment. Held a long-standing academic career, teaching and conducting research at the University of Toronto, and published numerous scientific papers on the functions of the pancreas. Later, served as the head of the department of physiology at the university.
Continue ReadingJames Rosenquist
American Pop Artist and Muralist
Born
November 29th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2017 9 years ago — 83 years old
An American artist, contributed significantly to the Pop Art movement through large-scale paintings and murals. Started career as a billboard painter, which influenced artistic style and technique. Developed unique approach combining commercial imagery and fine art. Notable works include 'F-111' and 'The Swimmer in the Elysian Fields'. Played a key role in the transition of popular culture mediums to fine art, reflecting on consumerism and mass media.
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