Morris Stoloff
American film composer and conductor
A prominent composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the film industry. Worked with Columbia Pictures and created music for many films in the 1940s and 1950s. Received an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the iconic piece 'Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah' from the film 'Song of the South'. Collaborated on various soundtracks, including 'The Jolson Story', which showcased his ability to merge music with storytelling.
Won an Academy Award for 'Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah'
Composed music for 'The Jolson Story'
Worked extensively with Columbia Pictures
Other People Born on August 1st
George de Hevesy
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 1st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1966 59 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Hungary, a chemist contributed to the development of modern radiochemistry. Detailed work on isotopes and their applications in medicinal and industrial fields led to groundbreaking research in radioactivity. Held various academic positions in Europe, notably at the University of Freiburg and the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1943 for introducing radioactive tracers in the study of chemical processes. His research significantly advanced knowledge in tracing chemical reactions and understanding the behavior of elements at the atomic level.
Continue ReadingGeorge Coulthard
Footballer and cricketer, pioneer athlete
Born
August 1st, 1856 169 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1883 142 years ago — 27 years old
Played Australian rules football with Melbourne Football Club and represented Victoria in cricket. Competed in the early years of both sports, contributing to the establishment of Australian rules football as a significant sport. Participated in important matches that laid the foundation for future competitions and standards in both cricket and football.
Continue ReadingGeorge Habash
Palestinian politician, PFLP founder
Born
August 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent Palestinian politician, founded the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) in 1967. Played a significant role in advocating for Palestinian rights and engaged in leftist revolutionary activities. Contributed to the Palestinian national cause through political representation and armed struggle, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Served as the PFLP's leader until later years and influenced various Palestinian factions and movements.
Continue ReadingGo-Komatsu
Japanese emperor during the Muromachi period
Born
August 1st, 1377 648 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1433 592 years ago — 56 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1383 during a time of political instability in Japan. Reign lasted until 1392, with a focus on resolving the dual imperial line issue stemming from the previous Ashikaga conflict. Elected by supporters of the Southern Court, faced challenges from the Ashikaga clan. In 1392, he voluntarily abdicated which led to the unification of the Northern and Southern Courts under the Ashikaga rule, marking the end of the divided imperial era. Became a figure of historical significance in the context of Japanese imperial lineage and governance.
Continue ReadingJerry Garcia
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Grateful Dead
Born
August 1st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1995 30 years ago — 53 years old
An influential musician and cultural figure, contributed significantly to the American music scene. Co-founded the Grateful Dead, a band recognized for its unique blend of rock, folk, country, and jazz. The band's live performances gained a dedicated following known as 'Deadheads'. Released several solo albums, showcasing a range of musical styles. Participated in various side projects throughout his career, including the Legion of Mary. Garcia's guitar playing and songwriting left a lasting legacy in American music.
Continue ReadingMaria Mitchell
Astronomer and first female astronomer
Born
August 1st, 1818 207 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1889 136 years ago — 70 years old
An astronomer and professor, contributed significantly to the field of astronomy during the 19th century. Discovered a new comet in 1847, earning recognition in the scientific community. Served as a professor of astronomy at Vassar College, becoming the first woman to hold a post in this capacity at a college. Actively participated in efforts supporting women's education and contributed to the establishment of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 16th
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 ReadingTobias Hume
Scottish soldier and composer of viol music
Born
1569 456 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1645 380 years ago — 76 years old
A soldier and musician, contributions included works for the viol and significant compositions during the early 17th century. Hume authored several important music books, most notably 'The First Part of Ayres' and 'The Second Part of Ayres.' His works showcased unique elements of composite polyphony, and he was among the first to write music specifically for the solo viol. Hume's compositions influenced the development of viol music in England, and he played an essential role in the musical traditions of the time.
Continue ReadingAnne Seymour
Duchess of Somerset, political figure
Born
1497 528 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1587 438 years ago — 90 years old
Anne Seymour served as the Duchess of Somerset in the 16th century. As the wife of Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, she played a significant role in the political landscape during the reign of Edward VI. After her husband's execution, she navigated the challenges of the court and retained influence despite the shifting power dynamics under Mary I. She was known for her connections within the Tudor court and her efforts to support her children's claims and careers amidst political strife.
Continue ReadingJocko Conlan
Baseball umpire with Hall of Fame induction
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a professional baseball player in the 1930s before transitioning to umpiring in Major League Baseball. Officiated in several World Series and All-Star Games throughout a lengthy career as an umpire. His work as an umpire was recognized with induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974.
Continue ReadingRichard Neutra
Architect known for Los Angeles buildings
Born
April 8th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1970 55 years ago — 78 years old
An Austrian-American architect played a significant role in the development of modernist architecture in the United States. Relocating to the U.S. in the 1920s, focus shifted towards designing private homes and public buildings that harmonized with their environments. Notable works include the Lovell Health House, which showcased innovative use of space and materials. Also designed the Los Angeles County Hall of Records, an important civic structure that reflects mid-century architectural trends. Neutra's work emphasized the relationship between architecture and nature, leading to a distinct style that continues to influence architects today.
Continue ReadingRobert Urich
Television actor and producer
Born
December 19th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2002 23 years ago — 55 years old
An American actor and producer, this individual gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with a successful career in television. Stars in the series 'Vega$' and 'Spenser: For Hire' established a memorable presence in the crime drama genre. Work included guest appearances on various popular television shows, showcasing versatility across different characters. Active in film as well, roles spanned a range of genres. The actor's contributions to the television landscape were significant, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.
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