Morton Gould
Pianist, composer, and conductor of symphonies
A prolific American pianist, composer, and conductor active throughout the 20th century, contributed significantly to orchestral and chamber music. Composed various works that blended classical and popular styles, including symphonies, concertos, and ballets. Served as the conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and composed works for notable institutions including the New York Philharmonic and the National Symphony Orchestra. His musical arrangements gained popularity and were widely performed, expanding the reach of classical music into popular culture.
Composed 'American Symphonette No. 2'
Served as conductor for the New York Philharmonic
Other People Born on December 10th
Jahangir Khan
Pakistani squash champion
Born
December 10th, 1963 62 years ago
Achieved significant success in squash during the 1980s and 1990s. Held the World Open title multiple times, establishing dominance in the sport. Maintained an unprecedented winning streak of 555 matches over a period of almost six years. Served as the President of the Pakistan Squash Federation and has been involved in promoting the sport globally.
Continue ReadingMelvil Dewey
American librarian and educator, creator of Dewey Decimal Classification
Born
December 10th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1931 94 years ago — 80 years old
A librarian and educator, developed the Dewey Decimal Classification system, which organizes library materials by subject. Founded the first library school, establishing standards for librarianship. Played a significant role in the advancement of library science education and advocacy for public libraries. His contributions to information organization greatly influenced library practices worldwide.
Continue ReadingArchduchess Maria Leopoldine of Austria-Este
Austrian archduchess and botanist
Born
December 10th, 1776 249 years ago
Died
1848 178 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1776, this archduchess was a notable botanist and a member of the Austrian imperial family. Maria Leopoldine married the future Emperor of Brazil, Dom Pedro I, and played a crucial role in the early years of the Brazilian empire. Her passion for botany led to significant contributions towards the study and classification of plants in Brazil. She supported the establishment of various botanical expeditions and was instrumental in promoting scientific research in the New World.
Continue ReadingCarolyn Kizer
American poet and academic, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
December 10th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent American poet and academic, achieved significant recognition in the literary world. Authored several celebrated poetry collections, including 'Yin' and 'The Martyr'. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing a generation of writers. Kizer was a driving force in the establishment of the literary community in the West Coast and was an early advocate for feminist themes in poetry.
Continue ReadingNicky Barr
Rugby player, soldier, and pilot
Born
December 10th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
Participated in rugby union at a high level with the Australian national team. Served in the Australian Army during World War II, participating in key battles while also fulfilling duties as a pilot. Contributed to the war effort both in combat and through aviation roles. After the war, continued involvement in rugby, influencing future generations of players.
Continue ReadingKen Campbell
English actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
December 10th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
This individual contributed significantly to theatre and television in England. Active during the 20th century, involvement included a prominent role in the Science Fiction Theatre of Liverpool, blending innovative storytelling with experimental performance techniques. Leadership in the experimental theatre movement established a reputation for originality and creativity. Collaboration with notable playwrights and other artists further enriched the artistic landscape.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Ben Chapman
American actor in 'Creature from the Black Lagoon'
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2008 17 years ago — 80 years old
Chapman was an American actor primarily recognized for the role of the creature in the 1954 film 'Creature from the Black Lagoon'. His portrayal contributed significantly to the film's cult status in the horror genre. In addition to his work in film, Chapman appeared in various television shows and made guest appearances in series such as 'The Addams Family' and 'The Wild Wild West'. He had a background in sports, serving as a college athlete before transitioning to acting. Chapman continued to attend fan conventions until his later years, celebrating his legacy in the genre.
Continue ReadingGuillermo Cabrera Infante
Cuban author and screenwriter
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
Cuban author, screenwriter, and critic contributed significantly to literature and cinema. Writings often focused on the complexities of Cuban identity and culture, blending history with narrative fiction. Gained international recognition for the novel 'Three Trapped Tigers', which showcased a vibrant and experimental style. Served as Cuba's cultural attaché in Belgium and was an advocate for freedom of expression, particularly after leaving Cuba following the revolution. Emigrated to Spain and continued to write, producing essays and screenplays that explored themes of nostalgia and exile.
Continue ReadingMatthew Robinson
Australian Snowboarder and Competitor
Born
October 24th, 1985 40 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 28 years old
Competed in snowboarding events, showcasing talents in various international competitions. Achieved significant recognition within the snowboarding community. Participated in the Winter X Games and the FIS World Cup events. Contributed to the growth of snowboarding in Australia through competitive achievements and public appearances.
Continue ReadingJeanne Martin Cissé
Guinean teacher and politician
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
A notable figure in Guinean education and politics, she served as a teacher and was an advocate for women's rights. Cissé held various key positions in the Guinean government, including Minister of Women's Affairs. In the 1980s, she became a member of the National Assembly, where she worked to promote social and political issues affecting women and children. Cissé also represented Guinea at international forums, including the United Nations, contributing to discussions on women's empowerment and education.
Continue ReadingDwayne McDuffie
Comic book author and animated series writer
Born
February 20th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 49 years old
An influential author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to comic books and animated television. Co-founded Milestone Media, which focused on creating diverse superhero narratives. Worked on major animated series, including 'Justice League' and 'Static Shock', shaping their storylines and character development. Advocated for increased representation within the comic book industry.
Continue ReadingEugène Tisserant
French cardinal involved in Vatican affairs
Born
March 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1972 53 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Cardinal of the Catholic Church who served as the Archbishop of Paris from 1939 to 1957. Played a significant role in the Second Vatican Council and influenced church policies during the mid-20th century. Appointed a member of the Roman Curia, engaging in various diplomatic missions on behalf of the Vatican. Participated actively in the formulation of modern Catholic practices and outreach, emphasizing dialogue with other faiths and communities.
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