Neil Sedaka
Singer-songwriter and pianist
A prominent American singer-songwriter and pianist, contributions to pop music began in the late 1950s. Achievements include numerous chart-topping hits, with significant success in both the 1960s and 1970s. Many songs gained enduring popularity and became staples of the genre. Sedaka's songwriting prowess led to collaborations with various artists and influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
Released hit songs like 'Breaking Up Is Hard to Do'
Achieved success as both a performer and songwriter
Other People Born on March 13th
Myrtle Bachelder
Chemist and Women's Army Corps officer
Born
March 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, holding a prominent position as an officer in the Women's Army Corps during World War II. Successfully managed laboratory operations and research projects that advanced scientific knowledge in various applications. Participated in military activities that integrated women into non-traditional roles, promoting the involvement of women in scientific disciplines.
Continue ReadingAl Jaffee
Cartoonist best known for Mad Magazine
Born
March 13th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2023 2 years ago — 102 years old
A prominent cartoonist contributed significantly to the humor magazine Mad, introducing beloved features like the fold-in and the Snappy Answers to Stupid Questions. Jaffee's artistic style and satirical commentary resonated with readers, making his work a staple of American pop culture. Over a career spanning several decades, Jaffee collaborated with other notable artists and writers, creating memorable characters and illustrations that reflected the social and political climate. His work earned recognition within the comic industry, solidifying his legacy as an innovator in cartooning.
Continue ReadingHugh Walpole
New Zealand-English author and educator
Born
March 13th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1941 84 years ago — 57 years old
Born in New Zealand and later moving to England, the individual became a well-regarded author and educator. The literary career included many novels and works that captured the social landscape of the early 20th century. Key novels included 'Rogue Herries', 'The Cathedral', and 'The Dark Forest'. The individual also held a significant role in education, contributing to the academic community through lecturing and mentoring aspiring writers.
Continue ReadingFritz Busch
German conductor and director of opera
Born
March 13th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1951 74 years ago — 61 years old
Involved in the world of classical music, contributed significantly as a conductor and directed numerous operas. Led major orchestras in Europe and the United States, gaining recognition for interpretations of works by Mozart, Wagner, and Strauss. Held positions such as music director of the Berlin State Opera. Played a crucial role in the development of orchestral and operatic arts during the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingCharles Grey
English Prime Minister, Earl Grey Tea
Born
March 13th, 1764 261 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1845 180 years ago — 81 years old
Held the title of 2nd Earl Grey and served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1830 to 1834. Implemented significant political reforms, including the Reform Act of 1832, which expanded the electorate and addressed issues of representation in Parliament. Promoted social reforms and played a role in the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Contributed to the establishment of the Whig Party as a major political force during his time in office.
Continue ReadingJacque Fresco
Engineer and futurist, The Venus Project
Born
March 13th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 101 years old
An engineer and social inventor focused on designing sustainable cities and a resource-based economy. Developed The Venus Project, which presents a vision for a potential sustainable future through innovative technology and urban planning concepts. Advocated for the redesign of society based on rationality, efficiency, and sustainability. Worked towards raising awareness about social issues and the potential for human advancement through integrative engineering solutions.
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