Otto Hermann Kahn

German banker and philanthropist

Otto Hermann Kahn - German banker and philanthropist
Born

February 21st, 1867
158 years ago

Died

March 29th, 1934
90 years ago — 67 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

Born in Germany, one of the most significant figures in American finance and the arts during the early 20th century. Kahn served as a partner at the investment bank Kuhn, Loeb & Co., where he played a pivotal role in financing the construction of the Panama Canal and the development of various railroads. A prominent philanthropist, he contributed substantially to cultural institutions, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, where he served as a trustee. Kahn's contributions to the arts extended to supporting music and education in numerous ways throughout his career.

Financed the construction of the Panama Canal

Contributed to the Metropolitan Opera

Other People Born on February 21st

Kenneth J. Alford

Bandmaster and composer of marches
Born
February 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1945 79 years ago — 64 years old

A significant figure in military music, contributed extensively to the genre of military marches. Composed many well-regarded pieces, including 'Colonel Bogey March', which gained international fame. Served as a bandmaster in the British Army, where leadership in various military bands was demonstrated. His work has inspired generations of musicians and remains popular in both military and civilian music circles.

Continue Reading

Zdeněk Miler

Czech animator of 'The Little Mole'
Born
February 21st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1921, this animator gained prominence for creating the beloved character of The Little Mole, known for its charming storytelling and gentle humor. The character first appeared in animated films in the 1950s and quickly became a symbol of Czech animation. Miler's work includes numerous short films and television series featuring The Little Mole, captivating audiences with its simple yet endearing narratives. Miler's contribution to children's entertainment continues to resonate in Czech culture and beyond.

Continue Reading

Léo Delibes

French composer of ballet music
Born
February 21st, 1836 189 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1891 134 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent French composer, significant for contributions to ballet music. Composed scores for influential ballets, including 'Coppélia' and 'Sylvia'. His work combined melodic richness with innovative orchestrations. Undertook training in both music and opera, creating a unique style that influenced later composers. Associated with the Paris Opera, worked to integrate ballet with operatic elements, enhancing the theatrical experience. His influence extended into the 20th century, as his compositions continued to be performed and studied.

Continue Reading

Cathy Richardson

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 21st, 1969 56 years ago

Born in 1969, a singer-songwriter and guitarist with a distinctive voice and style. Gained prominence as the lead vocalist for the band Hot Tuna and played a significant role in revitalizing their sound. Released several solo albums showcasing a mix of rock and folk influences. Contributed to the ensemble cast in the Broadway musical 'The Who's Tommy', enhancing the storytelling with powerful performances. Known for passionate performances and songwriting that often reflects personal narratives.

Continue Reading

Hayley Orrantia

Actress and singer-songwriter, 'The Goldbergs'
Born
February 21st, 1994 31 years ago

An actress and singer-songwriter, widely recognized for roles in television and music. Gained prominence through the role of Erica Goldberg on the ABC sitcom 'The Goldbergs', which started airing in 2013. Also pursued a career in music, releasing singles that showcase a blend of pop and country genres. Initiated a musical career alongside acting, contributing to her recognition as a multi-talented performer.

Continue Reading

Wendy

South Korean singer; Red Velvet member
Born
February 21st, 1994 31 years ago

A prominent South Korean singer, a member of the girl group Red Velvet. Debuted with the group in 2014 under SM Entertainment, contributing to their distinctive sound and style. The group achieved significant commercial success both in South Korea and internationally. Released solo projects, showcasing versatility and vocal talent. Received accolades for performances and contributions to the music industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 29th

Lise de Baissac

SOE agent during World War II
Born
May 11th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2004 20 years ago — 98 years old

Born in Mauritius, worked as a secret agent for the Special Operations Executive during World War II. Entered occupied France in 1943, where she conducted espionage and sabotage missions. Took part in various operations to disrupt German forces and support the Resistance. Played a role in coordinating the intelligence of the Allies, contributing to the overall war effort. After the war, shifted focus to humanitarian efforts.

Continue Reading

Agnès Varda

French film director, 'Cléo from 5 to 7'
Born
May 30th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2019 5 years ago — 90 years old

A notable figure in the French New Wave, directed numerous influential films throughout a career spanning over six decades. Created a unique style that emphasized personal storytelling and documentary techniques. Associated with the feminist movement in cinema, explored themes of identity and memory. Contributed to film as both a director and a visual artist, merging elements of photography and art installation into her work.

Continue Reading

Charles Villiers Stanford

Irish composer and conductor
Born
September 30th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1924 100 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent composer and conductor from Ireland, contributed significantly to both sacred and secular music. Stanford studied at the Royal Irish Academy of Music and later at Trinity College, Cambridge. He was a key figure in the development of British music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with compositions spanning various genres including symphonies, chamber music, and choral works. Served as a professor at the Royal College of Music in London, where he influenced a generation of British composers. His compositions often incorporated elements of folk music and showcased rich harmonic language.

Continue Reading

Hans Nielsen Hauge

Norwegian lay minister and reformer
Born
1771 254 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1824 200 years ago — 53 years old

A Norwegian lay minister, social reformer, and author contributed significantly to religious life and social reforms in Norway. Established numerous congregations and promoted literacy and education through the establishment of schools. Advocated for workers' rights and economic independence, influencing Norway's societal structure during the early 19th century. Imprisoned multiple times for his religious activities and reformist views, yet continued to inspire followers and contribute to the religious awakening in Norway until death in 1824.

Continue Reading

Barthélemy Boganda

1st Prime Minister of Central African Republic
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1959 65 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent African priest and politician, served as the first Prime Minister of the Central African Republic after its independence from France in 1960. Established the Mouvement de l'Évolution Sociale de l'Afrique Noire (MESAN), a pivotal political party during the early years of the nation's political landscape. Advocated for national unity and social reforms, aiming to improve the living conditions of the citizens. Played a significant role in the development of the country's governance and institutional structures before his untimely death in 1959.

Continue Reading

Helge Ingstad

Norwegian lawyer and Arctic explorer
Born
December 30th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2001 23 years ago — 101 years old

Contributed significantly to the exploration of Arctic regions. Engaged in archaeological work that led to the discovery of Viking settlements in North America. Conducted research on the Norse settlements in Greenland and Newfoundland, showcasing the extent of Viking exploration. Held academic positions and contributed to legal studies, emphasizing the importance of Arctic policy and research. Additionally, authored several books detailing his explorations and findings.

Continue Reading