Pearl Bailey
Actress and singer of 'Porgy and Bess'
An American singer and actress, known for contributions to theater and music from the 1930s through the 1990s. Achieved acclaim for performances in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Hello, Dolly!'. Recorded a number of successful albums and became an influential figure in both the theater and music industries. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for 'Hello, Dolly!' in 1968. Recognized for her ability to engage audiences with charisma and talent while blending comedic and dramatic performances.
Performed in 'Porgy and Bess'
Won a Tony Award for 'Hello, Dolly!'
Other People Born on March 29th
Thorgan Hazard
Professional footballer, Borussia Dortmund
Born
March 29th, 1993 33 years ago
Born in 1993, a professional footballer played as a winger. Developed early career at Lille OSC, later transferred to Chelsea FC but did not make first-team appearances. Loan spells in Belgium and Germany followed, with significant contributions at Borussia Mönchengladbach. Achieved recognition for skillful play and scoring ability. Joined Borussia Dortmund in 2019, helping the team in national and European competitions.
Continue ReadingEugene McCarthy
American politician and poet
Born
March 29th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2005 20 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1916, a politician and poet participated in the New Hampshire primary during the 1968 presidential election, challenging incumbent President Lyndon B. Johnson. The campaign gained support from anti-Vietnam War activists and influenced public opinion on the war. McCarthy served as a U.S. Representative and later as a U.S. Senator from Minnesota. His literary work included poetry and books reflecting on political life and American society. McCarthy was also known for his critique of U.S. foreign policy.
Continue ReadingMatt Olson
Major League Baseball first baseman
Born
March 29th, 1994 32 years ago
A professional baseball player, played as a first baseman for the Oakland Athletics and Atlanta Braves. Made his major league debut in 2016 and became a significant contributor to the team's offense. Achieved multiple All-Star selections and won a Gold Glove award for defensive excellence. Known for impressive power-hitting ability, consistently ranking among league leaders in home runs.
Continue ReadingJames Tomkins
English footballer with Crystal Palace
Born
March 29th, 1989 37 years ago
Played as a central defender in professional football. Started career at West Ham United, making over 250 appearances. Transferred to Crystal Palace in 2016, contributing to the team’s Premier League campaigns. Represented England at various youth levels, showcasing defensive skills on the field. Known for strong performances in domestic league matches and cup competitions.
Continue ReadingIeuan Maddock
Welsh nuclear researcher and scientist
Born
March 29th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1988 37 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1917, a Welsh scientist specialized in nuclear research. Contributed extensively to the development of nuclear energy applications and safety protocols. Worked at various institutions, focusing on the physical aspects of nuclear reactions. Engaged in significant research during pivotal periods of nuclear advancements.
Continue ReadingMegan Hilty
Broadway actress and singer
Born
March 29th, 1981 45 years ago
An accomplished actress and singer, this individual gained recognition for performances in Broadway productions. Notable roles include Broadway's 'Wicked' as Glinda and the NBC television series 'Smash'. This individual has also lent her voice to various animated projects, contributing to a robust career in musical theater and television.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Wolfgang Leonhard
German historian and author
Born
April 16th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 12 years ago — 93 years old
A German historian and author focused on the history of communism and the Eastern Bloc. Born in 1921, early experiences in the USSR influenced later scholarly work. Emigrated to West Germany in 1948, contributing to the understanding of East Germany and communism in Europe. Wrote extensively, with significant titles including 'The War Within the German Communist Party' and 'Child of the Revolution'.
Continue ReadingIra Gershwin
American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born
December 6th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1983 43 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.
Continue ReadingRadoje Domanović
Serbian journalist and author
Born
February 16th, 1873 153 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1908 118 years ago — 35 years old
Born in Serbia, Domanović became an influential journalist and author in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work primarily focused on social and political themes, often critiquing contemporary societal issues. He gained recognition for his satirical writings that highlighted the absurdities of bureaucracy and nationalism. Domanović's essays and stories resonated with the public, solidifying his place in Serbian literature. His legacy includes both literary contributions and the impact of his journalism on Serbian society during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Da Ponte
Opera librettist for Mozart's works
Born
March 10th, 1749 277 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1838 188 years ago — 89 years old
An Italian-American priest and poet, contributed significantly to the world of opera through collaborations with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Wrote librettos for several operas including 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'Cosi fan tutte.' After moving to America, engaged in various pursuits, including founding an Italian-language school in New York. His literary contributions continue to be celebrated in the realms of music and literature.
Continue ReadingJack Harshman
Baseball player and manager, 1953 All-Star
Born
July 12th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 86 years old
An American baseball player and manager, played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1951 to 1961. Selected as an All-Star in 1953 while playing for the Chicago White Sox. Also pitched for the Washington Senators, Baltimore Orioles, and San Francisco Giants. Post playing career included managing in the minor leagues and briefly in the major leagues.
Continue ReadingShamsur Rahman
Bangladeshi poet and journalist, wrote 'Joiboti Kobi'
Born
October 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2006 20 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent poet and journalist, contributed significantly to Bengali literature. Worked as an editor for various publications and founded a poetry movement that celebrated the Bengali language and culture. His poetry often reflected the social and political landscape of Bangladesh. Writings explored themes of love, loss, and identity. Engaged actively in the literature of protest during the political turmoil in Bangladesh.
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