Pérez Prado
Cuban-Mexican bandleader and musician
This musician, born in Cuba and later based in Mexico, played a key role in popularizing mambo music during the mid-20th century. As a bandleader, created a distinct sound that blended Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz. The mambo hits, including 'Mambo No. 5' and 'Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White,' became internationally recognized and widely performed. His energetic performances and innovative arrangements contributed to the genre's global appeal and left a lasting influence on Latin music.
Popularized mambo music
Performed 'Mambo No. 5'
Released 'Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White'
Other People Born on December 11th
Pranab Mukherjee
Indian Politician and 13th President
Born
December 11th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old
Elected as the 13th President of India, served from July 2012 to July 2017. Previous roles included Finance Minister and External Affairs Minister. Joined Indian politics in 1969, representing the Indian National Congress. Worked on various economic reforms and tax policies during his tenure as Finance Minister. Received the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 2019. Played a crucial role in shaping economic policies and foreign relations.
Continue ReadingMaila Nurmi
Actress and producer known as Vampira
Born
December 11th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2008 18 years ago — 85 years old
An actress, producer, and screenwriter, gained recognition as the character Vampira, featuring in the 1956 film 'Plan 9 from Outer Space'. Created a television show in the 1950s that showcased horror films, becoming an early pioneer of horror television. Managed to capture the public's attention with unique style and personality.
Continue ReadingElliott Carter
American composer of modern classical music
Born
December 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 103 years old
A significant figure in 20th-century classical music, this composer exhibited a deep understanding of rhythm and harmony. Often associated with the avant-garde movement, contributions to the music community included more than 150 works spanning various genres, encompassing orchestral, chamber, and vocal compositions. Academic achievements included teaching positions at prestigious institutions such as Yale University, where influence extended to generations of composers. Received numerous accolades which recognized the innovative nature of the compositions and continued relevance in contemporary music.
Continue ReadingGerd Arntz
Modernist artist, co-creator of Isotype
Born
December 11th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 38 years ago — 88 years old
An artist associated with the modernist movement, contributed significantly to visual communication through the development of the Isotype (International System of Typographic Picture Education). The Isotype aimed to present information visually, utilizing simple and clear symbols to convey complex ideas. This system became influential in various fields, including education, sociology, and design. Arntz's work was characterized by bold graphics and a commitment to clarity, reflecting the ideals of the modernist aesthetic during the early to mid-20th century. Collaborated with other artists and thinkers to promote the use of visual language in presenting statistical data and social information.
Continue ReadingLeo Ornstein
Pianist and composer of modern music
Born
December 11th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2002 24 years ago — 108 years old
Born in Ukraine, this pianist and composer emigrated to the United States at a young age. He began composing music in the early 20th century and was a prominent figure in the world of modern music. His innovative techniques and stylistic approaches significantly influenced music in the early 1900s. Throughout a career spanning several decades, he performed extensively and was known for his virtuosic piano playing. His music often incorporated elements of dissonance and emphasized rhythm. He held various teaching positions, sharing his knowledge with aspiring musicians until the later years of his life.
Continue ReadingRobert Koch
Microbiologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 11th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1910 116 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent microbiologist and physician contributed significantly to the field of bacteriology. Discovered the causative agents of tuberculosis, cholera, and anthrax. Developed techniques for isolating bacteria, which paved the way for advancements in microbiological research. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1905 for work on tuberculosis, which remains a major health concern worldwide.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 14th
Winston Rekert
Canadian actor and director of 'The Beachcombers'
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 63 years old
A Canadian actor and director, recognized for contributions to film and television. Gained prominence through a lead role in the television series 'The Beachcombers', which aired for over three decades. Also appeared in notable films such as 'My American Cousin' and 'The Last Resort'. In addition to acting, directed various productions and played a significant role in the Canadian entertainment industry. Rekert's work contributed to the cultural landscape of Canada, reflecting the experiences and stories important to the nation.
Continue ReadingVladimir Volkoff
Soldier and author of 'KGB' and 'The Treadmill'
Born
1932 94 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2005 20 years ago — 73 years old
A soldier and author who served in the French army. Wrote several books exploring themes of espionage and the Cold War. 'KGB' became a notable work that detailed Soviet intelligence operations. Engaged with political and military topics throughout a prolific writing career. Explored the psychological aspects of totalitarianism in various novels.
Continue ReadingTony Auth
American illustrator and cartoonist
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 72 years old
An American illustrator and cartoonist, contributed significantly to political cartooning. Worked for the Philadelphia Inquirer for over four decades, producing a body of work that addressed social and political issues through humor and satire. Auth's cartoons were prominently featured in major publications, and he gained a reputation for his sharp wit and engaging style. Received numerous awards for excellence in cartooning, including the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists' Reuben Award. Published several books that compiled his work and insights on important societal topics.
Continue ReadingBeah Richards
American actress in 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner'
Born
July 12th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2000 25 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished American actress, recognized for a career spanning over five decades. Achievements include a significant role in the film 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner', which addressed racial issues during its time. Additionally, an Emmy Award was earned for work on the television series 'The Great White Hope'. Contributions to theater were made through performances in various productions, showcasing talent both on stage and screen. Advocacy for civil rights and representation in the arts was also prominent throughout her life.
Continue ReadingFred DeLuca
American businessman and Subway co-founder
Born
October 3rd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 67 years old
Co-founded Subway in 1965 to fund college tuition and expanded it into a global franchise. Focused on health-conscious menu options, which contributed to its growth. Instrumental in establishing Subway's brand identity and international reach. Oversaw the opening of thousands of locations worldwide, transforming the fast-food industry.
Continue ReadingCorneliu Vadim Tudor
Romanian journalist and politician
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
Journalist and politician engaged in Romanian politics. Founded and led the Greater Romania Party, which participated in various elections throughout the 1990s and 2000s. Served as a senator and was elected to the European Parliament. Gained attention for controversial stances and nationalist rhetoric, publishing works that reflected political views. Also worked as an editor and journalist, contributing to several publications.
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