Quincy Jones
Music producer and composer for Thriller
Born in 1933, a prominent American music producer and composer. Achieved significant success across various genres, including jazz, pop, and film scores. Collaborated with numerous artists and produced several chart-topping albums. Most recognized for producing Michael Jackson's album 'Thriller', which became the best-selling album of all time. Also composed film scores for major movies including 'The Italian Job' and 'In the Heat of the Night'. Contributed to the music industry through songwriting and arranging, earning numerous awards throughout a lengthy career.
Produced Michael Jackson's 'Thriller'
Composed music for 'In the Heat of the Night'
Released over 30 albums as a solo artist
Other People Born on March 14th
Giovanni Schiaparelli
Italian astronomer and historian
Born
March 14th, 1835 191 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1910 115 years ago — 75 years old
An Italian astronomer and historian contributed significantly to the study of Mars. Schiaparelli worked at the Brera Observatory in Milan and became the director of the observatory. He published detailed maps of Mars, noted for the accurate depiction of the planet's surface features. His observations led to the introduction of the term 'canali', which was misinterpreted as 'canals' in English, spurring interest in the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Schiaparelli also authored various works on astronomy and history, influencing future research.
Continue ReadingMike Lazaridis
Businessman, founder of BlackBerry Limited
Born
March 14th, 1961 65 years ago
An entrepreneur co-founded BlackBerry Limited, a company that revolutionized mobile communication by introducing the first smartphones with email capabilities. Under the leadership, BlackBerry became synonymous with business communication in the 2000s. The company achieved significant market presence, with its devices widely used by professionals around the world. Beyond technology, contributions to research and education were made through philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the Lazaridis Institute, focused on advanced research in quantum computing.
Continue ReadingNaoki Matsuda
Japanese footballer and defender
Born
March 14th, 1977 49 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 34 years old
A professional footballer played primarily as a defender. Matsuda began his career with Yokohama F. Marinos, where he contributed to multiple J. League successes. Later, he had a stint in the Japanese national team, earning caps and participating in significant tournaments. His career was significant for its duration and the influence he had in Japanese football during the early 2000s. Matsuda's unexpected passing in 2011 after a heart attack shocked the football community.
Continue ReadingAlgernon Blackwood
English author of supernatural fiction
Born
March 14th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1951 74 years ago — 82 years old
An English author and playwright, contributions primarily focused on supernatural fiction. Writings included short stories, novels, and plays, often exploring themes of nature and the unknown. Developed a distinctive voice in the genre, celebrated for a unique ability to evoke atmosphere and suspense. Works frequently published in various literary magazines, gaining a considerable readership during the early 20th century. Among the most celebrated stories are 'The Willows' and 'The Wendigo', illustrating the blend of the natural world with the supernatural. Also involved in theatre, producing stage adaptations of own works.
Continue ReadingFrançois Sterchele
Belgian footballer with notable goals.
Born
March 14th, 1982 44 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2008 18 years ago — 26 years old
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Began career at Germinal Beerschot and later joined Club Brugge, where notable performances included contributing to the team's successes in domestic leagues. Transferred to the Belgian national team and achieved recognition for skills and scoring ability. Tragically passed away in 2008, cutting a promising career short.
Continue ReadingReginald Marsh
Painter and illustrator of city life
Born
March 14th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1954 71 years ago — 56 years old
This individual was a prominent French-American painter and illustrator, actively exploring urban scenes that captured the vibrancy of 20th-century American life. Studied at the Art Students League in New York and gained recognition for works depicting the circus and New York City's social milieu. Worked with major publications, including The New Yorker, contributing illustrations that showcased cultural and artistic themes of the time. Exhibited at various galleries and institutions, becoming associated with the Ashcan School movement, which emphasized realistic portrayals of urban environments. Developed a unique style that combined elements of realism and caricature, cementing a distinct place in American art history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 3rd
Georg Trakl
Austrian poet and pharmacist
Born
February 3rd, 1887 139 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1914 111 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1887, a pharmacist and poet, produced significant works in German literature. Trakl created evocative imagery in poetry inspired by his personal experiences and the tumultuous events of his time. His work often reflects themes of darkness, war, and despair, which resonate through his most celebrated poems. Despite a short life, contributions to modernist poetry remain influential.
Continue ReadingConstantius II
Roman emperor during the Constantinian dynasty
Born
August 7th, 317 1708 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 361 1664 years ago — 44 years old
Ruled as a Roman emperor from 337 to 361. Ascended to the throne following the death of his father, Constantine the Great. Governed an empire facing religious conflict, particularly regarding Arianism, a major theological dispute of the time. Implemented laws that influenced the administration and military of the empire. Established an uneasy peace with Persia and managed tensions with various peoples at the borders of the empire.
Continue ReadingGordon Tullock
American economist and academic theorist
Born
February 13th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
Contributions included foundational work in public choice theory and law and economics. Served as a professor at George Mason University, helping establish its reputation in these fields. Co-authored 'The Calculus of Consent' with James M. Buchanan, which explored the relationship between economics and political processes. Engaged extensively in academic debate and publishing throughout the career, influencing the development of economic thought.
Continue ReadingLonnie Donegan
Skiffle music pioneer and guitarist
Born
April 29th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2002 23 years ago — 71 years old
This musician played a significant role in introducing skiffle music to the mainstream in the UK during the 1950s. Blending elements of folk, jazz, and blues, contributed to the emergence of British rock music. Achieved international success with hits like "Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavor" and "Rock Island Line." The cultural influence spanned across generations, inspiring future rock and pop musicians.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Ayala
Spanish sociologist and author
Born
March 16th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2009 16 years ago — 103 years old
Born in Spain, a significant figure in sociology and biology, focused on the intersection of evolution and society. Contributed to the understanding of evolutionary biology and genetics. Held professorships in various universities, and published extensively on topics ranging from evolution to ethics. Worked as a translator and presented ideas through various written works, advocating for the nature of species and their societal implications.
Continue ReadingMarc Allégret
French film director and screenwriter
Born
December 22nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1973 52 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in French cinema, directed several critically acclaimed films throughout the 20th century. Worked closely with significant literary sources, bringing adaptations to the big screen. Contributions included both directorial and screenwriting efforts that shaped the narrative style of French filmmaking during the post-war era. Collaboration with notable actors and cinematographers enhanced the visual storytelling in films. His works spanned across different genres, showcasing versatility in storytelling and style.
Continue Reading