Robert Ashley
Soldier and avant-garde composer
Served in the United States Army during the Korean War, achieving the rank of captain. Later pursued a career in music, creating unique compositions that blended opera with avant-garde techniques. Established the ONCE Group, which focused on experimental music and theatre. Composed several operas, including 'Perfect Lives', which gained attention for its innovative narrative and staging style.
Served as a captain in the US Army
Founded the ONCE Group
Created the opera 'Perfect Lives'
Other People Born on March 28th
Ronnie Ray Smith
American sprinter Olympic medalist
Born
March 28th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 64 years old
Competed in track and field, specializing in sprint events. Achieved success in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Secured a gold medal in the 4x100 meter relay at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, contributing to a historic performance for the United States. Additionally, earned a bronze medal in the 200-meter dash during the same Olympics. Demonstrated remarkable speed and consistency in races throughout the career.
Continue ReadingKen Howard
American actor and award-winning performer
Born
March 28th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 9 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor who gained prominence for a career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. Best recognized for the role of Coach Ken Reeves in the television series "The White Shadow." Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for the Broadway production of "Child's Play". Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2009 to 2011, advocating for the rights of performers. In addition to television and stage work, appeared in films including "Caprice" and "The Descendants."
Continue ReadingEmpress Dowager Xiaozhuang of China
Empress Dowager of the Qing Dynasty
Born
March 28th, 1613 412 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1688 337 years ago — 74 years old
Born into the Kodo clan, gained significant influence within the Qing Dynasty as a mother of the Shunzhi Emperor and a regent for her grandson, the Kangxi Emperor. Ruled from the late 17th century and played a key role in imperial politics during a time of consolidation and expansion of the dynasty. Established a strong position for the Manchu aristocracy and influenced governmental reforms. Advocated for policies that promoted agricultural development and supported cultural projects. Passed away in 1688.
Continue ReadingMichael Parkinson
Journalist and author of significant interviews
Born
March 28th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent journalist and author in England, established a long career in media starting from the 1960s. Gained recognition as a television presenter with 'Parkinson', a chat show that featured a wide array of celebrity interviews. Authored several books reflecting on his experiences in journalism. Contributed significantly to British television with a focus on engaging and conversational interviewing techniques, influencing the format of talk shows.
Continue ReadingIrving Paul Lazar
Talent agent representing top authors
Born
March 28th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1993 32 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent talent agent specialized in representing writers. Worked with significant literary figures, securing deals that shaped the publishing industry. Established a reputation for negotiating lucrative contracts for clients across various mediums, including television, film, and theater. Played a crucial role in adapting literary works into successful productions. Operated a successful agency that became influential in shaping the careers of many authors.
Continue ReadingJonathan Drouin
Professional ice hockey player, NHL star
Born
March 28th, 1995 30 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player, played as a left winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted third overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Made significant contributions to the Lightning, particularly during the 2014-2015 season when he helped the team reach the Stanley Cup Final. Later traded to the Montreal Canadiens. Played for Team Canada at various international tournaments, winning gold at the 2015 World Junior Championships.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 3rd
John Krol
American cardinal and church leader
Born
October 26th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 85 years old
Played a significant role in the Catholic Church as an American cardinal. Served as the Archbishop of Philadelphia from 1961 to 1988. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, influencing church reforms. Contributed to various social issues including education and civil rights during his tenure.
Continue ReadingLuis Cubilla
Uruguayan football player and manager
Born
March 28th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent footballer and manager, made significant contributions to the sport in Uruguay and beyond. During a playing career primarily with Nacional, achieved notable success including winning the Uruguayan Primera División multiple times and the Copa Libertadores in 1971. Transitioned to management and led teams like Peñarol and Deportivo La Coruña, leaving a lasting legacy in South American football. Managed the Paraguayan national team, guiding them to several international tournaments.
Continue ReadingHoward W. Hunter
Religious leader, 14th President of the LDS Church
Born
November 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1995 30 years ago — 87 years old
Led The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as its 14th President from 1994 until death in 1995. Focused on strengthening the global church community and emphasized the importance of personal revelation and service. Held various leadership roles within the church for decades, including serving as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles since 1959. Advocated for education and strong family values throughout ministry. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the church's practices and policies while remaining steadfast in core beliefs.
Continue ReadingEugen d'Albert
Pianist and composer of 'Tiefland'
Born
April 10th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1932 93 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1864, a pianist and composer who gained recognition for contributions to classical music. Studied at the Royal Conservatory in Frankfurt and earned acclaim for both piano performances and compositions. Composed operas, symphonic works, and songs throughout a prolific career. 'Tiefland', an opera, remains one of the most enduring works. Received several accolades for music, allowing for a prominent presence in the European musical landscape. D'Albert also served as a teacher, influencing the next generation of musicians.
Continue ReadingEugene Sledge
Soldier and author of 'With the Old Breed'
Born
November 4th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2001 24 years ago — 77 years old
Served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, specifically in the Pacific Theater. Participated in major battles such as the Battle of Peleliu and the Battle of Okinawa. Authored the memoir 'With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa', which provided a vivid account of the experiences of soldiers in the Pacific campaign. Later became a professor of history at the University of Montevallo, where taught courses on World War II. Sledge's work contributed to the understanding of the psychological effects of war on soldiers.
Continue ReadingGoffredo Petrassi
Italian composer and conductor
Born
July 16th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2003 22 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent 20th-century composer and conductor, contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Conservatorio di Santa Cecilia in Rome. Served as a conductor for various orchestras in Europe. Petrassi developed a distinctive musical style that integrated elements of classical traditions with modern compositions. Held a professorship at the Santa Cecilia Conservatory and influenced generations of musicians. Composed several major works, including operas, orchestral pieces, and chamber music.
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