Roger Norrington
Violinist and conductor with orchestras
An English violinist and conductor, focused on period instrument performance and historically informed interpretation. Norrington founded the orchestra, The Hanover Band, and gained prominence for conducting Beethoven's symphonies. He served as the principal conductor of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and the London Classical Players. Norrington also contributed to the revival of the music of composers such as Mozart and Haydn, emphasizing authenticity in performance practices. His work in opera includes notable productions at prestigious venues.
Conducted Beethoven's symphonies
Founded The Hanover Band
Served as principal conductor of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra
Other People Born on March 16th
Reggie Walker
South African Olympic sprinter
Born
March 16th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1951 74 years ago — 62 years old
Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting events. Claimed the gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1908 London Olympics, becoming the first South African to win an Olympic gold. Participated in the 1906 Intercalated Games where a silver medal was earned in the 110-meter hurdles. Held the South African 100 yards record for several years. Helped promote athletics in South Africa through various competitions and events throughout his career.
Continue ReadingLuis E. Miramontes
Chemist who synthesized norethisterone
Born
March 16th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent chemist and engineer, contributions to the development of synthetic hormones significantly advanced reproductive science. Achievements included the synthesis of norethisterone in 1951, a pioneering hormone used in oral contraceptives. Miramontes worked in various laboratories during his career, making strides in organic chemistry and its applications in medicine. His research facilitated breakthroughs in contraceptive technologies and hormone treatments, influencing global health standards for women's reproductive rights. The legacy includes fostering education in chemistry and engineering in Mexico.
Continue ReadingJames Soong
Taiwanese politician and governor
Born
March 16th, 1942 83 years ago
Elected Governor of Taiwan Province and served multiple terms as a legislator in Taiwan. Founded the People First Party in 2000, which played a role in Taiwanese politics. Held various positions in the Council of Grand Justices and was involved in negotiations with mainland China.
Continue ReadingNapoléon
Prince Imperial of France
Born
March 16th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1879 146 years ago — 23 years old
Born in 1856, he served as the Prince Imperial of the French Empire. The singular son of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, he was designated to continue the Bonaparte legacy. He moved to England following the fall of the Second Empire in France. During the Franco-Prussian War, he enlisted in the British Army and later joined the 1st Battalion of the 60th Rifles. He participated in the Zulu War in 1879, where he met his end during the Battle of Isandlwana.
Continue ReadingGeorg Ohm
Physicist known for Ohm's Law
Born
March 16th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1854 171 years ago — 65 years old
A German physicist and mathematician, focused on the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance. Developed Ohm's Law, which articulates how electrical current flows in a circuit. Published the influential work 'Die galvanische Kette, mathematisch bearbeitet' in 1827, outlining his findings on electrical circuits. Contributed to the fields of acoustics and thermodynamics, advancing the understanding of sound and heat conduction. His work laid the groundwork for modern electrical engineering and physics.
Continue ReadingVladimir Komarov
Russian pilot and cosmonaut, Soyuz 1
Born
March 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 40 years old
A pilot and engineer, made significant contributions to space exploration as a cosmonaut. Flew on the Vostok 1 mission in April 1967. Commanded the Soyuz 1 mission in April 1967, which ended in tragedy when the spacecraft crashed upon re-entry. Despite the mission's outcome, advancements were made in crewed spaceflight and safety protocols as a result of this flight. Participated in the development of Soviet space technology and testing programs.
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