Sergei Prokofiev
Composer of 'Peter and the Wolf'
This individual was a Russian pianist, composer, and conductor who made significant contributions to 20th-century classical music. Born in 1891, began musical training at a young age and later studied at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory. Composed numerous operas, ballets, and symphonies, with notable works including 'Romeo and Juliet', 'War Sonatas', and 'The Love for Three Oranges'. Emigrated to the United States in the 1910s, eventually returning to the Soviet Union in the 1930s. Held various important positions, including chief composer for the Soviet Union's Ministry of Culture. Died in 1953.
Composed 'Peter and the Wolf'
Created 'Romeo and Juliet' ballet
Wrote 'War Sonatas'
Other People Born on April 27th
August Wilson
American playwright of notable plays
Born
April 27th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 60 years old
An influential author and playwright, this individual focused on the African American experience across a series of ten plays, collectively titled 'The Pittsburgh Cycle.' The works explore themes of race, identity, and community, often set in different decades of the 20th century. Major plays include 'Fences,' which won a Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and 'The Piano Lesson,' which also secured the Pulitzer Prize. Contributions to American theater have been recognized for their profound cultural relevance and textual richness.
Continue ReadingTerry Willesee
Television journalist and host
Born
April 27th, 1945 80 years ago
A prominent journalist and television host, contributed significantly to Australian media through a career spanning several decades. Hosted the current affairs program 'Willesee at Seven' on Channel Seven, which became a staple in Australian television. Also involved in the establishment of the 'Today' show on the Nine Network. Throughout a career in journalism, covered numerous major events and has been influential in shaping public discourse through investigative reporting.
Continue ReadingVernon B. Romney
Attorney General of Utah
Born
April 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 14th Attorney General of Utah from 1971 to 1977. Held significant roles in local politics, including state senator and executive director of the Utah Republican Party. Involved in various legal cases and community affairs, contributing to the governance and legal framework of the state. Later, served on the Republican National Committee and participated in multiple statewide campaigns, influencing party strategies in Utah.
Continue ReadingUlysses S. Grant
General and 18th U.S. President
Born
April 27th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1885 140 years ago — 63 years old
Became a prominent military leader during the American Civil War, serving as Commanding General of the United States Army from 1864 to 1869. Successfully led Union forces to victory at many significant battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg and the Siege of Vicksburg. Served as the 18th President of the United States from 1869 to 1877, focusing on Reconstruction efforts and civil rights for African Americans. His administration faced various challenges, including economic turmoil and scandals. Post-presidency, authored a memoir that gained critical acclaim and became a bestseller.
Continue ReadingAri Graynor
American actress known for 'For a Good Time, Call...'
Born
April 27th, 1983 42 years ago
Born in 1983, this American actress appeared in the series 'The Sopranos' and starred in the film 'For a Good Time, Call...'. Graduated from Barnard College, worked on stage productions, and participated in various television projects. Recognized for both comedic and dramatic roles throughout her career.
Continue ReadingFethullah Gülen
Turkish preacher and theologian
Born
April 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Turkish preacher and theologian, focused on promoting education and intercultural dialogue. Founded the Gülen movement, which emphasizes the importance of education, tolerance, and mutual respect among different cultures and religions. Spent decades advocating for these principles through various educational initiatives, particularly in Turkey and worldwide. After political tensions in Turkey, relocated to the United States. The movement's schools and institutions span across numerous countries, carrying forward his vision of modern education intertwined with ethical values.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 5th
David Sheppard
Cricketer and Anglican bishop
Born
March 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2005 20 years ago — 75 years old
An English cricketer achieved prominence as an opening batsman for Sussex and represented England in Test matches. Played in 22 Test matches from 1951 to 1962, scoring over 1,000 runs. Transitioned to a religious career, becoming the Anglican Bishop of Liverpool from 1975 to 1997. Contributed to social causes and advocated for cricket's role in community building.
Continue ReadingAilsa McKay
Economist and academic specializing in gender
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 51 years old
An economist and academic focused on gender and labor market issues. McKay contributed significantly to debates on women's economic rights and social inclusion. Her work emphasized the economic implications of gender inequalities and the importance of examining women's roles in various sectors. McKay served as a lecturer at Glasgow Caledonian University, where she engaged in extensive research and taught courses on economics. She authored several publications that addressed issues surrounding gender and employment, influencing policies and academic discussions in her field.
Continue ReadingBilly De Wolfe
American actor in comedic roles
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1974 51 years ago — 67 years old
An American actor primarily recognized for stage and screen performances. Gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly for roles in television and film comedies. Achieved acclaim for performances in Broadway productions, and later transitioned to television, where significant roles included appearances on shows like 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'The Brady Bunch'. Also appeared in films such as 'The Trouble with Harry'.
Continue ReadingRay Tomlinson
Computer Programmer, Inventor of Email
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2016 9 years ago — 75 years old
A computer programmer and engineer made significant contributions to computer networking and communication. Developed the first networked email system in 1971, allowing the sending of messages between users on different computers. Utilized the '@' symbol to separate the user's name from the computer name, a convention still used today. Worked on the ARPANET project, which served as the precursor to the modern Internet.
Continue ReadingOla L. Mize
American colonel, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
August 28th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Army. Participated in the Vietnam War, where significant acts of valor occurred. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during a combat mission in 1969. After military service, engaged in various veteran support initiatives.
Continue ReadingAlberto Olmedo
Argentine comedian and television actor
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1988 37 years ago — 55 years old
One of Argentina's most beloved comedians and actors, achieved fame through his work in television and film during the 1970s and 1980s. Primarily featured in comedies, he built a significant following with a unique comedic style. His performances on television programs such as 'El Chiste' and 'Los Bañeros' showcased his talent for humor, making audiences laugh for years. Olmedo's contributions to Argentine cinema included roles in films like 'Los Tercos' and 'La Pícara Soñadora'. His legacy continues to influence comedians in Argentina and beyond.
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