Thomas Arne
English composer associated with 'Rule, Britannia!'
An English composer and educator, this individual significantly contributed to the development of English music in the 18th century. His work spanned various musical forms, but compositions for the theater, particularly ballad operas, stood out prominently. Most recognized for the patriotic song 'Rule, Britannia!', this piece premiered in 1740 and became an emblem of British national identity. In addition to vocal music, he composed instrumental music and provided music for prominent theatrical productions of his time. His influence extended beyond composition, as he also played a role in music education, shaping the careers of several musicians in his circle.
Composed 'Rule, Britannia!' in 1740
Created music for various ballad operas
Other People Born on March 12th
Milorad Dodik
Bosnian Serb politician and president
Born
March 12th, 1959 67 years ago
Born in 1959, a prominent Bosnian Serb politician served as the president of Republika Srpska. Affiliated with the Alliance of Independent Social Democrats party, he has held various political positions since the 1990s. His political career has been marked by efforts to promote the interests of the Serb population within Bosnia and Herzegovina. He played a significant role during the Bosnian War and has been involved in numerous political events shaping the region's landscape. His leadership has sparked discussions and controversies surrounding independence and the governance of Republika Srpska, facing criticism and support alike throughout his tenure.
Continue ReadingDanny Jones
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
March 12th, 1986 40 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2015 11 years ago — 29 years old
Singer-songwriter and actor, associated with the band McFly, which gained prominence in the early 2000s. The band's debut album, 'Room on the 3rd Floor', topped the UK Albums Chart. Contributed to the band's success with multiple hit singles and albums. Expanded career to acting, appearing in television series and various productions.
Continue ReadingBob Houbregs
Canadian basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
March 12th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 82 years old
Played college basketball at the University of Washington. Had a successful professional career in the NBA, primarily with the Milwaukee Hawks. Was selected as an NBA All-Star in 1953, showcasing skills as a forward-center. Contributed significantly to various teams throughout his career, known for scoring and rebounding. Additionally, played with the Toronto Huskies in the early years of professional basketball in Canada.
Continue ReadingMasayoshi Ōhira
Japanese politician, Prime Minister
Born
March 12th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1980 46 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 68th Prime Minister of Japan from 1978 to 1979. Ōhira was a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and held various government positions prior to becoming Prime Minister, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. The tenure focused on economic issues and foreign relations during a period of economic growth in Japan. Ōhira passed away while in office, making his term notable for its brevity and the challenges faced during that time.
Continue ReadingWally Schirra
Astronaut and Apollo 7 commander
Born
March 12th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2007 19 years ago — 84 years old
A captain, pilot, and astronaut, this individual became a prominent figure in the early years of human spaceflight. Selected as one of the original seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury, he flew on Mercury-Atlas 8, performing six orbits of Earth in 1962. Later, he commanded the Apollo 7 mission in 1968, the first manned flight of the Apollo program, which tested crucial systems for future lunar missions. Throughout a distinguished career with NASA, he also contributed to the Gemini program and helped develop space shuttle technology.
Continue ReadingAntony Acland
Former diplomat, Provost of Eton College
Born
March 12th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old
A former diplomat with a notable career in the British Foreign Office, served in various roles, including Ambassador to Denmark and the United States. Appointed as Provost of Eton College, overseeing significant developments in the institution's educational approach and governance. Played a key role in fostering international relations and diplomacy during a critical period in British history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 5th
William O. Wooldridge
American Army Sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2012 14 years ago — 90 years old
Served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in combat. Demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of enemy fire, showcasing bravery and commitment to duty. Contributions recognized by peers and military officials.
Continue ReadingShimazu Yoshihisa
Japanese daimyō of the Shimazu clan
Born
February 9th, 1533 493 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1611 415 years ago — 78 years old
Shimazu Yoshihisa served as the 16th head of the Shimazu clan during the Sengoku period. His leadership marked significant territorial expansion in Kyushu. Coming to power after the death of his father, he engaged in numerous battles to consolidate the clan's influence and protect its interests against rival clans. He became involved in the campaign against the Ōtomo clan and played a crucial role in the clan's military endeavors, including the Siege of Nakamura Castle. His reign was noted for the clan's growing military strength and political maneuvering during a turbulent era of Japanese history.
Continue ReadingTom Pryce
Race car driver with Formula One influence
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1977 49 years ago — 28 years old
Began motorsport career in karting, achieving significant success before transitioning to single-seaters. Competed in Formula One from 1974 until 1977. Joined the Shadow team in 1975, where notable performances highlighted skill and talent. Recorded a remarkable sixth place finish at the 1975 Monaco Grand Prix, establishing a strong reputation in the racing community. Tragically lost life during a race at the South African Grand Prix in 1977, marking a premature end to a promising career.
Continue ReadingJohn Adams
American composer of minimalist music
Born
February 15th, 1947 79 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1829 197 years ago — -118 years old
Born in 1947, this American composer gained recognition for contributions to contemporary classical music, particularly minimalist music. Famous works include operas such as 'Nixon in China' and 'The Death of Klinghoffer', as well as orchestral compositions like 'Shaker Loops' and 'Harmonielehre'. The composer served as the music director of the San Francisco Symphony, influencing the American music scene through various roles and projects. Alongside the acclaimed works, multiple Grammy Awards were received for exceptional work in music.
Continue ReadingMarie d'Agoult
Historian and author of the 19th century
Born
December 31st, 1805 220 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1876 150 years ago — 70 years old
Born into a wealthy family, contributed to French letters and historical scholarship during the 19th century. Engaged in the Romantic movement, edited and published works that highlighted the significance of modern history and culture. Notably, wrote about her experiences and observations in the literary scene of her time, including her relationship with composer Franz Liszt, which influenced her writing. Her efforts in establishing French history as a subject of academic inquiry paved the way for future historians.
Continue ReadingJohan Jensen
Danish mathematician and engineer
Born
May 8th, 1859 167 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1925 101 years ago — 65 years old
Contributions to mathematics and engineering spanned various fields, particularly in geometry and mathematical analysis. Developed significant theories and published numerous papers that advanced understanding in these disciplines. Worked on practical engineering problems and contributed to the development of methods that improved computation and problem-solving in engineering applications. Held various positions in academia and was involved in teaching the next generation of engineers and mathematicians.
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