Tom Stoppard
Czech-English playwright and screenwriter
Born in Czechoslovakia and raised in England, significant contributions to drama include acclaimed works such as 'Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead', a play exploring existential themes through minor characters from Shakespeare's 'Hamlet'. Known for blending drama with themes of philosophy and absurdism, also received recognition for the screenplay of 'Shakespeare in Love', which won an Academy Award. Stoppard's work often examines language, love, and the nature of existence.
Wrote 'Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead'
Co-wrote 'Shakespeare in Love', winning an Oscar
Other People Born on July 3rd
Louis XI of France
King of France, known for consolidating power
Born
July 3rd, 1423 602 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1483 542 years ago — 60 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1461 until death in 1483. Centralized the French state and diminished the power of the nobility. Instituted administrative reforms that improved royal authority and governance. Engaged in various military campaigns to expand the territory of France. Promoted trade and economic stability, fostering a prosperous environment.
Continue ReadingLeoš Janáček
Czech composer, famous for opera Jenůfa
Born
July 3rd, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1928 97 years ago — 74 years old
A composer and music theorist from the Czech Republic, contributions included operas, orchestral, and chamber compositions. Operas such as "Jenůfa," "Káťa Kabanová," and "The Cunning Little Vixen" are significant works that showcase unique musical language influenced by Moravian folk music. Janáček's theories on music education also played a role in his career.
Continue ReadingJudith Durham
Folk-pop singer-songwriter from Australia
Born
July 3rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2022 3 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent Australian folk-pop singer-songwriter, achieved fame as the lead singer of The Seekers. The group gained international recognition in the 1960s with hits such as 'I'll Never Find Another You' and 'Georgy Girl.' Their harmonious blend of folk and pop music earned them a significant place in the music history. After parting ways with The Seekers, pursued a successful solo career, releasing multiple albums and performing widely. Recognized for contributions to music and culture, Durham was awarded various honors throughout her life.
Continue ReadingKisenosato Yutaka
Sumo wrestler and Yokozuna champion
Born
July 3rd, 1986 39 years ago
Born in Japan in 1986, a prominent sumo wrestler achieved the highest rank of Yokozuna in 2017. Training at the Yoshida stable, he made his professional debut in 2004. His rise to prominence included several notable tournament victories and consistent performances in the top division. After several years of competing at the elite level, he became the first Japanese-born wrestler to attain the rank of Yokozuna in nearly two decades. Retirement came in 2020 after an illustrious career marked by struggles with injury, yet a lasting legacy within the sport.
Continue ReadingLaura Branigan
Singer-songwriter with hit 'Gloria'
Born
July 3rd, 1952 73 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 52 years old
A successful singer-songwriter rose to fame in the 1980s with a powerful voice and emotional delivery. The debut album, 'Branigan,' featured the hit single 'Gloria,' which became a major pop and dance chart success. Other notable songs include 'Self Control' and 'Power of Love,' further solidifying a career in the music industry. Branigan's focus on pop and adult contemporary music earned multiple Grammy nominations, showcasing talent and appeal across various audiences. She continued to perform and record throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.
Continue ReadingPoly Styrene
Punk musician and X-Ray Spex frontwoman
Born
July 3rd, 1957 68 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2011 14 years ago — 53 years old
A British musician emerged as the lead singer of the influential punk band X-Ray Spex. The band gained attention in the late 1970s with their debut single 'Oh Bondage Up Yours!' which showcased a unique blend of punk rock and art music. Styrene's distinctive vocal style and style made her an icon of the punk movement. X-Ray Spex released their acclaimed album 'Germfree Adolescents' in 1978, which has been recognized as a classic in the genre. Styrene also pursued a solo career and continued to create music until her passing in 2021.
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