Tommy Cooper
Magician and prop comedian
A magician and prop comedian who gained popularity in the United Kingdom during the mid-20th century through television performances and stage shows. Cooper's signature style combined magic with humor, often involving misdirected props and a distinctive fez hat. His career flourished with appearances on shows such as 'The Parkinson Show' and 'It's Friday, then...'. His unique approach blended comedy with traditional magic, making performances memorable and entertaining.
Headlined shows like 'The Unforgettable Tommy Cooper'
Appeared on 'The Morecambe and Wise Show'
Presented 'The Tommy Cooper Hour' on television
Other People Born on March 19th
Arthur Blyth
Politician and 9th Premier of South Australia
Born
March 19th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1891 134 years ago — 68 years old
Born in England, migrated to Australia and entered politics. Served as the 9th Premier of South Australia from 1856 to 1857 and again in 1863. Introduced several notable reforms during tenure, focusing on land and education policies. Resigned from premiership in 1857 but remained active in South Australian parliamentary politics. Contributed to discussions on governance and economic development throughout the latter half of the 19th century.
Continue ReadingAnna Held
Polish singer and Broadway star
Born
March 19th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 46 years old
Born in Poland, a prominent singer and actress emerged in the early 20th century. She gained recognition in the United States during the 1890s and became a major star of the Ziegfeld Follies. Her performances showcased her talent in musical theater, pioneering various styles and interpretations of songs. Held's signature songs and theatrical flair made a significant impact on the Broadway scene. She also participated in early motion pictures, expanding her artistic influence beyond the stage.
Continue ReadingZhang Zuolin
Chinese warlord and military leader
Born
March 19th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1928 97 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1875, held significant power during the early 20th century in China as a military leader and warlord in Manchuria. Established the Fengtian clique and controlled northeastern China, exerting influence over regional politics and military affairs. Engaged in conflicts during the warlord era, which was characterized by fragmentation of authority and numerous power struggles. Following years of conflicts, played a crucial role in the Beijing government, attempting to stabilize the region amidst ongoing chaos. Assassinated in 1928, his death marked the decline of the Fengtian clique's power and a pivotal moment in Chinese history.
Continue ReadingJay Berwanger
American football player and coach, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
March 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old
An American football player and coach, one of the first recipients of the Heisman Trophy in 1935. Played as a halfback at the University of Chicago, leading the team to a Big Ten championship. After college, transitioned to coaching, including a tenure at the University of Chicago where he contributed to the development of the football program. Was notable for athleticism and versatility on the field, contributing to the growth of the sport.
Continue ReadingEarl Warren
Chief Justice of the United States
Born
March 19th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1974 51 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1891, served as the 14th Chief Justice of the United States from 1953 to 1969. Oversaw landmark decisions in civil rights and civil liberties. Previously held the position of Governor of California and was involved in significant legal reforms and policies during his tenure. Led the Supreme Court during a time of substantial social change in America, contributing to the establishment of important judicial precedents.
Continue ReadingMoms Mabley
Comedian and singer, 'The Original Queen of Comedy'
Born
March 19th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1975 50 years ago — 81 years old
A comedian and singer active from the 1920s to the 1970s, rose to prominence in the world of stand-up comedy. Performed at the Apollo Theater, where a significant fanbase was developed. Appeared in films including 'Amazing Grace' and 'The Big Broadcast of 1938'. Renowned for her distinctive style, which combined humor with commentary on social issues. Pioneered breaking racial barriers in entertainment, appealing to both black and white audiences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 15th
Jean-François Paillard
French conductor of classical music
Born
April 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France in 1928, a prominent conductor dedicated to classical music. Paillard established the Orchestre de Chambre Jean-François Paillard and gained recognition for innovative interpretations of Baroque music. Conducted numerous recordings and performances, collaborating with various distinguished orchestras and artists. Emphasized the importance of both orchestral precision and expressive playing.
Continue ReadingHabibullah Bahar Chowdhury
Politician and first health minister
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1966 59 years ago — 60 years old
A Bengali politician and writer, served as the first health minister of East Pakistan. Contributed to journalism through various writings and advocated for health reforms during the early years of the region. Participated actively in the political landscape of East Pakistan, engaging in discussions surrounding health and welfare issues. His work laid a foundation for subsequent developments in the region's healthcare system. Continued to influence political dialogue until his death in 1966.
Continue ReadingLiz Sheridan
American actress best known for TV roles
Born
April 10th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2022 3 years ago — 93 years old
An American actress, active in television and film for decades, achieved prominence through a long-running role. Played the character of Raquel Ochmonek on the television sitcom 'Alf.' Appeared in 'Seinfeld' as the overbearing mother of Jerry's friend, creating a memorable character within the series. Also enjoyed a career in theater and appeared in various films. Beyond acting, engaged in writing, producing a memoir that detailed her life and career experiences.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Bonno
Austrian composer of operas
Born
January 29th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1788 237 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1711, significant contributions to the genre of opera took place. Served as a composer and conductor in the court of Empress Maria Theresa. Created several operas, notably 'Il mondo della luna', which received acclaim in its time. Participated actively in the theatrical culture of Vienna during the 18th century. His works characterized by lyrical melodies and engaging narratives became a part of the operatic repertoire of the period.
Continue ReadingFrançoise d'Aubigné
French Royalty and Marquise de Maintenon
Born
November 27th, 1635 390 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1719 306 years ago — 83 years old
Born into a modest family, entered the service of the future king of France as a lady-in-waiting. Became the second wife of Louis XIV after a long relationship, largely hidden from court life. Established a prominent position within the royal court, wielding influence over the king's decisions, particularly in religious matters. Established the Saint-Cyr school for poor girls, promoting education and moral discipline. Strived to reconcile the king's policies with the Jansenist movement, reflecting her strong religious convictions.
Continue ReadingRobert Musil
Austrian-Swiss author and playwright
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1942 83 years ago — 62 years old
An influential author and playwright, contributed significantly to modernist literature. Best recognized for the novel 'The Man Without Qualities', which explores the complexities of society and individual identity in the early 20th century. Wrote many essays and plays that reflected on philosophy and aesthetics. Experienced the turmoil of the Austro-Hungarian Empire's collapse, which influenced literary work.
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