Vincenzo Tommasini
Italian composer of orchestral music
Born in Italy in 1878, this composer focused on orchestral and chamber music. He studied at the Milan Conservatory and later worked in various capacities including conductor and teacher. His compositions were performed in concerts throughout Italy and beyond, showcasing his talent in symphonic and operatic music. The composer contributed significantly to the musical landscape of his time, establishing a reputation for his orchestration skills and melodic style.
Composed 'Catania' Symphony
Orchestrated 'Concerto for Violin'
Other People Born on September 17th
William Grut
Swedish pentathlete, Olympic Champion
Born
September 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 98 years old
Born in Sweden, an accomplished pentathlete competed in the modern pentathlon events. Achieved notable success during the 1948 Summer Olympics held in London, where secured a gold medal. Participated in the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, finishing in a commendable position. Contributed to the sport as an athlete over the years, representing Sweden in various international championships.
Continue ReadingMandawuy Yunupingu
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Yothu Yindi
Born
September 17th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent Indigenous Australian musician, significant contributions included leading the band Yothu Yindi, which fused traditional Aboriginal music with rock. Achieved critical acclaim through the 1991 album 'Homelands', which showcased cultural themes and social issues. Actively involved in advocating for Indigenous rights and recognition, participating in various dialogues and events promoting awareness of Aboriginal heritage.
Continue ReadingShabana Mahmood
Politician, Shadow Chief Secretary
Born
September 17th, 1980 45 years ago
An English lawyer and politician, served as the Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury representing the Labour Party. Elected as the Member of Parliament for Birmingham, Ladywood in 2010. Focused on economic issues and public finance during tenure, participating in key discussions within the financial sector. Engaged in various community initiatives and parliamentary committees, emphasizing social justice and equality.
Continue ReadingDorothy Loudon
American actress with Broadway success
Born
September 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2003 22 years ago — 78 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, presented a remarkable career primarily on Broadway. Gained recognition for the role of Miss Hannigan in the original production of 'Annie', earning a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Apart from the theatrical stage, also appeared in television shows and movies, including guest spots on 'The Muppet Show' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Contributed vocals to various recordings and performances throughout her career, showcasing a robust singing talent.
Continue ReadingTessa Jowell
Politician and Minister for the Cabinet Office
Born
September 17th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent political figure in the UK, served as Minister for the Cabinet Office from 2001 to 2005. Played a significant role in the Labour government under Tony Blair, contributing to various social policy initiatives. Advocated for public health and inclusive education throughout her career. Took an active role in preparations for the London 2012 Olympic Games, focusing on legacy and community engagement. Her work emphasized the importance of culture and social equity in public policy.
Continue ReadingKen Kesey
American novelist 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'
Born
September 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2001 24 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in American literature, this individual gained fame as a novelist and essayist during the 1960s. 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest', published in 1962, stands as a significant work of contemporary fiction and was adapted into an award-winning film in 1975. The novel critiqued the psychiatric system and explored themes of individuality and authority. In addition to fiction, contributions to the genre of counterculture writing were notable with the work 'Sometimes a Great Notion'. He was also associated with the Merry Pranksters, a group that promoted psychedelic culture and may have inspired the later events of the 1960s. This individual actively participated in the exploration of consciousness through various means, adding to the literary and cultural dialogue of the era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 23rd
Irna Phillips
Screenwriter and soap opera creator
Born
July 1st, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1973 52 years ago — 72 years old
An American screenwriter, played a vital role in the creation of the soap opera genre. Developed several popular series throughout the mid-20th century, including 'Guiding Light' and 'As the World Turns'. Pioneered the structure and storytelling methods used in daytime television. Introduced unique elements such as character-driven plots and ongoing storylines that became staples of the genre.
Continue ReadingFrederick Tracy Dent
Brigadier General, U.S. Army
Died
December 23rd, 1892 133 years ago — None years old
Served as a Brigadier General in the Regular United States Army. Held various command positions during a service career that spanned several decades. Was the brother-in-law to President Ulysses S. Grant, which contributed to notable connections during and after the Civil War. Participated in military operations that defined this period in American history. Engaged in various military roles that reflected the evolving nature of the Army in the post-war period.
Continue ReadingAleksander Warma
Estonian politician and Prime Minister
Born
June 22nd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1970 55 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a lieutenant during World War II and later became a prominent politician representing Estonia in exile. Held the position of Prime Minister in exile, advocating for Estonia's interests and sovereignty during a tumultuous period. Worked to maintain the legitimacy of the Estonian government and engage with international partners to support the country. Contributed to discussions around Estonian national identity and independence amidst foreign occupation.
Continue ReadingThomas Robert Malthus
Economist and scholar of population theory
Born
February 13th, 1766 259 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1834 191 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1766, a prominent English economist and scholar focused on population growth and resource scarcity. Malthus published 'An Essay on the Principle of Population' in 1798, which argued that population growth would always outpace food production, leading to inevitable shortages. His ideas propelled discussions on economics, social policy, and ecology, emphasizing the potential consequences of unchecked population increase. Malthus's theories laid the groundwork for future demographic studies and influenced various fields, including economics, sociology, and environmental science.
Continue ReadingK. Karunakaran
Indian politician and Chief Minister of Kerala
Born
July 5th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 7th Chief Minister of Kerala. Held office from 1981 to 1982 and again from 1984 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Indian National Congress and was influential in the state's political landscape. Contributed to various developmental initiatives within Kerala during tenure. Also served as a Union Minister, holding important portfolios such as commerce and industry.
Continue ReadingAndrei Tupolev
Aerospace engineer, designed Tu-95 bomber
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1972 53 years ago — 84 years old
An aerospace engineer contributed significantly to Soviet aviation technology. Founded the Tupolev Design Bureau in 1925, leading the development of numerous aircraft designs. The Tu-95 became one of the most iconic strategic bombers of the Soviet Union, recognized for its distinctive turboprop engines and strategic capabilities. The design of the Tu-104 ushered in the jet age for commercial aviation in the USSR, being one of the world's first jet airliners. Under leadership, the bureau produced a variety of military and civilian aircraft that shaped Soviet air power.
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