Władysław Szpilman

Polish pianist and composer, The Pianist

Władysław Szpilman - Polish pianist and composer, The Pianist
Born

December 5th, 1911
113 years ago

Died

July 6th, 2000
24 years ago — 88 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Poland

Links & References

A prominent pianist and composer, this individual became widely recognized due to a memoir detailing experiences during World War II. The memoir served as an inspiration for the acclaimed film 'The Pianist', which depicted the struggles of survival in Nazi-occupied Warsaw. The pianist's early career flourished in the 1930s as a well-known performer in Poland. His talents and resilience during the Holocaust led to a remarkable narrative of survival and artistry. Post-war, he continued to perform, contributing to the cultural landscape of Poland.

Authored the memoir 'The Pianist'

Inspired the film adaptation 'The Pianist'

Other People Born on December 5th

Yury Vlasov

Weightlifter and politician
Born
December 5th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Ukraine, a prominent weightlifter achieved notable success in the sport during the 1960s. Competed for the Soviet Union, securing three gold medals at the World Weightlifting Championships in 1959, 1962, and 1964. Also won Olympic gold in the heavyweight category at the 1960 Rome Games. Transitioned to a political career after retiring from weightlifting, becoming a member of the Supreme Soviet in the 1990s. Vlasov's contributions to both sports and politics made a significant mark in his country's history.

Continue Reading

John Jellicoe

Admiral and Governor-General of New Zealand
Born
December 5th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1935 89 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1859, served as a distinguished admiral in the Royal Navy. Commanded the British fleet at the Battle of Jutland during World War I. Contributed to naval strategy and operations in the war. Later appointed as the 2nd Governor-General of New Zealand, overseeing important developments in the country's governance.

Continue Reading

W.D. Amaradeva

Sri Lankan musician and composer
Born
December 5th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent musician and composer from Sri Lanka, contributions included a significant body of work in traditional and contemporary music. Played a crucial role in popularizing Sinhala folk music and classical music. Received numerous accolades throughout a career spanning several decades, including national awards for artistic excellence. Contributed to the development of the Sri Lankan music scene and influenced generations of musicians and composers.

Continue Reading

Robert Sobukwe

South African politician and activist
Born
December 5th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1924, played a significant role in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement. Initially a member of the African National Congress, later founded the Pan Africanist Congress in 1959. Advocated for African nationalism and land reform, opposing the apartheid government's racial policies. Arrested in 1960 following the Sharpeville massacre and subjected to political detention without trial. Maintained political activism despite government restrictions and censorship until his death in 1978.

Continue Reading

George Armstrong Custer

American Civil War general
Born
December 5th, 1839 185 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1876 148 years ago — 36 years old

A cavalry commander during the American Civil War, led troops at significant battles including Gettysburg and participated in various campaigns against Native American tribes in the Great Plains. Custer is most remembered for his defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, where he and his forces were overwhelmed by a coalition of Native American tribes. Prior to his military career, Custer graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1861.

Continue Reading

John Rzeznik

Singer-songwriter and producer of Goo Goo Dolls
Born
December 5th, 1965 59 years ago

An American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer gained prominence as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the rock band Goo Goo Dolls. Formed in 1986, the band achieved mainstream success in the late 1990s with the release of the album "Dizzy Up the Girl." This album featured the hit single "Iris," which reached number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining song of the era. The band's music blends alternative rock and pop elements, showcasing Rzeznik's emotive lyrics and distinctive guitar work.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 6th

Shoko Asahara

Cult leader and founder of Aum Shinrikyo
Born
1955 70 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2018 6 years ago — 63 years old

Founded Aum Shinrikyo, a controversial new religious movement in Japan during the early 1980s. The group gained notoriety for its apocalyptic beliefs and practices. In March 1995, members carried out a sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway, resulting in the deaths of 13 people and injuries to over 50 others. Asahara was arrested shortly after the attack and convicted of numerous crimes, including murder. In 2004, he was sentenced to death, a sentence that was upheld in 2011. Executed on July 6, 2018, his actions and the resulting trial brought significant attention to issues of cults and extremism in Japan.

Continue Reading

Dhirubhai Ambani

Indian businessman and Reliance founder
Born
December 28th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2002 22 years ago — 69 years old

Founded Reliance Industries, a conglomerate with interests in petrochemicals, telecommunications, textiles, and more. Launched the company in 1960, which became one of India's largest private sector companies. Pioneered the use of equity markets to raise capital for growth, democratizing wealth generation in India. Instrumental in establishing a strong presence in global markets.

Continue Reading

Odo III

Duke of Burgundy, leader in the region
Born
1166 859 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1218 806 years ago — 52 years old

Served as Duke of Burgundy during the early 13th century. Odo III played a significant role in the political landscape of his time, engaging in regional governance and power struggles. The reign saw involvement in the conflicts of the era, including alliances and rivalries with neighboring territories. Odo III's leadership focused on consolidating power and maintaining the duchy's influence in France and beyond. His rule came to an end with his death in 1218.

Continue Reading

Thomas More

English lawyer and Lord Chancellor
Born
February 7th, 1478 547 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1535 489 years ago — 57 years old

An English lawyer and politician, served as Lord Chancellor of England from 1529 until 1532. Played a crucial role in the court of Henry VIII, known for his steadfast opposition to the King's separation from the Catholic Church. Authored 'Utopia', a significant work focusing on political philosophy and the idea of an ideal society. His refusal to endorse the King's marriage to Anne Boleyn and the subsequent Act of Supremacy led to his imprisonment and execution in 1535.

Continue Reading

Roy Rogers

Singing cowboy and Hollywood actor
Born
November 5th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1998 26 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in American Western films and music, this individual gained fame as a singing cowboy during the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in numerous films, including 'King of the Cowboys' and 'The Sons of the Pioneers', and became a fixture on television with 'The Roy Rogers Show'. His appealing persona and musical talent captivated audiences, leading to a lasting legacy in Western entertainment. Established a brand that extended to merchandise featuring his horse, Trigger, and dog, Bullet. Contributed to the cultural representation of the American West and influenced the cowboy genre.

Continue Reading

Adolfo Müller-Ury

Swiss-American portrait painter
Born
March 29th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1947 77 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Switzerland, a significant career involved portrait painting, primarily in the United States. Studied in Paris before moving to America. Gained recognition for the ability to capture the likeness and character of prominent figures. Supported by commissions from various high-profile clients, including political and artistic leaders. Worked in oil on canvas, showcasing meticulous detail and vibrant colors. Contributed to the art community through exhibitions, leading to a respected position among contemporaries. Continued to paint until the later years of life, leaving behind a legacy of portraits that reflected the culture of the time.

Continue Reading