Wilhelm Backhaus
Pianist, educator, and Beethoven interpreter
A prominent pianist and educator, emphasized classical music, particularly works by Beethoven. Gained recognition for concert performances and recordings, showcasing exceptional technique and musicality. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing a generation of pianists through teaching and mentorship. Achieved acclaim for interpreting the piano concertos and sonatas of Beethoven, leaving a lasting legacy within the classical music community.
Performed Beethoven's piano concertos
Recorded extensive classical piano repertoire
Other People Born on March 26th
A. E. Housman
English poet and classical scholar
Born
March 26th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1936 89 years ago — 77 years old
Achieved recognition as a poet and scholar of Latin literature. Published 'A Shropshire Lad' in 1896, which gained significant popularity and contributed to his reputation as a skilled lyricist. Held a professor position of Latin at University College London and later at Cambridge University, influencing classical studies and literary scholarship.
Continue ReadingRudolf Dassler
German businessman, founder of Puma
Born
March 26th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 76 years old
Founded the sportswear company Puma SE, establishing a global brand in athletic footwear and apparel. The brand gained recognition for innovations in sports technology and stylish designs. Prior to founding Puma, collaborated with brother Adolf Dassler to create the Adidas brand but later split to start Puma independently. Developed a strong identity for Puma that appealed to athletes and fashion enthusiasts alike. The company became a key player in the competitive sports industry.
Continue ReadingOthmar Ammann
Bridge Engineer, designed iconic bridges
Born
March 26th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 86 years old
An engineer who significantly contributed to modern bridge design, specializing in arch and suspension bridges. Designed the George Washington Bridge, completed in 1931, which became a vital transportation route across the Hudson River. Additionally, developed the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, finished in 1964, which served as a critical link between Staten Island and Brooklyn, and was recognized for its engineering excellence.
Continue ReadingXenophon Zolotas
Greek economist and Prime Minister
Born
March 26th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2004 21 years ago — 100 years old
An economist and politician served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1989 to 1990. Played a crucial role in the management of Greece's economy during challenging times. Graduated from the University of Athens and later studied at the University of Paris and the University of Chicago. Contributed significantly to economic policies and reforms during his career. Also served as the Governor of the Bank of Greece, influencing monetary policy in the country.
Continue ReadingSandra Day O'Connor
Supreme Court Justice, landmark decisions
Born
March 26th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2023 2 years ago — 93 years old
First woman to serve as a United States Supreme Court Justice. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, served until 2006. Participated in significant rulings on various issues, including affirmative action, abortion, and the separation of church and state. O'Connor emphasized the importance of consensus in her decisions and often served as a pivotal swing vote in closely decided cases. After retiring from the bench, focused on civic engagement and education, founding an initiative to promote civic knowledge among young people.
Continue ReadingAndreas Hinkel
Footballer with Celtic FC recognition
Born
March 26th, 1983 42 years ago
A former professional footballer played as a right-back. Started a career in Germany with SC Freiburg before moving to VfB Stuttgart, where contributed to the team's success in the Bundesliga. Transferred to Celtic FC in Scotland, achieving notable success in the Scottish Premier League. Later played for the German national team, participating in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 5th
Vic Seixas
American tennis player, 1950 & 1954 champion
Born
August 30th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 100 years old
An American tennis player achieved significant success during the mid-20th century. Competed in both singles and doubles events, achieving notable ranking positions. Claimed the U.S. National Championships in singles in 1954 and secured multiple doubles titles. Represented the United States in international competitions, showcasing skills on various surfaces. Contributed to the growth of tennis through participation in numerous tournaments.
Continue ReadingNicéphore Niépce
French inventor of the photograph
Born
March 7th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1833 192 years ago — 68 years old
An inventor from France pioneered the earliest form of photography. In 1826, created the first successful permanent photograph known as 'View from the Window at Le Gras.' Developed a process called 'heliography,' enabling the capturing of images through sunlight exposure on a thin layer of bitumen of Judea.
Continue ReadingJüri Järvet
Estonian actor and screenwriter
Born
June 18th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old
An Estonian actor and screenwriter, contributed significantly to film and theater in Estonia. Participated in the Estonian People's Theatre and later appeared in numerous films, showcasing talent in both comedy and drama. Gained prominence with roles in works such as 'Püha Tõnu kiusamine' and 'Viimne reliikvia'. His career spanned several decades, during which he became a prominent figure in the Estonian cultural scene.
Continue ReadingCarole Landis
American actress in film and theater
Born
January 1st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1948 77 years ago — 29 years old
An actress active during the 1940s, gained popularity in the Hollywood film industry. Best recognized for performances in films such as 'One Million B.C.' and 'A Night at the Opera.' Appeared in numerous comedies and musicals, providing strong entertainment performances. Also had a successful career in radio and stage productions, showcasing a talent that crossed multiple media platforms. Landis became a prominent figure during World War II, known for her support of troops through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingBengt I. Samuelsson
Swedish biochemist, Nobel Laureate
Born
May 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1934, contributions to biochemistry included significant discoveries related to eicosanoids, which are vital hormone-like substances in the body. Research focused on lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, enzymes involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid. These findings led to advancements in understanding inflammation and allergies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 alongside two others for work on the chemical mediators of the immune system, leading to breakthroughs in pharmacology and therapeutics. Held academic positions and played a crucial role in promoting biochemistry in Sweden.
Continue ReadingRichard Donner
Film director and producer of Superman
Born
April 24th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to the superhero genre with the release of 'Superman' in 1978. Directed the iconic 'The Goonies' in 1985, a beloved adventure film. Also directed several 'Lethal Weapon' series films, establishing a popular action-comedy franchise. Collaborated with various actors, enhancing their careers and bringing significant films to life. Active in the film industry from the mid-20th century until the early 21st century.
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