Wolfgang Wagner
German opera director and festival manager
Operated the Bayreuth Festival, which features the works of Richard Wagner, from 1951 until 2008. Focused on innovative productions while maintaining traditional elements. Directed operas in various prestigious venues, contributing significantly to the interpretation of Wagner's compositions. Strove to balance modern interpretations with the integrity of the operatic tradition.
Managed the Bayreuth Festival
Directed productions of Wagner's operas
Other People Born on August 30th
J. Alden Weir
Painter and academic known for Impressionism
Born
August 30th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1919 106 years ago — 67 years old
An American painter and educator, focused on Impressionism, established a reputation through landscape painting and portraits. Studied at the National Academy of Design and the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Played a significant role in the development of American art through teaching and mentoring younger artists. Worked extensively in his studio in Connecticut and contributed to art societies, including serving as a founding member of the Ten American Painters.
Continue ReadingVic 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 ReadingDenis Healey
Chancellor of the Exchequer, politician
Born
August 30th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent British politician and soldier, served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1974 to 1979 under Prime Minister Harold Wilson. Contributed to economic policies during challenging times, with a focus on addressing inflation and public spending. Participated in World War II as a soldier in the British Army. Later became involved in various political roles, including Member of Parliament for Leeds East from 1952 to 1992.
Continue ReadingRegina Resnik
American soprano and actress acclaimed for opera
Born
August 30th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
Acclaimed American soprano and actress. Vocal career began in the 1940s, establishing a reputation in both opera and musical theatre. Achieved recognition for performances in the operas 'Carmen' and 'Aida,' showcasing exceptional talent in varied roles. Transitioned to acting, appearing in television series, including 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' Resnik had an extensive career performing in renowned opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera House. Her contributions to the arts continued throughout her life, with an enduring influence on upcoming artists.
Continue ReadingAgoston Haraszthy
Winemaker, founder of Buena Vista Winery
Born
August 30th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
1869 157 years ago — 57 years old
A Hungarian-American businessman founded Buena Vista Winery in California, pioneering the wine industry in the region. Emigrated to the United States in 1840, contributed significantly to California’s viticulture. Instrumental in introducing European grape varieties to California, influencing the state's wine production. Established the first commercial vineyard in Sonoma County, setting standards for quality wine production in California. Authored 'California Vineyard Culture,' further promoting viticulture in the region.
Continue ReadingNancy Wake
New Zealand-English World War II operative
Born
August 30th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 98 years old
Born in New Zealand, served as a key operative during World War II. Joined the Special Operations Executive and worked with the French Resistance. Played a significant role in disrupting German operations in occupied France. After the war, received multiple commendations for bravery and leadership.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 21st
Loleatta Holloway
American singer-songwriter, 'Love Sensation'
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 65 years old
Loleatta Holloway was an American singer-songwriter prominent in the disco and soul genres. She gained recognition for her powerful voice and dynamic performances. Her most successful single, 'Love Sensation,' was released in 1980 and became a major hit, later sampled in several tracks by notable artists. Throughout her career, she also released several albums and collaborated with various musicians, contributing to the dance and R&B scenes.
Continue ReadingRobert II
Duke of Burgundy and leader
Born
1248 778 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1306 719 years ago — 58 years old
Served as Duke of Burgundy from 1272 until death in 1306. Played a significant role in regional politics and asserted the influence of the duchy. Engaged in various conflicts and alliances, particularly during the turbulent era of the late 13th century. Participated in the power struggles of the time, which included relations with the Kingdom of France and other neighboring territories. Undertook efforts to strengthen the duchy's economy and governance.
Continue ReadingJacques-Nicolas Bellin
French cartographer and geographer
Born
1703 323 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1772 253 years ago — 69 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of cartography, produced maps and geographical works that reflected the knowledge of the time. Created the 'Petit Atlas Maritime', a comprehensive atlas of maritime maps featuring detailed charts of coastlines and shipping routes. Bellin's work became a standard reference for navigators and explorers in the 18th century. Served as a cartographer for the French Navy, enhancing the understanding of French territories and trade routes.
Continue ReadingArthur Nebe
German SS officer and police leader
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1945 80 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a senior officer in the SS and held the rank of Gruppenführer. Commanded the Security Police and the Criminal Police in occupied territories during World War II. Participated in the planning and implementation of anti-partisan operations. Led Einsatzgruppe B, which operated in the Soviet Union, responsible for mass killings of Jews and other groups. Involved in various aspects of war crimes and later was implicated in a conspiracy to assassinate Adolf Hitler.
Continue ReadingAli Hikmet Ayerdem
Turkish general and politician
Born
1877 149 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1939 86 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a general in the Turkish Army and held significant political positions during the early years of the Republic of Turkey. Played a role in the establishment of the modern Turkish state and participated in various military campaigns. Engaged in political affairs and contributed to the shaping of the nation's defense policies. The leadership during critical periods of Turkey's formation was notable, influencing military strategies and governance.
Continue ReadingMohit Sharma
Indian soldier and military leader
Born
January 13th, 1978 48 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2009 16 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1978, a soldier served in the Indian Army, contributing to significant military operations. Achieved leadership roles within the armed forces, demonstrating commitment to national security. Participated in various missions aimed at counter-terrorism and maintaining peace in conflict zones. Maintained a focus on training and mentorship for younger soldiers, fostering skills necessary for modern warfare. The dedication to duty resulted in recognition and prestigious awards within the military ranks.
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