Woody Herman

American jazz bandleader and musician

Woody Herman - American jazz bandleader and musician
Born

May 16th, 1913
112 years ago

Died

October 29th, 1987
37 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

A notable bandleader, saxophonist, and clarinet player was a significant figure in the development of jazz music. Formed several successful big bands, including the Herds, which contributed to the evolution of the genre. Gained recognition for unique arrangements and innovative performances. Received multiple Grammy Awards for contributions to music. Influenced many musicians through a distinctive blend of various jazz styles.

Led the Woody Herman Orchestra

Received Grammy Award for Best Jazz Performance

Popularized the 'Legacy of the Big Bands'

Other People Born on May 16th

Robert Fripp

Guitarist and co-founder of King Crimson
Born
May 16th, 1946 79 years ago

A significant figure in progressive rock, played guitar and served as a songwriter and producer. Co-founded the band King Crimson, which released influential albums such as 'In the Court of the Crimson King'. Developed the Frippertronics guitar technique, which combines tape loops and effects. Collaborated with various artists across genres and contributed to several projects that bridged rock and classical music.

Continue Reading

Bruce Coville

American author of children's books
Born
May 16th, 1950 75 years ago

An author focused on children's literature, contributing significantly to the genre through a variety of works. Gained recognition for series such as 'The Unicorn Chronicles' and 'The Magic Shop'. Coville's storytelling often blends fantasy elements with everyday experiences, appealing to young readers. Engaged in educational outreach, promoting literature and creativity in schools across the United States.

Continue Reading

Arturo Uslar Pietri

Venezuelan author and journalist
Born
May 16th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 95 years old

Born in Venezuela, contributed significantly to literature and journalism. As a lawyer, engaged in socio-political issues of the country. Wrote influential essays and novels that critiqued Venezuelan society. Served in various government positions, including as a senator and a minister. Worked for the promotion of culture and education in Venezuela, advocating for social reform and modernization.

Continue Reading

Hana Brady

Jewish-Czech Holocaust victim, child deportee
Born
May 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 13 years old

Born in Czechoslovakia, integrated into a close-knit Jewish family. Life was disrupted with the Nazi occupation during World War II. Deported to Theresienstadt concentration camp alongside other Jewish families. Ultimately transported to Auschwitz, where perished at a young age. The story and belongings, particularly a suitcase, became symbolic of the Holocaust experience and were used in educational contexts to raise awareness about the atrocities faced.

Continue Reading

Henry Fonda

American actor in classic films
Born
May 16th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1982 42 years ago — 77 years old

An influential American actor whose career spanned over five decades. Became prominent in the 1930s and gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Grapes of Wrath', '12 Angry Men', and 'On Golden Pond'. Fonda's work earned him accolades and cemented a legacy in Hollywood. He was also a recipient of the Academy Award for Best Actor for 'On Golden Pond'.

Continue Reading

Kitanoumi Toshimitsu

Japanese sumo wrestler, 55th Yokozuna
Born
May 16th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2015 9 years ago — 62 years old

Achieved the rank of Yokozuna in 1975. Dominated the sumo scene during the 1970s and 1980s. Retired from active competition in 1985 and later served as a sumo elder. Contributed to the sport's administration and development.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 29th

Edmund Hirst

British chemist recognized for research
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1975 49 years ago — 77 years old

Originally focused on organic chemistry, significant research contributions included work on the synthesis of naturally occurring products. Held a prominent position at the University of Manchester. Developed techniques that advanced the field of organic synthesis and influenced future research in medicinal chemistry. Authored several important publications that are referenced widely in the chemical sciences.

Continue Reading

Joseph Pulitzer

Journalist and publisher; Pulitzer Prizes
Born
April 10th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1911 113 years ago — 64 years old

A Hungarian-American journalist, publisher, and politician founded Pulitzer, Inc. in the late 19th century, transforming the newspaper industry with a focus on investigative journalism and sensational stories. Established the Pulitzer Prizes in 1917, which recognized excellence in journalism and the arts. Played a significant role in shaping public opinion through various publications, including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and the New York World. His contributions to journalism emphasized the importance of accountability and integrity in reporting.

Continue Reading

Frances Hodgson Burnett

Novelist of children's classics
Born
November 24th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1924 100 years ago — 74 years old

An English-American novelist and playwright, recognized for writing enduring children's literature. The literary works include 'A Little Princess' and 'The Secret Garden', which have become staples in children's fiction. Additionally, 'Little Lord Fauntleroy' contributed to her prominence as a children’s author. Burnett's stories often explore themes of hope, resilience, and transformation. The early life experiences in both England and America influenced her storytelling style and character development.

Continue Reading

David Calderwood

Scottish historian and theologian
Born
1575 450 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1650 374 years ago — 75 years old

Calderwood served as a significant historian and theologian during the early 17th century. His major work, 'The History of the Kirk of Scotland,' detailed the history of the Church of Scotland and its role in the Reformation. This comprehensive account provided an essential perspective on ecclesiastical matters during that period. Calderwood was also known for his criticisms of the Episcopalian governance of the church and his staunch support for Presbyterianism. His writings contributed to the theological debates and controversies of his time, influencing subsequent generations of Scottish historians and theologians.

Continue Reading

Carlos Guastavino

Argentine composer with notable works
Born
April 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2000 24 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1912, this Argentine composer contributed significantly to the classical music repertoire, particularly in the area of choral and piano music. His music often showcased the influences of Argentine folk traditions, and he frequently incorporated national themes. Guastavino studied music in Buenos Aires and was associated with notable figures in the Argentine musical landscape. His works gained recognition in various international music festivals. Throughout his lifetime, he composed a vast number of pieces, including songs that have become staples in the folk and classical canon. He passed away in 2000.

Continue Reading

Edmund Calamy the Elder

English minister and Presbyterian leader
Born
1600 425 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1666 358 years ago — 66 years old

An English minister actively engaged in the promotion of Presbyterianism during the 17th century. Contributed significantly to the Westminster Assembly, which formulated the Westminster Confession of Faith. Advocated for theological education and served as a preacher at various churches, including St. Mary Aldermary in London. Participated in the Great Ejection of 1662, leading to his exclusion from the Church of England, which reinforced nonconformist sentiments. Authored several works addressing religious topics and church government, influencing later generations of dissenters.

Continue Reading