What happened today in history?

Bob Graham, a significant figure in American politics, passed away at 87. As Florida's Governor and US Senator, he was dedicated to education and national security, leaving a lasting impact on both state and national levels.

2024 Carl Erskine, American baseball pitcher (MLB All-Star 1954; World Series 1955; 2 x no-hitters; Brooklyn/LA Dodgers; Buck O'Neil Lifetime Achievement Award), dies at 97 [1]

Rodney Gould, the legendary British motorcycle road racer known for his ten Grand Prix wins and the 1970 FIM 250cc World Championship, passed away at the age of 81 in 2024. His remarkable contributions to the sport and inspirational journey will be remembered by many.

Ahmad Jamal, the renowned American jazz pianist and educator, passed away in 2023 at age 92 from prostate cancer. His innovative style significantly influenced jazz music and left a lasting legacy in the genre.

Eddie Colquhoun, a renowned Scottish soccer centre back and Sheffield United legend, passed away at 78. Known for his defensive skills and leadership, he earned 11 caps for Scotland and played 363 games for Sheffield United, leaving a lasting legacy in football.

2022 Joachim Streich, German soccer striker (102 caps GDR; FC Hansa Rostock, 1. FC Magdeburg) and manager (1. FC Magdeburg), dies at 71

2021 Charles Geschke, American computer scientist, inventor and businessman (co-founder of Adobe Systems), dies of cancer at 81

Einar Enevoldson, respected American USAF pilot and NASA test pilot, passed away in 2021 at 78. His legacy includes significant contributions to aviation through the X-24B and the Perlan Project, inspiring future generations in aerospace exploration.

Felix Silla, an Italian-American actor recognized as 'Cousin Itt' from The Addams Family, passed away from pancreatic cancer at age 84. His legacy as a stuntman and circus performer shines bright in entertainment history.

Helen McCrory, the talented English actress known for her roles in 'The Queen' and 'Peaky Blinders', passed away at 52 due to cancer. Her legacy continues to inspire many in the performing arts.

John Dawes, a celebrated Welsh rugby centre and captain, passed away in 2021 at 80. Known for his impressive international career, he earned 22 caps for Wales and 4 for the British & Irish Lions. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of rugby players.

Johnny Peirson, a celebrated NHL All-Star and broadcaster, died at 95 in 2021. He played primarily with the Boston Bruins and made a significant impact on hockey and sports broadcasting. His legacy endures through his achievements and contributions to the sport.

Mike Mitchell, legendary guitarist of The Kingsmen, died on April 16, 2021, on his 77th birthday. Renowned for his iconic song "Louie, Louie," Mike's influence on rock music leaves an enduring legacy.

Serhiy Novikov, a celebrated Russian judoka and 1976 Olympic heavyweight gold medalist, passed away in 2021 at the age of 71. His legacy in judo lives on through his achievements and mentorship.

Gene Deitch, a celebrated American animator known for creations like 'Tom Terrific' and 'Nudnik,' passed away at the age of 95 in 2020. His innovative storytelling and artistic style made a lasting impact on the world of animation.

2020 Howard Finkel, American pro wrestling ring announcer (WWE Hall of Fame), dies from stroke complications at 69

2020 Kenneth Gilbert, Canadian harpsichordist, organist, musicologist, and educator, dies at 88

Luis Sepúlveda, acclaimed Chilean writer and activist known for 'The Old Man Who Read Love Stories', tragically died of COVID-19 at the age of 70. His impactful work and political activism left a significant legacy in literature and social causes.

Steve Cash, the beloved YouTube personality known for his Talking Kitty Cat videos, tragically died by suicide at the age of 40 in 2020. His work brought laughter to millions, and his passing highlights the importance of mental health awareness.

Fay McKenzie, the esteemed American actress and singer known for roles in 'The Party' and 'Sierra Sue', passed away at 101 in December 2019. Her versatile talent and enduring charm in the golden age of Hollywood left a lasting legacy in film and music.

2019 Gogumal Kischenchand, Indian cricketer (5 Tests for India 1947-52), dies at 72

2019 Jörg Wolfgang Demus, Austrian classical pianist and composer, dies at 90

Harry Anderson, a talented comic, magician, and actor known for his role in 'Night Court', passed away at 65 on April 16, 2018. He left behind a legacy of laughter and magic that continues to inspire and entertain.

2018 Henri Landwirth, Belgian-American hotel owner and philanthropist (Give Kids the World), dies at 91

Charlie Hodge, the beloved French Canadian goalkeeper for the Montreal Canadiens, passed away at 82 on March 5, 2016. His remarkable career was marked by significant contributions to Canadian hockey, including two Stanley Cup victories and recognition as a skilled goaltender.

Peter Tolson, a celebrated rock guitarist from the iconic band The Pretty Things, died at the age of 64 in 2016. His musical legacy continues to resonate within the rock genre, inspiring future generations of musicians.

Martin Quittenton, the acclaimed British rock and blues guitarist known for iconic tracks such as 'Maggie May' and 'You Wear It Well', passed away at the age of 69, leaving behind a profound legacy in the music world.

George Beverly Shea, renowned gospel singer and partner of Billy Graham, passed away at the age of 104 in 2013. Known for his powerful voice and timeless hymns, Shea left a lasting legacy in gospel music and touched countless lives through his performances.

Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller, influential Danish shipping magnate, died in 2012 at 98, leading A.P. Moller-Maersk Group to global prominence and innovating container shipping and logistics.

2011 Allan Blakeney, Canadian politician (10th Premier of Saskatchewan), dies at 85

Bijan, a celebrated Iranian men’s apparel designer, died from a stroke in 2011 at age 71. Renowned for his extravagant designs, Bijan left a lasting legacy in men's fashion, dressing numerous celebrities and shaping luxury menswear with his unique style.

Gerry Alexander, a legendary West Indian cricket wicket-keeper known for his exceptional skills and 90 dismissals, passed away at the age of 82 on November 6, 2011. His contributions to cricket and mentorship of young players have left a lasting impact on the sport.

Harold Volkmer, a dedicated American politician and U.S. Representative from Missouri, passed away in 2011 at age 80. His contributions to politics and advocacy for civil rights and healthcare left a lasting impact on his community and the nation.

Paul Des Marais, a prominent American composer, died at 90 in 2011. He left an indelible mark on music, particularly in film, through his innovative compositions that blend traditional and modern styles.

2011 William A. Rusher, American lawyer and columnist, dies at 87

Daryl Gates, former LAPD Chief, passed away at the age of 83 in 2010. His career was marked by significant reform and controversy, shaping modern policing in Los Angeles.

2010 Marion Ladewig, American ten-pin bowler (9 time woman bowler of year 1950-63), dies at 95

Rasim Delic, Bosnian military chief of staff, died on April 16, 2010. Born in 1949, his military career was tainted by war crimes allegations. His legacy continues to influence discussions about accountability in the aftermath of the Bosnian War.

2008 Edward Norton Lorenz, American mathematician and meteorologist, dies at 90

Discover the vibrant life of Joseph Solman, an influential American painter who shaped post-war art with his expressive style and dedication to mentoring emerging artists. His exceptional contributions to modern art continue to resonate today.

Frank Bateson, a prominent New Zealand astronomer born in 1909, passed away in 2007. He is celebrated for his significant contributions to astronomy and continues to inspire future generations with his legacy and dedication to the celestial sciences.

2007 G. V. Loganathan, Indian American professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering (b. 1954)

Gaetan Duchesne, a prominent Canadian hockey player, passed away in 2007. Born in 1962, he had a notable NHL career and was admired for his sportsmanship and dedication to the game, leaving a lasting legacy in the hockey world.

Jocelyne Couture-Nowak, a passionate French instructor, tragically lost her life in the 2007 Virginia Tech shooting. Her dedication to teaching and her vibrant spirit continue to inspire students and advocates for school safety.

In remembrance of Kevin Granata, a dedicated professor of engineering who passed away in 2007. His contributions to biomechanics and human movement rehabilitation left a lasting impact on students and the field.

Liviu Librescu, a 76-year-old professor, heroically died saving his students during the Virginia Tech massacre in 2007. His courageous actions helped many escape, leaving a lasting legacy of bravery and sacrifice that continues to inspire discussions on education and safety.

2007 Maria Lenk, Brazilian swimmer and first Brazilian woman to compete in the Olympic Games (b. 1915)

The Virginia Tech massacre on April 16, 2007, saw 32 victims lose their lives due to the actions of Seung-Hui Cho. This tragic event raised awareness about mental health and led to significant changes in safety policies at educational institutions.

Dan Schaefer, an influential American politician who served in the House from 1983 to 1999, passed away at the age of 70 from cancer. His remarkable contributions to energy and environmental policy continue to resonate today.

Francisco Adam, a remarkable Portuguese actor and model born in 1983, tragically passed away in 2006 at just 23. His contributions to cinema and modeling left a lasting legacy, sparking essential discussions on mental health in the entertainment industry.

Kathleen 'Kay' Walsh, the esteemed British actress known for her roles in The Horse's Mouth and Oliver Twist, tragically died in a fire at age 93 in 2005. Her legacy endures through her remarkable contributions to the performing arts.

Kim Mu-saeng, a beloved South Korean actor born in 1943, passed away in 2005. His impressive filmography and versatility left a significant impact on cinema, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in the industry.

Marla Ruzicka, an American humanitarian worker and peace activist, dedicated her life to supporting civilian victims of war. Tragically, she lost her life in a car bombing in Baghdad in 2005, inspiring ongoing humanitarian efforts and advocacy for the innocent lives affected by conflict.

2003 Graham Jarvis, Canadian actor (Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman - "Charlie"; Misery; 7th Heaven), dies of multiple myeloma at 72

2002 Robert Urich, American actor (Spenser: For Hire), dies of cancer at 55

Ruth Fertel, a pioneering American restaurateur and founder of Ruth's Chris Steak House, died in 2002 at 75. Her impact on the culinary world is evident through her successful restaurant chain and inspiration for future female entrepreneurs.

2001 Alec Stock, English football manager (b. 1917)

Alexander 'Skip' Spence, the Canadian-American guitarist and songwriter known for his work with Jefferson Airplane, passed away in 1999 at the age of 52 due to lung cancer, leaving behind a rich legacy of music and artistic influence.

Laurence Kirwan, a British archaeologist, made significant contributions to the understanding of Sudan and Egyptian Nubia's ancient cultures. He died in 1999 at 91, leaving behind a legacy of scholarly work and dedication to archaeological preservation.

1999 Nicholas Cayzer, British shipping magnate (British and Commonwealth Shipping), dies at 89

Alberto Calderón, a prominent Argentine mathematician, passed away in 1998. Recognized for his groundbreaking work in harmonic and functional analysis, Calderón's contributions transformed modern mathematics and continue to influence various scientific fields.

Fred Davis, the celebrated eight-time World Snooker Champion, passed away on July 6, 1998, at the age of 84. His remarkable career and dedication have left an indelible mark on the world of snooker, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.

1997 Doris Angleton, American socialite, murdered at 46

Emilio Azcárraga Milmo, the influential media tycoon behind Televisa, passed away in 1997 at age 66. His leadership, vision, and contributions greatly shaped the landscape of Mexican television and Latin American media.

Michael Stroka, an American soap actor renowned for his role as Aristede in Dark Shadows, passed away at 58 in 1997 due to cancer. His impactful performances left a lasting legacy in the world of daytime television.

Ray Green, an influential American composer and publisher, passed away in 1997 at the age of 88. His musical journey spanned decades, leaving a legacy of innovative compositions and a lasting impact on music publishing.

Roland Topor, the influential French surrealist, tragically passed away on April 16, 1997, due to a cerebral hemorrhage at age 59. His contributions to literature and art, including his notable novel 'The Tenant,' continue to resonate today.

George Abel, a celebrated Canadian ice hockey player and Olympic gold medalist, passed away in 1996 at the age of 80. He is remembered for his exceptional contributions to the sport and his influential role in developing future hockey talent.

1996 Lucille Bremer, American actress and dancer (Meet Me in St. Louis; Ziegfeld Follies), dies from a heart attack at 79

Madeleine Bourdouxhe, a notable Belgian writer, died in 1996 at the age of 89. Known for her profound narratives exploring female existence and human relationships, she significantly influenced Belgian literature and inspired future generations of writers.

Raymond Hill, an influential American tenor saxophonist best known for his work with the 'Kings of Rhythm,' passed away in 1996 at the age of 62. His unique style and emotive performances have left a lasting legacy in the world of jazz.

Stavros Niarchos, a prominent Greek shipping magnate, passed away on April 16, 1996, at the age of 86. Renowned for his innovative contributions to the maritime industry, his legacy continues to influence shipping and entrepreneurship in Greece and beyond.

Tomás Gutiérrez Alea, the visionary Cuban filmmaker known for 'Muerte de un burócrata', passed away in 1996 at the age of 67, leaving a profound impact on the world of cinema with his sharp critiques of bureaucracy and Cuban society.

1995 Arthur English, British comedian and actor (Malachi's Cove, Are You Being Served?), dies of complications from emphysema at 75

Cheyenne Brando, daughter of iconic actor Marlon Brando, tragically committed suicide in 1995 at the age of 25. Her life was marked by personal challenges and mental health struggles, leading to her untimely death, which served as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness.

Cyril Enfield, a renowned film director, passed away in 1995 at the age of 80. His pioneering work in cinema and storytelling has left a lasting legacy, inspiring filmmakers around the world with his innovative approach and memorable films.

Iqbal Masih, a young Pakistani boy born into bondage, became a powerful activist against child slavery. His tragic death in 1995 did not silence his message; he remains a symbol of courage and education's vital role in combating child labor.

1995 Stewart Myles MacPherson, Canadian-born British broadcaster, dies at 86

1994 John McLiam [Williams], Canadian actor (First Blood, Sleeper, Men From Shiloh), dies of Parkinson's disease at 76

Ralph Ellison, celebrated American writer and author of 'Invisible Man', passed away from pancreatic cancer at age 80 in 1994. His work continues to influence and inspire generations, addressing themes of race and identity.

Ron Vawter, an American actor known for roles in 'The Silence of the Lambs' and 'Angels in America', died on July 2, 1994. His legacy continues to influence the world of theater and LGBTQ representation.

Samuel Selvon, the Trinidad-born writer known for his impactful novel 'The Lonely Londoners', passed away in 1994 at the age of 70. His literary works continue to resonate, reflecting the immigrant experience and cultural identity.

1993 John Meefout, Dutch sculptor (Laying Woman), dies at 77

Andy Russell, the American drummer and vocalist known for his work on 'Your Hit Parade', passed away at 72 from a stroke in 1992. His musical journey and contributions continue to inspire future generations of artists.

Frank Killmond, a dedicated philanthropist from Chicago, passed away at age 58 on November 29, 1992. His contributions to community service and his vibrant personality left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Neville Brand, an American soldier and actor known for roles in DOA and Love Me Tender, died of emphysema on April 16, 1992, at the age of 71. His legacy combines a valorous military service and a notable presence in the film industry.

John 'Jocko' Conlan, a renowned baseball umpire and Hall of Famer, passed away in 1989 at the age of 89 after heart surgery. His career in the National League left a profound impact on the sport, showcasing the vital role of umpires in baseball.

Tawfieq Yusuf Awwaad, a prominent Lebanese writer, passed away on February 22, 1989. His literary works continue to resonate, reflecting the complexities of Lebanese culture and the human experience across generations. Awwaad's legacy remains influential in modern literature.

1988 Clifford Roach, cricketer (16 Tests early in West Indian cricket history), dies

1988 Jacques de Kadt, Dutch politician and writer (Fascism is War!), dies at 90

1988 Khalil al-Wazir, PLO leader, assassinated by Israeli commandos at 52

Warde Donovan, a renowned educator and community leader, passed away at the age of 72 in 1988. His commitment to education and community service left a lasting impact that continues to inspire future generations.

Scott Brady, born Gerald Tierney, was a celebrated American actor known for his roles in classic films. He sadly passed away from pulmonary fibrosis at the age of 60, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to cinema.

Charles G. Finney, a prominent American fantasy author known for 'Circus of Dr. Lao,' died at 78 in 1984. His imaginative storytelling and whimsical characters left a lasting impact on the fantasy genre.

Effa Manley, a pioneering baseball executive and co-owner of the Newark Eagles, died on April 16, 1981, at the age of 84. Heralded for her advocacy and leadership, Manley's contributions to baseball and her role as the first female Hall of Fame inductee remain significant in sports history.

Eric Hollies, an English cricket spin bowler, passed away in 1981 at the age of 68. He is celebrated for dismissing Donald Bradman for a duck in his last Test, marking a significant moment in cricket history.

Morris Stoloff, an acclaimed American composer and violinist, died in 1980 at age 81. Renowned for his music at Columbia Pictures, his unforgettable works include the themes from 'Picnic' and 'Moonglow', leaving a lasting legacy in film music.

General Lucius du Bignon Clay, a prominent WWII figure and military governor of West Germany, passed away in 1978. His leadership during the post-war era shaped German recovery and influenced the U.S.-Germany relationship significantly.

István Kertész, a celebrated Hungarian conductor, passed away on April 16, 1973, at 43. Renowned for his dynamic interpretations and influence on classical music, his legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide.

1972 Yasunari Kawabata, Japanese novelist (Thousand Cranes) and Nobel laureate (1968), dies at 72

Richard Neutra, Austrian-American modernist architect, passed away at 78 in 1970. He is celebrated for iconic structures like the Kaufmann Desert House and Moore House, blending modern design with nature, influencing architecture for future generations.

Edna Ferber, the esteemed American author and playwright, passed away on April 16, 1968, at 82. Known for her novels such as 'Cimarron' and 'American Beauty', Ferber's legacy as a pioneer of women's literature endures through her impactful stories and influential works.

1968 Fay Bainter, actress (Jezebel, Our Town, State Fair), dies at 76

Jean Alexandre Barré, a pioneering French neurologist who identified Guillain-Barré Syndrome, passed away in 1967 at the age of 86. His contributions greatly enhanced the understanding of this serious neurological disorder.

1966 Nandalal Bose, Indian pioneering modern artist (illustrated Constitution of India), dies at 83

1960 Felix Kersten, Baltic-German Finnish masseuse physical therapist and personal trainer to Heinrich Himmler who helped save people from Finns from Nazi persecution, dies at 61

Charles Halton, a revered British stage actor known for his roles in 'Dr. Cyclops' and 'Tugboat Annie Sails Again', passed away in 1959 at the age of 83. His legacy as a talented performer endures in both theatre and film, inspiring many in the arts.

The beheading of Abdullah Seif el-Islam in 1955 marked a devastating event in Yemen's history, illustrating the extreme political tensions of the era and impacting the monarchy's stability.

Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz, was executed on April 16, 1947, for his role in orchestrating the Holocaust. His death highlighted the quest for justice following the unimaginable atrocities of World War II.

Arthur Chevrolet, co-founder of Chevrolet Motor Car Company and an acclaimed auto racer, tragically died by suicide in 1946 at age 61. His legacy in the automotive industry and contributions to car design continue to be celebrated even today.

1942 Princess Alexandra of Edinburgh and Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, dies at 63

1941 Josiah Stamp, 1st Baron Stamp, British civil servant, industrialist, economist, statistician and banker, dies at 60

Bertram Mills, a pioneering British circus proprietor, passed away in 1938 at the age of 70. His circus became a symbol of British entertainment, known for its traditional acts and commitment to animal welfare, influencing the circus world for generations.

1938 Steve Bloomer, English footballer (b. 1874)

Rachel Bluwstein, a renowned Hebrew poet, died on April 16, 1931, from tuberculosis at the age of 40. Her poignant poetry captured the essence of longing and love, leaving a lasting legacy in Hebrew literature and the cultural landscape of Israel.

José Carlos Mariátegui, a prominent Peruvian journalist and political philosopher, passed away in 1930. His influential works on socialism and indigenous rights have left a lasting legacy in Latin American thought, resonating with modern social movements.

Henry Birks, a pivotal figure in Canadian business, died in 1928 at 87. He founded Henri Birks and Sons, a prominent jewelry brand recognized for quality and service, and his legacy continues to influence the retail landscape today.

1924 Jack Board, English cricket wicket-keeper (Eng in 6 Tests 1898-1906), dies at 57

John Conrad Nordqvist, a prominent Swedish composer, passed away in 1920 at the age of 80. His fusion of classical and folk music left a lasting legacy in Sweden's cultural landscape.

Tom Horan, the distinguished Australian cricketer, known for his all-round skills, passed away in 1916. His contributions to the game, including his remarkable Test career, remain a significant part of cricket history.

Nelson W. Aldrich, a prominent U.S. Senator from Rhode Island, passed away at the age of 73 in 1915, leaving a profound legacy through his contributions to economic policies and the establishment of the Federal Reserve System.

George William Hill, an esteemed American astronomer, passed away in 1914 at the age of 76. Celebrated for his significant contributions to celestial mechanics and his calculation of the Moon's orbit, Hill's legacy continues to inspire astronomers today.

In 1914, Scottish novelist S. R. Crockett passed away at the age of 54. Known for his impactful work, particularly 'The Stickit Minister,' Crockett's legacy continues to resonate within Scottish literature, showcasing the intricacies of rural life and faith.

Maximilian Kronberger, a talented German poet, died at the tender age of 16 in 1904, leaving behind a legacy of profound poetry that explored deep emotional themes, a testament to his unusually mature perspective on life for someone so young.

Samuel Smiles, a prominent Scottish writer known for his influential work 'Self Help', died in 1904 at age 91. His writings inspire generations on self-reliance and personal growth, establishing him as a pioneer in the self-help genre.

Emilio Jacinto, a Filipino poet and revolutionary, died at the young age of 23 in 1899. His literary works and commitment to independence greatly influenced the Philippine struggle against Spanish colonial rule.

1890 John Barnett, English composer (The Mountain Sylph), dies at 87

Zygmunt Florenty Wróblewski, a Polish physicist and chemist, died at 42, leaving behind monumental contributions to cryogenics and liquid helium research. His innovative spirit continues to inspire scientists today.

In 1881, George William Martin, a notable English chorister, organist, composer, and founder of the National Choral Society, passed away at 53. His dedication to choral music and music education shaped future musicians and left a lasting impact on the musical community.

In 1879, Bernadette Soubirous, known for her visions of the Virgin Mary at Lourdes, passed away from tuberculosis at 35. Her life continues to inspire as a symbol of faith and resilience, leading many to seek solace at the sanctuary dedicated to her. She was canonized a saint in 1933.

Augustin-Philippe Peellaert, a versatile Belgian military officer, painter, composer, and librettist, passed away in 1876. His unique blend of military and artistic endeavors left a lasting impact on Belgium's cultural heritage.

Anatoli O Demidov, a notable Russian ruler and traveler, passed away in 1870, marking the end of an influential life. His contributions to society and leadership are remembered as a legacy that influenced future generations.

Marie-Caroline of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, a significant figure in 19th-century Europe, known for her rebellious spirit against King Louis-Philippe I, passed away in 1870 at the age of 71, leaving a complex legacy in royal history.

On April 18, 1865, Confederate General Robert C. Tyler fell during the Battle of West Point at the age of 32, highlighting the tragic costs of the Civil War and his significant role in southern military efforts.

In 1864, renowned machinist and inventor Thomas Blanchard passed away at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of innovation that transformed manufacturing through his pioneering designs, particularly the Blanchard lathe.

The death of Alexis de Tocqueville in 1859 due to tuberculosis marked a significant loss for political philosophy. Renowned for his work 'Democracy in America', Tocqueville's insights into democracy continue to resonate today.

Johann Baptist Cramer, a notable German-British pianist, composer, and music publisher, passed away on November 12, 1858, at the age of 87. His contributions to music and legacy continue to resonate through his compositions and role in music publishing.

Domenico Dragonetti, a celebrated Italian composer and virtuoso double bass player, passed away in 1846. His innovative contributions to classical music transformed the role of the double bass, and he left a lasting legacy that continues to influence musicians today.

Henry Fuseli, a Swiss-born painter known for his work 'Tracks in the Snow', died in 1825 at the age of 84. His influence on the Romantic movement and his imaginative artwork have left a lasting legacy in art history.

In 1788, French naturalist George-Louis Leclerc, Count de Buffon, passed away at the age of 80. Known for his influential work 'Histoire naturelle,' Buffon's contributions to natural history and biology marked significant advancements in scientific thought.

Christian Mayer, a notable Czech Catholic priest and astronomer, passed away in 1783 at the age of 63. Known for his advances in star cataloging and contributions to astronomy, his work laid essential groundwork for future discoveries in the field.

Jacques Cassini, a notable French astronomer, passed away in 1756 at the age of 79, leaving a rich legacy in the study of proper motion and the satellites of Saturn. His meticulous observations significantly advanced the field of astronomy.

Cornelis van Bijnkershoek, a prominent Dutch jurist, passed away on March 16, 1743, at the age of 69. He significantly influenced the development of international law through his positivist approach, advocating for legal principles grounded in reality. His legacy continues to impact legal thought today.

Aphra Behn, a pioneering English dramatist and novelist, passed away at the age of 48 in 1689. Known for her groundbreaking work, Oroonoko, she established a significant legacy in literature by advocating for women's voices and challenging societal norms.

George Villiers, 2nd Duke of Buckingham, a key English statesman and poet, died in 1687 at the age of 59, leaving a significant legacy in both politics and literature during a transformative period of English history.

Tobias Hume, a Scottish composer known for his innovative works like 'The First Part of Ayres', passed away in 1645. His contributions to music left a lasting legacy, blending Scottish traditions with continental styles.

Denijs Calvaert, a renowned Flemish painter known for his unique blend of art styles, passed away in 1619. His career spanned across Europe, significantly contributing to the Baroque movement and influencing future generations of artists.

1529 Louis de Berquin, French humanist, reformer and heretic, burned at stake

1496 David van Bourgondie, Bishop of Utrecht (1456-96), dies at about 69

Filippo Brunelleschi, the famed Italian Renaissance architect known for the dome of the Florence Cathedral, died in 1446 at the age of 68 or 69. His groundbreaking contributions to architecture left a lasting legacy.

Duke Frederick I of Austria passed away in 1198, leading to political instability in the region. His legacy impacted Austria’s nobility and set the stage for future leadership struggles within the Holy Roman Empire.

Adelaide del Vasto, born in 1118, was a remarkable queen known for her marriage to Roger II of Sicily. Her influence shaped Sicily’s cultural and political landscape, making her a prominent historic figure.

1113 Sviatopolk II of Kiev, Russian prince (b. 1050)

Sikelgaita was a courageous Lombard princess and the wife of Robert Guiscard. Known for her active role in battles, she defied gender norms of her era until her death in 1090 at approximately 50 years old.

744 al-Walid II, Umayyad caliph (743-744), killed at 35

Marcus Salvius Otho, the Roman Emperor, met a tragic end at age 36. His brief reign during the chaotic Year of the Four Emperors culminated in his suicide amid military defeat, illustrating the perilous nature of power in ancient Rome.