What happened today in history?

Ramiro Blacut, a prominent Bolivian soccer player and manager, has passed away at the age of 80. With a rich career playing for teams like Bayern Munich and a significant role in the national team, his legacy in Bolivian soccer remains influential.

Zdeněk Pololáník, a celebrated Czech contemporary classical composer, organist, and film score icon, passed away at age 88. His legacy includes poignant sacred music and impactful film scores that shaped the Czech musical landscape.

Atanas Golomeev, a celebrated Bulgarian basketball center, passed away at 76, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in European basketball. As the FIBA EuroBasket Top Scorer of 1973, he inspired many with his skill and dedication to the sport.

Jacques Rougerie, a notable front rower in French rugby, passed away in 2023 at age 78. Known for his time with AS Montferrand and representing France in one Test, his legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and aspiring players. His dedication and character were essential to his influence in the sport.

2023 Joggie Viljoen, South African rugby union scrum half (6 Tests; Griqualand West RU, Eastern Province RU), dies at 78

José Luis Pérez-Payá, the renowned Spanish soccer forward, passed away in 2022 at the age of 94. Known for his time at Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, his legacy continues to inspire future generations in the world of soccer.

Ricardo Perdomo, a celebrated Uruguayan soccer midfielder and coach, passed away at 62 in 2022. Renowned for his time with Club Nacional, Rayo Vallecano, and Unión Española, he significantly influenced soccer in Uruguay as a player and mentor.

2022 Viacheslav Semenov, Ukrainian soccer midfielder (11 caps USSR; FC Zorya Luhansk, FC Dynamo Kyiv), dies at 74

Wolfgang Petersen, renowned German director behind iconic films like 'Das Boot' and 'Air Force One', passed away on August 12, 2022, due to pancreatic cancer at 81. His legacy as a master storyteller endures through his impactful contributions to cinema.

Emilio Flores Márquez, known as "Don Millo," was a centenarian sugar cane worker from Puerto Rico, celebrated as the world's oldest man in 2021 before his passing at 113. His life inspired many through his dedication to family and community.

Roger Harring, a legendary college football coach at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, passed away in 2021 at the age of 88. Over his 30-year career, he recorded 261 victories and left a lasting impact on the game and the lives of his players.

Una Stubbs, the talented English actress known for her roles in 'Till Death Us Do Part' and 'Sherlock', passed away on August 12, 2021, at the age of 84. Her enduring legacy and remarkable performances continue to inspire many.

Bill Yeoman, the renowned college football coach from the University of Houston, passed away at the age of 92 in 2020. Known for his innovative strategies and great success, he left an enduring legacy in the sport.

Don Edmunds, the renowned American auto racer and car builder known for his contributions to sprint car racing and his iconic Snake River Canyon Skycycle for Evel Knievel, passed away at the age of 89 in 2020. His legacy continues to inspire the automotive and racing industries.

2020 Howard Mudd, American football OL (Pro Bowl 1966–68; All-Pro 1967-68; SF 49ers, Chicago Bears) and coach (Super Bowl 2006; OL Indianapolis Colts), dies after a motorcycle accident at 78

Marvin Creamer, a legendary American mariner, made history as the first recorded person to sail around the world without navigational instruments. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 104, leaving a legacy of adventure and exploration that inspires many.

Melvin F. Stute, a legendary American thoroughbred racehorse trainer known for his Preakness Stakes and Breeders' Cup victories, passed away at the age of 93 in January 2020, leaving behind a significant legacy in horse racing.

Pavol Biroš, a former Slovak soccer defender known for his tenure at Slavia Prague and national team contributions, passed away at 67 from heart disease. His legacy in Slovak football remains influential to this day.

John Scott, the renowned English organist and choirmaster, died on August 12, 2015, at the age of 59. His contributions to church music and choral works left a lasting legacy, inspiring musicians worldwide.

Per Hjort Albertsen, a celebrated Norwegian organist and composer, passed away at 96 in 2015, leaving behind a powerful legacy in music education and performance. His influence continues to inspire young musicians today.

2015 Stephen Lewis, British stage and screen comic actor, screenwriter and playwright (In The Buses - "Blakey"; Last of the Summer Wine - "Smiler"), dies at 88

Friso, Prince of Orange-Nassau, the second son of Queen Beatrix, passed away in 2013 after being in a coma for a year and a half following a tragic avalanche incident while skiing. His life and legacy reflect resilience and the royal family's deep bonds during adversity.

Mendelis Bašs, a distinguished Latvian composer, conductor, and pedagogue, passed away in 2012 at the remarkable age of 93. His legacy in music education and composition has left an indelible mark on Latvian culture and the global music community.

Robert Robinson, a prominent British radio and television presenter, passed away in 2011 at the age of 83. Renowned for shows like 'Ask the Family' and 'Call My Bluff,' his wit and charm captivated audiences for decades, leaving a lasting legacy in broadcasting.

Guido de Marco, the 6th President of Malta and 45th President of the UN General Assembly, passed away in 2010. His contributions to Maltese politics and EU accession mark him as a significant historical leader.

Isaac Bonewits was a seminal figure in modern Druidry, founding Ar nDraiocht Fein and promoting understanding of Pagan practices. His writings and advocacy have left a lasting legacy in spiritual communities.

In 2010, Richie Hayward, the influential drummer of Little Feat, tragically passed away at 64 after battling liver cancer, leaving behind a legacy of musical excellence and inspiration in rock music.

2009 Les Paul [Polsfuss], American guitarist, (How High The Moon), songwriter and inventor (solid-body electric guitar), dies at 94

Lord John Gregson, a notable British Labour politician, passed away on July 29, 2009, at the age of 85 due to injuries from a fall. His legacy includes significant contributions to labor rights and social justice, marking him as a respected figure in British politics.

Christie Allen, the beloved British-Australian pop singer known for her hit 'Goosebumps', passed away from pancreatic cancer in June 2008. Her talent and contributions to music left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire artists today.

2008 Donald Erb, American composer known for large orchestral works, dies at 81

Elizabeth Murray, an influential American abstract expressionist painter known for her innovative use of shaped canvases, passed away from lung cancer in 2007 at the age of 66, leaving a profound legacy in the art world.

2007 Ian McGeoch, Scottish Vice-Admiral with Royal Navy (submarine HMS Splendid WWII), dies at 93

2007 Merv Griffin, American television host and game show creator, dies at 82

Mike Wieringo, a celebrated American comic book artist known for his work on 'The Flash' and 'Spider-Man,' died unexpectedly at the age of 44 from an aortic dissection. His vibrant illustrations and storytelling continue to inspire fans and artists alike.

John Loder, co-founder of the anarcho-punk band CRASS, was a pivotal figure in punk music known for his activism and anti-establishment ideals. His death in 2005 marked a significant loss for the community, yet his influence continues to inspire artists today.

Lakshman Kadirgamar, the esteemed Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Affairs, was assassinated in 2005, leaving a profound impact on the nation's political landscape and peace efforts. His life and legacy continue to inspire many to this day.

George Yardley III, an NBA pioneer and Hall of Famer, passed away from ALS at age 75. He was a six-time All-Star and the first player to score over 2,000 points in a single season, leaving a lasting impact on basketball history.

Godfrey Hounsfield, an English electrical engineer and inventor of the CT scan, passed away on August 12, 2004. His achievements transformed medical diagnostics, earning him a Nobel Prize in 1979 and leaving a lasting legacy in modern medicine.

Peter Woodthorpe, born in 1931, was a celebrated British actor known for his powerful performances in theatre and television. He passed away in 2004, leaving behind a rich legacy in the performing arts.

Patrick Peter Sacco, a prominent American composer, passed away at 71 in 2000, leaving a rich legacy of innovative music that still inspires today. His contributions to both classical music and film scores established him as a key figure in the industry.

Jean Drapeau, a prominent Canadian politician and long-serving Mayor of Montreal, passed away on August 12, 1999. He was pivotal in transforming the city with visionary projects like the 1967 World Expo, which left a lasting impact on Montreal's development and culture.

1999 John Rigby Hale, British linguist and historian, dies at 75

1997 Jack Delano [Jacob Ovcharov], Russian-born American composer and photographer, dies at 83

Luther Allison, the iconic American blues guitarist, died at 57 from lung and brain cancer. Renowned for his work with legends like Howlin' Wolf and James Cotton, his passionate music continues to resonate, defining the essence of the blues genre.

1996 Anthony Parsons, British diplomat (British Ambassador to Iran during Iranian Revolution), dies at 73

1996 Victor Ambartsumian, Russian astronomer (Stalin Prize 1946, 50), dies at 87

1995 Frank Cvitanovich, Canadian filmmaker, dies at 68

1994 Gene Cherico, American jazz bassist, dies at 59

Manfred Salzgeber, a pivotal German film distributor and publicist, passed away on April 22, 1994, at the age of 51. His influence on independent and international cinema was profound, shaping the landscape of film distribution in Germany and beyond.

Jerome Thor, an American actor known for his role in 'Riot in Juvenile Prison,' passed away from cardiac arrest at age 69 in 1993. His impactful performances and contributions to film continue to be celebrated today.

1992 Mazoon al-Mashani, 2nd wife of Sultan Said bin Taimur and Queen Mother of Oman, dies at about 72

Patricia Harmsworth, known as Lady Rothermere, was an iconic English socialite and actress. Her vibrant life, filled with glamour and charm, came to an end in 1992 when she passed away at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy of elegance and social influence.

Irene Campbell, the British actress and dancer, known for her roles in 'Wicker Man' and 'St Justice', passed away in 1991. She left a lasting legacy in film and theater, captivating audiences with her performances.

B. Kliban, an American cartoonist celebrated for his whimsical cat drawings and clever puns, passed away in 1990 at the age of 55. His unique style and sense of humor left an indelible mark on the cartooning world, ensuring his legacy endures today.

1990 Dorothy Mackaill, British-American actress (Love Affair), dies of kidney failure at 87

Piotr Perkowski, the esteemed Polish composer, died at the age of 89 in 1990, leaving a profound legacy in the world of classical music. His innovative works combined Polish folk elements with modernist styles, ensuring his place in music history.

Sara Seegar, an accomplished actor best known for her role in 'Mystery of Room 13', passed away in 1990 at the age of 76. Her impressive contributions to film and television continue to resonate in the industry.

Samuel Okwaraji, a talented Nigerian footballer, tragically died during a match in 1989 due to cardiac arrest. His contributions to the sport are remembered, and his legacy continues to influence youth sports initiatives in Nigeria.

Jean-Michel Basquiat, a pivotal figure in American art, passed away at 27 from a drug overdose. His influential works continue to resonate in contemporary society, highlighting issues of race and identity.

Kyu Sakamoto, a prominent Japanese singer known for 'Sukiyaki', tragically lost his life in the JAL 123 crash in 1985. This devastating event not only claimed his life but also marked one of the worst aviation disasters in history.

Manfred Winkelhock, a talented German race car driver born in 1951, tragically lost his life in an accident during a race in 1985. His legacy lives on in the hearts of racing fans and the motorsports community.

1985 Marcel Mihalovici, French composer, dies at 86

Giff Vivian was a notable New Zealand cricketer who played in 7 Test matches and scored a top score of 100, leaving a lasting impact on the sport before his passing in 1983.

1982 Helvi Leiviskä, Finnish composer, dies at 80

Salvador Sánchez, a renowned Mexican boxer and WBC featherweight champion, tragically died in a traffic accident in 1982 at the age of 23. His legacy as a talented fighter continues to inspire future generations.

Varlam Shalamov, a prominent Russian writer and survivor of the Soviet Gulag system, passed away in 1982. His impactful literary works, especially "Kolyma Tales," reflect the horrors of imprisonment and the resilience of the human spirit.

Ernst Chain, the visionary chemist renowned for his work on penicillin, passed away on August 2, 1979. His efforts in the development of antibiotics marked a significant turning point in medicine, saving countless lives and inspiring future generations.

Tom Driberg, an English journalist and politician, died on August 30, 1976, leaving behind a legacy filled with contributions to media and speculation about his connections to espionage. His life continues to intrigue historians and the public.

Perry Botkin, an influential American jazz guitarist, composer, and musical director, passed away in 1973 at 66. Renowned for his work with Bing Crosby and his contributions to jazz, his legacy persists in the music world.

1973 Walter Rudolf Hess, Swiss physiologist (Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1949), dies of heart failure at 92

Glenn Hartranft, an American athlete and Olympic silver medalist, achieved a discus world record of 47.89 meters in 1925. His dedication to track and field left a lasting legacy, inspiring athletes even after his passing in 1970.

Dick Ryan, a notable American actor known for his roles in films like 'For Heaven's Sake' and 'Born to Be Bad', passed away on September 26, 1969, at the age of 72 after a long illness. His contributions to cinema remain influential and cherished.

Esther Forbes, acclaimed novelist and author of the beloved 'Johnny Tremain,' passed away on July 12, 1968, at the age of 76. Her impactful storytelling and historical narratives continue to inspire readers and writers today.

Pieter Oud, influential Dutch politician and former Mayor of Rotterdam, passed away in 1968. His leadership during the city's post-war reconstruction shaped Rotterdam's future and left a lasting legacy in Dutch politics.

1967 (William) "Buster" Bailey, American jazz clarinetist (WC Handy; King Oliver's Creole Jazz Band; Fletcher Henderson; Noble Sissle; John Kirby), and bandleader, dies of a heart attack at 65

Ian Fleming, the brilliant author of the James Bond novels, died on August 12, 1964, at the age of 56. His legacy redefined the spy genre and continues to influence literature and films today.

Mike O'Neill, an Irish-American baseball player born in 1877, passed away at 81 in 1959. He made notable contributions to Major League Baseball and inspired future generations while symbolizing immigrant success in America.

James B. Sumner, an American chemist, passed away in 1955. He is celebrated for winning the Nobel Prize in 1946 for his groundbreaking work on crystallizing enzymes, leaving a lasting impact on the field of biochemistry.

1952 David Bergelson, Yiddish language writer (b. 1884)

Harry Brearley (1871-1948), an English inventor, is celebrated for inventing stainless steel. His remarkable contribution to metallurgy transformed the steel industry and everyday life, leaving a lasting legacy in various applications from cutlery to medical tools.

Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr., brother of President John F. Kennedy, was killed in action at age 29 in a plane explosion over Blythburgh, England during WWII, leaving a lasting legacy on his family and the nation.

Georges Martin Witkowski, a significant composer in the world of music, died on March 15, 1943. His contributions spanned classical and contemporary genres, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence musicians today.

Bobby Peel, an English cricket all-rounder, passes away at the age of 84 in 1941. Renowned for his skills in both batting and bowling, he had a significant impact on cricket history through his performances in 20 Tests and as an esteemed player of Yorkshire CCC.

1938 Ludwig Borchardt, German Egyptologist, dies at 74

1935 Friedrich Schottky, German mathematician (Schottky's theorem), dies at 84

Hendrik P. Berlage, a notable Dutch architect known for the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, passed away in 1934. His innovative approach to modern architecture left a lasting impact on the field, influencing future generations of architects.

In 1920, Louisa Lawson, a prominent Australian writer, publisher of The Dawn, and a dedicated suffragist who founded The Dawn Club, passed away at the age of 72. Her legacy continues to inspire women's rights advocates today.

Anna Held, born in 1872 in Warsaw, was a renowned Polish-born French actress and singer. Best known for her role in 'A Parisian Model', she passed away from cancer in 1918 at the age of 46, leaving behind a lasting legacy in musical theater.

Thomas Chamberlain was a pivotal figure at the Battle of Gettysburg, leading the 20th Maine to victory at Little Round Top. His commanding presence and tactical genius left a lasting legacy both on and off the battlefield.

Jozef Israels, a prominent Dutch landscape painter, died at the age of 87 in 1911. His artistry, marked by emotional depth and beauty of rural life, left a lasting impact on the world of art.

1911 Petrus H Hugenholtz, Dutch reformist vicar (Levenslicht), dies at 79

William Renshaw, a British tennis player and multiple Wimbledon champion, passed away in 1904 at the age of 43 due to epileptic convulsions. His legacy as a pioneering figure in tennis continues to inspire future generations.

Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld, a Finnish-Swedish explorer and mineralogist, passed away in 1901. His notable Vega Expedition significantly advanced Arctic exploration and provided essential insights into the region's resources and geography.

James Edward Keeler, an influential American astronomer known for his work on the rings of Saturn, died at the young age of 42 in 1900. His significant contributions to astronomy have left a lasting legacy despite his untimely passing.

Wilhelm Steinitz, the first World Chess Champion, died on August 12, 1900. Renowned for his innovative chess strategies, he profoundly influenced the game and left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire chess players today.

1891 James Russell Lowell, American poet, critic and diplomat (Biglow Papers), dies at 72

Georg Curtius, a notable German classical linguist, died in 1885 at the age of 65. His work in comparative linguistics significantly influenced the study of ancient languages and left a lasting legacy in the field.

Helen Hunt Jackson, an American author best known for her novel Ramona, passed away at the age of 54 in 1885. Her work championed the rights of Native Americans and significantly impacted American literature and social justice.

James Drummond, the renowned Scottish historical painter, passed away in 1877, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of art that captured Scotland’s rich history and cultural heritage. Born in 1816, his work continues to influence artists today.

William Jackson Hooker, a significant English botanist and director of Kew Gardens, passed away in 1865 at the age of 80. His contributions to botany and plant classification had a lasting influence on the field.

Sakuma Shōzan, a key Japanese reformer born in 1811, championed modernization and Westernization before his death in 1864. His influence paved the way for the Meiji Restoration and continues to impact Japan's national identity and progress.

Eliphalet Remington, a renowned American firearms manufacturer and founder of the Remington Arms Company, died in 1861 at the age of 67. His innovative designs and manufacturing processes laid the groundwork for modern firearms, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.

Discover the life and legacy of Princess Juliane of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, who transitioned to Grand Duchess Anna Feodorovna of Russia, making a lasting impact on both her homeland and adopted country until her death in 1860 at the age of 79.

William Conybeare was an influential English geologist known for his research on plesiosaur fossils. His work contributed significantly to geology and paleontology until his death in 1857.

Albert Gallatin, the 4th U.S. Secretary of the Treasury who served from 1801 to 1814, died on August 7, 1849, at 88. He significantly impacted American finance and diplomacy during his lifetime, with a legacy that continues to resonate today.

1830 Franz de Paula Roser, Austrian composer and conductor, dies at 50

Robert Stewart, 2nd Marquess of Londonderry, a prominent British politician and nobleman, tragically committed suicide in 1822, amidst personal and political turmoil. His life and death highlight the often overlooked struggles of mental health in the aristocracy.

Jean-Joseph Rodolphe, an influential Alsatian composer, passed away in 1812 at the age of 81. His extensive body of work and innovative style left a lasting impact on classical music, inspiring future generations of musicians.

1811 John Francis Edward Acton, French-born English Naval Commander and PM of Naples (remembered for his brutality towards French supporters), dies at 77

Etienne Louis Geoffroy, born in Paris in 1725, was a prominent pharmacist and entomologist who died in 1810. His pioneering work in insect classification significantly impacted modern entomology, leaving a lasting legacy that influenced generations of scientists.

Mikhail Kamensky, a prominent Russian field marshal, died in 1809 at the age of 71. His military career was marked by significant contributions during the Napoleonic Wars, showcasing his leadership and strategic prowess.

Ignaz Franz Xaver Kürzinger, a German violinist and composer, passed away in 1797 at 73. His influential music bridged the Baroque and Classical genres, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire musicians today.

1778 Peregrine Bertie, 3rd Duke of Ancaster and Kesteven, British general and politician (b. 1714)

Nahum Tate, the Anglo-Irish poet and playwright, died on July 30, 1715, at the age of 62, leaving a significant mark on English literature with his works, including a notable adaptation of Shakespeare's 'King Lear' that reflected the hopes of his time.

Pope Innocent XI, born Benedetto Odescalchi, died on September 12, 1689. His papacy (1676-89) was marked by moral steadfastness and a fight against religious corruption, culminating in his legacy within the Catholic Church.

The death of King Philip (Metacomet) in 1676 was a pivotal event in King Philip's War, marking a significant turning point in colonial relations and the decline of Native American resistance in New England.

Karl Rabenhaupt, a notable German-Dutch baron and military leader, died in 1675 at 73. Renowned for his innovative tactics during his military career, his legacy influenced modern military strategies significantly.

Philippe de Champaigne, a prominent French painter known for his Baroque masterpieces, died on August 12, 1674. His legacy continues to influence the art world, marked by his exceptional ability to depict emotion and spirituality.

Gilbertus van Zinnik, a talented Flemish architect, died in 1660 at the young age of 33, leaving behind a legacy of innovative designs that shaped the architectural landscape of his time. His brief yet impactful career marked a significant chapter in the history of Baroque architecture.

Cornelis Haga, the Dutch ambassador to Constantinople from 1611 to 1639, passed away in 1654 at the age of 76. His accomplishments in establishing diplomatic ties and his legacy in trade diplomacy significantly impacted the relationship between the Dutch Republic and the Ottoman Empire.

Ibrahim I, the 18th Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, faced execution in 1648 due to political turmoil and dissatisfaction with his rule. His public execution highlighted the precarious nature of power in the empire.

Johannes Althusius, a German lawyer and political theorist, died in 1638 at around 81. His work laid the groundwork for modern federalism and governance principles that continue to influence legal thought today.

Jacopo Peri, the Italian composer who penned the first recognized opera 'Dafne', died in 1633. His innovative contributions to music shaped the development of opera and influenced generations of musicians.

1612 Giovanni Gabrieli, Italian composer (Madrigali), dies at about 60

Alfonso Ferrabosco, a significant figure in Renaissance music, died in 1588, leaving a legacy that enriched English madrigal compositions. His influence continues as modern musicians draw from his intricate harmonies and melodies.

Thomas Smith (1513-1577) was an influential English diplomat and scholar known for his contributions to political theory and international diplomacy. His work laid the groundwork for future educators and diplomats, impacting English history and thought significantly.

Francisco de Vitoria, a significant Spanish theologian and lawyer, passed away in 1546, leaving behind a profound legacy in the fields of international law and human rights advocacy, influencing generations to come.

1484 George of Trebizond, Greek philosopher, dies at 91

Pope Sixtus IV passed away on August 12, 1484. His reign was marked by the construction of the Sistine Chapel, the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition, and the foundation of the Vatican Library, leaving behind a complex legacy in the Catholic Church.

The death of Yongle in 1424 marked a pivotal moment for the Ming Empire, ending a dynamic era of cultural and military expansion. His legacy of achievements, including the construction of the Forbidden City and maritime expeditions by Zheng He, significantly influenced China's history.

Charles Martel of Anjou, the son of Charles II of Naples, died from the plague at just 23 years old in 1295. His death not only cut short his promising life but also weakened the Anjou dynasty's claims to power amidst the chaos of medieval Europe.

In 1158, Anselm of Havelberg, Bishop of Havelberg, passed away at approximately 58 years old. His life and work significantly shaped the church and politics of medieval Germany, influencing the ecclesiastical landscape for generations to come.

The death of Louis II in 875 marked a turning point in the Carolingian Empire's history, leading to increased fragmentation and political strife in Europe. Born in 825, he struggled to maintain unity among diverse territories, ultimately contributing to the empire's decline.