What happened today in history?

2023 Laura Lynch, American bluegrass and country musician and songwriter (Dixie Chicks, 1989-95), killed in a car crash at 65 [1]

Anton Tkáč, a renowned Slovak track cyclist and Olympic gold medalist, died in 2022 at the age of 71. He was celebrated for his remarkable achievements in cycling, including World Championship victories, inspiring generations of athletes.

Ronnie Lamont, the esteemed Irish rugby union player, passed away in 2022 at 81. Known for his 12 Test caps with Ireland and 4 with the British & Irish Lions, his legacy in rugby endures, inspiring future generations.

2022 Thom Bell, American session musician, arranger and Grammy Award-winning "Philadelphia soul" producer (Delfonics; Stylistics; The Spinners), dies at 79

Walter "Wolfman" Washington, the legendary funk and blues guitarist, passed away from tonsil cancer in 2022 at the age of 79. A New Orleans native, he left a lasting impact on the music world through his collaborations and distinctive sound.

Bob Keselowski, a renowned American auto racer and team owner, passed away at the age of 70 in 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer. His contributions to ARCA racing and mentoring young talent solidify his legacy in motorsports.

Jürg Wyttenbach, the renowned Swiss pianist, composer, and conductor, passed away at the age of 86 on July 24, 2021. His remarkable contributions to music and education left a lasting impact on the community he cherished.

Robin Le Mesurier, a celebrated British guitarist known for his work with The Wombles, Rod Stewart, and Johnny Hallyday, passed away due to cancer in December 2021 at the age of 68, leaving behind a remarkable musical legacy.

Claude Brasseur, the illustrious French actor known for films like 'Bande à part' and 'La Boum', died on December 22, 2020, at the age of 84. His extraordinary career and contribution to French cinema is celebrated and remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

Fritz Künzli, a celebrated Swiss soccer striker, passed away in 2019 after battling Alzheimer's disease. He played for esteemed clubs and represented Switzerland nationally, leaving behind a legacy of passion and skill in the sport.

Tony Britton, the talented English actor known for his role in 'The Day of the Jackal', passed away at 95 in 2019. His legacy lives on through his timeless performances and significant contributions to film and television.

Frank Brake, a prominent English entrepreneur and philanthropist, passed away in 2018 at age 80. He was the founder of Brake Bros., which revolutionized the frozen food industry, and he dedicated his life to both business excellence and charitable work.

Paddy Ashdown, the former leader of the Liberal Democrats, passed away in 2018 at age 77 after battling bladder cancer. A respected British MP, he is remembered for his dedication to progressive politics and international diplomacy.

Roberto Suazo Córdova, former President of Honduras from 1982-1986, passed away at the age of 91. His contributions to Honduras during his presidency are remembered fondly, as he played a crucial role in promoting democracy in a challenging political landscape.

Bill Price, a renowned British audio engineer and record producer, passed away from cancer in 2016 at the age of 72. Known for his work with iconic artists, he left a lasting legacy in the music industry.

2016 Margaret Pereira, English forensic scientist (Nicholls and Pereira method), dies at 88

Miruts Yifter, known as 'Yifter the Shifter,' was a celebrated Ethiopian runner who won two gold medals at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. He passed away in 2016, leaving behind an inspiring legacy in the world of athletics.

Carson Van Osten, a talented bassist for the band Nazz and a revered comic strip artist who worked with Disney, left a remarkable legacy in both music and art before his passing in 2015 at the age of 70.

Derek Ezra, a prominent British politician and coal executive, passed away at the age of 96 in 2015. Renowned for his leadership at the National Coal Board and his contributions to the Liberal Democrats, he left a significant impact on both the coal industry and British politics.

Ed Herrmann, an American baseball catcher and MLB All-Star, died from prostate cancer in 2013 at the age of 67. Known for catching Larry Dierker's no-hitter and playing for the Chicago White Sox, his legacy continues to inspire baseball fans.

Arkady Vorobyov, the renowned Russian weightlifter and Olympic gold medalist, passed away at 88 on February 14, 2012. His legacy in the sport continues to inspire future generations of athletes.

Bettye Danoff, an influential American golfer and co-founder of the LPGA Tour, passed away at the age of 88 in 2011. Her remarkable contributions to women's golf continue to inspire future generations.

James Ramseur, an assailant in the infamous 1984 subway shooting by Bernhard Goetz, tragically died from a drug overdose at the age of 45 in 2011. His life story reflects the complex issues of crime, struggles with addiction, and societal failings.

Vasant Ranjane, the celebrated Indian fast bowler, passed away in 2011 at the age of 74. Known for his contributions to cricket, he played 7 Tests for India between 1958-64, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Fred Foy, born in 1921, was a prominent American radio and television announcer, best known for his work on 'This Is Your Life' and 'The Lone Ranger'. He passed away in 2010, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in broadcasting.

2009 Luis Francisco Cuéllar, Colombian politician (b. 1940)

Lansana Conté, a prominent Guinean politician and military leader, died at the age of 74 in 2008. His death ended a controversial presidency that lasted nearly 24 years and set off a challenging political transition in Guinea.

2007 Adrian Cristobal, Filipino writer (b. 1932)

Joe Ames, a talented American singer and actor from The Ames Brothers, had a significant impact on music and television. He died in 2007 at the age of 86, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.

Julien Gracq, the influential French writer known for his profound literary works, passed away in 2007 at the age of 97, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of literature and an indelible mark among his contemporaries like André Breton.

2006 Dennis Linde, American songwriter ("Burning Love"; "Goodbye Earl"), dies of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at 63

Elena Mukhina, a celebrated Russian gymnast, died in 2006 at age 46 due to complications from quadriplegia following a serious injury. Her remarkable achievements and resilience continue to inspire many in the world of gymnastics.

Galina Ustvolskaya, a groundbreaking Russian composer, passed away at the age of 87 in 2006. Known for her innovative approach to music, she blended traditional elements with modern techniques, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that continues to influence composers today.

2006 Phillip Pine, American actor (Set-Up, Under the Ground), dies at 86

T. Cooper Evans, a dedicated American politician and former member of the U.S. House of Representatives, passed away at the age of 81 in 2005. His legacy in Iowa politics remains significant, emphasizing his commitment to public service and addressing key issues for his constituents.

Doug Ault, an American baseball player born in 1950, played for the Toronto Blue Jays and made a significant impact in MLB before his untimely death in 2004. Remembered for his skills and contributions, Ault's legacy endures in the baseball community.

Chandu Sarwate, an Indian all-rounder and cricket legend, passed away in 2003 at the age of 83. He played 9 Tests for India and contributed significantly to state teams like Maharashtra and Holkar, leaving an enduring legacy in Indian cricket.

Dave Dudley, the beloved American country singer known for his hit 'Six Days on the Road,' passed away in 2003 at the age of 75. His impactful career and storytelling through music continue to inspire generations.

Rose Hill, the celebrated British actress and operatic soprano known for her roles in 'Allo 'Allo! and Nicholas Nickleby, passed away at the age of 89 in 2003. Her remarkable talent left an enduring legacy in theatre and music.

Hugh Desmond Hoyte, former President of Guyana, died at age 73 on December 22, 2002. His impactful political career and economic reforms shaped modern Guyana, leaving behind a significant legacy.

Joe Strummer, the iconic lead singer of The Clash, passed away on December 22, 2002, at just 50 years old. His impactful contributions to punk music and activism left a lasting legacy that resonates with fans worldwide.

Kenneth Tobey, celebrated American actor known for roles in 'The Thing from Another World' and 'Whirlybirds', died at 85. His versatile performances and contributions to film and television left a lasting legacy.

Michelle Thomas, a beloved American actress known for her role on 'The Cosby Show', tragically passed away in 1998 at the age of 29 due to cancer. Her talent and vibrant spirit continue to resonate with fans today.

1998 Virginia Graham, American TV personality (Girl Talk, Where Was I), dies at 86

Sir Douglas Ranger, a prominent British surgeon, passed away in 1997 at the age of 81. Known for his innovative contributions to surgery, his legacy continues to influence the field. Ranger's compassion and commitment to education inspired future generations of surgeons.

Hugh Edward Conway Seymour, the 8th Marquess of Hertford, passed away on December 2, 1997, at the age of 67. Known for his philanthropic efforts and nobility, his death marked the end of a historic lineage in British aristocracy.

John Pinkerton, an innovative English computer scientist, passed away in 1997 at age 78. He was renowned for designing the first business computer in England, the LEO computer, which revolutionized business data processing.

In 1997, renowned jazz trumpeter Johnny Coles passed away at 71. His unique style and collaborations with jazz legends left a profound impact on music. Coles's life and work continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

Juzo Itami, a celebrated Japanese director known for impactful films like 'Tampopo', tragically committed suicide in 1997 at age 64. His death shocked the film community, marking a monumental loss for cinema and leaving a lasting legacy.

1996 Hetta Empson, South African-British artist, dies at 81

1995 (Thelma) "Butterfly" McQueen, American actress (Gone With the Wind; Flame of Barbary Coast), dies in a fire at 84

James Meade was an influential English economist whose work in welfare economics and international trade theory earned him the Bank of Sweden Prize in 1977. He left a lasting legacy upon his death in 1995.

Alexander Mackendrick, the iconic director known for classics like 'Whiskey Galore!', passed away in 1993 at the age of 81, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of cinema with his unique storytelling and profound narratives.

1993 Don DeFore, American actor (George-Hazel, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet), dies of cardiac arrest at 76

Frederick W. Franz, the renowned CEO of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, passed away in 1992 at the age of 99. His profound contributions to religious literature and leadership within the Jehovah's Witnesses left a significant legacy that continues to influence the faith today.

Harry Bluestone, a distinguished British-American jazz violinist and bandleader, passed away in 1992 from complications related to Parkinson's disease at the age of 85. His musical legacy continues to inspire jazz musicians today.

Ted Willis, an influential English screenwriter, passed away on November 24, 1992, at the age of 74. Known for his work on films like 'It's Great to be Young', Willis left a lasting legacy in both film and television, shaping narratives that resonated with audiences.

Ernst Krenek, the Austrian-American composer known for merging jazz with opera and pioneering electronic music, passed away in 1991 at the age of 91. His works like 'Johnny Spielt Auf' and 'Fibonacci-Mobile' left an indelible mark on music history.

Cecil Effinger, an American oboist, composer, and inventor, passed away in 1990 at the age of 76. He is renowned for his contributions to music and for creating a pioneering music typewriter that transformed musical notation.

1990 Ken Irvine, Australian rugby league winger (31 Tests; NSW 24 games; North Sydney RLFC, Manly-Warringah RLFC; record first-grade career tries–212), dies from chronic myeloid leukaemia at 50

Tucker Smith, an American stage and screen dancer known for his role in 'West Side Story' as Ice, passed away from cancer in 1988 at the age of 52. His vibrant contributions to dance and theater continue to inspire artists today.

Frank Essed, a notable Surinamese politician and forestry scientist, tragically died in 1988 after being hit by a car, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to sustainable forestry practices and ecological policy. His contributions continue to inspire future generations.

Alice Terry Taaffe, the celebrated actress known for her role in '4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse', passed away on June 7, 1987. Her legacy in cinema is marked by her powerful performances and influence in the film industry.

Henry Cotton, the celebrated English golfer known for his three British Open championships, passed away at the age of 80 in 1987. His remarkable career and contributions to golf solidified his legacy as a true icon of the sport.

Leonidas Zoras, the illustrious Greek conductor and composer, died at 82 in 1987, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire musicians worldwide. His dedication to blending traditional Greek themes with classical music marked significant contributions to the cultural landscape.

1986 Celius Dougherty, American pianist and composer, dies at 84

D. Boon, the iconic punk rock singer and guitarist of The Minutemen, tragically died in a van accident in 1985 at the age of 27, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence musicians today.

Viola Wells, a prominent American jazz, blues, and gospel singer, passed away in 1984 at the age of 82. Her powerful voice and emotional performances left a lasting impact on the music world.

Darryl F. Zanuck, a pivotal figure in Hollywood and president of 20th Century Fox, passed away in 1979. His innovative filmmaking and production leadership left an indelible mark on the film industry.

Johann Nepomuk David, an influential Austrian-German composer, passed away in 1977 at the age of 82. His legacy endures through his significant contributions to 20th-century classical music and his role in shaping modern compositions.

Martin Luis Guzman, a prominent Mexican novelist known for 'Eagle & the Serpent', passed away on April 17, 1976. His works captured the essence of Mexican identity and history, making him a significant figure in the literary landscape.

Fosco Giachetti was a renowned Italian actor known for his roles in classic films like 'Wastrel' and 'We the Living'. His death in 1974 at age 74 marked the loss of a significant figure in Italian cinema, whose legacy continues to inspire actors today.

1973 Domingo Julio Gomez Garcia, composer, dies at 87

In 1973, the tennis world mourned the loss of James Anderson, the Australian tennis star known for his victories in the Australasian Championships during the 1920s. He passed away at the age of 79, leaving a significant legacy in the sport.

Fred Guy, the renowned jazz banjo player and guitarist, passed away in 1971. As a pivotal member of Joseph C. Smith's Orchestra and Duke Ellington's Washingtonians, he left a lasting legacy in jazz music that continues to inspire artists today.

1971 Godfried Bomans, Dutch humorist, TV personality and writer (Eric), dies at 58

Renee Evans, a prominent entertainer, died at the age of 63 in 1971 due to a heart attack. Her vibrant performances and legacy continue to inspire future generations in the entertainment industry.

Ilse Steppat, a talented actress born in Germany, passed away at the age of 52 in 1969. Best known for her role in 'Invisible Terror', her contributions to film are remembered by fans and continue to influence future generations in the acting world.

Josef von Sternberg, an influential Austrian-American director known for his work on 'Shanghai Express,' passed away in 1969. His innovative film techniques and collaboration with Marlene Dietrich left a lasting legacy in cinematic history.

Louise Granville, an esteemed Australian actress known for her role in 'How Green Paid the Rent,' passed away at 73 due to influenza. Her legacy in the theater and film industry continues to inspire future generations.

1967 Lee Krieger, American actor (Clambake, One Way Wahini), dies at 48

Robert Keith, born Rolland Keith Richey in 1898, was a talented American character actor known for films like Guys and Dolls and The Wild One. He passed away in 1966 at the age of 68, leaving a lasting legacy in American cinema.

Al Ritz, a prominent American vaudevillian known for his work with the Ritz Brothers, passed away from a heart attack at age 64. His contributions to entertainment remain celebrated, marking a significant loss in the vaudeville community.

Richard Dimbleby, a prominent British journalist and broadcaster, passed away on February 16, 1965, at the age of 52. Known for his powerful voice and influential reporting, he shaped British journalism and left a lasting legacy in the media industry.

Bonifacio Gil Garcia, a renowned Spanish composer and folklorist, passed away in 1964 at the age of 66. His dedication to preserving Spanish musical traditions has left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of musicians and scholars alike.

Gilda Gray, renowned Polish-American actress and dancer known for The Shimmy, sadly passed away from a heart attack in 1959 at the age of 58. Her contributions to dance and film have left a lasting legacy.

Fjodor W. Gladkow, a notable Russian author known for his influential novel Cement, passed away on May 24, 1958, leaving behind a rich literary legacy that continues to impact readers and writers in the world of literature.

Powell Weaver, an influential American composer, passed away at the age of 61 in 1951. His unique blend of traditional and modern musical styles left a lasting legacy in American music, inspiring both his contemporaries and future generations of musicians.

1950 Julius Weismann, German pianist, conductor, and composer (Schwanenweiß), dies at 70

Walter Damrosch, the German-American conductor and composer, passed away in 1950 at the age of 88. Renowned for his role with the New York Symphony and for commissioning Gershwin's Piano Concerto, Damrosch significantly influenced American classical music.

Therese Brandl, a former Nazi concentration camp guard at Auschwitz, was executed by hanging in Kraków, Poland, in 1947 at the age of 45. Her trial and execution symbolize the pursuit of justice for the crimes committed during the Holocaust.

Otto Neurath, an influential philosopher and member of the Vienna Circle, passed away in 1945. His work laid the foundation for modern social sciences, impacting how knowledge is structured and conveyed through empirical data and pictorial symbols.

Harry Langdon, beloved American comedian known for his unique style and films like 'The Strong Man,' passed away in 1944 at the age of 60. His extraordinary influence on comedy endures as a testament to his artistry.

Learn about the life and legacy of Leopoldo Mugnone, an influential Italian opera composer and conductor whose contributions to music resonate even today, as we remember his passing in 1941.

Nathanael West, an influential American novelist, tragically died in a car crash at age 37 on September 22, 1940, after running a stoplight. His unique voice and impactful works, such as 'Miss Lonelyhearts' and 'The Day of the Locust,' left an enduring legacy.

Ma Rainey, known as the 'Mother of the Blues,' passed away in 1939 at the age of 53. A monumental figure in music, her legacy as a pioneering artist of the blues continues to influence musicians today.

Arthur H. Bird, an influential American composer, passed away in 1923. His contributions to music shaped the American classical landscape, and his legacy continues to resonate within the music community today.

1918 Albijn van de Abeele, Flemish author and painter, dies at 83

Randolph Bourne, a significant American writer known for his impactful essays, died at the young age of 32 in 1918 due to tuberculosis. His writings on education and social issues continue to influence readers and scholars today.

Frances Xavier Cabrini, the first American saint, passed away in 1917 at 67. She founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart and dedicated her life to helping the poor and advocating for immigrants, leaving a lasting legacy.

Marie Jungius, a Dutch fairy tale writer and feminist, passed away in 1908 at the age of 44. Her enchanting stories and advocacy for women's rights have left a lasting impression on literature, making her an important figure in both cultural and feminist movements.

1902 Richard von Krafft-Ebing, Austro–German psychiatrist and author (Psychopathia Sexualis), dies at 62

1899 Dwight L Moody, US evangelist (Student Volunteer Movement), dies

Benedikt Randhartinger, the influential Austrian composer, passed away at the age of 91 in 1893. Known for his remarkable contributions to classical music, his legacy continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike.

Johann Czerski, a dedicated German chaplain born in 1813, died in 1893 at the age of 80. His life was marked by compassionate service to his community, establishing programs to aid the underprivileged, leaving a lasting legacy of faith and support.

Nikolai Titov, a renowned Russian Major General, violinist, and composer, passed away at 75 in 1875. His contributions to both the military and music left a lasting legacy in Russia, showcasing his unique dual talent.

Johann Peter Pixis, a celebrated German pianist and composer, died in 1874 at the age of 86. His contributions to classical music and piano compositions continue to inspire musicians today.

Charles Lenox Remond, an influential African-American orator and abolitionist, died in 1873 at age 63. His powerful speeches and activism were crucial in the fight against slavery, leaving a lasting legacy in the movement for civil rights.

Jean-Victor Poncelet, a significant figure in modern projective geometry, passed away in 1867 at the age of 79. His influential works continue to shape mathematics and inspire future research in various scientific fields.

Théodore Rousseau, a celebrated French painter and key figure in the Barbizon School, passed away in 1867. His innovative contributions to landscape painting profoundly influenced Impressionism and continue to resonate in the art world today.

Michael Corcoran, a prominent Union brigadier general, passed away on December 22, 1863, at the young age of 36. His contributions to the Union cause during the Civil War were celebrated, and his untimely death left a lasting impact on those who served alongside him.

Ishmail Spicer, an American composer, passed away in 1832 at the age of 72. His work significantly influenced the music scene of his time, blending classical traditions with emerging American styles. Even after his death, his legacy continues through performances and studies of his compositions.

On December 22, 1828, Rachel Jackson, wife of President Andrew Jackson, tragically died of heart failure. Her passing deeply affected Andrew, influencing his actions during his presidency and solidifying her legacy in American history.

William Hyde Wollaston, esteemed English chemist and physicist, known for discovering palladium and rhodium, passed away in 1828 at the age of 62. His contributions to science significantly impacted later discoveries and set standards within the fields of chemistry and physics.

In 1815, Jose Maria Morelos, a key leader in the Mexican War of Independence, was executed by Spanish forces at the age of 50. His revolutionary efforts and dedication to social justice have solidified his legacy as a martyr for Mexican independence.

William Cooper, an influential American judge and the founder of Cooperstown, New York, died on March 4, 1809, at the age of 55. His contributions to law and community development are remembered today, particularly in the legacy of Cooperstown.

William Vernon, born in 1719, was a prominent American merchant who significantly impacted colonial trade. His death in 1806 marked the end of an era in American commerce, leaving behind a legacy of entrepreneurial spirit and economic contribution.

Giovanni Marco Rutini, an influential Italian composer, passed away in 1797. His work in classical music left a lasting mark, inspiring future generations through his innovative compositions and dedication to the art form.

Percivall Pott, an influential English physician and surgeon, significantly impacted medical history with his discoveries about disease and environment, notably concerning chimney sweeps. His pioneering surgical practices and advocacy for patient safety continue to resonate in modern healthcare.

John Newbery, the pioneering English publisher who transformed children's literature, passed away on January 7, 1767. His innovative approach established a lasting legacy in publishing and education for young readers.

Jan Dismas Zelenka, the Bohemian composer known for his unique Baroque music, died on January 23, 1745. His intricate compositions and contributions to sacred music solidify his legacy in classical music history.

In 1738, Constantia Jones, a British prostitute, was executed at the age of 30 for theft allegations. Her life and death highlight the struggles faced by women in early 18th century England, reflecting the harsh realities of their societal roles.

Jean-Joseph Mouret, a prominent French composer, died in 1738 at 56, leaving behind a rich legacy in Baroque music. His works, especially the Suite de symphonies, continue to resonate in classical music today.

Jacques Basnage, renowned French historian and vicar, passed away in 1723 at the age of 70. His influential work, 'History of the Reformed Churches,' provided critical insights into Protestant movements and continues to resonate in religious scholarship today.

In 1721, Nathaniel Hawes was executed in England after being tortured for robbery. His trial and subsequent execution reflected the brutal justice system of the era, sparking debates on punishment and reform.

1708 Hedvig Sophia, Duchess of Holstein-Gottorp, dies at 27

Richard Alleine, a notable English Puritan clergyman, passed away in 1681, leaving behind a profound legacy impacting Christian thought through his passionate sermons and writings advocating for piety and reform.

Stephen Day, an English-born colonial printer who published the first book in America, died in 1668. His pioneering work laid the foundation for printing in the colonies and influenced the dissemination of literature and ideas during a critical period in American history.

1660 André Tacquet, Flemish mathematician and priest (Cylindricorum et annularium), dies at 48

1646 Peter Mogila, Orthodox Metropolitan of Kiev and Galicia (b. 1596)

Sultan Mehmed III, the Ottoman ruler from 1595-1603, died at the young age of 37, leaving a significant impact on the empire's military and political future. His death initiated changes that would influence Ottoman history for years to come.

Richard Plantagenet, known as Richard of Eastwell, possibly the son of Richard III, was born in 1550 during the tumultuous Tudor era. His life and mysterious death raise fascinating questions about royal lineage and the legacy of the Plantagenets.

Antipope John XXIII, born Baldassare Cossa, died in 1419 at the age of 81. Known for his controversial reign during the Western Schism, his antipope status opposed Pope Gregory XII and left lingering debates about papal legitimacy.

1100 Duke Bretislaus II of Bohemia

Aulus Vitellius, short-lived Roman Emperor, was executed by Vespasian's troops in 69 AD, marking a significant event in the Year of the Four Emperors. His reign was characterized by excess, leading to his swift downfall and execution.