What happened today in history?

John Fairchild, a pivotal figure in American fashion journalism, passed away at 87. As the long-time publisher of Women's Wear Daily and W Magazine, he reshaped how fashion was reported and remains an inspirational figure in the industry.

2023 Ricou Browning, American film stuntman (Creature from the Black Lagoon), stunt co-ordinator (Thunderball), director, and producer (Flipper), dies at 93 [1]

Hanna Havrylets, a renowned Ukrainian composer and educator, passed away at the age of 63 due to an aneurysm. She was celebrated for her contributions to music, including notable works like 'David's Psalms' and 'Élegiya.' Her legacy will always inspire future generations of musicians and composers.

Bill Playle, a renowned New Zealand cricket batsman, passed away at 80 in 2019. Known for his elegant batting style and contribution to the national team, his legacy continues to inspire future cricketers.

Christopher Payne, Chief Constable of the Cleveland Constabulary from 1976-90, passed away in 2019 at the age of 89. His leadership in British policing emphasized community relations and modernization, leaving a lasting legacy in law enforcement.

Doug Sandom, British drummer for The Who from 1962 to 1964, passed away at the age of 89. His significant contributions to the early rock scene and dynamic drumming style influenced many musicians, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.

France-Albert René, the second President of Seychelles who served from 1977 to 2004, passed away at the age of 83 in 2019. His leadership profoundly impacted the nation's political landscape and economy, making him a key figure in Seychelles' history.

Nathaniel Taylor, beloved for his role as Rollo on 'Sanford and Sons,' passed away at 80. Renowned for his comedic talent, he influenced a generation of actors and remains a cherished figure in American entertainment.

2018 Luciano Benjamín Menéndez, Argentine general, Commander of the Third Army Corps (1975-79), and convicted human rights violator and murderer, dies of cardiogenic shock at 90

Jórunn Viðar, an influential Icelandic pianist and composer, passed away at the age of 98 on March 12, 2017. Known for her unique compositions and dedication to music education, her legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide.

George Kennedy, the iconic American actor known for his roles in 'Cool Hand Luke' and the 'Naked Gun' series, died on February 28, 2016, at the age of 91. His impactful performances and warm personality left an indelible mark on Hollywood.

Boris Nemtsov, a notable Russian politician and vocal critic of Putin, was assassinated in Moscow in 2015. His death shocked the world and highlighted the dangers faced by political dissenters in Russia.

2015 Malcolm Boyd, American Episcopal Priest, author and civil rights activist, dies at 91

Explore the life and legacy of Tod Dockstader, a pioneering American electronic music composer. His innovative use of sound and tape manipulation reshaped the landscape of musique concrète before his passing in 2015.

Dale Robertson, the beloved American actor known for his roles in classic Westerns like 'Death Valley Days' and 'Tales of Wells Fargo,' passed away at the age of 89 in 2013, leaving behind a rich legacy in film and television.

Richard Street, an American R&B musician and member of The Temptations, died at the age of 70 in 2013. His contributions to music shaped the Motown sound, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of R&B and soul.

Stéphane Hessel, a prominent German-born French diplomat and activist, passed away at the age of 95. His enduring legacy includes his vital role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and inspiring generations through his writings on justice.

Explore the life and legacy of Van Cliburn, the renowned American pianist who won the Tchaikovsky Competition in 1958 and left a profound impact on classical music before his passing in 2013 at the age of 78.

2012 Tina Strobos, Dutch physician and resistor to Nazi occupation, dies from cancer at 91

2011 Eddie Kirkland, Jamaican-American blues guitarist, singer and harmonica player (Have Mercy On Me), dies in a car accident at 87

Frank Buckles, born in 1901 in Charles Town, West Virginia, became the last surviving American World War I veteran until his death in 2011. His life exemplified resilience and honored the sacrifices of countless soldiers during a pivotal moment in history.

Madeleine Ferron, a prominent French Canadian writer, passed away in 2010 at 87. Her work explores themes of identity and women's experiences in Quebec, leaving a lasting impact on French Canadian literature.

2008 Anthony Blond, British publisher (The Publishing Game, Book Book), dies at 79

Boyd Coddington, famed auto designer and television host of 'American Hot Rod', passed away in 2008 due to sepsis. His innovative designs and influence on hot rod culture left a lasting legacy in the automotive world.

2008 Myron Cope, American sports broadcaster (b. 1929)

William F. Buckley Jr., a prominent conservative author and commentator known for founding National Review and hosting Firing Line, passed away from a heart attack at 82. His legacy in American political discourse and conservative thought remains strong.

Bernd von Freytag-Loringhoven was a prominent German soldier born in 1914. Post-World War II, he became a respected military historian and peace advocate. He passed away in 2007, leaving a legacy of reflection on war and a commitment to understanding its implications for humanity.

Bobby Rosengarden, an eminent American jazz drummer and bandleader, passed away due to Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 82. His significant contributions to jazz and collaborations with renowned musicians left an indelible mark on the music world.

2006 Linda Smith, British comedian (b. 1958)

Milton Katims, an influential violist and conductor of the Seattle Symphony from 1954 to 1976, passed away at the age of 96 in 2006. His rich legacy continues to inspire musicians and lovers of classical music.

Otis Chandler was a transformative American newspaper publisher known for modernizing the Los Angeles Times, advocating for journalistic integrity, and leaving a significant legacy in American journalism upon his death in 2006.

General Robert Lee Scott, Jr., an iconic American pilot and general, passed away at 97 on February 27, 2006. His extraordinary service in WWII and contributions to military aviation left a lasting legacy that inspires aspiring pilots to this day.

Allan Rae, a prolific Jamaican cricketer and opening batsman for the West Indies from 1948 to 1953, passed away at the age of 82 in 2005. His remarkable career and contributions to the sport continue to inspire cricketers today.

The tragic murder of nine-year-old Jessica Lunsford in 2005 led to a national conversation on child safety, inspiring the creation of 'Jessica's Law' to protect children from sexual predators and incite legal reforms.

Paul Sweezy, a noted American Marxist economist and editor of the Monthly Review, passed away in 2004 at the age of 93. His work on monopoly capitalism and editorial leadership left a lasting impact on economic discourse and socialist theory.

2004 Yoshihiko Amino, Japanese historians (b. 1928)

2003 John Lanchbery, British-Australian composer and conductor (Royal Ballet, 1959-72; Australian Ballet, 1972-77; American Ballet Theatre, 1978-80), dies at 79

Horace Tapscott, an influential American jazz pianist and composer, passed away on February 27, 1999, at 64. Founder of the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra, Tapscott made significant contributions to jazz and cultural activism, leaving a lasting legacy.

In 1998, the talented American actor J. T. Walsh, known for films like 'Good Morning, Vietnam' and 'Pleasantville', passed away from a heart attack at the age of 54, leaving behind a rich legacy in the film industry.

Kingsley Davis, an influential American sociologist and demographer who coined the term 'population explosion', passed away at 88 in 1997. His research significantly impacted sociology and population studies, emphasizing sustainable development and family planning.

François Chaumette, the French actor known for his roles in 'Le Bossu' and 'Christine', passed away at the age of 72 in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances in cinema.

George Ian Murray, 10th Duke of Atholl, known for his contributions to Scottish heritage, passed away in 1996. His life was marked by dedication to community welfare and the preservation of Highland culture, particularly through his stewardship of Blair Castle.

Pat Smythe, the renowned English equestrian and children's author, passed away on November 16, 1996, at age 67 from heart disease. She was celebrated for winning a bronze team jump medal in the 1956 Olympics and inspiring countless young riders through her literature.

1996 Sarah Palfrey Cooke, American tennis player (US Nat C'ship 1941, 45), dies of lung cancer at 83

Sylvia Williams, a celebrated museum director and curator, passed away on November 12, 1996, at age 60. Her dedication to promoting diversity in art and culture shaped the museum landscape, particularly at the Newark Museum, leaving a lasting legacy in the art community.

1996 Vic Janowicz, American College Football Hall of Fame halfback (Heisman Trophy 1950, Ohio State; NFL: Washington Redskins), dies of cancer at 66

Bernard Cornfield, a notable financier and innovator in the investment industry, passed away on August 29, 1995, at the age of 67. He is remembered for his revolutionary sales methods that transformed how investment products were marketed to the American public.

Philip Sherrington, an esteemed priest of Opus Dei, passed away in 1995 at the age of 51. Known for his deep commitment to faith and community service, his legacy of spirituality and personal engagement continues to inspire many today.

1994 "Hans" Leopold Kohr, Austrian social philosopher and economist, dies at 84

1994 Harold Acton, English-Italian historian and art collector, dies at 84

Karl Pelgrom, a notable Dutch sculptor and member of the De Ploeg movement, passed away in 1994 at the age of 66. His unique artistic contributions and profound influence on modern sculpture remain significant to this day.

1994 Laurence Craigie, American aviator (1st US jet pilot), dies at 92

1994 Roosevelt Holts, American blues singer and guitarist, dies at 89

Jose Duval, the beloved actor known for his role as Juan Valdez, died in 1993 at the age of 72. His portrayal of this iconic character significantly impacted the global coffee culture, promoting Colombian coffee as a symbol of quality and craftsmanship.

Lillian Gish, a pioneering American silent film actress, passed away at the age of 99 on February 27, 1993. Known for her iconic role in 'Birth of a Nation,' her extraordinary talent left an enduring impact on the film industry.

1993 Marģeris Zariņš, Latvian composer and writer, dies at 82

Marlena Davis, a prominent pop singer of the 1960s known for her work with The Orlons, tragically died of lung cancer at the age of 48. Her contributions to pop music, including hits like "Don't Hang Up," continue to resonate today.

1992 S. I. Hayakawa, Canadian-American academic, politician (U.S. Senator from California, 1977–83) and writer (Language in Action), dies of a stroke at 85

Hein van Royen, the notable Dutch conductor of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, passed away in 1991 at the age of 52. His innovative leadership and commitment to classical music left a lasting impact on the orchestra and the broader musical community.

Robert Widlar, a key figure in electronic engineering and the inventor of linear integrated circuits, passed away from a heart attack at 53. His innovations paved the way for advancements in technology that are still felt today.

In 1991, Dutch diplomat Robert-Jan Akkerman was murdered in Tunis, leading to widespread shock and concern for the safety of diplomatic personnel globally. His tragic death underscored the risks faced by diplomats worldwide.

Les Ames, an esteemed English cricketer, known for his wicket-keeping and batting excellence, passed away in 1990 at 84. With a remarkable career spanning 47 Tests, his achievements continue to inspire cricketers today.

1990 Nahum Norbert Glatzer, Jewish-American scholar (b. 1903)

Konrad Lorenz, the Austrian zoologist who won the Nobel Prize in 1973, died on February 27, 1989. His research on animal behavior, especially imprinting, left a lasting impact on the field of ethology and our understanding of instincts in both animals and humans.

1989 Joseph "Joe" Silver, American actor (Lenny, Mr I Magination), dies of liver cancer at 66

Konrad Lorenz, an influential Austrian zoologist and ethologist, passed away on July 27, 1989. A Nobel Prize laureate known for his groundbreaking work in animal behavior and imprinting, his legacy continues to impact the fields of psychology and ethology.

Paul Oswald Ahnert, a renowned German astronomer, passed away in 1989 at the age of 91. Known for his significant contributions to star cataloging and celestial mapping, Ahnert's legacy continues to influence astronomers today.

1987 Joan Greenwood, British actress and director (Kind Hearts and Coronets, Amorous Mr Prawn), dies of a heart attack at 65

David Huffman, an American actor known for roles in films like 'FIST' and 'Firefox,' was tragically murdered at the age of 39 in 1985, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances and an unsolved mystery that still resonates today.

Henry Cabot Lodge Jr., a significant American politician and diplomat, passed away at 82 in 1985. He held roles as a U.S. Senator and ambassador in major historical contexts, impacting U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War.

J Pat O'Malley, a beloved Irish-British actor known for his roles in '101 Dalmatians' and 'The Jungle Book', passed away at 80 on June 8, 1985. His vibrant characters and voice work left a lasting legacy in the film industry.

1985 Ray Ellington [Henry Pitts Brown], British jazz drummer, singer and bandleader (The Goon Show), dies of cancer at 68

Malika Sabirova, a celebrated Soviet Tajik ballet dancer, passed away in 1982 at the age of 39. Renowned for her unique performances that blended cultural elements with classical ballet, her early death shocked the dance community and left a lasting legacy.

Jacob H. Gilbert, an influential American politician and US Representative from 1960 to 1971, passed away in 1981 at 60, leaving a legacy of advocacy for civil rights and education reform.

George Tobias, the beloved actor known for his role as Abner Kravitz in 'Bewitched,' died on February 27, 1980, at the age of 78. His performances left a lasting impact on television history, bringing warmth and humor to audiences for decades.

1978 Vadim Salmanov, Soviet Russian composer, dies at 65

Allison Hayes, a celebrated American model and actress known for her role in 'Attack of the 50 Foot Woman,' passed away at the age of 47 in 1977 due to leukemia or lead poisoning. Her legacy in film, particularly in the science fiction genre, remains influential.

John Dickson Carr, an influential American mystery writer known for his innovative locked-room puzzles, passed away from lung cancer in 1977 at 70 years old. His literary contributions continue to inspire mystery writers today.

Neville Cardus, the legendary English writer and cricketer, passed away on April 17, 1975, at 86, leaving behind a legacy of eloquent cricket writing that inspired generations and defined sports journalism.

1973 Lucijan Marija Skerjanc, Yugoslav conductor and composer, dies at 72

Pat Brady, the beloved American actor known for his role in the *Roy Rogers Show*, passed away on February 16, 1972, at the age of 57. His comedic talents and enduring legacy continue to resonate in the world of classic television.

Marie Dionne, one of the famous Dionne quintuplets born in 1934, remains a poignant figure in Canadian history, representing the complexities of childhood fame and family life. She passed away in 1970, leaving a lasting legacy.

1970 Robert Bruce Lockhart, diplomat/writer, dies

John Boles, the American singer and actor known for his roles in 'Stella Dallas' and 'Curly Top,' passed away in 1969 at the age of 73, leaving a rich legacy in film and music.

Marius Barbeau, a prominent ethnologist and folklorist from Quebec, died in 1969 at the age of 85. His dedication to documenting cultural traditions and folk stories has left a significant impact on Canadian ethnology and the preservation of diverse cultural narratives.

Frankie Lymon, the iconic lead singer of The Teenagers, tragically died of a heroin overdose at the young age of 25 in 1968. His contributions to pop music continue to resonate, despite his struggles with addiction.

Johannes Tralow, a renowned German writer known for his Ottoman tetralogy, passed away in 1968 at the age of 85. His works leave a lasting legacy in historical literature, highlighting the intricate narratives of the Ottoman Empire and beyond.

1968 Ludvik Podest, Czech composer, music journalist, and conductor dies at 46

Orry-Kelly, the Australian costume designer born in 1897, made significant contributions to Hollywood until his death in 1964. His innovative designs enhanced the performances of iconic stars, leaving a lasting legacy in film fashion.

William Auchterlonie was a legendary Scottish golfer known for winning the British Open in 1893. He passed away at the age of 90 in 1963, leaving behind a rich legacy in the golfing world.

Willie Best, a groundbreaking actor known for his role in 'My Little Margie,' passed away in 1962 at the age of 45. His contributions helped pave the way for future African American actors in Hollywood, making a lasting impact in entertainment.

Platt Adams, a celebrated field athlete, died in 1961 at the age of 75. Best known for winning the Olympic gold in the standing high jump at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, his legacy as a sportsman and coach continues to inspire future generations.

Adriano Olivetti was an influential Italian engineer and manufacturer known for his iconic typewriters. His death in 1960 marked the end of a visionary era, but his legacy continues to inspire in the realms of design and corporate ethics.

Harry Cohn, the influential CEO of Columbia Pictures, died in 1958 from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy of innovation in the film industry that transformed Hollywood and shaped modern filmmaking practices.

Frank Dailey, an influential American orchestra leader known for founding 'Music at Meadowbrook,' passed away in 1956 at the age of 54. His contributions to the big band era and American music continue to inspire musicians today.

1956 Gunther Ramin, German organist and composer, dies at 57

Tom Howard, renowned Irish-American vaudeville and radio comedian, died of heart disease in 1955 at the age of 66. Best known for his work on 'It Pays To Be Ignorant', his legacy as a comedian continues to influence the entertainment industry today.

Theodoros Pangalos, a prominent Greek general and dictator, passed away in 1952 at the age of 74. Known for his controversial rule, his legacy is a topic of discussion in Greek history to this day. His life reflects the complex interplay between military leadership and democratic values in Greece.

Henry Louis Smith, a pioneering American physicist, known for his achievements in X-ray photography, died in 1951 at the age of 91. His work laid the foundation for modern medical imaging techniques, influencing both diagnostics and treatment in healthcare.

Ivan Goll, a French-German writer known for his impactful works, died at 58 in 1950. His plays, including 'The Landless John', explored complex themes of identity and belonging amidst a divided Europe. His literary contributions remain significant in modern literature.

1947 Francis MacKinnon, English cricket batsman (1 Test; Kent CCC) and 35th Chief of MacKinnon clan, dies at 98

James Cecil Parke, an iconic Irish tennis player and rugby union centre, passed away in 1946. Known for his achievements in both sports, including the Australasian Championships and 20 caps for Leinster Rugby, Parke's legacy continues to inspire athletes today.

H.J. Lochtman, a Dutch chaplain and resistance fighter, died in 1945 at Bergen-Belsen. His selfless service and unwavering spirit during World War II exemplified courage in the face of tyranny, leaving a powerful legacy of hope and resistance against oppression.

Kostis Palamas, a distinguished Greek poet and university administrator, died at the age of 84 in 1943. Renowned for works like 'Songs of My Fatherland' and 'Olympic Hymn', he was nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature 14 times, leaving a lasting legacy in modern Greek literature.

Karel Doorman was a Dutch rear-admiral who sadly lost his life at 52 during the battles in the Java Sea in 1942. His leadership and bravery during WWII marked a significant chapter in the Dutch military history.

Martha McChesney Berry, a pioneering American educator and founder of the Berry School for Children, passed away in 1942 at the age of 75, leaving behind a powerful legacy in education and social reform.

William D. Byron, a U.S. Congressman from Maryland, dedicated his life to public service until his tragic death in a plane crash in 1941. His contributions to social justice and labor rights left a lasting legacy.

Peter Behrens, a pioneering German architect, passed away in 1940. His innovative designs and contributions laid the groundwork for modern architecture and industrial design, influencing generations of architects and transforming urban landscapes.

Nadezhda Krupskaya, a significant figure in Soviet education and a revolutionary in her own right, passed away on February 27, 1939. Her death marked the end of an era, reflecting her crucial contributions as a member of the Central Committee and as Lenin's wife.

Joshua W. Alexander, an influential U.S. Secretary of Commerce under Woodrow Wilson, passed away in 1936. His contributions to U.S. commerce, particularly during World War I, enriched the national economic landscape.

William Southam, born in 1844 in Ontario, Canada, was a prominent newspaper publisher who significantly influenced the Canadian journalism landscape before his passing in 1932 at the age of 88. His legacy continues to inspire journalists today.

Chandra Sekhar Azad, an influential Indian revolutionary and key member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Army, died at the age of 24 in 1931, leaving a powerful legacy of courage in the Indian struggle for independence.

1929 Manuel Manrique de Lara, Spanish composer (The Oresteia), dies at 65

Schofield Haigh, the notable English fast bowler, passed away from a stroke at the age of 49 in 1921. Known for his impressive record with Yorkshire CCC and in Test matches, Haigh remains a celebrated figure in cricket history.

In 1920, Alexandru Dimitrie Xenopol, a renowned Romanian historian, passed away at 72, leaving a remarkable legacy through his works that shaped the understanding of Romanian history and contributed to national identity.

Adam Sedgwick was a notable English zoologist known for his groundbreaking research on Peripatus. He passed away in 1913, leaving a lasting legacy in evolutionary biology and zoology.

Samuel Pierpont Langley, an American astronomer and pioneering aviator, died in 1906 at the age of 71. Known for his contributions to aviation science, his legacy paved the way for future developments in powered flight.

Anne Clough, an influential English suffragette and education advocate, passed away in 1892 at the age of 72. As the first principal of New College, she championed women's higher education and played a crucial role in the suffrage movement, leaving a lasting legacy.

Alexander Borodin, a notable Russian composer and chemist, passed away on February 27, 1887. His works, especially 'Prince Igor,' highlight his duality as an artist and scientist, leaving a lasting legacy in both fields.

1881 George Colley, British governor of Natal/general, dies in battle at 46

Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, a key figure in the Cuban revolutionary movement, died in 1874. He is celebrated as the Father of the Cuban Nation for his role in the fight against Spanish rule and for the abolition of slavery, leaving a lasting legacy in Cuban history.

Justus Hiddes Halbertsma, a prominent Frisian writer and lexicographer, passed away in 1869 at age 79. His works, including 'Rhymes & Tales', were pivotal in promoting Frisian culture and preserving the Frisian language.

Gabriele dell'Addolorata, known for his devotion and success in guiding Catholic youth, died at 23 in 1862. His spiritual legacy continues to inspire as he is recognized as a patron saint of youth in Italy.

Joseph Drechsler, a prominent Czech composer, died in 1852 at the age of 69. His contributions to classical music greatly impacted the Czech musical landscape, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire musicians today.

Nicholas Biddle, a key figure in early American finance, passed away in 1844. His leadership of the Second Bank and contentious relationship with President Jackson left a lasting impact on U.S. economic policies.

Stefan Paluselli, an influential Austrian choirmaster and composer, died in 1805. His unique approach to liturgical music blended traditional elements, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire musicians today.

Benvenuto Robbio San Raffaele, an influential Italian composer, passed away in 1797. Known for his melodic richness and contributions to music education, Robbio's legacy continues to shape the classical music landscape.

Francis Marion, the famed American military officer known as the 'Swamp Fox', died on February 27, 1795. His innovative guerrilla tactics played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, influencing military strategies and becoming a lasting symbol of American resilience.

Jan Nepveu served as the Dutch governor of Suriname from 1769 to 1779. His leadership transformed the colony's agricultural economy and laid the groundwork for future developments until his death at 59, which led to significant changes in the governance of Suriname.

John Arbuthnot, a Scottish mathematician and satirist, died in 1735 at age 67. A member of the Scriblerus Club, he left a significant mark on literature through his unique blend of humor and mathematics.

1731 Angelo Predieri, Italian composer, dies at about 76

Samuel Parris, an influential figure during the Salem witch trials, died in 1720. His role in the trials marked a significant chapter in American history, reflecting the intense Puritan beliefs and communal fears of the time.

1712 Bahādur Shah I, 8th Mughal Emperor of India (1702-12), dies at 68

John Evelyn, English writer and diarist known for his insightful diary and the work 'Life of Mrs. Godolphin', passed away in 1706 at the age of 85. His contributions to literature and environmentalism left a lasting impression that resonates to this day.

Charles Paulet, 1st Duke of Bolton, was an influential English politician born around 1625. He played a crucial role in England's political landscape until his death in 1699, leaving behind a significant legacy intertwined with nobility and governance.

1666 Luisa de Guzmán, Queen of Portugal (1640-56), dies at 52

Henry Dunster, the first President of Harvard College and a prominent American clergyman, passed away at the age of 49 in 1659. His legacy as an educational pioneer laid the groundwork for higher education in America, influencing countless institutions and generations of scholars.

Johan van Heemskerk, a prominent Dutch lawyer, writer, and interpreter, passed away in 1656. Renowned for his contributions to law and literature, his legacy continues to impact future generations in the realms of legal studies and cultural interpretation.

In 1167, Robert of Melun, a prominent English philosopher and bishop of Hereford, passed away. His contributions to philosophy and theology left a lasting impact on medieval thought, blending faith with reason, which influenced future generations of scholars.