What happened today in history?

Ron Ellis, a renowned Canadian ice hockey player and key member of the 1967 Stanley Cup-winning Maple Leafs, passed away at 79. His exceptional career included pivotal roles in the Summit Series 1972, earning him recognition and admiration in the sport.

Barry Newman, the brilliant actor known for roles in 'Vanishing Point' and 'Petrocelli,' has passed away at 92, leaving a rich legacy in film and television. His impactful performances and dedication to acting have left an indelible mark on the arts.

Futoshi Nakanishi, renowned Japanese Baseball Hall of Famer and Pacific League MVP, passed away in 2023 at the age of 90. His remarkable career with the Nishitetsu Lions as both an infielder and manager makes him a revered figure in Japanese sports history.

Kenneth Anger, a pivotal figure in underground filmmaking known for his innovative style and the Magick Lantern Cycle, passed away at 96. His avant-garde approach and exploration of occult themes left an enduring impact on cinema.

Alexander Toradze, a celebrated Soviet Georgian-American concert pianist and music professor, passed away on March 4, 2022, due to heart failure at the age of 69. His profound contributions to classical music and education shaped the careers of many aspiring musicians.

Henk Groot, the famed Dutch soccer player known for his dynamic play with Ajax and Feyenoord, passed away at age 84 in 2022, leaving a lasting legacy in the soccer world and among fans of the sport.

Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American journalist for Al Jazeera, was shot and killed by Israeli forces on May 11, 2022, while covering a raid in Jenin. Her tragic death sparked worldwide outrage and numerous calls for justice regarding the safety of journalists in conflict zones.

Francisco Aguilar, a prominent Spanish soccer forward who played for Real Madrid, passed away in 2020 at 71. With three caps for Spain, his skills and passion left a mark on the soccer community, inspiring future generations.

John 'Moon' Martin, the rockabilly icon known for his hit 'Bad Case of Loving You', passed away at the age of 74 in 2020. His unique sound and songwriting left a lasting impact on rock music, inspiring generations of musicians.

Harold Lederman, a beloved boxing judge and HBO analyst, passed away at 79 in 2019 after battling cancer, leaving behind a profound legacy in the world of boxing.

Josh Greenfeld, a noted American author known for his impactful work on autism through 'A Child Called Noah', passed away in 2018 at the age of 90, leaving behind a significant legacy in the literary and cinematic fields.

Scott Hutchinson was a Scottish musician known for his work with Frightened Rabbit. Tragically, he was found dead in 2018 at the age of 36 after battling mental illness, sparking crucial conversations about mental health in the music community.

Yale Lary, the renowned NFL safety and Hall of Famer known for his time with the Detroit Lions, passed away at the age of 86. His remarkable contributions to football and legacy as a standout player are celebrated by fans and players alike.

David King, a celebrated British graphic designer and photographer, known for his iconic album cover art for musicians like Jimi Hendrix and The Who, passed away in 2016 at 73. His work as a historian, particularly in 'The Commissar Vanishes', showcases his profound impact on art and culture.

Jim Pothecary, a revered South African cricket medium pace bowler, passed away in 2016 at 82. Known for his time with Western Province and a brief Test career, he left a lasting legacy in the cricketing community.

Jef Geeraerts, a luminary in Flemish literature and crime fiction, passed away on January 23, 2015, at age 85. Renowned for works like Black Venus, his storytelling enriched Belgian culture and inspired countless readers.

2014 Ed Gagliardi, American bass guitarist (Foreigner, 1976-79 - "Feels Like The First Time"), dies from cancer at 62

Reg Gasnier, a legendary rugby league centre and captain, passed away in 2014 at age 74. Known for his extraordinary skills, he played 36 Tests and was crucial in three World Cups, leaving a significant legacy in Australian rugby.

Jack Butler, a legendary cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, passed away due to complications from a staph infection. Known for his aggressive playing style, he left a lasting legacy as a Hall of Famer in professional football.

Oliver "Ollie" Mitchell, a prominent American musician and bandleader known for his work with The Wrecking Crew, passed away in 2013 at the age of 86 due to cancer. His contributions to music and influence on the sound of the 1960s continue to resonate today.

Eugene 'Snooky' Young, a talented jazz trumpeter famed for his mastery of the plunger mute, passed away in 2011 at 92. His innovative contributions to jazz have inspired generations of musicians, ensuring his lasting legacy in the music world.

Bruno Neves, a talented Portuguese cyclist, tragically passed away at just 26 during a cycling competition in 2008. His untimely death shocked the sporting community and raised awareness about the risks associated with competitive cycling.

Dottie Rambo, an influential American gospel singer and songwriter, tragically passed away at the age of 74 in a bus crash in 2008. Her legacy, marked by over 2,500 songs, continues to inspire the world of gospel music.

In 2008, John Rutsey, the original drummer of Rush, tragically passed away from a heart attack at the age of 55. His dynamic drumming helped define the band's early sound, contributing significantly to their first album and shaping their legacy in rock history.

Bernard Gordon, a prominent American writer and producer renowned for his work on Earth vs. the Flying Saucers, passed away at 88 in 2007. His legacy in sci-fi cinema continues to inspire filmmakers and entertain audiences worldwide.

Malietoa Tanumafili II, the Chief and Head-of-Head of Samoa from 1962 to 2007, passed away at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and cultural pride for the Samoan people.

Frankie Thomas, a beloved American actor known for his role in 'Tom Corbett, Space Cadet', passed away in 2006 at the age of 85 from a stroke, leaving behind a rich legacy in television and literature.

Yossi Banai, a cherished Israeli pop and cabaret singer and actor, passed away from cancer in 2006 at the age of 74. His legacy in music and theater continues to resonate in Israeli culture today.

2005 Michalis Genitsaris, Greek rebetiko singer, and composer, dies at 88

On May 11, 2004, John Whitehead, celebrated for his hit "Ain't No Stopping Us Now," was fatally shot outside his Philadelphia home at the age of 55, leaving behind a legacy of soulful music and an enduring impact on the genre.

2004 Mick Doyle, Irish rugby union footballer and coach, dies at 64

Noel Redding, famed bassist of The Jimi Hendrix Experience, passed away on May 11, 2003, from cirrhosis of the liver at the age of 57. Remembered for his role in hits like 'Purple Haze', he remains a significant figure in rock music history.

Joseph Bonanno, a notorious Italian-American crime boss, passed away from heart failure at 97 in 2002. His legacy in organized crime profoundly influenced the cultural landscape of the Mafia in America.

Renaude Lapointe, a celebrated French Canadian journalist and senator, passed away in 2002 at the age of 90. He was a dedicated advocate for social justice and French Canadian rights, making significant contributions to journalism and politics over his long career.

2000 Paula Wessely, Austrian actress and producer (Masquerade), dies at 93

Willy Corsari, the Dutch Agatha Christie and renowned writer, passed away at the age of 100 in 1998. His literary contributions continue to influence the mystery genre in the Netherlands.

Brenda Carlin, the American television producer and wife of comedian George Carlin, passed away at 57 on January 15, 1997. Her work and influence in the television industry alongside her husband leave behind a lasting legacy of creativity and love.

Ademir de Menezes, a Brazilian football legend, known for his prowess on the national team from 1945-1953, passed away at 73 in 1996. He left a profound legacy, especially remembered for his remarkable performance in the 1950 FIFA World Cup.

Bruce Boyce, a Canadian-American baritone and revered teacher, passed away at 85 in 1996. His contributions to classical music and music education, especially at the Royal Academy of Music, left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire students and artists alike.

Joan Thirkettle, a talented British journalist, passed away in 1996 at 48. She was renowned for her impactful reporting on social issues and her dedication to truthful storytelling, leaving a lasting legacy in journalism.

Malcolm MacEwen, a Scottish conservationist and communist activist, died at 84 in 1996. His enduring legacy includes significant contributions to conservation and social equity, inspiring future generations to protect Scotland's environment.

Nnamdi Azikiwe, the first President of Nigeria, passed away on May 11, 1996, at the age of 91. His leadership from 1963 to 1966 was pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s early post-independence era, and he remains a symbol of Nigerian nationalism.

Walter Hyatt, a gifted American singer-songwriter and member of Uncle Walt's Band, tragically died at age 46 in a plane crash in the Florida Everglades in 1996, leaving a lasting legacy in country and folk music.

1995 David Avidan, Israeli poet, dies at 62

Ivo Samkalden, a key figure in Dutch politics, served as the Minister of Justice and Mayor of Amsterdam. He passed away in 1995 at age 82, leaving behind a legacy of justice reforms and urban development.

In 1995, Hungarian composer Tibor Sarai passed away at the age of 76, leaving a legacy of vibrant compositions that blended traditional Hungarian folk music with contemporary classical styles, influencing many musicians and composers.

William John Phillips, a celebrated British actor known for his roles in 'Nothing But A Man' and 'Z-Cars', passed away at the age of 80 in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances that continue to inspire future generations.

1994 Alfred James Broomhall, British Protestant Christian medical missionary to China, dies at 82

Danny Overbea, American rock singer and guitarist, passed away in 1994 at 68. Best known for his hit "Forty Cups of Coffee," his legacy continues to inspire future generations in the music industry.

1994 Leonard Friedman, British-Lithuanian violinist (Scottish Baroque Ensemble), dies at 63

Lewis B. Puller, a celebrated American writer and Pulitzer Prize winner, tragically took his life in 1994 at the age of 48. His profound work and personal struggles highlight the complexities of mental health, particularly among veterans.

1994 Timothy Carey, American actor (Paths of Glory, The Killing), dies of stroke at 65

Carlos Herrera, the American inventor known for creating the Margarita, passed away in 1992 at the age of 90. His legacy lives on through this iconic cocktail, which remains a favorite worldwide, influencing future generations of mixologists.

1992 Elizabeth McDonald, American inventor (Spic & Span), dies at 98

1991 Ho Dam, North Korean Politician Minister of Foreign Affairs, 1970-83), dies at 62

1989 Jitka Snížková, Czech composer, music educator and musicologist, dies at 64

James Jesus Angleton, the controversial head of counterintelligence for the CIA, passed away on May 11, 1987, at the age of 69. His legacy is a complex mix of excellence in intelligence operations and criticism for his paranoia-driven methods during the Cold War.

Fritz Pollard, an early African American NFL star and coach, passed away at 92 in 1986, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering figure who broke barriers in professional football.

1986 Henry P. McIlhenny, American philanthropist and art collector, regarded as "first gentleman of Philadelphia", dies at 75

Chester Gould, celebrated for his renowned comic strip Dick Tracy, passed away at 84 in 1985. His storytelling and unique characters left a lasting impact on the world of cartooning and popular culture.

Garmt Stuiveling, a celebrated Dutch writer and poet known for 'Ego & Echo', passed away on October 29, 1985, at the age of 77. His works continue to influence Dutch literature and inspire future generations.

1985 Jorja Curtright, American stage and screen actress (Whistle Stop, Heaven Only Knows), and interior decorator, dies of a heart attack at 61

1983 Zenna Henderson, American sci-fi author (Anything Box), dies at 65

Leigh Snowden, known for her role in 'All That Heaven Allows', tragically passed away from cancer in 1982 at the age of 51. Her legacy as an actress continues to inspire despite her untimely death.

Piet van Egmond, a renowned Dutch organist and conductor of the Netherlands Chamber Orchestra, passed away in 1982 at the age of 70. His innovative performances and dedication to music education left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of musicians.

Hoyt J. Fuller, the first editor of World Magazine, passed away in 1981. He was a key figure in promoting African American literature and culture, influencing generations through his editorial vision and commitment to representation.

Odd Hassel, a distinguished Norwegian chemist and Nobel Laureate who made significant contributions to the understanding of molecular structure, passed away on March 11, 1981, at the age of 83, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the field of chemistry.

Barbara Hutton, the American heiress known as the 'Poor Little Rich Girl', died in 1979 at the age of 66. Despite inheriting a fortune from the Woolworth family, her life was riddled with heartbreak and loneliness, reflecting the dichotomy of wealth and personal struggles.

1979 Joan Chandler, American actress, dies at 55

Lester Flatt, the beloved bluegrass guitarist known for his work with Flatt & Scruggs, passed away in 1979. His contributions to bluegrass music, particularly hits like 'Foggy Mountain Breakdown', left a lasting legacy on the genre.

John Clinge Doorenbos, a renowned Dutch journalist and poet, passed away at the age of 93 in 1978. His contributions to journalism and poetry reflect a legacy of insightful storytelling and emotional expression that continues to inspire.

Alvar Aalto, the iconic Finnish architect known for his work on Finlandia House, died in 1976 at the age of 78. His influence on modern architecture and design remains significant today, blending functionality with natural beauty.

Camille Schmit, a renowned Belgian composer, passed away at the age of 68 in 1976. Known for his lyrical compositions and influence on music education, Schmit's legacy continues to resonate in the Belgian music scene.

Walter Kinsella was an American actor best known for his role in 'Martin Kane, Private Eye.' He died in 1975 at the age of 74, leaving a legacy that inspires many actors today.

Grigory Kozintsev, a pioneering Russian film director known for his adaptations of literary classics, passed away in 1973. His innovative techniques and rich visual storytelling left a significant mark on Soviet cinema.

Lex Barker, iconic American actor known for his role as Tarzan, passed away from a heart attack on May 11, 1973, in NYC at the age of 54. His contributions to film and unforgettable performances left a lasting legacy in Hollywood.

Alan Mara Bateman, the influential Canadian geologist and Yale professor, passed away in 1971 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to geology and education that continue to inspire future generations.

Johnny Hodges, renowned American saxophonist and pivotal figure in jazz, died at the age of 62 in 1970. Celebrated for his emotive playing with Duke Ellington, his unique sound shaped the genre and left an indelible mark on music history.

Lode Baekelmans, a renowned Belgian writer, passed away on 1965 at the age of 84. Known for his significant work 'Tille', his literary contributions continue to resonate in Belgian culture.

Herbert Spencer Gasser, an influential American physiologist and Nobel laureate, passed away on May 11, 1963, at the age of 74. His groundbreaking work on nerve fibers transformed the understanding of physiology and made lasting contributions to medical science.

Walter Sydney Adams, an esteemed American astronomer and director of Mount Wilson Observatory, passed away in 1956 at the age of 79. His contributions to stellar research and public outreach have left a lasting legacy in the field of astronomy.

1955 Gilbert Jessop, English cricket batsman (18 Tests; Wisden Cricketer of the Year 1898), dies at 80

Jean Adair, a celebrated Canadian actress known for her impactful roles in theatre and film, died in 1953 at the age of 80. Her contributions significantly shaped the landscape of Canadian performance arts.

1952 Giovanni Tebaldini, Italian composer, dies at 87

Ture Rangström, the renowned Swedish composer, passed away in 1947 at the age of 62. His significant contributions to music, particularly through his orchestral compositions and operas, continue to influence generations of musicians. Discover more about his life and legacy.

1944 Henk Hos, Dutch resistance fighter, executed at 37

Walter Oesau, a distinguished German fighter pilot known for his exceptional combat skills in WWII, died at the age of 30 in 1944. His legacy and contributions to aerial warfare remain significant in military history.

Szmul Zygielbojm, a Jewish-Polish socialist politician, tragically committed suicide in 1943 to protest the Allied indifference to the Holocaust, a deeply impactful gesture highlighting the urgent need for action against the genocide.

1939 Yevgeny Miller [Eugen Ludwig Müller], Baltic German general and a leader of the anticommunist White Army during and after the Russian Civil War, executed at 71 after being kidnapped in Paris by Soviet intelligence and taken to Moscow where he was tortured and eventually shot

Arnold Sauwen, a significant Belgian poet known for 'Hours of Solitude,' died in 1938 at the age of 81. His poignant exploration of solitude continues to inspire readers and writers alike, leaving a lasting mark on Belgian literature.

Ellen Hansell, an American tennis pioneer and US National champion of 1887, passed away in 1937 at the age of 67, leaving a rich legacy that inspired future generations of female athletes.

Viliam Figuš-Bystrý, the renowned Slovak composer, passed away in 1937. His commitment to blending Slovak folk music with classical traditions shaped Slovak musical identity and left a lasting legacy. Discover his contributions and ongoing influence in the world of music.

Edward Herbert Thompson, an eminent American archaeologist, known for his work on the Mayan civilization, passed away in 1935. His excavations, especially at Chichen Itza, revealed significant insights into ancient Mayan culture, leaving a lasting legacy in archaeology.

1934 Orest Khvolson, Russian physicist and honorary member of the Soviet Academy of Sciences (1920), dies at 81

1929 Jozef Murgaš, Slovak inventor, dies at 65

Juan Gris, a notable Spanish cubist painter, passed away on May 11, 1927, at the age of 40, leaving behind a rich legacy of innovation in modern art, especially through works like 'Still Life Before an Open Window.' His techniques and contributions continue to inspire artists today.

Moses Walker, the first African-American catcher to openly embrace his heritage in Major League Baseball, passed away on May 11, 1924, at the age of 66. His trailblazing career with the Toledo Blue Stockings left an indelible mark on the sport and paved the way for future generations of players.

Henry Martyn Robert, influential American soldier and parliamentarian, passed away in 1923 at age 86. Renowned for his work, Robert's Rules of Order, he left an indelible mark on parliamentary procedures, emphasizing order and fairness in discussions and decision-making processes.

1920 (Vincenzo) "Big Jim" Colosimo, Italian-American gangster, murdered in Chicago by an organized crime hitman at 42

William Dean Howells, a pivotal figure in American literature known for his emphasis on realism and social commentary, died in 1920. His works, including 'A Woman's Reason,' left a lasting impact on the literary world.

Otto Klauwell, a significant German composer born in 1851, passed away in 1917 at the age of 66. His contributions blended various musical styles, leaving a unique legacy that continues to inspire musicians today.

1916 Karl Schwarzschild, German astronomer (Schwarzschild effect), dies on the Eastern front at 42, mere months after working out a solution to Einstein's Theory of Relativity

Max Reger, a notable German composer, pianist, and professor, passed away in 1916. His rich body of work continues to influence musicians and composers today, reflecting his significant contributions to the classical music world.

John Albert Delany, a notable Australian composer, passed away on April 25, 1907, at the age of 54. His contributions significantly shaped the Australian musical landscape, blending European and local influences.

Edmond Becquerel, the French physicist known for his pioneering work on the photovoltaic effect and the solar spectrum, passed away in 1891. His legacy remains influential in renewable energy research and technology development.

In 1887, Jean-Baptiste Boussingault, a pivotal figure in agricultural chemistry famous for his research on the nitrogen cycle, passed away at the age of 85. His work continues to influence modern agriculture, emphasizing sustainable practices and soil fertility.

Henri-Frédéric Amiel, a Swiss writer renowned for his introspective work 'Journal Intime,' died on September 11, 1881. His profound reflections on life and existence continue to impact literature and philosophy today.

1874 Franklin Buchanan, American first superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, dies at 73

Thomas D. Doubleday, an American bookstore owner and Union Army officer, died in 1864 at the age of 58 after a tragic accident involving a horse-drawn coach. His legacy lives on through his contributions to literature and service to his country.

Eugène François Vidocq, a French criminal turned detective, died at age 81 in 1857. Known as the father of modern criminology, he transformed policing with innovative methods, leaving behind a lasting legacy in crime investigation.

Nikita Yakovlevich Bichurin, revered as the founder of Sinology in Russia, passed away on February 19, 1853. His scholarly work significantly advanced the understanding of Chinese culture, deeply influencing academic studies in Eastern traditions.

Juliette Récamier, the iconic French socialite, died on July 11, 1849. Her salons were crucial for intellectual discourse in France, leaving a rich legacy that shaped the cultural landscape of her time.

Otto Nicolai, a prominent German composer and conductor, died at age 38 from a stroke on May 11, 1849. Despite his early death, Nicolai's contributions to opera, particularly with his famous work 'The Merry Wives of Windsor,' left a lasting legacy in classical music.

Tom Cribb, the legendary bare-knuckle boxer, passed away in 1848 at the age of 66. He was a champion known for his fierce rivalries and displays of sportsmanship in the boxing ring, shaping the legacy of the sport for future generations.

Carl Filtsch was a Transylvanian composer and pianist child prodigy who tragically died from tuberculosis at just 14. His musical genius and untimely death reflect the fragility of talent and the impact of disease on the arts.

1819 Kaspar Furstenau, German composer, dies at 47

John Hart (1711-1779), crucial in America's Revolutionary War as a signer of the Declaration of Independence and New Jersey delegate, passed away reflecting a life dedicated to liberty and governance.

George Pigot, Baron Pigot, a significant British governor of Madras, died in 1777 at age 58. His leadership saw crucial reforms and substantial challenges, ultimately shaping colonial governance in India. Despite controversy, his legacy remains influential in the context of British-Indian history.

Francesco Stradivari, the notable Italian violin maker and son of Antonius, passed away in 1743 at the age of 70. Renowned for his craftsmanship, he left a significant legacy in the world of music, influencing generations of musicians and luthiers alike.

1723 Jean Galbert de Campistron, French dramatist, dies at 66

Jules Hardouin-Mansart, a distinguished French architect known for his work on the Palace of Versailles, passed away in 1708 at the age of 62. His architectural legacy defined the French Baroque style and continues to influence modern architecture.

The death of Charles Seton, 2nd Earl of Dunfermline, at age 57 in 1672, marked the end of an influential Scottish peer's life. His contributions to the nobility and the political landscape were significant, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

Christoph Buel, a German composer who passed away in 1631 at the age of 57, left a rich musical legacy during the transition from Renaissance to Baroque music. His works continue to influence modern music.

Johann Arndt, a pivotal figure in Lutheran theology, passed away in 1621. His influential works, especially *True Christianity*, emphasized personal faith over doctrines and have inspired countless followers of Christ across generations.

Matteo Ricci, an influential Italian Jesuit missionary, died in 1610 at the age of 57. His dedication to bridging Eastern and Western cultures left a lasting legacy, influencing future missionaries and promoting cultural dialogue.

Maḥmūd Ghāzān, the seventh Mongol ruler in Iran, died in 1304 at only 32 years old. His reign was marked by significant cultural achievements and political reforms that integrated Islamic practices within the Mongol Empire, leaving a lasting legacy despite his early death.

Leo VI the Wise, Byzantine Emperor and esteemed writer, died on May 11, 912, at 45. His writings, particularly the 'Problematica', left a remarkable intellectual legacy that shaped the Byzantine culture and legacy long after his reign.