What happened today in history?

Einārs Gņedojs, the respected Latvian soccer defender, passed away in 2022 at age 57. He made 18 appearances for the national team and played professionally for FC Skonto Rīga and FK Zvejnieks Liepāja, leaving a memorable legacy in Latvian soccer.

Fred Hickman, a celebrated American sports broadcaster known for his work with CNN, TBS, YES Network, and ESPN, passed away in 2022 due to liver cancer at the age of 66. His impactful career and legacy in sports journalism remain influential.

Gal Costa, the renowned Brazilian bossa nova and Tropicália singer, passed away in November 2022 at the age of 77. Her unique voice and impactful music left a lasting legacy on Brazilian and global music scenes.

Garry Roberts, the celebrated Irish rock guitarist of the Boomtown Rats, known for the iconic song "I Don't Like Mondays," passed away at the age of 72 in 2022, leaving behind a profound legacy in the music world.

Ham Kee-yong, a remarkable South Korean runner who participated in the Boston Marathon in 1950, passed away in 2022 at the age of 91. His legacy in the running community and his influence on South Korean athletics continue to inspire future generations.

Roland Guillas, a notable French soccer midfielder, passed away at 86. He played for clubs including ASSE Saint-Étienne and represented France in 9 caps, leaving behind a rich legacy in French football.

Denis Atkinson, the West Indies cricket all-rounder known for his remarkable ability on the field, passed away at the age of 75. His legacy includes impressive stats such as a high score of 219 and 47 wickets in 22 Test matches, remembering a life dedicated to the sport.

Jakucho Setouchi, a pivotal figure in Japanese literature and a Buddhist nun, passed away at 99 in 2021. Known for her influential works, including a modern adaptation of the Tale of Genji, she left a profound impact on culture and spirituality.

2020 Amadou Toumani Touré, Mali politician, President of Mali (2002-12), dies at 72 [1]

Fernando Atzori, an iconic Italian boxer who won the Olympic gold in flyweight in 1964, passed away at 78 in 2020. His legacy and contributions to boxing continue to inspire athletes worldwide.

Tom Heinsohn, the legendary Boston Celtics player, coach, and broadcaster, passed away in 2020 at 86. His unwavering influence on basketball spans championships and beloved commentary, marking him as a true icon of the sport.

Ken Howell, a former MLB pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies, passed away at 57 in 2018. Known for his dedication to baseball, Howell made significant contributions both as a player and a coach, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Paula Wayne, an acclaimed American actress and singer, passed away at 84 in 2018 after a battle with cancer. She was a civil rights activist and known for her roles in 'Golden Boy' and 'Everglade!'. Her legacy continues to inspire.

Sisto Malaspina, the cherished owner of Pellegrini's Espresso Bar in Melbourne and a pivotal figure in the city's coffee culture, tragically died in a terror attack in 2018. His legacy as a warm community leader and expert barista continues to inspire coffee lovers today.

Fred Cole, an influential American rock musician known for his work in bands like The Lollipop Shoppe, Dead Moon, and Pierced Arrows, passed away on September 9, 2017, from cancer at the age of 69. His legacy of authentic rock music continues to inspire many.

Hans Vermeulen, the Dutch singer and guitarist known for his role in Sandy Coast, passed away in 2017 at the age of 70. His musical legacy and influence on Dutch pop culture remain beloved and celebrated to this day.

John Hillerman, renowned for his role in Magnum PI and films like Chinatown and Blazing Saddles, passed away at the age of 84 in 2017. Remembered for his sophisticated characters and witty charm, Hillerman's legacy continues to influence actors today.

Al Caiola, the renowned guitarist behind the iconic Bonanza theme, passed away in 2016 at the age of 96. His extraordinary contributions to music leave a lasting legacy, celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

Zoltán Kocsis, the celebrated Hungarian pianist, conductor, and composer, passed away at 64 from cancer in 2016. His extraordinary talent and contributions to classical music continue to resonate, as he is fondly remembered for his passionate performances and dedication to Hungarian composers.

Andy White, the Scottish drummer known for his work on early Beatles tracks like 'Love Me Do', passed away in 2015 at the age of 85. His unique drumming contributed significantly to the iconic sound of the Beatles, solidifying his place in music history.

Ernst Fuchs, the renowned Austrian artist and a pivotal figure in the Vienna School of Fantastic Realism, passed away in 2015 at the age of 85. His unique blend of surrealism and mysticism left an indelible mark on the art world.

Steve Prescott, an English rugby league fullback known for his time with St. Helens RLFC and his international appearances, passed away from cancer at the age of 39. His legacy extends beyond the field through his charitable work and resilience in the face of his illness.

Bill Tarmey, beloved actor known for his role in 'Coronation Street', passed away on November 9, 2012, at the age of 71. His legacy in British television continues to be celebrated by fans and peers alike, remembered for his iconic character Jack Duckworth.

Joseph D. Early, a dedicated American politician and representative for Massachusetts, passed away in 2012 at the age of 79. His impactful career spanned nearly two decades, during which he was known for his commitment to public service and the welfare of his constituents.

2012 Major Harris, American R&B singer ("Love Won't Let Me Wait"), dies from congestive heart and lung failure at 65

Har Gobind Khorana, the renowned Indian-American biochemist and Nobel laureate, passed away in 2011 at the age of 89, leaving a legacy of groundbreaking work on the genetic code and significant contributions to molecular biology.

2011 Joel J. Tyler, judge who pronounced 'Deep Throat' obscene, dies of a heart attack at 90

Roger Christian, an American ice hockey left wing and Olympic gold medalist from 1960, passed away in 2011 at 75. A talented player and co-founder of Christian Brother's Hockey Sticks, his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

In 2008, the baseball world mourned the loss of Preacher Roe, a legendary pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers and Pittsburgh Pirates. Known for his impressive career, including five All-Star selections and a National League strikeout title, Roe left an indelible mark on the sport.

Ed Bradley, the renowned CBS News correspondent for 60 Minutes, passed away in 2006 from complications related to lymphocytic leukemia. His impactful journalism career and dedication to truth-telling left a lasting legacy in the industry.

Ellen Willis, a prominent American journalist and feminist, passed away at 64 on November 9, 2006. Renowned for her impactful writings and critiques, she left a lasting legacy in feminist literature and cultural criticism.

Markus Wolf, the former head of East Germany's intelligence service, the Stasi, passed away in 2006 at the age of 83. His controversial legacy as a master of espionage during the Cold War continues to spark debate regarding the impact of intelligence on both East and West.

Avril Angers, the beloved British comedian and actress known for her roles in 'Coronation Street' and 'The Family Way', passed away in 2005 at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and unforgettable performances.

K. R. Narayanan, the 10th President of India and a significant figure in Indian politics, passed away on November 9, 2005, at the age of 85. His legacy of service, dedication to social justice, and impactful leadership continue to inspire generations.

Fred Haney, a notable MLB player and manager, passed away in 2004 from a heart attack at the age of 81. His career spanned playing for teams like the Detroit Tigers and managing the Milwaukee Braves, leaving a substantial legacy in baseball.

Edward 'Ed' Kemmer, an American actor best known for his roles in 'Space Patrol' and 'Lux Video Theatre', passed away at 83 in 2004. His impactful career greatly influenced the early days of television.

Iris Chang, a significant voice in American literature known for 'The Rape of Nanking,' tragically committed suicide in 2004 at age 36, leaving behind a powerful legacy and highlighting the plight of mental health awareness.

Binod Bihari Verma, a significant figure in Maithili literature, was known for his influential writing and cultural advocacy until his death in 2003. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of writers in the Maithili language.

Gordon Onslow Ford, an influential English surrealist painter, died at the age of 90 in 2003. His vibrant and thought-provoking artwork left an indelible mark on the surrealist movement, emphasizing themes of nature, spirituality, and the subconscious mind.

Merlin Santana, a beloved American actor known for his roles in 'The Steve Harvey Show' and 'The Proud Family', was tragically murdered in 2002 at the age of 26, leaving a lasting impact on his fans and the entertainment industry.

William Schutz, the notable American psychologist, passed away in 2002. Known for his FIRO theory and significant contributions to humanistic psychology, his work continues to influence the fields of psychology and interpersonal relations.

Niels Jannasch, a prominent Canadian historian and museum curator, passed away in 2001 at the age of 77, leaving behind a profound legacy in the preservation and education of Canadian history.

Hugh Paddick, an English actor renowned for his role in 'Round the Horne', passed away in 2000 at the age of 85. His legacy continues to influence British comedy, showcasing a career filled with wit and charm.

Ursula Reit, beloved German actress known for her role in 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory', passed away in 1998 at the age of 84 from natural causes. Her legacy of charm and talent continues to inspire future generations of actors.

1997 Helenio Herrera, French football player and coach (b. 1910)

1996 Frederic Lipmann, French watchmaker, dies at 91

Roger Makins, a prominent British diplomat and ambassador to the United States from 1953 to 1956, passed away in 1996 at the age of 92. His contributions to maintaining strong UK-US relations during the Cold War are remembered as a significant part of diplomatic history.

F. G. Emmison, a respected British archivist and historian, passed away on April 16, 1995, at the age of 88. Known for his contributions to local history, his death marked a significant loss for the historical community.

Priscilla Morrill, renowned for her role as Edie Grant on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show', passed away in 1994 at 67, leaving behind a legacy of strong female representation in television.

Ralph Michael, a talented British actor known for his roles in 'Quest' and 'Doctor in the House', passed away in 1994 at the age of 87. His contributions to film and television remain influential.

Gerald Thomas, renowned English director of the beloved Carry On film series, passed away on July 13, 1993, at the age of 72. His innovative work shaped British comedy and left an enduring legacy in the film industry.

Stanley Myers, a prominent English film composer known for his work in 'The Deer Hunter', passed away at the age of 63 due to cancer in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of influential scores and a profound impact on the film music landscape.

Charles Fraser-Smith, an English inventor recognized for his role in World War II through creating strategies for military deception, died in 1992. His innovations helped shape modern intelligence tactics, leaving a lasting legacy in military history.

William Hillcourt, a prominent author known for the Boy Scout Handbook, passed away in 1992 at the age of 92. His contributions shaped the Scouting movement and inspired countless youths through outdoor education and ethical teachings.

Guido Claus, a celebrated Belgian actor known for his role in the film 'Sacrament', passed away on April 2, 1991. His contributions to Belgian cinema and theater have left a lasting impact, continuing to inspire future generations.

Yves Montand, the beloved Italian-French actor and singer, passed away from a heart attack at age 70 in 1991. Renowned for his roles in films like 'Z' and 'Napoleon', his legacy continues to resonate in the world of entertainment.

1988 Billy Curtis, 4'2" actor (Terror of Tiny Town), dies at 79

1988 Clarke Hinkle, American College-Pro Football HOF utility (NFL C'ship 1936, 39; 7 × First-team All-Pro; NFL All-Star 1938–40; GB Packers), dies at 79

David Bauer, a revered Canadian hockey figure, passed away at 64 in 1988. Known for his dedication as a priest and coach, he played a pivotal role in developing Canada's national hockey programs, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

John Mitchell, former US Attorney General and key figure in the Watergate scandal, died of a heart attack at 75 in Washington, DC. His controversial legacy as a political operative and convicted perjurer continues to resonate in American history.

1985 Helen Rose, costume designer, dies at 81

Mary MacLaren, a notable actress known for her role in 'Black Swan', passed away at the age of 85 due to respiratory complications. Her legacy in the silver screen remains influential, inspiring countless artists in the industry.

Carmel Myers, a celebrated American actress known for her work in silent films, died in 1980 at the age of 81 due to a heart attack. She is remembered for her iconic roles in films like Ben-Hur and Svengali, marking her as a significant figure in early Hollywood.

Victor Sen Yung, an American actor known for his roles in Charlie Chan films, passed away from accidental asphyxiation in 1980. His legacy in breaking barriers for Asian actors in Hollywood continues to inspire future generations.

1979 Lewis Charles [Cholost], American stage and screen actor (Topaz; The Rose Tattoo), dies of cancer at 67

Joe Wong, renowned actor known for his role in the Ken Murray Show, tragically passed away at the age of 75 in 1978. His contribution to the entertainment industry as an Asian American performer left a significant legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

1978 Otto Siegl, Austrian composer, dies at 82

1977 Gertrude Astor [Eyster], American silent and sound screen character actress (The Strong Man: Hell Bound), dies of a stroke on her 90th birthday

Billy Halop, renowned for his roles in 'Angels with Dirty Faces' and 'All in the Family', tragically passed away from a heart attack in 1976. This article pays tribute to his impactful career and his lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

Ludwig Turek, a significant German writer, passed away in 1975 at the age of 77. Known for his profound contributions to literature, Turek's works continue to influence readers and writers alike, showcasing his timeless themes and insights into the human condition.

Egon Wellesz, an Austrian-British composer, educator, and musicologist, passed away in 1974. Renowned for his works like Alkestis, his legacy continues to influence the realms of music and musicology today.

Maude Fealy, an influential American actor and drama coach, passed away in 1971 at the age of 88. Known for her role in 'The Ten Commandments', she remains a significant figure in the world of theater and film.

William L. Dawson, an impactful American politician who served in Congress, died at the age of 84 in 1970. He was a notable advocate for civil rights and made significant contributions that paved the way for future generations of African American politicians.

Clifford Gray, a renowned American bobsledder, passed away in 1969. He won Olympic gold medals in the five-man bobsled event in 1928 and in the four-man event in 1932, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of bobsledding.

Gerald Mohr, a prominent American radio and screen actor, died unexpectedly from a heart attack in 1968 at the age of 54. Known for his roles in iconic films like 'The Angry Red Planet', his legacy continues to inspire actors today.

Jan Johansson, a celebrated Swedish jazz pianist known for his innovative blend of folk and jazz, tragically died in a car accident at the age of 37 in 1968. His legacy lives on through his impactful music, inspiring countless jazz musicians.

In 1967, American actor Charles Bickford, famed for his roles in Dynamite and The Virginian, passed away from a blood infection at 78. His legacy in film and television continues to inspire actors and entertain audiences.

Dick Howard, an American Olympic bronze medalist in the 400m hurdles, tragically died of a heroin overdose at the young age of 32 in 1967, highlighting the significant challenges athletes can face off the field.

Antonius Coolen, a prominent Dutch author known for 'Village by the River', passed away in 1961 at the age of 64. His works continue to influence Dutch literature, reflecting the rich tapestry of rural life in the Netherlands.

Frederick Preston Search, an influential American cellist, composer, and the founder of the Bridge Builders ensemble, passed away at the age of 70 in 1959. His contributions to music and mentoring aspiring musicians had a profound impact on the field.

The death of Gastone De Zuccoli in 1958 marked a significant loss in the musical world. An influential Italian concert organist, composer, and pedagogue, he left behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire musicians today.

Ettore Pozzoli, an esteemed Italian classical pianist and composer, died in 1957 at 84, leaving a profound legacy in music. His contributions to piano compositions and education continue to inspire generations, marking his significance in the classical music world.

Peter O'Connor, the first recognized long jump record holder, died in 1957 at the age of 85. His pioneering achievements paved the way for future athletes, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of sports.

Aino Kallas, a prominent Finnish writer known for her nuanced narratives in 'White Ship' and 'Estonian Tales,' passed away in 1956 at 78. Her legacy endures in the realms of Finnish and Estonian literature, reflecting timeless themes of love and loss.

Tom Powers, an influential American actor known for films like Station West and Destination Moon, passed away in 1955 at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances and contributions to cinema.

Philip Murray, an influential figure in the American labor movement, passed away in 1952. As the first president of the United Steelworkers and longest-serving president of the CIO, his legacy significantly shaped workers' rights in the United States.

Resurrección María de Azkue, a Spanish Basque priest, poet, and composer, drowned in 1951 at the age of 87. Known for his deep commitment to Basque culture, his legacy as a poet and advocate for the Basque language remains influential today.

Sigmund Romberg, born in 1887 in Budapest, Hungary, was a prolific Hungarian-American operetta composer known for his work 'Blossom Time.' He passed away on November 9, 1951, leaving a significant legacy in American musical theater.

Edgar Kennedy, American silent and sound film actor, known for his unique 'slow burn' performances, passed away from throat cancer in 1948 at age 58. His impact in films, including collaborations with Laurel & Hardy, continues to influence comedy today.

Frank Marshall, the renowned American chess champion from 1909 to 1936, passed away in 1944. His contributions to chess and his aggressive playing style left a lasting legacy, making him a key figure in the history of American chess.

1943 Bernhard Lichtenberg, German clergyman and theologian, dies at 67

On her 59th birthday, Edna May Oliver, a celebrated American character actress known for her roles in 'Little Women' and 'Drums Along the Mohawk', passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in film and theater.

Stephen Alencastre, a notable Portuguese Roman Catholic prelate, passed away on November 1, 1940, at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy of community service and church leadership that continues to inspire many today.

In 1939, Dutch intelligence officer Dirk Klop was tragically shot by the German Abwehr, marking a significant moment in the struggle against Nazi occupation and the dangers faced by intelligence operatives during WWII.

Edward Murray East, a prominent American botanist and geneticist, died in 1938 at the age of 59. He made significant contributions to agricultural science, notably through his development of hybrid corn, greatly impacting food security and agricultural practices.

Vasily Blyukher, a significant Soviet military commander born in 1889, faced a tragic end during Stalin's Great Purge, being executed in 1938. His legacy as a leader in the Red Army remains impactful in military history.

Paolo Orsi, an influential Italian archaeologist known for his significant contributions to Sicilian excavations, passed away in 1935 at 76. His meticulous work and philosophy set new standards in archaeology, leaving a lasting legacy in the field.

Nadezhda Alliluyeva, the second wife of Joseph Stalin, tragically committed suicide in 1932 at just 31. Her life and marriage were intertwined with the turmoil of early Soviet politics, reflecting both personal struggle and broader historical tensions.

Nicolaas Theunissen, a notable South African break bowler known for his appearance in the 1889 Test match, passed away in 1929. His contributions and skills are remembered in the history of cricket, influencing generations of players that followed.

Ole Olsen, a notable Norwegian composer and military bandleader, passed away in 1927 at age 77. His contributions to music were significant, blending military influence with rich compositional elements, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.

Daniel Josephus Jitta, a distinguished Dutch High Court lawyer, passed away in 1925 at the age of 71. His significant contributions to law in the Netherlands left an enduring legacy that continues to influence the legal community today.

Henry Cabot Lodge, an influential American senator, died in 1924. Born in 1850, he shaped U.S. foreign policy significantly, advocating for expansionism and the League of Nations. His legacy continues to influence American political discourse.

Eduard Müller, a key figure in Swiss politics and a member of the Swiss Federal Council, passed away in 1919. His legacy includes significant contributions to legislation and social welfare in Switzerland, making him a notable personality in the country's history.

Guillaume Apollinaire, a prominent French poet and art critic, died at the age of 38 during the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918, leaving behind a legacy that contributed significantly to modern poetry and avant-garde movements like Cubism and Surrealism.

Edmund Schücker, an Austrian composer, passed away in 1911 at the age of 50. His contributions to music reflected the rich cultural tapestry of Vienna during his lifetime, marking a significant moment in the evolution of Austrian musical heritage.

Howard Pyle, an influential American illustrator, painter, and author known for 'King Stork,' died in 1911 at the age of 58. His artistic contributions continue to inspire new generations, shaping American illustration and literature.

Leon Vanderkindere, a prominent Belgian historian and Ukkel’s mayor, passed away in 1906 at the age of 64. His extensive work in history and local politics left a significant mark on Belgian culture and governance.

Edwin Drake, an American businessman known for drilling the first productive oil well in the U.S., passed away in 1881 at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the energy industry.

1874 Israel Bak, created 1st Hebrew printing press, dies

John Bordenave Villepigue, a Confederate Brigadier General, passed away at the young age of 32 in 1862. His contributions to the Civil War were marked by bravery and leadership, leaving a significant impact despite his short life.

Jean Xavier Lefevre was a Swiss-French clarinetist and composer who passed away in 1829 at the age of 66. His innovative compositions significantly shaped the clarinet repertoire, influencing future generations of musicians.

Paul Sandby, an influential English cartographer and landscape painter, passed away in 1809 at age 78. His legacy as a pioneer of landscape art and precise mapping continues to inspire artists and cartographers today.

Thomas Girtin, an English watercolorist known for his significant contributions to landscape art, tragically died at the young age of 27 in 1802. His health issues, including asthma and consumption, thwarted a promising career in the art world, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

The death of Carl Philipp Stamitz in 1801 marked a significant loss for classical music. As a key figure in the Mannheim school, his innovative compositions transformed orchestral music and laid foundations for future composers.

Giovanni Battista Piranesi, a master etcher and architect, died in 1778 at 58, leaving behind a legacy of intricate prints that transformed the representation of architecture in art.

John Campbell, 4th Duke of Argyll, was a Scottish politician who played a significant role in the Whig party during the 18th century. His death in 1770 marked a pivotal moment in Scottish politics, leaving a lasting legacy in the political landscape.

Unico Wilhelm van Wassenaer, a renowned Dutch composer, passed away in 1766 at the age of 74. His unique contributions to baroque music left a lasting legacy, influencing the generations that followed despite a lack of recognition during his lifetime.

The passing of renowned Alsatian composer Johann Christoph Frauenholtz in 1754 marked a significant moment in music history, reflecting on his lasting contributions to the Baroque style and music education.

Hortense Mancini (b. 1646), the influential mistress of Charles II of England, passed away in 1699. Her captivating charm and political acumen significantly impacted the Restoration court, leaving an enduring legacy.

Aert van der Neer, a renowned landscape painter known for his night scenes, died in 1677 at the age of 73. His unique style and skill transformed the portrayal of nighttime landscapes during the Dutch Golden Age, leaving a significant impact on art's evolution.

William Camden, a notable English historian known for his works 'Brittania' and 'Annales', passed away in 1623 at the age of 72. His contributions significantly shaped English historiography, emphasizing rigorous research and methodology.

Gaspar Schetz, a notable financier and royal treasurer general of the Habsburg Netherlands, died in 1580 at the age of 67. His contributions to financial stability during turbulent times marked a significant period in Dutch history.

1492 Jami [Mowlanā Nūr Od-dīn ʿabd Or-raḥmān Ebn Aḥmad], Persian poet (Lava'ih), dies at 78

1208 Sancha of Castile, wife of Alfonso II of Aragon (b. 1155)

Emperor Gaozong of Song passed away in 1187, marking the end of an influential reign in the Song dynasty. His legacy is tied to pivotal cultural and military developments.

Agnes of Poitou, a powerful duchess of Aquitaine and mother of a German Empress, died in 1068. Her legacy extended through her noble lineage and political influence, shaping the course of European history long after her passing.

Emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus, a significant Byzantine ruler and scholar, died on May 9, 959. His reign focused on cultural revival and imperial consolidation, leaving a lasting impact on the Byzantine Empire.