What happened today in history?

Mitzi Gaynor, an iconic American actress and dancer, known for her roles in 'Anything Goes' and 'South Pacific,' passed away at the age of 93 in 2024, leaving behind a vibrant legacy in musical theatre.

Aurèle Vandendriessche, the acclaimed Belgian marathon runner, passed away at the age of 91 in 2023. His life was marked by athletic excellence, inspiring future generations in the sport of running.

Carla Bley, the iconic American jazz pianist and composer, passed away at 87 due to brain cancer. Known for works like 'Escalator Over The Hill,' she leaves behind a profound legacy that reshaped the jazz landscape.

Carmen Callil, an impactful Australian publisher who founded Virago Press and championed women's voices in literature, died at 84 in 2022, leaving a significant legacy in the publishing world.

Alicia Alonso, an iconic Cuban ballerina and the founder of the National Ballet of Cuba, passed away in 2019 at the age of 98. Her legacy in the world of dance is unparalleled, influencing generations of dancers and promoting Cuban culture through ballet.

Elijah Cummings, an influential American politician from Maryland and a dedicated civil rights advocate, passed away at the age of 68 in 2019. His legacy continues to inspire countless individuals fighting for justice and equality in society.

Márta Kurtág, a celebrated Hungarian classical pianist, passed away in March 2019 at the age of 92. Known for her emotional depth and collaborations with contemporary composers, her legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide.

Michael Bowen, the respected former Roman Catholic Archbishop of Southwark, passed away at the age of 89 in 2019. His lifetime of service spanned significant roles in the Church, deeply impacting his community and leaving a lasting legacy.

Danielle Darrieux, the renowned French actress known for her roles in 'Alexander the Great,' 'Mayerling,' and '8 Women,' passed away in 2017 at age 100 after suffering injuries from a fall, leaving a lasting legacy in cinema.

Gord Downie, the beloved lead singer of The Tragically Hip, passed away in 2017 after battling glioblastoma. His music and activism made a lasting impact on Canadian culture, inspiring generations through his powerful lyrics and heartfelt advocacy.

Ingvar Lidholm, a distinguished Swedish composer, known for 'Toccata e Canto,' passed away in 2017 at the age of 95, leaving behind an impactful legacy in contemporary classical music.

2017 Julian May, American sci-fi author (Golden Torc, Magnificat), dies at 86

Eddie Applegate, known for his role in The Patty Duke Show, passed away in 2016 at the age of 81. His impactful contributions to television and beloved character 'Richard' leave a lasting legacy. This article honors his life and career.

Danièle Delorme, a prominent French actress known for her role in 'Pardon My Affair', passed away at the age of 89 in October 2015. Her contributions to French cinema are celebrated, and she remains a significant figure in the industry.

Howard Kendall, a celebrated footballer and influential manager for Everton, passed away at 69 in 2015. His remarkable legacy in English football is remembered for his tactical brilliance and dedication to the sport.

2012 Stanford Robert Ovshinsky, American inventor and scientist (nickel-metal hydride battery), dies from prostate cancer at 89 [1]

Sylvia Kristel, famed Dutch actress known for her role in the Emmanuelle films, passed away from throat and liver cancer at the age of 60 in 2012. Her life and work left an indelible mark on cinema, challenging and influencing perceptions of sexuality.

Carl Lindner, Jr., a Cincinnati businessman and one of the world's wealthiest individuals, passed away in 2011. A successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, he left an indelible mark on his community through numerous contributions and the establishment of American Financial Group.

Louis Stevens, a significant figure in engineering, passed away in 2009 at the age of 84. He was renowned for inventing the magnetic disk storage system for the IBM 305 RAMAC, revolutionizing data storage and computing technology.

Vic Mizzy, the iconic American composer known for his unforgettable themes from 'The Addams Family' and 'Green Acres,' passed away in 2009 at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to resonate with fans of classic television.

Ben Weider, a prominent Canadian businessman and bodybuilding pioneer, passed away at the age of 85. Remembered for founding the International Federation of Bodybuilding and authoring 'The Murder of Napoleon,' his legacy continues to impact fitness and health enthusiasts worldwide.

Levi Stubbs, the iconic baritone of The Four Tops, passed away at 72 in 2008. His powerful voice on hits like "It's the Same Old Song" and "Standing In The Shadows of Love" left a lasting legacy in soul music.

Joey Bishop, the charismatic TV talk show host and member of the Rat Pack, passed away in 2007 at the age of 89. His legacy as a celebrated entertainer continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Robert A. Young, an American politician who served in Congress from 1977 to 1987, passed away in 2007 at the age of 83. Known for his dedication to public service and community involvement, Young's legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders.

Teresa Brewer, an iconic American pop and jazz singer known for hits like 'Put Another Nickel In', passed away on October 17, 2007, at the age of 76. Her career, spanning decades, left an indelible mark on the music world, and her melodies continue to resonate today.

Christopher Glenn was a prominent American newscaster for CBS News, known for his reliable reporting style. He captivated audiences with his engaging storytelling until his passing in 2006, leaving a lasting legacy in journalism.

Daniel Emilfork, the iconic French actor born in 1924, left a lasting legacy in cinema. Known for his unique roles, particularly in 'The City of Lost Children,' he passed away in 2006, remembered for his exceptional contributions to film and theater.

Ba Jin, a prominent Chinese writer born in 1904, is remembered for his poignant literature that challenged societal norms. He passed away in 2005, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence Chinese literature.

Franky Gee, a notable European techno artist born in 1962, significantly influenced the electronic music scene before his untimely death in 2005. His unique sound and captivating performances continue to inspire artists today.

Uzi Hitman, a talented Israeli pop singer-songwriter, tragically passed away at the young age of 22 due to a heart attack in 2004. His influential music continues to resonate in Israeli culture, leaving behind a legacy of artistry and connection.

Janice Rule, a celebrated American actress known for her roles in Alvarez Kelly and Doctor's Wife, died on January 17, 2003, at the age of 72. Her exceptional talent and contributions to cinema left a lasting impact on audiences and will be remembered for generations.

Derek Bell, a prominent Northern Irish harpist and musician, passed away in 2002. His contributions to traditional Irish music, particularly through The Chieftains, left a lasting legacy. Celebrated for his artistry, Bell's influence continues to resonate today.

2002 Aileen Riggin, American diver (Olympic gold 3m springboard 1920, 24), dies at 96

Fred Scolari, the American basketball point guard and NBA All-Star, passed away at 80 on February 4, 2002. His career with the Washington Capitols and Baltimore Bullets left a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring future generations of players.

Jay Livingston, beloved American composer known for hits like "Buttons & Bows" and "Mona Lisa", passed away in 2001 at the age of 86. His music continues to enchant audiences around the world, reflecting a profound impact on American cultural history.

Micheline Ostermeyer, a celebrated French athlete and Olympic gold medalist in shot put and discus, passed away at 78 in 2001. Her legacy in women’s athletics and impact on future generations is profound.

Rehavam Zeevi, an influential Israeli politician born in 1926, was assassinated on October 17, 2001, by members of the PFLP, shocking the nation and impacting the political landscape significantly.

Leo Nomellini, an NFL legend and Hall of Fame defensive tackle, passed away from a stroke at the age of 76. His stellar career with the San Francisco 49ers and his impact on football remain unforgettable.

Nicholas Metropolis, a renowned Greek-American mathematician and physicist, passed away in 1999 at the age of 84. He is best known for his work on the Monte Carlo method and contributions to nuclear physics, leaving a lasting legacy in multiple scientific fields.

Ralph Grey, Baron Grey of Naunton, served as Governor of Northern Ireland from 1968-1973, during a tumultuous era. He passed away in 1999, remembered for his attempts to foster dialogue amid conflict.

1998 Hakim Mohammed Said, Pakistani scholar and philanthropist

1998 Joan Hickson, British actress (b. 1906)

Paul Edwin Zimmer, a renowned American sci-fi writer famous for the 'Dark Border' series, passed away due to a heart attack in 1997 at the age of 54. His contributions to the genre continue to resonate with readers and writers alike.

Berthold Goldschmidt, a celebrated German-British opera composer known for 'Beatrice Cenci', passed away in 1996 at the age of 93. His contributions to music, particularly opera, continue to influence contemporary composers.

Christopher Acland, the talented drummer of the band Lush, tragically took his own life at just 30 years old in 1996. His death shocked fans and highlighted the struggles faced by artists in the music industry. Acland's legacy endures through Lush's impactful music.

Peter Bingham Hinchcliff, a British-South African Anglican priest and historian, passed away in 1995 at the age of 66. Recognized for his work on 1 Sided Reciprocity, he left a lasting impact on church history and ecumenical dialogue.

Barbara Grigor, a Scottish filmmaker and art entrepreneur, passed away in 1994 at the age of 50. Her influential work in film and commitment to promoting Scottish culture continues to inspire future generations of artists.

Dmitri Cholodov, a courageous Russian journalist, was murdered in 1994 at the age of 27. His death highlighted the dangerous environment for reporters in post-Soviet Russia, making him a symbol of the fight for press freedom.

1994 Gus Risman, Welsh rugby league centre, fullback (18 Tests Wales, 17 Great Britain, 1 England; Salford RLFC, Workington Town RLFC) and coach (Bradford Northern, Salford, Workington Town), dies at 83

Ralph Hill, a distinguished American athlete, achieved Olympic silver in the 5,000m at the 1932 Games, sharing a remarkable finish time with gold medallist Lauri Lehtinen. He passed away in 1994 at the age of 85, leaving a lasting legacy in athletics.

In 1994, the art world lost Rik van Bentum, a talented painter and art director of Paradiso. His innovative work in merging visual arts with live performances left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations. Remember his legacy through his art and contributions.

Criss Oliva, the talented lead guitarist of Savatage, tragically died in a car accident at the young age of 30 on October 17, 1993, leaving a profound impact on the heavy metal music scene.

Frank J. Del Giudice, a prominent US industrial designer known for his work on the Boeing 747, passed away in 1993 at the age of 77. His innovative designs revolutionized air travel and continue to influence modern aviation. Dive into his legacy and contributions to the design world.

Helmut Gollwitzer was a prominent German anti-Nazi theologian and pacifist whose efforts spanned decades. He used his voice to advocate for peace and social justice, leaving a remarkable legacy upon his death in 1993 at the age of 84.

Wim van Dooren, a prominent Dutch theologian, humanist, and philosopher, died in 1993, leaving a profound legacy intertwining religion and secular thought. His insights on humanism continue to inspire critical thinking and dialogue across cultures.

Herman Johannes was an influential Indonesian professor, scientist, and politician born in 1912. His contributions to education and politics have left a lasting legacy in Indonesia, culminating in his passing in 1992.

Ton Hasebos, a notable cameraman and TV director known for "Gnome Hasebos," passed away in 1992. His work left a lasting legacy in the television industry, shaping the landscape of children's programming in the Netherlands.

In 1991, 'Tennessee' Ernie Ford, the beloved American country music singer known for hits like 'Sixteen Tons', passed away due to liver disease at 72, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in music and television.

J. G. Devlin, a notable Northern Irish actor known for his role in 'No Surrender,' passed away in 1991 at the age of 84. His work and dedication to Irish theatre left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of actors.

Piet van Est, a renowned Dutch cyclist and seven-time Tour de France participant, died at the age of 57 in 1991. His legacy as a dedicated athlete and mentor continues to inspire future generations of cyclists.

Abdul Malek Ukil, a notable Bangladeshi politician born in 1925, significantly impacted the country's political landscape until his death in 1987. He's remembered for his commitment to democracy and social justice.

Roderich Menzel, a notable Czech tennis player who was a runner-up at the 1938 French Open singles and the 1935 US Open mixed doubles, passed away in 1987 at the age of 80. His legacy in tennis continues to inspire future generations.

Ruby Dandridge, an American actress best known for her role in 'Father of the Bride', died at the age of 87 on June 11, 1987. Her career and legacy continue to inspire future generations in the entertainment industry.

Joseph Rosenstock was a renowned American conductor and a key figure at the New York City Opera. He passed away at the age of 90 in 1985, leaving behind a profound legacy in the world of classical music and opera.

Alberta Hunter, a celebrated American blues singer and composer, passed away on October 17, 1984, at the age of 89. Her musical legacy and impactful career continue to inspire generations of artists and blues enthusiasts alike.

Pol le Roy, a Flemish writer known for his work 'Stroom', passed away in 1983 at the age of 78. His literary career was overshadowed by his controversial collaboration with the Nazis during WWII, sparking debates on morality in literature.

1983 Raymond Aron, French sociologist and political scientist (The Opium of the Intellectuals), dies at 78

Alain de Rothschild, a prominent French banker and member of the notable Rothschild family, passed away in 1982 at the age of 72. His leadership at Banque Rothschild and philanthropic efforts left a lasting impact on both finance and society.

Peterus van Doorne, a prominent Dutch industrialist, passed away in 1982 at the age of 47, leaving a significant impact on the industrial landscape of the Netherlands. His innovative contributions and commitment to corporate responsibility are remembered as part of his enduring legacy.

David Guion, an American pianist, composer, and cowboy, died at the age of 88 in 1981. Renowned for blending classical music with the spirit of the West, Guion's legacy continues to influence American music today.

John Stuart, notable Scottish actor best remembered for his roles in films like 'Kittie' and 'Superman', passed away in 1979 at the age of 81. His contributions to the film industry continue to resonate with audiences today.

Karel Reiner, the Czech pianist and composer, overcame the traumas of the Theresienstadt concentration camp, leaving behind a legacy of resilience in music before his death in 1979 at the age of 69.

S.J. Perelman, a celebrated American humorist and screenwriter, passed away in 1979. Renowned for his contributions to The New Yorker and his novel 'Around the World in 80 Days,' Perelman's legacy of wit and satire continues to inspire writers and comedians.

Cal Hubbard, renowned umpire and dual sports legend, passed away from cancer at 77 in 1977. Celebrated for his contributions in both baseball and football, he remains a significant figure in sports history.

Vittorio Gui, an influential Italian conductor and composer, passed away in 1975 at the age of 90. His contributions, particularly in opera and orchestral music, and works like 'Batture d'aspetto', left a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.

1974 René de Rooy, Surinamese and Antillean poet (Juancho Picaflor), dies of a heart attack at 57

Ingeborg Bachmann, the Austrian author and poet known for her influential work 'Gott von Manhattan', passed away at the age of 47. Her literature explored profound themes of identity and love, leaving a lasting impact and inspiration for generations to come.

George, Crown Prince of Serbia and son of King Peter I, passed away on October 17, 1972, at the age of 85, leaving a profound impact on the Serbian royal legacy and cultural identity.

Walter "Turk" Broda, a Canadian ice hockey goaltender famed for his five Stanley Cups and two Vezina Trophies, passed away from a heart attack in 1972. His legacy endures in the NHL as one of the sport's greats.

In 1970, Canadian politician and journalist Pierre Laporte was kidnapped by the FLQ and tragically murdered. As Vice-Premier of Quebec, his death underscored the tensions of the October Crisis, altering the landscape of Canadian politics.

Vola Vale, born in 1897, was a celebrated American actress whose career spanned the early years of Hollywood. She passed away in 1970, leaving behind a significant legacy in acting and influencing future generations of performers.

Henry Puyi, the last emperor of China, died on October 17, 1967, marking the end of an era for the Qing dynasty. His complex legacy and life journey from emperor to common man embody China's turbulent transition into modernity.

Soledad Jiménez, the celebrated Spanish actress known for her roles in 'Kid Galahad' and 'The Phantom of the Range', passed away in 1966 at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich legacy in cinema.

1966 Wieland Wagner, German opera director, co-director of the Bayreuth Festival and grandson of Richard Wagner, dies of cancer at 49

Bart King, an American cricket pioneer who passed away in 1965 at the age of 91, was known for his contributions to the art of swing bowling and his remarkable all-rounder skills in cricket.

1963 Jacques Hadamard, French mathematician (proved the prime number theorem), dies at 97

Henry 'Rubberlegs' Williams, an influential American vaudeville dancer and blues and jazz singer, passed away in 1962 at the age of 55, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of entertainment.

Natalia Goncharova, a remarkable Russian avant-garde artist, passed away at the age of 81 on July 17, 1962. Her innovative artistry and significant contributions to the modern art movement continue to inspire generations of artists today.

Charlie Townsend, an English cricketer who played two Test matches for England in 1899, passed away in 1958 at the age of 81. He is remembered for his contributions to cricket and his enduring legacy in the sport.

Paul Outerbridge, an influential American photographer, passed away in 1958 at the age of 63. His innovative work in color photography and commercial imaging remains significant in the art world, inspiring future photographers.

Henny Eman, the founding father of the Aruban People's Party, died on December 30, 1957, at the age of 70. His contributions to Aruban politics were profound, marking a significant shift towards self-governance and representation within the island's political landscape.

Anne Crawford, the enchanting British film actress known for her role in 'Knights of the Round Table', tragically passed away from leukemia at the age of 35 in 1956, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire actors today.

Pavel Haas, a Czech Jewish composer born in 1899, was a significant figure in music before his tragic murder at Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1944. His works reflect profound artistry and the enduring spirit of his cultural heritage.

Stefan Starzyński, the Mayor of Warsaw, died in 1943 amidst World War II. Known for his political leadership and dedication to public welfare, Starzyński's legacy endures as a symbol of hope and resilience during a dark chapter in Polish history.

John S. Plaskett was a pioneering Canadian astronomer known for his significant contributions in the study of binary stars, notably Plaskett's twins. He passed away in 1941, leaving a lasting impact on the field of astronomy.

George Davis, an influential baseball shortstop and manager, known for his contributions to the Chicago White Stockings and New York Giants, passed away in 1940 at the age of 70, leaving behind a profound legacy in the sport.

Santiago Ramón y Cajal, a renowned Spanish neuroscientist and Nobel Prize winner, passed away on October 17, 1934, at the age of 82, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the study of the central nervous system and fundamental contributions to neuroscience.

Jane Poupelet, a prominent French sculptor and graphic artist known for her role in 'la bande à Schnegg', passed away in 1932 at the age of 58. Her innovative contributions significantly impacted the French art scene and continue to inspire artists today.

Alfons Maria Jakob, a revolutionary German neurologist known for his insights into prion diseases, passed away in 1931 at the age of 47, leaving a lasting impact on neurology.

Katherine Griffith, a promising American actress known for her roles in 'Pollyanna' and 'Fast Company', tragically died of a cerebral hemorrhage at the age of 45 in 1921, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

Yaa Asantewaa, a formidable queen of the Ashanti Empire, died in 1921 at the age of 80 or 81. A key figure against British colonialism, her legacy as a warrior leader endures, inspiring generations in Ghana and beyond.

1918 Gordon White, cricketer (WW I Superb South African batsman 1905-12), dies

1910 Julia Ward Howe, American poet (Battle Hymn of the Republic), author, abolitionist, and women's suffragist, dies of pneumonia at 91

Sergey Muromtsev, a pivotal figure in early 20th century Russian politics, died on December 15, 1910. As the first President of the Imperial Duma, he championed legal reform and civil liberties, leaving a lasting legacy in Russian history.

William V. Moody, an influential American poet, passed away in 1910. Best known for works like "The Sabine Woman" and "The Great Divide," his poetry explored love and loss, leaving a lasting legacy in American literature.

Nicola Spinelli, an influential Italian composer born in 1865, passed away in 1909 at the age of 44. His unique works shaped the landscape of classical music in Italy and continue to inspire musicians today.

Nikolai Amani, a talented Russian composer, died at the young age of 32 in 1904. His innovative compositions, rooted in traditional folk melodies, left a lasting impact on Russian classical music despite his brief life.

George Godfrey, known as Old Chocolate, was a respected Canadian heavyweight boxer who dies at 48 in 1901 due to tuberculosis. His legacy paved the way for future generations of Black athletes in boxing.

Isidor Dannström, the respected Swedish composer, passed away in 1897 at the age of 84. His contributions to classical music, particularly within Sweden, and his unique incorporation of folk elements, left a lasting influence that resonates to this day.

Prosper Philippe Catherine Sainton, a significant figure in French music and a celebrated composer, passed away in 1890. His contributions to classical music and his influence on later generations of musicians ensure his legacy endures.

Nikolay Chernyshevsky, a leading Russian philosopher and writer, known for his influential work 'What Is to Be Done?', passed away in 1889 at the age of 61. His revolutionary ideas continued to inspire generations after his death, marking him as a significant figure in Russian history.

Gustav Kirchhoff, renowned for his contributions to spectroscopy and black body radiation, passed away in 1887 at the age of 63. His legacy continues to influence modern physics and engineering.

Johann Nepomuk Hummel, an influential Austrian composer, passed away in 1837. His remarkable contributions to music, including pioneering piano techniques and compositions, left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire musicians today.

1836 Orest Kiprensky, Russian painter (b. 1782)

Peter Winter, a significant German composer known for his operatic contributions, died on January 17, 1825, at the age of 71. His legacy includes advancements in opera and profound influences on future composers.

The death of Jean Jacques Dessalines in 1806 marked a pivotal moment in Haitian history, ending his reign as Emperor and leaving a legacy of revolutionary spirit amid political turmoil.

Johann Ludwig Aberli (1723-1786) was a renowned Swiss artist celebrated for his stunning landscapes and contributions to 18th-century art. His passion for nature and detail left a lasting impact on the Swiss art scene, remembered and admired to this day.

William Cookworthy, an influential English chemist known for his foundational work in porcelain production, passed away in 1780 at the age of 75, leaving a remarkable legacy that shaped the ceramics industry.

Pierre François le Courayer, a French theologian born in 1681, made significant contributions to religious thought and critique before his death in 1776. His legacy of challenging established church doctrines continues to influence discussions around religious reform.

Arnold Hoogvliet, a significant 18th-century Dutch poet known for his work 'Abraham the Patriarch', passed away in 1763 at the age of 76. His remarkable contributions to literature continue to inspire and resonate through the ages.

René Antoine Ferchault de Réaumur, a pioneering French scientist known for his innovations in thermometry and entomology, died on June 17, 1757. His groundbreaking work paved the way for future scientific endeavors, leaving a lasting legacy.

Anne 'Ninon' de l'Enclos, a celebrated French courtesan, art patron, and writer, died in 1705 at the age of 84, leaving a remarkable legacy in the realms of arts and literature.

In 1702, Walrad, the Dutch Prince of Nassau-Usingen and a key field marshal for William III of Orange, passed away at the age of 67, leaving behind a notable legacy in military history and the politics of Eastern Europe.

Thomas Clifford, 1st Baron Clifford of Chudleigh, an influential English statesman, died under mysterious circumstances in 1673 at the age of 43. His death, suspected to be a suicide, raised questions about the pressures of political life during this tumultuous period in history.

Adrian Scrope, an English regicide and lawyer, played a pivotal role in the execution of Charles I. Captured and executed in 1660 after the monarchy was restored, Scrope remains a contentious figure in English history, symbolizing the clash between republican ideas and monarchic rule.

Gilles Claesz de Hondecoeter, a famous Flemish painter known for his stunning still life works, was buried in 1638 at around 63 years of age. His legacy continues to influence and inspire artists today.

John Pitts (1560-1616) was a significant Catholic scholar whose writings defended Catholic beliefs in a time of Protestant reformation. His works remain influential in Catholic literature.

1586 Philip Sidney, English Elizabethan era poet (Arcadia) and soldier, dies in battle at 32

Andreas Osiander, a significant figure of the Protestant Reformation, died in 1552 at the age of 53. His theological perspectives on grace and faith shaped the movement and left a lasting impact on Protestantism.

1174 Queen Petronila of Aragon (b. 1135)

The death of Pope Boniface II in 532 marked an important moment in church history as he was the first German Pope. His reign, though short, influenced the dynamics of the papacy and the political landscape of the Catholic Church.