Back in Time Today
March 22 marks a significant date in history, witnessing the passing of numerous influential figures across various fields. From groundbreaking scientists to iconic entertainers, these individuals have left indelible marks on the world.
This blog post commemorates 29 renowned personalities who passed away on this day, celebrating their contributions and legacies.
1. Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster, English nobleman and military leader, 1322
Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster, was a prominent English nobleman and military leader who played a pivotal role in the politics of early 14th-century England. Born in 1278, he was the cousin of King Edward II and initially a supporter before turning against him.
His life was marked by his leadership in the Baronial opposition against the king’s rule. He was eventually captured and executed for treason on March 22, 1322, at the age of 44.
Despite his turbulent political career, Thomas’s legacy remains as a significant figure in England’s medieval history. His story reflects the complex interplay of loyalty and rebellion during his time.
2. Jean-Baptiste Lully, Italian-born French composer, 1687
Jean-Baptiste Lully, born in 1632, was an Italian-born composer who became one of the most influential figures in French music. He is credited with developing French opera and significantly influencing the court of King Louis XIV.
Lully’s compositions were known for their lively rhythms and intricate harmonies. He was a master of musical innovation, transforming the French court’s cultural landscape.
Lully died on March 22, 1687, due to a gangrene infection following an accidental injury. His contributions to music continue to be celebrated, making him a central figure in the history of Baroque music.
3. Jonathan Edwards, American revivalist preacher and theologian, 1758
Jonathan Edwards, born in 1703, was a prominent American revivalist preacher and theologian known for his role in the First Great Awakening. His fiery sermons and writings emphasized the importance of personal faith and divine grace.
Edwards’s most famous sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,” remains influential in religious studies. He served as the president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University) before his death on March 22, 1758, from a smallpox inoculation.
Edwards’s theological insights and revivalist passion left a lasting impact on American religious life and thought.
4. Stephen Decatur, American naval officer, 1820
Stephen Decatur, born in 1779, was a celebrated American naval officer known for his heroics during the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812. Decatur’s daring exploits and strategic brilliance earned him national fame and the rank of commodore.
He was renowned for his quote, “Our country, right or wrong,” reflecting his patriotic spirit. Tragically, Decatur’s life was cut short at age 41 due to a duel with a rival officer on March 22, 1820.
His legacy as a naval hero endures, symbolizing bravery and leadership in the United States Navy.
5. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, German writer and statesman, 1832
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, born in 1749, was a German writer and statesman whose work spanned poetry, drama, literature, and science. His literary masterpieces, such as “Faust” and “The Sorrows of Young Werther,” have left a profound impact on Western literature.
Beyond writing, Goethe contributed to natural sciences and held various political roles. He passed away on March 22, 1832, at the age of 82, leaving behind a rich legacy that influenced countless writers and thinkers.
Goethe’s intellectual curiosity and creative genius continue to make him a towering figure in German culture and beyond.
6. William Macewen, Scottish surgeon and neuroscientist, 1924
William Macewen, born in 1848, was a pioneering Scottish surgeon and neuroscientist whose innovations laid the foundation for modern neurosurgery.
He was among the first to perform successful brain surgeries, significantly advancing medical understanding of the human brain. Macewen’s techniques and research transformed neurosurgical practices worldwide.
He passed away on March 22, 1924, at the age of 75. His work not only saved countless lives but also inspired future generations of surgeons and neuroscientists. Macewen’s legacy lives on in the field of medicine, celebrated for his visionary contributions.
7. Mike Todd, American film producer, 1958
Mike Todd, born in 1909, was an American film producer known for his innovative approach to filmmaking in the mid-20th century. He produced the Academy Award-winning film “Around the World in 80 Days,” showcasing his flair for grand, cinematic experiences.
Todd was a pioneer in producing major spectacles and was married to actress Elizabeth Taylor. His life was tragically cut short on March 22, 1958, in a plane crash at the age of 48. Todd’s impact on the film industry endures, with his adventurous spirit and creativity continuing to inspire filmmakers today.
8. Karl Wallenda, German-American acrobat and tightrope walker, 1978
Karl Wallenda, born in 1905, was a legendary German-American acrobat and tightrope walker, renowned for his breathtaking performances.
He was the founder of The Flying Wallendas, a famed circus act known for their high-wire feats without safety nets. Wallenda’s daring spirit captured the world’s imagination, making him a symbol of courage and skill.
Tragically, he fell to his death on March 22, 1978, while performing a walk in Puerto Rico at the age of 73. Wallenda’s legacy in the world of acrobatics remains, inspiring performers to push the limits of human ability.
9. William Hanna, American animator and co-founder of Hanna-Barbera, 2001
William Hanna, born in 1910, was an iconic American animator and co-founder of Hanna-Barbera, a studio that created beloved cartoons like “The Flintstones,” “The Jetsons,” and “Scooby-Doo.”
Hanna’s work revolutionized animation, making it a staple of television entertainment. His partnership with Joseph Barbera resulted in a creative synergy that produced timeless characters and stories.
He passed away on March 22, 2001, at the age of 90. Hanna’s contributions to animation continue to entertain and influence audiences around the world, leaving a legacy of joy and creativity.
10. Sabiha Gökçen, Turkish aviator and the world’s first female fighter pilot, 2001
Sabiha Gökçen, born in 1913, was a trailblazing Turkish aviator and the world’s first female fighter pilot. Her aviation career began under the auspices of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey’s founder, who adopted her as his daughter.
Gökçen flew combat missions in the late 1930s, breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated field. She passed away on March 22, 2001, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of empowerment and inspiration for women in aviation.
Gökçen’s pioneering spirit continues to inspire generations to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
11. Walter Lantz, American animator, director, and producer, 1994
Walter Lantz, born in 1899, was a prominent American animator, director, and producer best known for creating the iconic character Woody Woodpecker.
Lantz’s career spanned several decades, and his work became synonymous with innovation and humor in animation. He was recognized for his ability to create captivating characters and enduring storylines.
Lantz passed away on March 22, 1994, at the age of 94. His legacy in animation is celebrated for its creativity and impact on popular culture, influencing countless animators and entertaining generations of audiences.
12. Dan Hartman, American singer-songwriter and producer, 1994
Dan Hartman, born in 1950, was an American singer-songwriter and producer known for his versatile musical talents and hit singles. Hartman’s songs, such as “Instant Replay” and “I Can Dream About You,” captured the spirit of the disco and pop eras.
Beyond performing, he collaborated with various artists, showcasing his diverse musical range. Hartman passed away on March 22, 1994, at the age of 43 due to a brain tumor.
His contributions to music continue to resonate, marking him as a significant figure in the evolution of popular music.
13. Cachao López, Cuban-American bassist and composer, 2008
Cachao López, born in 1918, was a Cuban-American bassist and composer who played a pivotal role in the creation of mambo music. His innovative style and compositions energized the Latin music scene, earning him the nickname “The Mambo King.”
Cachao collaborated with numerous musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. He passed away on March 22, 2008, at the age of 89.
Cachao’s influence on Latin music remains profound, celebrated for his creativity and dedication to the art form. His legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide.
14. James Black, Scottish biologist and pharmacologist, Nobel Prize laureate, 2010
James Black, born in 1924, was a Scottish biologist and pharmacologist renowned for his groundbreaking work in drug development. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1988 for his discoveries in the field of beta-blockers and histamine antagonists.
Black’s research transformed the treatment of heart diseases and ulcers. He passed away on March 22, 2010, at the age of 85. Black’s scientific achievements have saved countless lives and continue to influence medical research and pharmacology.
His legacy is celebrated in scientific communities worldwide for its profound impact.
15. Artur Agostinho, Portuguese journalist and actor, 2011
Artur Agostinho, born in 1920, was a distinguished Portuguese journalist and actor who became a beloved figure in Portugal. His career in radio and television spanned several decades, making him a household name.
Agostinho was known for his charismatic presence and ability to engage audiences. He passed away on March 22, 2011, at the age of 90.
Agostinho’s contributions to journalism and entertainment are fondly remembered, leaving a lasting impact on Portuguese media. His legacy as a pioneering journalist and versatile actor continues to inspire aspiring broadcasters.
16. Joe Blanchard, American football player and professional wrestler, 2012
Joe Blanchard, born in 1928, was an American football player and professional wrestler known for his athleticism and versatility. After a successful college football career, Blanchard transitioned to wrestling, where he became a respected figure in the sports entertainment industry.
He also promoted wrestling events, contributing to the sport’s growth. Blanchard passed away on March 22, 2012, at the age of 83.
His legacy in both football and wrestling is celebrated, remembered for his dedication and passion. Blanchard’s influence continues to be felt by athletes and entertainers alike.
17. Vladimír Čech, Czech actor and politician, 2013
Vladimír Čech, born in 1951, was a Czech actor and politician known for his dynamic presence in theater and public service. Čech’s acting career spanned theater, film, and television, where he showcased his versatility and talent.
His political career reflected his commitment to cultural and social issues in the Czech Republic.
He passed away on March 22, 2013, at the age of 61. Čech’s contributions to arts and politics are remembered fondly, leaving a lasting impact on Czech culture and society. His legacy continues to inspire both artists and politicians.
18. Bebo Valdés, Cuban-Swedish pianist and composer, 2013
Bebo Valdés, born in 1918, was a renowned Cuban-Swedish pianist and composer whose career spanned an impressive seven decades. Valdés was a key figure in the Cuban music scene, known for his jazz and Afro-Cuban rhythms.
His influence extended internationally, where he captivated audiences with his powerful performances. Valdés passed away on March 22, 2013, at the age of 94.
His contributions to music are celebrated globally, marking him as a significant figure in jazz and Latin music. Valdés’s legacy lives on, inspiring musicians with his creativity and passion.
19. Yashwant Vithoba Chittal, Indian author, 2014
Yashwant Vithoba Chittal, born in 1928, was an esteemed Indian author known for his poignant writing and storytelling. Chittal’s work, primarily in Kannada, explored complex themes such as identity, tradition, and modernity.
His novels and stories resonated with readers, reflecting the socio-cultural dynamics of India. He passed away on March 22, 2014, at the age of 86.
Chittal’s literary legacy continues to be celebrated in Indian literature, admired for his depth and insight. His influence endures, encouraging authors to explore the rich tapestry of human experience.
20. Mickey Duff, Polish-English boxer and manager, 2014
Mickey Duff, born in 1929, was a notable Polish-English boxer and manager, renowned for his keen eye for talent and strategic acumen. Duff’s career in boxing management spanned decades, during which he guided numerous fighters to victory and fame.
His expertise and passion for the sport made him a respected figure in boxing. Duff passed away on March 22, 2014, at the age of 84.
His contributions to boxing are remembered fondly, leaving a lasting impact on the sport. Duff’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of boxers and managers alike.
21. Tasos Mitsopoulos, Cypriot politician and Minister of Defence, 2014
Tasos Mitsopoulos, born in 1965, was a prominent Cypriot politician who served as the Minister of Defence. Mitsopoulos was known for his dedication to public service and efforts to promote peace and stability in Cyprus.
His political career was marked by integrity and commitment to the well-being of his nation. He passed away on March 22, 2014, at the age of 48, after a sudden illness.
Mitsopoulos’s legacy in Cypriot politics is honored, remembered for his contributions to national security and development. His life inspires future leaders with his dedication to public service.
22. Horst Buhtz, German footballer and manager, 2015
Horst Buhtz, born in 1923, was a German footballer and manager whose career in sports spanned several decades. Buhtz played as a central defender before transitioning to management, where he applied his tactical acumen to lead various teams.
His leadership and expertise contributed significantly to German football. He passed away on March 22, 2015, at the age of 91.
Buhtz’s legacy in football is celebrated, remembered for his dedication to the sport and impact on players and teams. His life continues to inspire coaches and athletes in the football community.
23. Norman Scribner, American pianist, composer, and conductor, 2015
Norman Scribner, born in 1936, was an esteemed American pianist, composer, and conductor known for his contributions to choral music. Scribner founded the Choral Arts Society of Washington, where he inspired countless singers and audiences with his musical direction.
His dedication to choral excellence left an indelible mark on the music community. He passed away on March 22, 2015, at the age of 79.
Scribner’s legacy in music is celebrated, with his work continuing to influence choral musicians and ensembles. His passion for music inspires aspiring conductors and performers.
24. Rob Ford, Canadian politician and 64th Mayor of Toronto, 2016
Rob Ford, born in 1969, was a Canadian politician who served as the 64th Mayor of Toronto. Known for his charismatic personality and populist approach, Ford’s tenure as mayor was marked by both controversy and public engagement.
His policies focused on fiscal responsibility and community development. He passed away on March 22, 2016, at the age of 46 after battling cancer.
Ford’s legacy in Toronto politics is mixed, remembered for his larger-than-life persona and impact on the city’s governance. His career inspires debate on political leadership and public service.
25. Rita Gam, American actress, 2016
Rita Gam, born in 1927, was an American actress known for her elegance and talent in film and theater. Gam’s career included roles in classic films such as “Night People” and “King of Kings,” where she showcased her versatile acting abilities.
Her presence and poise left an enduring mark on Hollywood. She passed away on March 22, 2016, at the age of 88.
Gam’s legacy in acting is celebrated, remembered for her contributions to cinema and theater. Her influence inspires actresses to pursue their craft with grace and dedication.
26. Phife Dawg, American rapper and member of A Tribe Called Quest, 2016
Phife Dawg, born Malik Taylor in 1970, was an influential American rapper and a founding member of the iconic hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest.
Known for his clever wordplay and distinctive voice, Phife Dawg contributed to the group’s groundbreaking sound and success in the 1990s. He passed away on March 22, 2016, at the age of 45 due to complications from diabetes.
Phife Dawg’s legacy in hip-hop is celebrated, marking him as a trailblazer in the genre. His music continues to inspire and resonate with fans and artists alike.
27. Johan van Hulst, Dutch politician, academic, and author, 2018
Johan van Hulst, born in 1911, was a distinguished Dutch politician, academic, and author known for his bravery during World War II. Van Hulst saved hundreds of Jewish children from the Holocaust by hiding them in his school and facilitating their escape.
He passed away on March 22, 2018, at the age of 107. His legacy in politics and academia is celebrated, remembered for his courage and humanitarian efforts.
Van Hulst’s life inspires future generations to act with compassion and integrity, highlighting the impact of individual actions in history.
28. Scott Walker, British-American singer-songwriter, 2019
Scott Walker, born in 1943, was a British-American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice and avant-garde musical style. Walker’s career began with the pop group The Walker Brothers before he ventured into experimental solo work.
He passed away on March 22, 2019, at the age of 76. Walker’s legacy in music is celebrated for its innovation and depth, influencing countless artists across genres. His contributions to music continue to inspire, marked by a fearless exploration of sound and emotion.
29. Elgin Baylor, American basketball player, coach, and executive, 2021
Elgin Baylor, born in 1934, was an American basketball player, coach, and executive whose impact on the NBA was profound.
Baylor’s career as a player for the Los Angeles Lakers showcased his extraordinary athleticism and skill, earning him a place in the Hall of Fame. He passed away on March 22, 2021, at the age of 86.
Baylor’s legacy in basketball is celebrated, remembered for his contribution to the game and influence on future generations. His life inspires athletes and fans, highlighting the power of dedication and talent.