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Irish music stars died at age 46

Here are 6 famous musicians from Republic of Ireland died at 46:

William Thompson

William Thompson (December 2, 1805 Belfast-February 17, 1852 London) was an Irish scientist and botanist.

He is best known for his pioneering work in thermodynamics, where he introduced the concept of absolute zero temperature. This concept is now a fundamental part of modern physics. He also worked extensively on the mathematical foundations of thermodynamics and was the first to use the term "adiabatic" in a scientific context.

Thompson was a well-respected professor of natural philosophy at the University of Glasgow, where he made significant contributions to the understanding of electricity and magnetism. He was awarded numerous honors for his scientific achievements, including a knighthood in 1866, ten years after his death.

Thompson was also an accomplished botanist and was particularly interested in the study of mosses. He was a member of the Royal Irish Academy and the Royal Society, two of the most prestigious scientific organizations of his time.

In addition to his scientific achievements, Thompson was also a prolific inventor and engineer. He worked on the design of early telegraph systems and developed a compass for the British Navy that was more accurate than previous models. He also helped design the first transatlantic telegraph cable, which allowed for quicker communication between Europe and North America.

Thompson's interest in science and engineering began at a young age, and he received his first education from his father, who was a mathematician and teacher. He attended the University of Glasgow at the age of 10, where he studied under some of the most influential scientists of the time.

Thompson's legacy has continued to influence science and engineering to this day. His work on thermodynamics laid the foundation for the field of engineering thermodynamics, which is critical in the design of engines, refrigeration systems, and other technologies. He is also remembered for his commitment to scientific inquiry and his dedication to advancing knowledge in his fields of study.

Throughout his life, Thompson was a prolific writer, publishing over 600 scientific papers and books on a wide range of topics. He was also a skilled public speaker and communicator, able to convey complex scientific concepts in a way that was accessible to non-experts. His popular lectures on science drew large crowds and helped to inspire a new generation of scientists.Thompson's personal life was marked by tragedy, including the deaths of his wife and several of his children. Despite these hardships, he remained devoted to his work, and his tireless efforts made him one of the most respected and influential scientists of his time. Today, he is remembered as a brilliant thinker and a pioneer in the fields of thermodynamics and engineering, whose contributions to science and technology continue to shape our world.

Thompson's impact on the field of thermodynamics extended beyond the concept of absolute zero. He also introduced the concept of the "Thomson effect," which relates to the heating or cooling of a current as it passes through a conductor. This effect is still used today in the design of thermoelectric generators and in the measurement of high temperatures.

As a botanist, Thompson contributed to the study of bryology, the scientific study of mosses and liverworts. He published a book on the subject titled "Outlines of Mineralogy, Geology, and Mineral Conchology" in 1836. In addition to his research on mosses, he also discovered several new species of algae.

Thompson's work in electrical engineering was also groundbreaking. He helped develop the theory of electric potential and was instrumental in the development of the telegraph system. His work on electromagnetic theory also influenced the generation of radio waves.

In addition to his scientific achievements, Thompson was an advocate for higher education and was instrumental in the founding of Queens College Belfast, now known as Queen's University Belfast. He also served as the president of the Royal Society from 1890 to 1895.

Thompson was a devout Christian and believed that his scientific work and religious beliefs could coexist. He argued that science was a way of exploring the wonders of God's creation. This view was controversial at the time, as many saw science and religion as incompatible.

Thompson's impact on science and engineering has been widespread and long-lasting. In addition to his numerous scientific contributions, he also inspired future generations of scientists and engineers to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.

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Bryan Cooper

Bryan Cooper (June 17, 1884 Shimla-July 5, 1930 County Sligo) was an Irish personality.

Cooper was a prominent figure in the Irish literary and artistic scene in the early 20th century. He was a playwright, poet, and essayist, and was particularly known for his works on Irish nationalism and political issues. He was an active member of the Irish Volunteers during the Easter Rising of 1916 and was imprisoned for his involvement. Cooper was also a close friend and collaborator of Irish poet William Butler Yeats, and the two frequently worked together on literary projects. Despite his significant contributions to Irish literature, Cooper's career was cut short when he passed away at only 46 years old.

Cooper was the son of a British colonial administrator and spent much of his early life moving from place to place within India. He was educated in England and, after a brief stint in the military, settled in Dublin in 1908. There, he became involved in the city's cultural and political life, immersing himself in the Gaelic Revival movement and participating in the founding of the Abbey Theatre.

Cooper's literary output was relatively small – he only published one collection of poems and a handful of plays – but his work was well-regarded by his contemporaries. His plays, which were performed at the Abbey Theatre, dealt with themes such as Irish mythology, peasant life, and nationalist politics. Among his most well-known works are "The People's Man" (1916) and "The Building Fund" (1917).

In addition to his literary work, Cooper was active in politics and was a member of Sinn Féin, the political party that advocated for Irish independence. During the Easter Rising of 1916, he served as an officer in the Irish Volunteers, a paramilitary organization that fought against British rule. He was arrested after the Rising and spent time in Kilmainham Gaol, the Dublin prison where many of the rebellion's leaders were held.

Despite his relatively short life and limited output, Cooper remains an important figure in Irish literary history, and his contributions to the country's nationalist movement are also well-remembered.

Following his release from prison, Cooper continued his political activities and was heavily involved in the negotiations that led to the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921. He supported the treaty, which established the Irish Free State, but was critical of its limitations and ultimately fell out with many of his former comrades. In the years that followed, Cooper's health deteriorated and he became increasingly isolated. He moved to Sligo, where he died in 1930 at the age of 46. Despite his short life, Cooper's impact on Irish literature and politics was significant, and his legacy continues to be celebrated today.

Cooper was also an important figure in the early years of the Irish Republic. He was elected to the Dáil Éireann, the Irish parliament, in 1918 as a member of Sinn Féin. However, he was never particularly interested in party politics and focused more on cultural and artistic pursuits. In 1923, he was appointed to the Senate of the Irish Free State but resigned soon after due to his disillusionment with the government's policies. Cooper's death in 1930 was a great loss to the Irish literary and cultural scene, and many of his contemporaries mourned his passing. He was buried in his ancestral home of County Sligo, where a plaque now marks his grave. Today, Bryan Cooper is remembered as a significant figure in the Irish literary and nationalist movements of the early 20th century, and his contributions to Irish culture continue to be celebrated.

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Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde (October 16, 1854 Dublin-November 30, 1900 Paris) also known as Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, Fingal O'Flahertie Wills, Oscar Wilde , Wilde Oscar, Oscar O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, Sebastian Melmoth, Oskar Uayld, Wills Wilde, O.FO.F.W.W., C.3.3., The infamous St. Oscar of Oxford, Grey Crow or Oscàr was an Irish poet, writer, journalist and playwright. His children are Cyril Holland and Vyvyan Holland.

Oscar Wilde is best known for his wit, flamboyant personality, and his contributions to literature. His works include the novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray," the play "The Importance of Being Earnest," and numerous poems and essays. He was a prominent member of the aesthetic movement, which emphasized beauty and pleasure above all else. Wilde was also known for his scandalous personal life, which eventually led to his downfall. He was convicted of homosexuality, which was then illegal, and served two years in prison. Despite his hardships, Wilde remains a beloved figure in literary history and his works continue to be celebrated today.

Despite his relatively short life, Oscar Wilde had a profound impact on literature and culture. He was a leading figure in the cultural movement known as Aestheticism, which placed a high value on beauty and the pursuit of pleasure. Wilde himself embodied this movement with his flamboyant dress and irreverent wit.

In addition to his popular works like "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "The Importance of Being Earnest," Wilde was also an accomplished journalist and essayist. His essays on art and aesthetics, such as "The Decay of Lying" and "The Critic as Artist," are still studied today.

After his release from prison, Wilde lived in exile in France under the pseudonym Sebastian Melmoth. He continued to write during this period, but his health declined rapidly. He died of meningitis at the age of 46, and was buried in Paris's Père Lachaise Cemetery. Despite his scandalous personal life and legal troubles, Wilde's wit and literary genius have solidified his place as one of the most enduring figures in literature.

During his time at Oxford University, Wilde became involved in the emerging movement of aestheticism and wrote for several literary magazines. He later became editor of the magazine "The Woman's World" and wrote several successful plays, including "Lady Windermere's Fan" and "A Woman of No Importance". Throughout his career, Wilde was known for his wit and provocative statements, which often landed him in trouble with society's conservative values.

Wilde's personal life was just as scandalous as his public persona. He was married to Constance Lloyd and had two sons, but also had numerous affairs with men, including with Lord Alfred Douglas. It was this relationship that ultimately led to Wilde's imprisonment, as Douglas' father accused Wilde of homosexuality and filed a lawsuit against him.

Despite the hardships of his later years, Wilde remained committed to his beliefs and continued to write until his death. He remains an iconic figure in literature and an inspiration to many for his unapologetic embrace of individuality and aesthetics.

In addition to his literary contributions, Oscar Wilde was also a prominent lecturer, delivering lectures across Europe and the United States. One of his most famous lectures was "The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People," which later became the title of one of his most popular plays. Wilde's lectures were known for their wit and humor, and he was often invited to speak on a variety of topics, including literature, art, and culture.

Despite his public downfall and imprisonment, Wilde remained a beloved figure in popular culture, and his influence on art and literature can still be seen today. His aesthetic sensibilities and irreverent wit continue to inspire artists and writers around the world. Wilde's legacy has also inspired several biographies, movies, and plays, including the recent movie "The Happy Prince," which follows the final years of his life in exile.

He died as a result of meningitis.

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Willie Wilde

Willie Wilde (September 26, 1852 Dublin-March 13, 1899 Chelsea) also known as William 'Willie' Charles Kingsbury Wilde was an Irish journalist and poet. His child is Dorothy Wilde.

Willie Wilde was the older brother of famous playwright and author Oscar Wilde. He was educated at Trinity College in Dublin and later joined the Irish Civil Service as a clerk. Willie had a passion for literature and writing, and he contributed to several publications including The Dublin University Magazine and The Irish Monthly.

In addition to his writing, Willie was also involved in politics and he became a member of the Irish Parliamentary Party. His sister Isola died at a young age, and he grew very close with her daughter, Dorothy, whom he helped raise.

Unfortunately, Willie struggled with alcoholism for much of his adult life, and this addiction ultimately led to his untimely death at the age of 46. Despite his struggles, Willie made a significant impact on the literary and political worlds of Ireland and his legacy lives on to this day.

Despite his struggles with alcoholism, Willie Wilde remained a highly respected journalist and poet throughout his life. In fact, he was known for his wit and cleverness, much like his brother Oscar. He had a keen interest in Irish folklore and mythology, and he often wove these themes into his writing. His most notable works include a collection of poems titled "Imperium," which was published in 1878, and his contributions to the anthology "A Vision of Life," which was released in 1893.

In addition to his writing and political work, Willie was also actively involved in the social scene of Dublin and London. He hosted salons and parties that were frequented by some of the most prominent figures of the time, including artists, writers, and political activists. His charm and wit made him a popular figure in these circles, and he was known for his ability to entertain and engage people from all walks of life.

Today, Willie Wilde is remembered not only as the older brother of Oscar Wilde, but also as a talented writer and political activist in his own right. His contributions to Ireland's literary and political scene continue to be celebrated, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of intellectual curiosity and social engagement.

Despite the tragic end to his life, Willie Wilde's impact on literature, politics, and society cannot be denied. His dedication to Irish folklore and mythology helped to inspire a renewed interest in these themes among his contemporaries and future generations of writers. His work for the Irish Parliamentary Party and involvement in social events helped to shape the political and cultural landscape of Ireland and the United Kingdom. Additionally, his close relationship with his niece Dorothy Wilde, who would later become a writer and prominent figure in her own right, reflects his compassion and commitment to family. Today, Willie Wilde remains a beloved figure in Irish literature and cultural history.

He hosted salons and parties that were frequented by some of the most prominent figures of the time, including artists, writers, and political activists. His charm and wit made him a popular figure in these circles, and he was known for his ability to entertain and engage people from all walks of life.

He died as a result of alcoholism.

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John Conroy

John Conroy (April 5, 2015 Wicklow-February 13, 1969) was an Irish trade unionist.

John Conroy started working as a coal miner at the age of 14 and was actively involved in his union, the National Union of Mineworkers. He rose through the ranks to become the General Secretary of the union and helped to improve the working conditions of miners in Ireland. He was also a member of the Irish Labour Party and served as a councilor for Wicklow County Council. Conroy was known for his strong advocacy for workers' rights and the betterment of working-class communities. His efforts and achievements in organizing labor movements have earned him a place in the history of Irish trade unionism.

During his tenure as the General Secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers, John Conroy led several successful strikes, including the 1943 miners' strike, which led to significant improvements in pay and working conditions for miners. He also helped to establish a number of cooperative societies, including the successful Wicklow Creamery, which provided local farmers with a fair price for their milk. Conroy was a skilled negotiator and advocate for workers' rights, and was widely respected by both miners and politicians. He continued to fight for social justice throughout his life and his contribution to the labor movement in Ireland is widely recognized.

In addition to his work as a trade unionist, John Conroy was also a respected community leader. He was a founding member of the Wicklow Vocational Education Committee and helped to establish vocational schools in the area. He was also a committed member of the Church of Ireland and served as a lay reader and member of the diocesan council.

Conroy was known for his passionate speeches and writings on workers' rights and social justice. He was a regular contributor to the labor press and his articles were widely read and respected. In recognition of his contribution to the labor movement, Conroy was awarded an honorary doctorate by Trinity College Dublin in 1968.

John Conroy died on February 13, 1969, and was mourned by the Irish labor movement and wider community. He is remembered as a tireless advocate for workers' rights and a champion of the working class. His legacy continues to inspire those who seek to create a more just and equitable society.

During his lifetime, John Conroy was also a vocal supporter of Irish independence and worked closely with political leaders to advance the cause. He was a member of the Irish Citizen Army, a socialist organization that fought for Irish independence, and was later involved with other groups working towards the same goal.

Despite facing significant opposition and scrutiny from those in power, Conroy remained committed to his beliefs and continued to fight for the rights of workers and the advancement of the Irish cause throughout his life. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential labor leaders in Irish history, whose efforts and dedication have had a lasting impact on the country and its people.

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Dan Sheridan

Dan Sheridan (September 3, 1916 Athlone-June 29, 1963 Encino) otherwise known as Daniel Marvin Sheridan, Daniel M. Sheridan or Michael Sheridan was an Irish actor.

Sheridan began his acting career with the Abbey Theatre in Dublin before moving to Hollywood in the 1940s. He appeared in over 60 films during his career, including "They Were Expendable," "Mighty Joe Young" and "The Damned Don't Cry." Sheridan was also a prolific television actor, appearing in popular shows such as "Bonanza" and "Perry Mason." In addition to his acting work, he was also a skilled horseman, which allowed him to perform his own stunts in many of his roles. Despite a successful career, Sheridan struggled with alcoholism, which ultimately led to his untimely death at the age of 46.

Sheridan was born in Athlone, Ireland in 1916, and grew up in a family of eight children. His parents were both involved in theater, and he developed a passion for acting at a young age. After completing his education, Sheridan joined the Abbey Theatre, where he acted in a number of productions before deciding to try his luck in Hollywood.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Sheridan found work as a character actor in a number of films, often playing tough guys and gangsters. He quickly developed a reputation as a reliable and versatile performer, and his skill with horses made him a popular choice for Westerns and other action films.

In addition to his work on the big screen, Sheridan was also a regular presence on television, appearing in a number of popular shows throughout the 1950s and 60s. Despite his ongoing struggles with alcoholism, he remained dedicated to his craft, and was highly regarded by his peers for his professionalism and talent.

Sheridan's death in 1963 was a great loss to the industry, and many of his colleagues and fans mourned his passing. Despite the challenges he faced during his life, he left behind a legacy of fine performances and a lasting impact on the world of film and television.

Sheridan's acting career spanned two decades, from the 1940s to the early 1960s. He worked with some of Hollywood's most famous actors and directors, including John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, John Ford, and Howard Hawks. His notable film roles included playing a war correspondent in "They Were Expendable" (1945) and a gangster in "The Damned Don't Cry" (1950). He also played the role of "Mr. Joseph Young" in the 1949 classic "Mighty Joe Young."

Sheridan's passion for horses also allowed him to be a stuntman and a horse wrangler in films. He performed many of his own stunts, such as riding horses and jumping from rooftops, which added to his versatility as an actor. He was often called upon to play cowboy roles in Western movies and TV shows, including "Gunsmoke" and "Have Gun Will Travel."

Despite his success, Sheridan's struggles with alcoholism affected his personal and professional life. He was known to disappear from sets for days at a time due to his drinking, which caused friction with his colleagues. His addiction also led to health problems, which ultimately led to his death in 1963 at the age of 46.

Sheridan's legacy as an actor lives on, with many of his films and TV shows still enjoyed by audiences today. He is remembered by his colleagues and fans as a dedicated performer who brought authenticity and depth to his roles, despite his personal challenges.

In addition to his work in film and television, Sheridan was also a trained stage actor, and performed in a number of productions during his career. He was particularly passionate about Irish theater, and often championed the work of Irish playwrights in Hollywood. He was also a member of the Screen Actors Guild, and was involved in union activities throughout his career.

Despite his struggles with alcoholism, Sheridan was known for his warmth and humor on and off set, and many of his colleagues remember him as a beloved friend and mentor. He was married twice during his life, and had two sons.

Sheridan's legacy has been celebrated in his hometown of Athlone, where there is a plaque in his honor on the bridge over the River Shannon. He is also remembered in Hollywood, where his contributions to the film and television industry are still appreciated today.

Read more about Dan Sheridan on Wikipedia »