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Sweden & Vietnam
Singing Revolution
Master D.M.Lee | 7/5/2023
Johanna Maria Lind - Sweden
Jenny Lind, born Johanna Maria Lind, was a Swedish opera singer who captivated audiences worldwide during the 19th century. Here are some interesting facts about her:
Early Life and Musical Talent: Jenny Lind was born on October 6, 1820, in Stockholm, Sweden. From an early age, she displayed exceptional musical talent and received vocal training at the Royal Dramatic Theater's school. Her voice was noted for its clarity, agility, and range.
Jenny Lind, 1862, Eduard Magnus, Painting (PD-US)
Breakthrough Performance: At the age of 21, Lind made her breakthrough performance as Agathe in Carl Maria von Weber's opera "Der Freischütz" at the Royal Swedish Opera in Stockholm. Her captivating performance brought her widespread acclaim and marked the beginning of her international career.
Worldwide Fame: Lind's talent quickly caught the attention of influential figures, including the composer Felix Mendelssohn and the showman P.T. Barnum. Mendelssohn praised her as the "Swedish Nightingale," a nickname that would stick with her throughout her career. She embarked on numerous highly successful tours across Europe and the United States, where she performed for enthusiastic audiences.
Jenny Lind the Swedish Nightingale. University of Sheffield wiki
Philanthropic Endeavors: Lind was not only known for her vocal prowess but also for her philanthropy. She often dedicated her performances to charitable causes, and a significant portion of her concert earnings went toward supporting causes such as education and scholarships for aspiring musicians.
Retirement and Teaching: In 1849, at the height of her fame, Lind made the decision to retire from public performances. She married Otto Goldschmidt, a German pianist and composer, and settled in England. Following her retirement, she focused on teaching and became a respected voice instructor.
Kungliga Operan, Stockholm 2020, Frankie Fouganthin CC
Legacy: Jenny Lind's impact on the world of opera and music was significant. Her talent, stage presence, and philanthropic efforts endeared her to audiences and established her as one of the most celebrated sopranos of her time. Even after her retirement, her influence as a teacher and mentor continued to shape the next generation of singers.
Jenny Lind's legacy endures as a symbol of exceptional vocal talent and philanthropy. Her story and contributions to the arts have been celebrated in numerous books, films, and adaptations.
Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh, born Nguyen Sinh Cung and later known as Nguyen Tat Thanh and Ho Chi Minh, was a Vietnamese revolutionary and politician who played a significant role in the history of Vietnam. Here are some interesting facts about Ho Chi Minh:
Early Life and Education: Ho Chi Minh was born on May 19, 1890, in the village of Kim Lien in central Vietnam, which was then part of French Indochina. He received a traditional Confucian education and later studied in France, where he became involved in revolutionary politics.
Revolutionary Activities: Ho Chi Minh was a key figure in Vietnam's struggle for independence from French colonial rule. He co-founded the Indochinese Communist Party (later known as the Communist Party of Vietnam) and led various movements and campaigns to resist French imperialism.
Name Change: Ho Chi Minh adopted several pseudonyms throughout his life, including Nguyen Ai Quoc (Nguyen the Patriot) and Ho Chi Minh (meaning "He Who Enlightens"). He ultimately became most widely known as Ho Chi Minh.
Leadership in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh played a crucial role in the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1945 and served as the President and Prime Minister of North Vietnam from 1945 to 1969. He led the country through the First Indochina War against French colonial forces and later the Vietnam War against the United States and its allies.
Ideology and Influence: Ho Chi Minh was strongly influenced by Marxism-Leninism and the principles of communism. He believed in the power of revolutionary struggle and the necessity of achieving national independence and social equality for the Vietnamese people.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: After his death on September 2, 1969, Ho Chi Minh's body was preserved and placed in a mausoleum in Hanoi, Vietnam. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has become a significant landmark and a place of pilgrimage for visitors.
International Recognition: Ho Chi Minh's contributions to the independence and unification of Vietnam have earned him respect and recognition internationally. He is revered as a national hero in Vietnam and is considered one of the most influential figures in Vietnamese history.
It's important to note that perspectives on Ho Chi Minh can vary, and opinions on his legacy may differ depending on the context and the individuals involved.
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