Abe Fortas
American lawyer and Supreme Court justice
Served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1965 to 1980. Nominated by President Lyndon B. Johnson, contributed to landmark decisions regarding civil rights and civil liberties. Prior to the Supreme Court, practiced law in Washington, D.C., and co-founded a prominent law firm. Played a significant role in the development of the legal defense for civil rights cases during the 1960s. Resigned under pressure in 1980 amid a controversy over his judicial conduct.
Served as Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court
Contributed to landmark civil rights decisions
Other People Born on June 19th
Mildred Natwick
Actress in stage and film productions
Born
June 19th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1994 31 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished actress with a career spanning several decades, particularly active in the mid-20th century. Achieved recognition for performances on stage and in film, showcasing a range of characters. Acted in the original Broadway production of 'The Country Girl' and appeared in films such as 'The Love Bug' and 'Barefoot in the Park'. Received multiple accolades for work, including a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play.
Continue ReadingWieke Dijkstra
Dutch field hockey player and Olympian
Born
June 19th, 1984 41 years ago
Competed in field hockey at an elite level. Participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where the national team secured a bronze medal. Played for HC Den Bosch in domestic leagues, contributing to their successes. Had a strong impact on the field with notable skills and team leadership during her career.
Continue ReadingAnn Wilson
Singer-songwriter and musician, Heart
Born
June 19th, 1950 75 years ago
Born in 1950, a prominent figure in rock music, played as the lead vocalist of the band Heart. The band achieved significant commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s, known for hit songs such as 'Barracuda' and 'Crazy on You.' Released several albums with Heart, including 'Dreamboat Annie' and 'Little Queen,' which showcased powerful vocals and songwriting talent. Influenced by blues, folk, and hard rock genres, contributed to the band's distinct sound. Also pursued a solo career, with works reflecting personal themes and styles.
Continue ReadingNigel Gresley
Engineer and locomotive designer
Born
June 19th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1941 84 years ago — 64 years old
An influential engineer in the development of steam locomotives, specialized in railway engineering. Primarily associated with the London and North Eastern Railway, contributed significantly to the design of several celebrated locomotives. Introduced the A3 Pacific class locomotives, most notably the Flying Scotsman, which became one of the most recognized steam engines in the world. Also responsible for the A4 class locomotives, including Mallard, which achieved a world speed record for steam locomotives. Focused on improving the performance and efficiency of steam traction.
Continue ReadingAshish Vidyarthi
Indian Actor in Hindi cinema
Born
June 19th, 1962 63 years ago
An actor appeared in numerous Hindi films and regional cinema. Made a significant impact in the industry with a memorable role in the film 'Drohkaal'. Received the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for the film 'Antarmahal'. Also known for appearances in several television series, contributing to the contemporary landscape of Indian media.
Continue ReadingCornelius Krieghoff
Dutch-Canadian painter of landscapes
Born
June 19th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1872 153 years ago — 56 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a painter primarily active in Canada. Notable for paintings that depict Canadian landscapes and indigenous life, particularly during the mid-19th century. Relocated to Canada in 1840 and became a prominent figure in the Canadian art scene. Worked extensively in Quebec and Ontario, capturing the essence of winter scenes and rural life. His works reflect a blend of Romanticism and realism, often highlighting the natural beauty of the Canadian wilderness.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Helena Westermarck
Finnish artist and writer with literary works
Born
November 20th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1938 87 years ago — 80 years old
A Finnish artist and writer engaged in literature and painting, contributing significantly to Finnish culture. Westermarck's literary career included works that explored themes of identity and society. Additionally, Westermarck was instrumental in the development of children's literature in Finland, writing engaging stories that captivated young readers. Her artistic endeavors included creating paintings that depicted Finnish landscapes and traditional life, showcasing the beauty of her home country. The combination of her literary and artistic talents left a lasting influence on Finnish art and literature, making her a prominent figure in the cultural history of Finland.
Continue ReadingIsabel Jewell
American actress known for 'Gone with the Wind'
Born
July 19th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1972 53 years ago — 64 years old
An American actress and singer, performed in numerous films and television series during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for roles in classic films such as 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Barrets of Wimpole Street.' Appeared in various productions on Broadway and in radio dramas, showcasing versatile talents in performance arts. Continued to act through the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to the entertainment landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingHermann Joseph Muller
Geneticist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
December 21st, 1890 135 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1967 58 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American geneticist, significant contributions were made to the study of mutations and the impact of radiation on genetic material. Research in the early 20th century established foundational principles in genetics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1946 for discoveries regarding the effects of X-rays on the genetic material of living cells. Engaged in academic pursuits at various institutions, providing guidance to the next generation of geneticists.
Continue ReadingChristian Pineau
French Resistance Fighter
Born
October 14th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 90 years old
Participated actively in the French Resistance during World War II. Played a significant role in organizing resistance efforts against Nazi occupation. Contributed to the liberation of France and helped to form the post-war government. Later served as a member of the French National Assembly and held various governmental roles.
Continue ReadingEdward Young
English poet and author of Night Thoughts
Born
July 3rd, 1683 342 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1765 260 years ago — 81 years old
Originated from England, this poet and author gained prominence in the early 18th century. 'Night Thoughts', a philosophical poem reflecting on life, death, and immortality, stands as the most significant contribution to English literature. The lengthy poem was published in several parts between 1742 and 1745, exploring deep existential themes. The work was widely read and contributed to discussions about mortality and the afterlife during the Enlightenment period. Additionally, other works included 'The Complaint: or, Night-Thoughts on Life, Death, and Immortality'. This literary figure's influence extended beyond poetry, marking a notable period in the transition from metaphysical to romantic poetry.
Continue ReadingErich Zeigner
Prime Minister of Saxony
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1949 76 years ago — 63 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Saxony during a turbulent period in German history. Involved in the establishment of policies aimed at social reforms in the late Weimar Republic. Became a member of the Socialist Unity Party after World War II and contributed to the reconstruction of East Germany. His tenure included dealing with the challenges posed by post-war conditions and the transition into a communist system.
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