Alan J. Dixon
Illinois Secretary of State, lawyer
Served as the 34th Secretary of State of Illinois from 1977 to 1991. Practiced law before entering politics. Elected to the Illinois State Senate, representing the 51st District from 1969 to 1977. Supported various legislative initiatives during tenure. After leaving the Secretary of State office, engaged in private practice.
Served as Illinois Secretary of State from 1977 to 1991
Represented the 51st District in the Illinois State Senate
Other People Born on July 7th
Otto Frederick Rohwedder
American engineer, invented sliced bread
Born
July 7th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 80 years old
An engineer developed the first bread-slicing machine in 1928, revolutionizing the way bread was sold and consumed. This invention allowed for uniform slices of bread, significantly increasing convenience for consumers and impacting the baking industry. The first loaves of pre-sliced bread were marketed in Iowa, leading to widespread popularity. Rohwedder's contribution is often summarized in the saying, 'the best thing since sliced bread.' The efficiency of his machine set a new standard in baking and food preparation.
Continue ReadingEgbert Brieskorn
Mathematician, known for knot theory
Born
July 7th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
Contributions to topology, particularly in the field of knot theory, characterized by the development of significant theories regarding the classification of knots. Held a professorship at the University of Tübingen and published numerous seminal papers that advanced the understanding of algebraic and geometric topology. Offered extensive lectures and served on editorial boards of distinguished mathematical journals. Actively participated in mathematical societies and contributed to academic discourse through various international conferences.
Continue ReadingTung Chee-hwa
Hong Kong politician and businessman
Born
July 7th, 1937 88 years ago
A businessman and politician served as the first Chief Executive of Hong Kong after its handover to China in 1997. His administration focused on economic stability and public housing. Prior to his political career, established a successful shipping company. Resigned in 2005 amid political challenges and public discontent. Involved in various philanthropic activities post-resignation.
Continue ReadingLion Feuchtwanger
German author and playwright of notable works
Born
July 7th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1958 67 years ago — 74 years old
An influential German author and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early to mid-20th century. Worked in various genres, including novels and plays, often emphasizing themes of social justice and identity. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s due to the rise of the Nazi regime. Many works were critical of totalitarianism, including the well-regarded novels 'The Oppermanns' and 'Jew Süss'. Maintained an active role in literary circles, producing works that resonated deeply during times of political upheaval. Continued to write and publish until death in 1958, leaving a legacy that influenced later generations of writers.
Continue ReadingVittorio De Sica
Italian filmmaker and actor in 'Bicycle Thieves'
Born
July 7th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1974 51 years ago — 73 years old
An influential actor and director, made significant contributions to Italian neorealism. Directed acclaimed films such as 'Bicycle Thieves' and 'Umberto D.', which showcased the struggles of everyday people in post-war Italy. Achieved success as an actor in both film and theater, appearing in various works and earning recognition for performances. Involved in the film industry for several decades, leaving a lasting legacy through directorial techniques and thematic content.
Continue ReadingGuillaume Philibert Duhesme
French general during the Napoleonic Wars
Born
July 7th, 1766 259 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1815 210 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1766, a French general served during the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. Duhesme held several key military positions, notably leading troops in the campaigns in Italy and against the Austrians. He achieved the rank of general and played a significant role in various battles, including at the Siege of Barcelona. Duhesme also contributed to the military reforms and strategies of the time, solidifying his place in military history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 6th
Dhirubhai Ambani
Indian businessman and Reliance founder
Born
December 28th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 69 years old
Founded Reliance Industries, a conglomerate with interests in petrochemicals, telecommunications, textiles, and more. Launched the company in 1960, which became one of India's largest private sector companies. Pioneered the use of equity markets to raise capital for growth, democratizing wealth generation in India. Instrumental in establishing a strong presence in global markets.
Continue ReadingScott LaFaro
American jazz double bassist
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1961 64 years ago — 25 years old
A pivotal figure in jazz double bass, significantly influenced modern jazz with innovative techniques and artistic approaches. Played in the Bill Evans Trio, contributing to the acclaimed album 'Sunday at the Village Vanguard'. Developed a distinctive and lyrical style that changed the perception of the bass in jazz music.
Continue ReadingZhu De
Chinese general and politician
Born
December 1st, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1976 49 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1886, a prominent figure in the Chinese Communist Party and a leading general during the Chinese Civil War. Played a crucial role in the Long March and served as a key military leader in various conflicts. Held significant positions in the People's Liberation Army and the government, including 1st Vice Chairman of the People's Republic of China. Contributed to the establishment of the state after the Communist victory in 1949, serving in important roles until his death.
Continue ReadingMarsha P. Johnson
Gay Liberation Activist and Drag Queen
Born
August 24th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1992 33 years ago — 46 years old
An activist advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and co-founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) alongside Sylvia Rivera. Contributed to the Stonewall uprising, which became a catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Johnson's work focused on supporting homeless transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals, providing essential services and advocacy. Her legacy includes a lasting influence on LGBTQ+ activism and visibility.
Continue ReadingAziz Nesin
Turkish author and humorist
Born
December 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1995 30 years ago — 79 years old
A prolific Turkish author and humorist. Authored over 100 books including novels, short stories, and plays. Established the Nesin Foundation to support and promote education and literacy in Turkey. Often employed satire to critique social issues, reflecting personal beliefs and observations. Contributed significantly to Turkish literature, particularly in the genre of humor.
Continue ReadingEdward VI
King of England and Ireland
Born
October 12th, 1537 488 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1553 472 years ago — 15 years old
Ruled as king of England and Ireland from 1547 until his death in 1553. Ascended to the throne at the age of nine following the death of his father, Henry VIII. During the reign, implemented major religious reforms that established Protestantism as the main religion in England through various acts, including the Book of Common Prayer. Oversaw a period of political instability and power struggles among the English nobility. Died at a young age, leading to a succession crisis.
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