Barbara Bush

Political matriarch and literacy advocate

Barbara Bush - Political matriarch and literacy advocate
Born

June 8th, 1925
100 years ago

Died

April 17th, 2018
7 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as Second Lady of the United States from 1981 to 1989 and as First Lady from 1989 to 1993. Focused on education and literacy, founding the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy to promote reading and educational opportunities. Advocated for public health initiatives and supported various charitable organizations.

Served as First Lady during George H.W. Bush's presidency

Founded the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy

Other People Born on June 8th

Joan Rivers

Comedian and TV host during the 80s
Born
June 8th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2014 10 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in American comedy, a career spanned over five decades. Started as a stand-up comedian, frequently performed in clubs and on television, and served as a pioneer for women in comedy. Made significant contributions to the entertainment industry through hosting duties, particularly on the television show 'The Tonight Show' and her own program, 'Fashion Police'. Also appeared in various films and television series, blending humor with sharp social commentary.

Continue Reading

Marguerite Yourcenar

Author known for 'Memoirs of Hadrian'
Born
June 8th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 84 years old

Marguerite Yourcenar was a Belgian-French author and poet. She became the first woman elected to the Académie Française in 1980. Yourcenar's literary career spanned several decades, during which she wrote novels, essays, and plays. One of her most significant works, 'Memoirs of Hadrian', published in 1951, is a fictional account of the Roman Emperor Hadrian's life, exploring themes of love, loss, and mortality. The novel received critical acclaim and has been translated into multiple languages, confirming her place in the literary canon. She also gained recognition for her other works, including 'The Abyss', which examined the life of an early Christian philosopher. Yourcenar's evocative prose and deep philosophical insights have continued to resonate with readers worldwide.

Continue Reading

Doug Mountjoy

Welsh Snooker Player, World Champion
Born
June 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent snooker player from Wales, achieved significant success during the 1970s and 1980s. Won the World Snooker Championship in 1981, marking a peak in competitive play. Competed in various tournaments throughout the career, consistently ranking among the top players in the world. Also secured victories in other prestigious events, contributing to the growth of the sport.

Continue Reading

Louise Richardson

Political scientist and academic leader
Born
June 8th, 1958 67 years ago

An Irish political scientist and academic leader, served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford since 2016. Previously, held the position of Principal and Vice-Chancellor at the University of St Andrews. Specialized in terrorism and political violence, contributing significantly to the field through research and publications. Engaged in educational governance and institutional leadership.

Continue Reading

Guido Banti

Italian physician and pathologist
Born
June 8th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1925 100 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of pathology with a focus on neurological diseases. Played a pivotal role in the study of syphilis, establishing the connection between the disease and the development of cardiovascular issues. Authored several influential papers that advanced understanding of various pathological conditions. Held a prominent position in the medical community in Italy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Continue Reading

Francis Crick

Biologist and co-discoverer of DNA structure
Born
June 8th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2004 20 years ago — 88 years old

A significant figure in molecular biology, made crucial contributions to the understanding of the genetic code and DNA structure. Collaborated with James Watson to propose the double helix model of DNA in 1953, which elucidated how genetic information is stored and transferred. This groundbreaking work laid the foundation for modern genetics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962 alongside Watson and Maurice Wilkins for their discoveries concerning the molecular structure of nucleic acids.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 17th

Kantarō Suzuki

Japanese admiral and Prime Minister
Born
January 18th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1948 77 years ago — 80 years old

An admiral in the Imperial Japanese Navy, Suzuki served as the 42nd Prime Minister of Japan during the final stages of World War II. Appointed in 1945, he faced significant political challenges and the aftermath of Japan's surrender. Prior to his premiership, Suzuki held various naval commands, contributing to naval operations during the tumultuous years of the war. His leadership coincided with the critical transition of Japan from wartime to post-war recovery.

Continue Reading

Gamal Hamdan

Egyptian geographer and scholar
Born
February 2nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1993 32 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of geography, focusing on the Arab world and particularly Egypt. Authored several influential works, including 'The Character of Egypt', which explores the geography, history, and culture of Egypt. Engaged in extensive research that examined the relationship between geography and society, influencing subsequent studies in the region. Also served as a professor at Cairo University, where many students studied geography under his guidance.

Continue Reading

Bernard of Italy

Frankish king and ruler of Italy
Died
April 17th, 818 1207 years ago — None years old

Ruled as King of Italy from 813 until his death in 818. Bernard was the grandson of Charlemagne and became a significant figure in the Frankish Empire. As a monarch, he faced conflicts with local nobles and sought to maintain Carolingian authority in Italy. His reign was marked by attempts to consolidate power and manage relationships with the papacy. Bernard's leadership occurred during a transitional period in the empire's history, characterized by challenges to its unity and stability. He was deposed in 817 by his uncle, Louis the Pious, following political tensions arising within the empire. Bernard's life and reign illustrate the complexities of Carolingian politics.

Continue Reading

Manwel Dimech

Maltese journalist and philosopher
Born
1860 165 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1921 104 years ago — 61 years old

Dimech contributed significantly to Maltese literature, journalism, and philosophy. Dimech's writings often addressed social issues and advocated for reforms in Malta. A prominent figure in Maltese culture, he worked as a journalist and wrote extensively on topics such as education, politics, and the rights of workers. Dimech also founded and edited various publications, playing a key role in shaping public discourse in Malta during his time. His legacy continues to influence Maltese thought and literature.

Continue Reading

Doris Roberts

American actress, 'Everybody Loves Raymond'
Born
November 4th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old

An American actress with a career spanning several decades, celebrated for roles in television and film. Featured prominently in the sitcom 'Everybody Loves Raymond' as Marie Barone, a mother figure. Other notable appearances included 'Remington Steele' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Received multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for her performances, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Continue Reading

J. T. Hearne

English cricketer and cricket coach
Born
May 3rd, 1867 158 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1944 81 years ago — 76 years old

This individual played first-class cricket from 1891 to 1920, primarily for Middlesex. He achieved remarkable success as a bowler, becoming one of the leading wicket-takers during his career. In addition to his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and contributed significantly to the development of cricket in England. His expertise in fast bowling and tactical knowledge influenced many young cricketers. This individual lived until 1944, leaving a legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading