Bill Haley
Rock and roll pioneer with 'Rock Around the Clock'
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist played a central role in the development of rock and roll music during the 1950s. Achieved widespread popularity with the hit single 'Rock Around the Clock', which became an anthem for the rock and roll era. Formed the band Bill Haley & His Comets, which gained fame not only in the United States but also internationally. Contributed significantly to the genre's evolution with an energetic style that blended rhythm and blues with country music.
Released the iconic song 'Rock Around the Clock' in 1954
Led Bill Haley & His Comets to worldwide fame
Helped to popularize rock and roll music in the 1950s
Other People Born on July 6th
Sophie Adlersparre
Swedish women's rights activist and writer
Born
July 6th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
1895 130 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Sweden in 1823, a significant figure in the women's rights movement during the 19th century. Published various works that addressed gender equality and social issues. Established a pioneering feminist magazine to promote women's voices and advocate for their rights. Additionally, contributed to debates on women's education and employment opportunities, influencing later generations in the fight for gender equality.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Harrer
Austrian mountaineer and author
Born
July 6th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2006 19 years ago — 93 years old
Austrian mountaineer, geographer, and author participated in the first ascent of the north face of the Eiger in 1938. During World War II, captured by British forces, escaped from a prisoner of war camp in India and traveled to Tibet. In Tibet, lived for several years and became a close associate of the 14th Dalai Lama. Authored several books, with 'Seven Years in Tibet' achieving significant popularity and leading to a film adaptation in 1997. Harrer's explorations in Tibet contributed to western knowledge about the region and its culture.
Continue ReadingMerv Griffin
Television producer of Jeopardy! & Wheel of Fortune
Born
July 6th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2007 18 years ago — 82 years old
An actor, singer, and television producer created the popular game shows "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune." The game shows have become iconic in American television culture. Griffin initially found success as a performer in various stages and television formats before transitioning to production. Notably, he also wrote the theme music for both shows, which contributed to their recognition and longevity. His work in television spanned several decades until passing in 2007.
Continue ReadingHélène Carrère d'Encausse
French historian and politician, author
Born
July 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 94 years old
An influential historian and politician, contributed significantly to the understanding of Russian history and politics. Known for extensive writings that analyze the Soviet Union and post-Soviet states. Held the position of Permanent Secretary at the Académie Française and was a member of the French National Assembly. Emphasized the importance of historical context in contemporary political discourse.
Continue ReadingManteo Mitchell
American Olympic runner and relay athlete
Born
July 6th, 1987 38 years ago
An American runner specialized in the 400 meters. Competed in the 2012 London Olympics, representing the United States in the men’s 4x400 meter relay. During the semifinal race, sustained a leg injury but continued to run, contributing to the team's advancement to the finals. The team won a silver medal in the final race.
Continue ReadingDella Reese
Actress and singer, starred in Touched by an Angel
Born
July 6th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
An influential American actress and singer, a prominent figure in entertainment. Began a successful singing career in the 1950s with hits like 'Don't You Know?' before transitioning to acting. Achieved great recognition for portraying Tess in the television series 'Touched by an Angel', which aired from 1994 to 2003. The role garnered multiple award nominations and solidified a lasting legacy in television. Also had a successful career as a jazz and gospel singer, appearing on various music charts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 9th
John Hick
Philosopher and theologian, major works on religious plurality
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
A philosopher and theologian who specialized in the philosophy of religion. Developed a significant theory of religious pluralism, arguing for the validity of different religious experiences. Contributed to discussions on the nature of God, the problem of evil, and the afterlife. Authored key texts such as 'God and the Universe of Faiths' and 'Philosophy of Religion'. Served as a professor at the University of Birmingham and influenced theological education through various academic roles.
Continue ReadingEd Sabol
Film producer, co-founder of NFL Films
Born
September 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent film producer and director, co-founded NFL Films in 1962, transforming the way American football was presented on television. The innovative techniques developed under leadership helped popularize the National Football League, bringing the sport into the homes of millions. Known for a distinctive cinematic style, the work included features that highlighted the drama and artistry of the game. Received multiple Emmy Awards for contributions to sports filmmaking, solidifying a legacy in sports media.
Continue ReadingHank Bauer
Baseball player and manager, 1954 MVP
Born
July 31st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old
A Major League Baseball player and manager, this individual played primarily as an outfielder. His career in MLB began in 1948 and included several seasons with the New York Yankees. A member of the Yankees during their championship years, this player contributed to five World Series titles from 1949 to 1953. After his playing career, transitioned into management, leading the Baltimore Orioles and earning the American League Manager of the Year award in 1964. His career accomplishments include a well-regarded tenure as a manager, demonstrating success in both playing and managing capacities.
Continue ReadingIan Richardson
Scottish actor in 'House of Cards'
Born
April 7th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2007 18 years ago — 72 years old
A distinguished Scottish actor, primarily associated with the stage and screen. Gained prominence for performances in British television and film during the late 20th century. Notably portrayed Francis Urquhart in the original UK version of 'House of Cards,' a political thriller series based on the novels by Michael Dobbs. Earned acclaim for his theatrical work, particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company, contributing significantly to the British arts scene. Had a successful career in both television and cinema, showcasing a wide range of characters that demonstrated depth and versatility.
Continue ReadingJazeh Tabatabai
Iranian painter and sculptor
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2008 17 years ago — 77 years old
An Iranian artist contributed to modern art through painting, sculpture, and poetry. He studied painting at the fine arts faculty of the University of Tehran. His works reflected Iranian culture and heritage, often incorporating traditional motifs and techniques. In the 1960s, he became prominent in the contemporary art scene and was involved in several exhibitions. The artist moved to Paris in the 1970s, where he engaged with a wider artistic community. He returned to Iran after the Revolution and continued to work until his death in 2008. His artistic legacy remains influential in Iranian art.
Continue ReadingOrlando "Cachaíto" López
Cuban bassist and composer of Buena Vista
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2009 16 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Cuban bassist and composer, contributions spanned several decades and genres. Best recognized for work within the Buena Vista Social Club, which gained international acclaim for reviving traditional Cuban music. Involved in numerous albums and collaborations with iconic musicians, including Compay Segundo and Rubén González. Cachaíto also released solo projects that highlighted unique bass techniques, blending jazz, son, and bolero styles. His musical legacy remains influential within the Cuban music scene and beyond.
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