Brian Piccolo

American football player; Chicago Bears running back

Brian Piccolo - American football player; Chicago Bears running back
Born

October 31st, 1943
81 years ago

Died

June 16th, 1970
54 years ago — 26 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

Played college football at Wake Forest University, earning All-American honors. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1965, played as a running back. Gained recognition for his performance on the field and his character off the field. Developed a close friendship with teammate Gale Sayers. Diagnosed with cancer in 1968, faced the illness with courage, which gained attention and sympathy. Died at the age of 26, leaving a legacy that inspired a biographical film.

Played for the Chicago Bears

Co-authored the book 'I Am Third'

The film 'Brian's Song' depicted his life

Other People Born on October 31st

Buddy Lazier

Race car driver, Indy 500 champion
Born
October 31st, 1967 57 years ago

A successful race car driver from the United States, achieved prominence in the IndyCar series. Excelled in open-wheel racing, securing the prestigious Indianapolis 500 title in 1996. Competed for multiple teams throughout the career, including Galles Racing and Hemelgarn Racing. Participated in several seasons of the Indy Racing League, consistently demonstrating skill on challenging tracks.

Continue Reading

Johannes Vermeer

Dutch painter with masterful light
Born
October 31st, 1632 392 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1675 349 years ago — 43 years old

Active during the Dutch Golden Age, this painter specialized in domestic interior scenes and the subtle interplay of light and color. The artist's technique in using various compositions and textures is evident in works such as 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' and 'The Milkmaid.' Vermeer produced around 35 paintings, each showcasing meticulous detail and a distinctive charm. The lack of extensive documentation has led to fascination and scholarly interest in this artist's life and techniques, making the surviving works immensely valuable and influential in art history. The artist's works often depict women engaged in everyday activities, revealing a remarkable narrative quality.

Continue Reading

Paul Frampton

Physicist and academic educator
Born
October 31st, 1943 81 years ago

Worked extensively in the field of particle physics with significant contributions to theoretical models. Held academic positions at various institutions, emphasizing the importance of research and education. Involved in numerous collaborative projects and authored publications that advanced understanding in the discipline. Throughout the career, engaged with students and mentored young scientists, fostering the next generation of researchers. Earned recognition through various awards and appointments due to research excellence.

Continue Reading

Herman Van Rompuy

Belgian Prime Minister and EU President
Born
October 31st, 1947 77 years ago

Served as the 66th Prime Minister of Belgium from 2008 to 2009. Held the position of President of the European Council from 2010 to 2014, focusing on economic stability and institutional reforms within Europe. Worked in various political roles, including as a member of the House of Representatives and Minister of Budget. Contributed to Belgian and European politics through negotiations and leadership during times of crisis.

Continue Reading

Fritz Walter

German footballer, 1954 World Cup winner
Born
October 31st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent German footballer, played as an attacking midfielder and forward. Spent the majority of his career at 1. FC Kaiserslautern, where he achieved significant success. Acted as team captain during the 1954 FIFA World Cup, leading Germany to victory against Hungary in the final, a match famously referred to as the 'Miracle of Bern'. His contributions to the sport extended beyond club football, representing the national team in 61 matches and scoring 33 goals. Remembered for his technical skills and leadership.

Continue Reading

Nadine Lustre

Filipino actress and singer
Born
October 31st, 1993 31 years ago

Gained recognition as an actress and singer in the Philippines. Starred in the romantic film 'Never Not Love You' and the television series 'On the Wings of Love'. Ventured into music with solo albums, showcasing versatility in both fields. Participated in various advocacy projects, aligning with personal interests.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 16th

Charles-François Lebrun

French lawyer and politician
Born
March 19th, 1739 286 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1824 200 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1739, a distinguished lawyer and politician in France during the late 18th century. Played a significant role during the Reign of Terror and served as the First Consul of France under Napoleon Bonaparte. Held the title of duc de Plaisance and was involved in key political decisions during a turbulent time in French history. Contributed to the drafting of the Constitution of the Year VIII, thus shaping the governance of France post-Revolution.

Continue Reading

Vernon Louis Parrington

Historian and scholar, authored 'Main Currents'
Born
August 3rd, 1871 153 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1929 95 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent American historian and scholar in the early 20th century, focused on American literature and cultural history. Parrington's major work, 'Main Currents in American Thought', critically examined the evolution of American ideas and values from colonial times to the early 20th century. This seminal text contributed significantly to the fields of history and literary criticism by presenting a comprehensive narrative of America's intellectual development. Additionally, Parrington served as a professor at the University of Washington, influencing many students and future scholars of American studies. His scholarship combined literary analysis with historical context, highlighting the interplay between literature and societal issues.

Continue Reading

Khondakar Ashraf Hossain

Bangladeshi poet and academic
Born
January 4th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2013 11 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to Bengali literature through poetry and academic work. Worked as a professor, shaping future generations in literary studies. Authored several poetry collections that reflect the cultural and social dynamics of Bangladesh. Engaged in various literary and educational organizations to promote the arts and education.

Continue Reading

Norman Ian MacKenzie

English journalist and author of works on history
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2013 11 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent journalist and author, focused on historical narratives and commentary. Worked for various prestigious publications and contributed significantly to the fields of journalism and literature. Notable for the exploration of political and social issues through written works. Authored several books, delving into subjects such as British history and contemporary political commentary. Gained respect within literary communities for insightful analyses and thorough research.

Continue Reading

William Lawson

Explorer and politician in Australia
Born
June 2nd, 1774 251 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1850 174 years ago — 76 years old

Born in England in 1774, William Lawson became an influential explorer and politician in Australia. In 1813, he led an expedition through the Blue Mountains, paving the way for future settlers. This exploratory journey opened up new agricultural land and contributed to the expansion of the colony. Lawson served in various political roles, including as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council. His contributions to both exploration and governance significantly shaped early Australian society.

Continue Reading

Fred Wacker

Race Driver and Engineer
Born
July 10th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1998 26 years ago — 79 years old

An American race driver and engineer who competed in various motorsport events. Participated in the Indianapolis 500 multiple times, showcasing engineering skills in automotive design. Contributed to advancements in racing technology, solidifying a reputation in the engineering side of motorsports.

Continue Reading