Bryan Clauson
Race car driver and USAC champion
Accomplished in open-wheel racing, achieved prominence in the United States Auto Club (USAC) series. Claimed the 2013 USAC National Drivers Championship. Competed in various disciplines including midget car racing and sprint car racing, gaining a reputation for versatility and skill on the track. Participated in the Indianapolis 500, showcasing talent in major events. Tragically passed away in a racing accident in 2016.
Won the 2013 USAC National Drivers Championship
Competed in the Indianapolis 500
Participated in both midget and sprint car racing
Other People Born on June 15th
Erik Erikson
Psychologist known for psychosocial theory
Born
June 15th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed to the field of psychology and psychoanalysis with a focus on human development. Developed the psychosocial stages of development theory, which outlines eight key conflicts that shape personality across the lifespan. Worked with Anna Freud and contributed to ego psychology. Authored influential books including 'Childhood and Society' and 'Identity: Youth and Crisis', which explored identity development and the impact of society on personal growth. Taught at prestigious institutions including Harvard University and the University of California, Berkeley, influencing a generation of psychologists.
Continue ReadingJohn Fenn
American chemist, Nobel laureate
Born
June 15th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2010 15 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in mass spectrometry. Developed electrospray ionization, a method that revolutionized the analysis of biomolecules. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2002 for advancements made in the development of methods of identification and structure analyses of biological macromolecules. Held academic positions at various institutions throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingDemis Roussos
Singer and frontman of Aphrodite's Child
Born
June 15th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2015 11 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent singer, the individual achieved fame in the 1970s with a powerful voice and a blend of pop, rock, and world music. Gained international recognition as a member of the band Aphrodite's Child, which produced the acclaimed concept album '666'. Also enjoyed a successful solo career with hits like 'Forever and Ever' and 'Goodbye My Love, Goodbye'. The distinctive style often incorporated elements of Greek folk music. His signature appearance included long hair and colorful clothing, which became iconic during the era. Continued to perform and release music until death in 2015.
Continue ReadingWilliam B. Ogden
American businessman and politician
Born
June 15th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1877 148 years ago — 72 years old
A businessman and politician, served as the first mayor of Chicago from 1837 to 1838. Contributed to the development of the city during its early growth stages. Involved in various business ventures, including railroads and land development. Played a significant role in establishing Chicago's infrastructure and governance during its formative years.
Continue ReadingArchduke Ernest of Austria
Archduke and Military Leader
Born
June 15th, 1553 472 years ago
Died
1595 431 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1553, held the title of Archduke of Austria, serving as a prominent military leader during the period of the Habsburg dynasty. Played a significant role in the defense of Habsburg territories against Ottoman incursions. Governed various regions, notably overseeing Tyrol and the Inner Austrian lands. Continued the family's legacy of military and political influence within the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingCornelis de Witt
Dutch politician and statesman
Born
June 15th, 1623 402 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1672 353 years ago — 49 years old
Served as a prominent politician in the Dutch Republic during the 17th century. Played a significant role in the governance of the Republic, particularly in its foreign policy and political maneuvers. Held the office of Grand Pensionary of Holland, the highest position in the Dutch political system at the time. Advocated for the interests of the Republic against various adversaries, including England in the Second Anglo-Dutch War. His political career ended tragically due to his assassination during a civil unrest.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 7th
Jon McBride
American astronaut and shuttle pilot
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Joined NASA in 1980 and flew on two Space Shuttle missions, STS-41-G in 1984 and STS-49 in 1992. Contributed to the deployment of satellites and the retrieval of a satellite, showcasing skills in complex space operations. Served as a test pilot and instructor, impacting training programs for future astronauts. Retired from NASA and continued work in aerospace technology and education.
Continue ReadingFrances Oldham Kelsey
Pharmacologist against thalidomide
Born
July 24th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 101 years old
A pharmacologist and physician, contributed significantly to drug safety regulations. Conducted extensive reviews of thalidomide in the early 1960s while working at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Refused to approve the drug for use in the United States due to concerns about its safety for pregnant women. Her decision prevented thousands of potential birth defects, leading to increased scrutiny and reform in drug approval processes.
Continue ReadingJohn Nelder
Mathematician and statistician, created Nelder-Mead algorithm
Born
October 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
A mathematician and statistician contributed significantly to the field of statistics and optimization. Developed the Nelder-Mead method, a widely used algorithm for nonlinear optimization. Worked extensively on statistical models and played a crucial role in the advancement of analysis of variance and experimental design. Engaged in academic positions, fostering mathematics education and research.
Continue ReadingAlmir Kayumov
Footballer and referee in Russia
Born
December 30th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 48 years old
Played as a professional footballer in Russia and later transitioned to a career as a referee. Competed in various domestic leagues, showcasing skills as both an athlete and an official. Contributed to the development of football in the region through refereeing at various levels, including important matches in the Russian football system.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Catalani
Italian composer, known for La Wally
Born
June 19th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1893 132 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Italy, a composer gained recognition for creating operas that incorporated rich melodies and emotional depth. Studied at the Milan Conservatory and influenced later Italian opera. La Wally, premiering in 1892, became one of the most celebrated works, showcasing his unique style. The opera is distinct for its powerful arias and dramatic narrative. Catalani also composed other significant works, including Editta and Loreley, although none matched the success of La Wally. His contributions to late Romantic opera positioned him among notable Italian composers.
Continue ReadingPerry Moss
American football player and coach
Born
August 4th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Played quarterback in American football primarily for the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. Transitioned from player to coach and served as an assistant coach for several teams, including the University of Wisconsin and the University of Alaska. Contributed to the development of players in collegiate football and shared extensive knowledge of the game through coaching.
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