Bud Collins
Sports journalist and tennis commentator
A prominent sports journalist and broadcaster, this individual covered tennis for over six decades. Contributed regularly to The Boston Globe and served as a television commentator for several networks, including NBC and ESPN. Played a significant role in the popularization of tennis through insightful commentary and comprehensive coverage. Authored books on tennis and captured the culture of the sport with unique flair and style. Received several awards for sports journalism and was elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to the sport.
Provided commentary for major tennis events
Author of 'Tennis: A Cultural History'
Inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame
Other People Born on June 17th
Gregory Blaxland
Explorer and early settler of Australia
Born
June 17th, 1778 248 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1853 173 years ago — 74 years old
An Australian farmer and explorer, contributed to the exploration of New South Wales. In 1813, led the first successful crossing of the Blue Mountains, which opened up new land for settlement. His journey played a significant role in the expansion of the agricultural frontier in Australia. Blaxland's work established essential routes that facilitated further exploration and colonization of the interior regions of New South Wales.
Continue ReadingThomas Haden Church
Actor, known for 'Sideways' and 'Wings'
Born
June 17th, 1960 66 years ago
An American actor engaged in television and film. Early career included cast roles in the television series 'Wings', playing Lowell Mather from 1990 to 1997. Gained recognition for the role in the critically acclaimed film 'Sideways' in 2004, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Highlighted in further projects, including roles in 'Spider-Man 3' and 'George of the Jungle'.
Continue ReadingJohn Hersey
American journalist and author of Hiroshima
Born
June 17th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1993 33 years ago — 78 years old
A journalist and author, contributed significantly to frontline reporting and literature. Hersey's notable work includes 'Hiroshima', published in 1946, which presented a detailed account of the experiences of survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II. This work reshaped narratives around war and its consequences. In addition, Hersey covered major events such as the Second World War and the Korean War, earning recognition for his impactful journalism. Throughout his career, he won several awards for excellence in reporting and storytelling.
Continue ReadingCarl Hermann
Physicist and academic focused on spectroscopy
Born
June 17th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1961 64 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in spectroscopy and crystal structure analysis. Conducted pioneering research that advanced the understanding of crystal growth and properties. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of physicists through both teaching and research. Published numerous scientific papers and books that became essential references in the field of solid-state physics.
Continue ReadingJohann Georg Walch
Theologian and author of theological works
Born
June 17th, 1693 333 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1775 251 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent German theologian and author, contributed extensively to Lutheran theology during the 18th century. Focused on the reconciliation of confessional differences within Lutheranism and the broader Christian community. Published significant works that addressed doctrinal issues and interpretations of Scripture. Played a crucial role in educational reforms for the clergy, promoting theological training and biblical scholarship.
Continue ReadingE. G. Squier
Archaeologist and journalist
Born
June 17th, 1821 205 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1888 138 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of archaeology, particularly in the study of ancient Native American mounds. Authored several important works including 'Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley'. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Smithsonian Institution as a research organization. Worked as a journalist, covering various topics of his time, and promoted the importance of scientific research in archaeology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 4th
Jean-Baptiste Greuze
French painter of genre scenes
Born
August 21st, 1725 300 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1805 221 years ago — 79 years old
Born in France, a prominent painter created works characterized by their emotional depth and attention to detail. Greuze specialized in genre scenes and portraiture, achieving fame during the 18th century. The artist's paintings often conveyed moral and sentimental themes, appealing to the tastes of the time. Greuze received acclaim for his ability to capture the human experience in a relatable manner, resulting in numerous commissions from patrons and collectors. His style influenced many artists of the period.
Continue ReadingHarold Barrowclough
New Zealand Chief Justice and politician
Born
June 23rd, 1894 132 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1972 54 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent legal figure, served as the 8th Chief Justice of New Zealand. Held significant roles in both the judiciary and politics, contributing to the development of legal frameworks in the country. In addition to judicial responsibilities, engaged in legal practices as a lawyer, advocating for justice and legal reform. Throughout the tenure, established precedents in various cases that shaped New Zealand's legal landscape. Participated actively in the political arena, influencing legislative measures during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingHarry Blackmun
U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Roe v. Wade
Born
November 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1999 27 years ago — 90 years old
Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1970 to 1994. Appointed by President Richard Nixon, contributed significantly to the Court's deliberations on various constitutional issues. Authored the majority opinion in Roe v. Wade, which established a woman's legal right to abortion. His tenure included involvement in landmark cases pertaining to civil rights, capital punishment, and the First Amendment. Retired from the Court in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy on American law.
Continue ReadingWalter H. Schottky
Physicist known for Schottky barrier
Born
July 23rd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1976 50 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of electrical engineering and physics, particularly in semiconductor technology. Developed the Schottky barrier, a crucial concept in electronics that pertains to metal-semiconductor junctions. Worked on various aspects of quantum mechanics and solid-state physics, influencing later advancements in these areas. Contributed to the understanding of thermionic emission and its applications in vacuum tubes and diodes.
Continue ReadingToren Smith
Canadian businessman and manga publisher
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2013 13 years ago — 53 years old
A Canadian businessman founded Studio Proteus, a pivotal company in the localization of manga for English-speaking audiences. The studio played a significant role in adapting and translating various manga titles, helping to popularize the medium in North America. In addition to localization work, efforts included collaborations with publishers to ensure authentic cultural representation. Smith's contributions have shaped the landscape of manga distribution and accessibility for English readers, making it a critical part of the comic book industry.
Continue ReadingWilliam Willett
English inventor of British Summer Time
Born
August 10th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1915 111 years ago — 58 years old
An English inventor proposed the concept of daylight saving time, which later became known as British Summer Time. Willett published a pamphlet in 1907 titled 'The Waste of Daylight' that outlined the benefits of shifting the clock forward in spring and back in autumn. The proposal aimed to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. Despite the initial resistance, the idea gained traction and was eventually implemented during World War I in 1916 for energy conservation. Willett's advocacy for this change significantly influenced time management practices in various countries.
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