Chesley Bonestell
American space artist and illustrator
A painter, designer, and illustrator, contributed significantly to the visualization of space and celestial phenomena. Worked on the first images of the surface of the Moon and Mars for NASA during the mid-20th century. Created artwork for magazine covers, science fiction books, and educational publications. Helped popularize astronomy and space exploration through art, inspiring generations.
Illustrated for Life magazine
Produced artwork for NASA missions
Other People Born on January 1st
Chiune Sugihara
Japanese diplomat and humanitarian
Born
January 1st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1986 39 years ago — 86 years old
A Japanese diplomat served as vice-consul in Lithuania during World War II. Issued visas to thousands of Jewish refugees seeking escape from Nazi persecution. His actions allowed many to flee to safety in Japan and other countries. After the war, returned to Japan and later worked in the manufacturing industry.
Continue ReadingJames George Frazer
Anthropologist and cultural theorist
Born
January 1st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1941 84 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of anthropology, particularly through the publication of 'The Golden Bough'. This work explored myth, ritual, and beliefs across cultures, examining the evolution of religious thought. The scholarship focused on comparing various belief systems and highlighted the similarities between ancient and modern practices. Also served as a prominent academic figure, influencing the field with theories relating to magic, religion, and culture.
Continue ReadingAlfred Stieglitz
American photographer and curator
Born
January 1st, 1864 161 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1946 79 years ago — 82 years old
Pioneered modern photography and photo exhibitions. Founded gallery 291 in New York City, which showcased contemporary art, including works by artists like Georgia O'Keeffe. Stieglitz contributed significantly to the movement for photography to be recognized as a fine art form. Developed and promoted the style known as pictorialism, emphasizing artistic expression throughout photographic imagery. His work has been influential in shaping photography as a respected medium in the art world.
Continue ReadingAndré Marie Constant Duméril
French zoologist and professor
Born
January 1st, 1774 251 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1860 165 years ago — 86 years old
Born in France in 1774, this zoologist and academic made significant contributions to herpetology, the study of reptiles and amphibians. Duméril served as a professor at the Musée d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris, where he focused on the classification and systematic study of various species. He published important works that laid the groundwork for future research in zoology, including multiple volumes on reptiles and their taxonomy. His collaborations with notable contemporaries helped advance the scientific community's understanding of animal biology and diversity.
Continue ReadingAlan Berg
Lawyer and radio host known for controversies
Born
January 1st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1984 41 years ago — 50 years old
A lawyer and radio host with a notable career in talk radio. Best recognized for hosting a progressive talk show in the 1980s, which often featured controversial topics and attracted a significant audience. The radio program emphasized liberal viewpoints and engaged listeners in discussions about contemporary political issues. Worked as a civil rights attorney and was involved in various legal cases before transitioning fully into broadcasting. Berg was known for his outspoken style, which garnered both dedicated supporters and vocal critics. His life was cut short in 1984 due to a targeted shooting, leading to significant discussions about free speech and political rhetoric.
Continue ReadingMilt Jackson
Jazz vibraphonist and composer
Born
January 1st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1999 26 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1923, a prominent American jazz vibraphonist and composer contributed significantly to the genre. Helped form the Modern Jazz Quartet in 1952, blending classical elements with jazz. Recognized for innovative approaches to vibraphone playing and incorporation of melodic and harmonic aspects of jazz. Collaborated with several notable musicians throughout a prolific career, showcasing versatility and deep musicality. Released numerous albums as a leader, establishing a significant legacy in jazz music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 11th
R. J. Mitchell
English engineer, designer of the Spitfire
Born
May 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1937 88 years ago — 42 years old
An English engineer specializing in aircraft design, contributed significantly to aviation technology. Designed the Supermarine Spitfire, a fighter aircraft used extensively during World War II. Spitfire gained a reputation for its performance and effectiveness in aerial combat. Mitchell's engineering leadership and innovative designs advanced the field of aeronautics and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.
Continue ReadingEmilian of Cogolla
Iberic saint and spiritual leader
Died
June 11th, 573 1452 years ago — None years old
Emilian of Cogolla served as a prominent Iberic saint during the 6th century. Established a monastic community in the region, emphasizing a life of discipline and asceticism. His teachings and spiritual guidance attracted many followers, contributing to the spread of religious devotion in Iberia. Recognized for his leadership in monastic practices, he became an important figure in the early Christian church in the area. His influence continued even after his death in 573.
Continue ReadingAlexander I of Serbia
King of Serbia during modernization
Born
August 14th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1903 122 years ago — 26 years old
Ruled as the King of Serbia from 1889 until his assassination in 1903. Implemented significant reforms aimed at modernization and strengthening the state. Focused on military organization and infrastructure development. Expanded education and legal reforms, contributing to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. His reign was marked by efforts to solidify Serbian national identity and territorial integrity amid regional challenges. The period included conflicts that ultimately shaped Serbia's future.
Continue ReadingHenry of Flanders
Emperor of the Latin Empire
Died
June 11th, 1216 809 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the title of Emperor of the Latin Empire following the Fourth Crusade. His reign faced numerous challenges, including conflicts with local Greek rulers and issues of governance in a politically fragmented region. Oversaw the struggle to consolidate power over Constantinople while attempting to maintain stability within the empire. Died during his reign, leading to a succession crisis that affected the stability of the Latin Empire.
Continue ReadingJames III of Scotland
King of Scotland, patron of the arts
Born
July 10th, 1451 574 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1488 537 years ago — 36 years old
Ascended the throne in 1460 and ruled until 1488. Focused on strengthening royal authority and enhancing cultural life in Scotland. Promoted arts and learning, leading to the construction of significant architectural works. Engaged in conflicts with nobility, culminating in the Battle of Sauchieburn, which resulted in his death. His reign is marked by efforts to centralize power and a patronage of luxury and culture.
Continue ReadingHenry the Young King of England
Young King of England, co-ruler
Born
1155 870 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1183 842 years ago — 28 years old
Served as co-king of England alongside father Henry II from 1170 until death in 1183. Received the title of King of England at a young age but was never fully crowned. Involved in military campaigns against his father's rule. Engaged in conflicts with siblings over territories and succession, often leading rebellions. His reign was marked by struggles for power with the King of France, ultimately leading to significant strife within the royal family.
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