Cornelis de Witt
Dutch politician and statesman
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.
Served as Grand Pensionary of Holland
Influenced Dutch foreign policy during conflicts
Other People Born on June 15th
Abdur Razzak
Cricketer; Bangladesh national team
Born
June 15th, 1982 43 years ago
A former cricketer played for the Bangladesh national team, specializing as a left-arm orthodox spinner. Debuted internationally in 2001 and participated in various Test and One Day International matches. Contributed significantly in several key tournaments, providing crucial wickets and stability in the bowling attack. Retired from international cricket in 2014 and has been involved in coaching and mentoring roles following retirement.
Continue ReadingCooper Kupp
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl MVP
Born
June 15th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional American football player excelled as a wide receiver. Played for the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL. Achieved significant success during the 2021 season, leading the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions. Contributed to the Rams' victory in Super Bowl LVI and earned the Super Bowl MVP award. In college, played for Eastern Washington University, setting numerous records.
Continue ReadingEdison Toloza
Colombian footballer, former national player
Born
June 15th, 1984 41 years ago
Edison Toloza played as a forward in professional football. His career included stints at various clubs in Colombia, with notable performances at teams like Independiente Santa Fe and Atlético Huila. Toloza also represented Colombia at the national level, showcasing his skills in international competitions. His contributions to the sport have been recognized throughout his career, particularly during pivotal matches. After several years in professional football, he transitioned to coaching roles, sharing his expertise with younger players.
Continue ReadingJames Maloney
Rugby league player and representative athlete
Born
June 15th, 1986 39 years ago
A prominent rugby league player, contributions to the sport include representing New South Wales and playing for clubs such as Sydney Roosters, Cronulla Sharks, and Penrith Panthers. Achieved significant success during career, including multiple NRL Grand Final victories. Played a key role in securing the 2016 NRL Premiership with Cronulla. Internationally, participated in the Rugby League World Cup, representing Australia.
Continue ReadingIrfan Hadžić
Bosnian footballer
Born
June 15th, 1993 32 years ago
This footballer played as a midfielder and began his professional career with FK Sloboda Tuzla. Later moved to play for HNK Rijeka in the Croatian First Football League, contributing to the team's successes during his tenure. Also represented the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team at various youth and senior levels, showcasing skills on an international stage.
Continue ReadingTrevor Plouffe
Baseball player and Minnesota Twins infielder
Born
June 15th, 1986 39 years ago
Drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 2004 and debuted in Major League Baseball in 2010. Primarily played third base and had a significant stint with the Twins until 2016. Contributed to the team's performance over several seasons, renowned for offensive capability and durability. Transitioned to play for teams such as the Tampa Bay Rays and the Philadelphia Phillies before retiring from professional baseball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Martin Opitz
German poet and composer of Baroque era
Born
December 23rd, 1597 428 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1639 386 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent poet and composer during the Baroque period, contributions to the German literary landscape included a significant role in establishing the German language in poetry. Opitz published 'Buch von der deutschen Poeterey', which laid theoretical foundations for German poetry and advocated for the use of the German language in literature. His works reflected a blend of classical influences and new forms of expression and played an essential role in the development of German drama and lyrical poetry.
Continue ReadingPope Pius VII
Religious leader and prominent pope
Born
August 14th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1823 202 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the pope from 1800 until death in 1823. Led the Catholic Church during the tumultuous period of the Napoleonic Wars. Restored the papacy's authority after being imprisoned by Napoleon. Extended church influence in Europe and re-established the Jesuits after their suppression in 1773.
Continue ReadingOswine of Deira
King of Deira and Frithuwold's nephew
Died
August 20th, 651 1374 years ago — None years old
Ruled over the kingdom of Deira in Northumbria during the early 7th century. Ascended to the throne after the death of his predecessor, becoming involved in the conflicts and politics of the time. Demonstrated loyalty to the church and sought to support its establishment in Deira. Executed by King Oswiu of Bernicia in a bid for power after a brief reign. His death marked a significant shift in the Northumbrian political landscape.
Continue ReadingRam Sharan Sharma
Indian historian and academic
Born
November 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
An Indian historian and academic specialized in ancient Indian history. Participated in various archaeological expeditions across India, contributing significantly to the field of historical research and education. Held the position of Professor of History at the University of Delhi and served as the Director of the Indian Council of Historical Research. Authored several influential books on Indian history, particularly focusing on the Gupta period and the socio-economic conditions of ancient India. Played a role in shaping modern historical narratives through rigorous scholarship and teaching.
Continue ReadingFred Hoyle
Astronomer, author, and creator of the term 'Big Bang'
Born
June 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old
An English astronomer and author contributed significantly to the field of cosmology and astrophysics. Developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how elements are formed within stars. Authored several influential books, including 'The Black Cloud' and 'Astronomy'. Coined the phrase 'Big Bang' in 1949 to describe a competing cosmological model, although he favored a different steady-state theory. His work spanned topics such as quasars, nucleosynthesis, and the origins of life in the universe.
Continue ReadingS. Sivamaharajah
Sri Lankan Tamil newspaper publisher
Born
June 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 68 years old
Established a significant presence in the Tamil media landscape of Sri Lanka through the founding of a prominent Tamil-language newspaper. Engaged in political activities representing Tamil interests and advocating for rights within the region. Contributed to the development and dissemination of Tamil culture and social issues through journalism.
Continue Reading