Diego Velázquez

Spanish painter of Las Meninas

Diego Velázquez - Spanish painter of Las Meninas
Born

June 6th, 1599
425 years ago

Died

August 6th, 1660
364 years ago — 61 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Spain

Links & References

Born in Seville, this painter emerged as one of the most important figures in Western art. Apprenticed at a young age, he developed a unique style characterized by realism and a remarkable understanding of light. In 1623, he became the court painter to King Philip IV of Spain, a position that allowed him to produce some of his most celebrated works. The painting 'Las Meninas' is often regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces of Western art, showcasing complex composition and a deep exploration of perspective. He created numerous portraits of the Spanish royal family and other notable figures, contributing to the Baroque movement. Velázquez's work influenced many later artists and is studied extensively in art history.

Created the masterpiece Las Meninas

Served as the court painter for King Philip IV

Produced numerous royal and court portraits

Other People Born on June 6th

Yvon Mvogo

Swiss footballer and goalkeeper
Born
June 6th, 1994 30 years ago

A professional footballer, played primarily as a goalkeeper. Began career at FC Lausanne-Sport before joining Young Boys, contributing to the club’s success. Later transferred to RB Leipzig, competing in the Bundesliga and UEFA competitions. Also represented the Swiss national team at various youth levels and participated in senior international matches.

Continue Reading

Willie John McBride

Rugby player and British Lions captain
Born
June 6th, 1940 84 years ago

A Northern Irish rugby player played lock and captain for the British Lions during five tours from 1962 to 1974. Part of the 1971 Lions team that achieved a notable series win against New Zealand in their homeland. Joined the British Lions on tours to South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia, marking significant contributions to the sport during each campaign. Known for leadership on and off the field, was influential in shaping a strong team culture among players. Continued to be involved in rugby after retirement, contributing to coaching and mentorship roles.

Continue Reading

Keith Daniel Williams

Convicted rapist and triple murderer
Born
June 6th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 28 years ago — 48 years old

Grew up in the United States, displayed troubling behaviors from a young age that escalated into severe criminal activities. Convicted of three murders in the 1980s, leading to life sentences without the possibility of parole. Infamous for committing heinous acts that resulted in public outrage and significant media attention. The cases developed a narrative around criminal psychology and the failures of the legal system.

Continue Reading

Sam Simon

Television director and producer, The Simpsons
Born
June 6th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 59 years old

An American director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to television with a primary focus on animated series. Co-created the iconic animated show The Simpsons, which debuted in 1989 and became a cultural phenomenon, influencing countless aspects of media and entertainment. In addition to The Simpsons, developed and produced the series Tracey Ullman Show, which provided the platform for the debut of The Simpsons shorts. Awarded multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for excellence in television programming. Later in life, became involved in animal rights activism, working with various organizations to promote the welfare of animals.

Continue Reading

Arlene Harris

Entrepreneur and policy advocate
Born
June 6th, 1948 76 years ago

An entrepreneur and inventor contributed to the development of telecommunications technologies. Played a key role in launching innovative products and services, including wireless communication systems. Actively participated in policy advocacy aimed at supporting women in technology and entrepreneurship. Served in leadership positions within several industry organizations, promoting advancements in technology and public policy.

Continue Reading

Jan Struther

English author and hymnwriter, Mrs. Miniver
Born
June 6th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 52 years old

An English author, poet, and hymnwriter, gained prominence through the character Mrs. Miniver, a fictional figure representing the British homefront during World War II. The character first appeared in a series of newspaper articles in 1937, later expanded into a novel and adapted into an acclaimed film in 1942. This work resonated with the changing attitudes of the era, depicting the challenges faced by ordinary people amidst the backdrop of war. In addition to creative writing, contributions to literature included poetry and hymn writing, establishing a lasting legacy in both fields.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 6th

Pope Paul VI

Pope and Vatican II proponent
Born
September 26th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1978 46 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the Pope from 1963 until 1978, leading the Catholic Church through significant changes. Guided the Second Vatican Council to completion, which aimed to modernize church practices and improve relations with other religions. Promoted peace and social justice during times of political tension and conflict. Implemented reforms within the Church, addressing issues of liturgy and ecumenism. Played a major role in international diplomacy and the promotion of human rights.

Continue Reading

Feodor Felix Konrad Lynen

German biochemist and Nobel laureate
Born
April 6th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1979 45 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent biochemist, contributions focused on cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1964 for groundbreaking discoveries in the field of lipid metabolism. Served as a professor at the Technical University of Munich, influencing future generations of scientists through teaching and research. Published extensive research that aided in the understanding of cellular processes.

Continue Reading

Marvin Hamlisch

American composer and conductor of 'A Chorus Line'
Born
June 2nd, 1944 80 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 68 years old

An American composer and conductor was involved in various aspects of music, including film scores, Broadway musicals, and symphonic compositions. Achieved success through a range of genres, contributing significantly to the arts. Won three Academy Awards for music contributions, notably for 'The Way We Were' and 'The Sting'. Other notable accolades include Grammy Awards and a Tony Award for 'A Chorus Line', which also won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Continue Reading

John Woodland Hastings

Biochemist and academic researcher
Born
March 24th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2014 10 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in biochemistry, focused on circadian rhythms and their effects on biological processes. Conducted significant research on the role of light in regulating sleep patterns and metabolic functions. Contributed to the understanding of how external light influences hormonal cycles in organisms. Held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, influencing generations of researchers. Published numerous papers and held patents related to biological rhythms and photoperception.

Continue Reading

Fe del Mundo

Pediatrician and medical educator
Born
November 27th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2011 13 years ago — 99 years old

A pioneering pediatrician and educator, contributed significantly to child health in the Philippines. Established the first pediatric hospital in the country, the Children's Medical Center. Developed protocols and treatments that improved pediatric care. Played a crucial role in educating future generations of healthcare professionals. Received numerous accolades for contributions to medicine and education, including national and international awards.

Continue Reading

Robert Hughes

Author and art critic, wrote 'The Shock of the New'
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 74 years old

An Australian-American author and critic, contributed significantly to art criticism and cultural commentary. Served as the art critic for Time magazine for three decades. Published several influential books, including 'The Shock of the New,' which examined the evolution of modern art. His works often included sharp analyses of contemporary art and culture, blending personal narrative with insightful critique. Received several awards for contributions to art criticism and literature, establishing a prominent voice in the field.

Continue Reading