Dorothy West
Journalist and author of 'The Living is Easy'
Contributed to the Harlem Renaissance through literature and journalism. Worked as a writer for several publications, including The Chicago Defender and The New York Age. Published the novel 'The Living is Easy' in 1948, which explored African American life and identity. Involved in various literary societies and advocated for the rights and recognition of African American authors. Edited 'Challenge' magazine, providing a platform for Black writers during the 1930s.
Published 'The Living is Easy'
Contributed to 'Challenge' magazine
Other People Born on June 2nd
June Callwood
Canadian journalist and author
Born
June 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2007 18 years ago — 82 years old
A Canadian journalist, author, and activist contributed to numerous publications, focusing on social justice issues. Extensive writing included books, articles, and columns that highlighted the struggles of marginalized communities. Played a pivotal role in founding several organizations, including the Canadian Mental Health Association. Advocated for women's rights and mental health issues, participating in various public discussions and events.
Continue ReadingCampbell Graham
Rugby league player for South Sydney Rabbitohs
Born
June 2nd, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, this rugby league player started his professional career with the South Sydney Rabbitohs in the NRL. He gained recognition for his performances as a center, contributing significantly to his team's success. His agility and strength on the field made him a key player, helping the Rabbitohs in several competitive seasons. In representative football, he played for the New South Wales State of Origin team, showcasing his skills at a national level. His early career displayed a blend of determination and athleticism, establishing a solid foundation for future achievements within the sport.
Continue ReadingMomčilo Vukotić
Footballer and manager, European champion
Born
June 2nd, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 71 years old
A Serbian footballer and manager, made significant contributions to the sport in the 1970s and 1980s. Played as a midfielder and was part of the successful Red Star Belgrade team that secured the European Cup in 1991. Transitioned into management after retirement, overseeing various clubs and making influential decisions within the teams.
Continue ReadingLarry Robinson
Ice hockey player and coach with Canadiens
Born
June 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
Born in 1951, this individual played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the Montreal Canadiens. Reaching professional success, numerous championships were claimed, including two Stanley Cup victories. Transitioning into coaching, this figure guided multiple teams, contributing to their competitive strategies and development.
Continue ReadingDane Rampe
Australian rules footballer at Sydney Swans
Born
June 2nd, 1990 35 years ago
An Australian rules footballer played for the Sydney Swans in the Australian Football League (AFL). Debuting in 2013, contributions to the team included strong defensive skills and leadership. Rampe served as a key player in the Swans' backline, demonstrating resilience and determination in high-pressure situations. He achieved recognition for consistent performances and earned All-Australian selection in 2022.
Continue ReadingMatthew Koma
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 2nd, 1987 38 years ago
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, recognized for contributions to pop music. Collaborated with various artists and bands, writing and producing songs that achieved chart success. Achieved notoriety for work on tracks such as 'Clarity' by Zedd and 'Sparks' by Alesso. Released solo music, showcasing a blend of pop and electronic influences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 16th
Margaret Mitchell
Author of 'Gone with the Wind'
Born
November 8th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1949 76 years ago — 48 years old
An American journalist and author, gained prominence with the publication of 'Gone with the Wind' in 1936, a historical novel set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. The book garnered the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1937, illustrating both the struggles and societal changes of the time through its central character, Scarlett O'Hara. The novel was later adapted into a highly acclaimed film in 1939, further solidifying its place in American literature and cinema. A resident of Atlanta, Georgia, the author's life was marked by her experiences in the South, which heavily influenced her writing and perspective.
Continue ReadingPeter Fonda
Actor in Easy Rider and The Hired Hand
Born
February 23rd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 79 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to American cinema. Debuted in the late 1950s, with significant roles in films throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Co-wrote and starred in the film “Easy Rider”, which became a landmark in the countercultural movement of the era. Directed films including “The Hired Hand” and “Flesh and Blood”, showcasing talents beyond acting. Continued to act in various films and television series until later in life.
Continue ReadingPierre Brasseur
Actor and screenwriter with notable films
Born
December 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1972 53 years ago — 66 years old
An influential actor and screenwriter, recognized for significant roles in French cinema. Achieved prominence in the mid-20th century through performances in films such as 'La Grande Illusion' and 'Les Enfants du Paradis'. Developed a distinctive style that contributed to the artistic landscape of the time. Also engaged in screenwriting, adding depth to various projects throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingCarl Mydans
American photographer and journalist
Born
May 20th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2004 21 years ago — 97 years old
Started a career in photojournalism in the 1930s, working for the Farm Security Administration. Covered significant historical events, including World War II, capturing images of the Pacific theater, Hiroshima, and the aftermath of the war in Europe. Contributed to numerous publications, including Life magazine, documenting both war and American society. Won awards for excellence in photojournalism, including the Overseas Press Club Award in 1970.
Continue ReadingRobert Johnson
American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1938 87 years ago — 27 years old
A major figure in the development of the Delta blues genre, this artist's music influenced generations of musicians. Recording only a few songs in his lifetime, many became iconic, including pieces like 'Cross Road Blues' and 'Sweet Home Chicago.' His mysterious life and untimely death at age 27 have contributed to his legend. The guitarist's unique style incorporated various techniques, showcasing a blend of melody and rhythm that was ahead of its time. Posthumously, his work gained recognition and is considered foundational to modern blues and rock music.
Continue ReadingRichard Williams
Animator, director of 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit'
Born
March 19th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 86 years old
An animator, director, and screenwriter with a career spanning several decades. Featured as a leading figure in animation, contributed to the creation of a rich blend of traditional and innovative techniques. Achieved recognition for directing the animated sequences in the film 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit,' which integrated live action with animation in groundbreaking ways. Authored 'The Animator's Survival Kit,' a significant resource for aspiring animators, detailing principles of animation and storytelling. Won multiple Academy Awards for advancements in the field of animation.
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