Dorothy West

Journalist and author of 'The Living is Easy'

Dorothy West - Journalist and author of 'The Living is Easy'
Born

June 2nd, 1907
118 years ago

Died

August 16th, 1998
27 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

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

Gary Bettman

NHL Commissioner during expansion era
Born
June 2nd, 1952 73 years ago

Served as the 14th Commissioner of the National Hockey League since 1993. Played a significant role in the growth of the NHL, overseeing multiple expansions and the introduction of new franchises. Implemented various changes and strategies to increase the popularity and visibility of ice hockey, including media deals and global outreach programs. Played a crucial part in the creation of the NHL salary cap and the implementation of rule changes aimed at improving the pace and scoring of games.

Continue Reading

Raúl Ibañez

American professional baseball player
Born
June 2nd, 1972 53 years ago

Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder and designated hitter from 1996 to 2014. Played for various teams including the Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals, and Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved notable success during time with the Philadelphia Phillies, contributing to the team's 2009 National League Championship.

Continue Reading

Jack O'Connor

Baseball player and manager, Louisville Colonels
Born
June 2nd, 1866 159 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1937 87 years ago — 71 years old

An American baseball player and manager contributed significantly to the sport in the late 19th century. Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1888 to 1891, primarily for the Louisville Colonels. Transitioned to managing, leading the Colonels as well. His career includes participation in the American Association and National League.

Continue Reading

Tex Schramm

NFL executive and Dallas Cowboys architect
Born
June 2nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 83 years old

An influential NFL executive, shaped the Dallas Cowboys franchise. Served as the team's first general manager and president, instrumental in building the Cowboys into a prominent professional football franchise. Advocated for innovations in the sport, including the implementation of instant replay and the use of television as a tool for promotion. Played a significant role in the formation of the NFL and AFL merger, leading to the establishment of the Super Bowl as a premier event in American sports.

Continue Reading

Heather Couper

Astronomer and physicist; science communicator
Born
June 2nd, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 71 years old

An English astronomer and physicist specialized in astronomy outreach and education. Played a significant role in popularizing science through numerous television programs and public lectures. Worked with the British National Space Centre and contributed to various publications related to space science. Served as a director of campaigns promoting space exploration and astronomy.

Continue Reading

Richard Skuse

Rugby player and England international
Born
June 2nd, 1980 45 years ago

An English rugby player, primarily played as a prop. Represented the England national team in international competitions. Contributed to the success of club teams in various leagues, gaining recognition for formidable scrummaging skills and physicality on the field. Played a significant role during pivotal matches in national championships.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 16th

John Pemberton

American pharmacist, inventor of Coca-Cola
Born
July 8th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1888 137 years ago — 57 years old

A pharmacist and chemist developed a syrup intended for medicinal purposes in 1886. This syrup was mixed with carbonated water, resulting in the creation of a beverage that would later be trademarked as Coca-Cola. The drink was initially marketed as a tonic for various ailments, contributing to its rapid popularity. Despite initial challenges in promoting the product, the brand grew significantly after his death, thanks in part to the marketing efforts of his business partner. The formula became a global sensation, leading to its status as one of the most recognized brands worldwide.

Continue Reading

Frère Roger

Swiss monk and founder of Taizé Community
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 90 years old

A Swiss monk established the Taizé Community in France in 1940, promoting reconciliation among Christians. The community became a center for the spiritual renewal of young people and emphasized ecumenism. It attracted thousands from different denominations, offering retreats and meditative practices. Frère Roger advocated for peace and dialogue during his lifetime, engaging in discussions about faith and spirituality.

Continue Reading

Aretha Franklin

Singer-songwriter, 'Respect'
Born
March 25th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and pianist, this artist became a leading figure in soul music. Born in Memphis and raised in Detroit, began singing in church at a young age. The career spanned several decades, with numerous hit records and albums. Achievements include a historic signing with Atlantic Records and the release of the groundbreaking album 'I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You'. Instrumental in popularizing soul music, received multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Additionally, contributed to the civil rights movement through music and public efforts.

Continue Reading

William Halsey Jr.

United States Navy admiral
Born
October 30th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1959 66 years ago — 76 years old

An admiral in the United States Navy, the individual played a significant role during World War II. Commanded the United States Third Fleet, leading naval operations in the Pacific theater. Contributed to major battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which was one of the largest naval battles in history. The individual received numerous awards and honors for military service.

Continue Reading

Masanobu Fukuoka

Japanese farmer and author of Natural Farming
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2008 17 years ago — 95 years old

Pioneered a farming philosophy emphasizing minimal intervention in nature. Developed a system called 'Natural Farming' that advocated for no-till agriculture and use of cover crops. Authored several influential books including 'The One-Straw Revolution,' which described his practices and philosophy. Fukuoka's techniques inspired sustainable agriculture movements worldwide, promoting ecological balance and biodiversity.

Continue Reading

Babe Ruth

Baseball player for the Boston Red Sox
Born
February 6th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1948 77 years ago — 53 years old

A legendary American baseball player and coach, played in Major League Baseball primarily for the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. Renowned for hitting prowess, transformed baseball with a powerful batting style. Achieved significant success in his career, leading teams to multiple championships. After finishing playing career, transitioned to coaching, sharing expertise with younger players, and remained a beloved figure in the sport.

Continue Reading