Edward Gierek

Polish politician and lawyer

Edward Gierek - Polish politician and lawyer
Born

January 6th, 1913
112 years ago

Died

July 29th, 2001
23 years ago — 88 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Poland

Links & References

Assumed leadership of the Polish United Workers' Party in 1970, serving as First Secretary until 1980. Focused on modernizing the Polish economy, prioritizing industrial development, and improving living standards for citizens. Implemented large-scale investment programs and fostered closer economic ties with Western nations. Faced major social unrest in the late 1970s due to economic challenges and rising public discontent, which ultimately led to his resignation in 1980.

Led Poland during a period of economic change

Facilitated economic ties with Western countries

Other People Born on January 6th

Elizabeth Strout

Novelist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
January 6th, 1956 69 years ago

An accomplished novelist and short story writer, notable works include 'Olive Kitteridge' and 'My Name Is Lucy Barton'. 'Olive Kitteridge' received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2009, highlighting the complexity of small-town life through interconnected stories. Strout's writing often explores themes of human connection, grief, and loss, drawing on her experiences in rural Maine. Other works, such as 'Anything Is Possible' and 'Abide with Me', have also earned critical acclaim and contributed to her reputation as a significant voice in contemporary literature.

Continue Reading

Guy Gardner

American colonel and astronaut
Born
January 6th, 1948 77 years ago

Joined NASA in 1980 and flew on two space shuttle missions. Served as pilot on STS-9 and STS-67, completing multiple experiments in space. Worked on the development of advanced flight technologies and contributed to research in microgravity environments. Garnered experience in both military and civilian aviation prior to NASA career.

Continue Reading

Giuseppe Sammartini

Italian oboe player and composer
Born
January 6th, 1695 330 years ago
Died
1750 275 years ago — 55 years old

An oboe player and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the development of the oboe as both a solo and orchestral instrument during the Baroque period. Active in the early 18th century, compositions included concertos and sonatas that showcased the instrument's capabilities. Many works reflected the stylistic transitions of the era, merging Italian and German influences. The compositions remain part of the repertoire for woodwind players and are studied for their musical complexity and aesthetic qualities.

Continue Reading

Heinrich Schliemann

Archaeologist and businessman, Troy excavator
Born
January 6th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1890 134 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Germany, contributed significantly to archaeology through the excavation of ancient sites. Focused on the legendary city of Troy, Schliemann conducted excavations in the 1870s that uncovered significant artifacts. His work challenged prevailing views of the historical accuracy of Homer's epics. Published multiple works detailing archaeological findings and supported the authenticity of historical narratives. Additionally, contributed to the understanding of the Mycenaean civilization through excavations in Greece, particularly at Mycenae and Tiryns.

Continue Reading

William Russell

American politician, 37th Governor of Massachusetts
Born
January 6th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 39 years old

One individual served as the 37th Governor of Massachusetts from 1891 to 1892. This politician was a member of the Democratic Party and held various roles in state politics throughout the late 19th century. Prior to becoming governor, significant contributions were made in the state legislature. Engaged in law practice, this individual also held the position of Massachusetts Attorney General.

Continue Reading

Adeline Genée

Ballerina and choreographer of 'Swan Lake'
Born
January 6th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Denmark, became a prominent ballerina in the early 20th century, performing extensively in the United Kingdom. Played a significant role in popularizing ballet in Britain. Served as the principal dancer for the Imperial Russian Ballet and the Royal Ballet. Contributed to ballet education as a teacher and choreographer, influencing future generations of dancers. Actively participated in various productions and was recognized for her performances both as a dancer and a choreographer.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 29th

Charles E. Wicks

Engineer and academic author
Born
July 9th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2010 14 years ago — 85 years old

An American engineer and academic contributed significantly to the field of electrical engineering. Served as a professor and authored several influential texts that provided insights into advanced engineering concepts. Worked in the areas of control systems and signal processing, shaping educational practices in engineering curricula. Held key roles in professional organizations that fostered advancements in engineering disciplines.

Continue Reading

Norm Smith

Australian football coach and player
Born
November 21st, 1915 109 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1973 51 years ago — 57 years old

Played Australian rules football for the Melbourne Football Club from 1937 to 1949 and served as the team's captain from 1947 to 1949. Transitioned to coaching, leading Melbourne to a series of premierships and establishing a significant coaching legacy. Known for innovative strategies and team management, which contributed to Melbourne's dominance in the 1950s.

Continue Reading

Ernest William Christmas

Australian-American painter, exhibited at AAG
Born
January 28th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1918 106 years ago — 55 years old

Born in Australia, a painter moved to the United States, where a significant body of work focused on landscapes and figures was created. Exhibited at the Australian Art Gallery, showcasing an emphasis on color and light. Participated in various exhibitions across the U.S. and Australia, where recognition grew for portraying Australian scenery. Later returned to Australia and continued to exhibit significant artworks reflecting both cultures.

Continue Reading

Franklin H. Westervelt

American computer scientist and engineer
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2015 9 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to computer science and engineering through academic endeavors. Worked extensively in the field of computer graphics and visualization. Served in various capacities at renowned institutions, focusing on the advancement of technology and education. Engaged in research that influenced the development of systems in computer science, specifically in image processing and visualization techniques.

Continue Reading

Balbinus

Roman Emperor during the Crisis of the Third Century
Died
July 29th, 238 1786 years ago — None years old

Served as Roman Emperor from 238 AD during a turbulent period known as the Crisis of the Third Century. His reign was marked by a power struggle with another emperor and civil unrest. Balbinus was elected emperor alongside Pupienus by the Senate, following the assassination of the previous emperor, Maximinus Thrax. His rule faced challenges from both external threats and internal divisions, culminating in his downfall. After a brief tenure of about three months, both Balbinus and his co-emperor were overthrown and killed by the Praetorian Guard.

Continue Reading

August Kowalczyk

Polish actor and theater director
Born
August 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1921, a prominent Polish actor and theater director, influenced Polish theater through various performances and directional works. Engaged in both classic and contemporary pieces, contributed significantly to the artistic community in Poland. Worked extensively with renowned theater companies and was involved in film adaptations that showcased Polish literature. Recognized for contributions to the cultural landscape of Poland, emphasizing the importance of theater and performance arts.

Continue Reading