Gaston Bachelard
French philosopher and poet
Contributed significantly to the philosophy of science. Explored the relationship between reverie and knowledge, emphasizing the importance of imagination and intuition. Authored works such as 'The Poetics of Space' and 'The New Scientific Spirit,' influencing fields like architecture, literature, and psychology. His ideas merged poetic thought with scientific inquiry, focusing on the role of daydreams in understanding reality.
Authored 'The Poetics of Space'
Published 'The New Scientific Spirit'
Influenced philosophy of science
Other People Born on June 27th
Tobey Maguire
Actor in Spider-Man and other films
Born
June 27th, 1975 50 years ago
Born in 1975, an American actor gained prominence through roles in films such as 'Spider-Man' (2002), 'Spider-Man 2' (2004), and 'Spider-Man 3' (2007). The portrayal of Peter Parker established a benchmark for superhero films. In addition to the Spider-Man series, appeared in 'The Cider House Rules' (1999) and 'Seabiscuit' (2003), receiving acclaim for performances. Voiced a lead character in the animated film 'The Boss Baby' (2017). Served as a producer on several projects, including the film '85 South: The Movie' (2020).
Continue ReadingJoseph P. Allen
American physicist and astronaut
Born
June 27th, 1937 88 years ago
An American physicist and astronaut participated in two spaceflights. Completed missions aboard the Skylab space station and the Space Shuttle. Contributed to the scientific community with significant research in the field of physics and space exploration.
Continue ReadingHelena Benitez
Filipina academic and administrator
Born
June 27th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 102 years old
Contributed significantly to Philippine education through various academic roles and leadership positions. Served as the first woman president of the Philippine Women's University. Active in the promotion of women's rights and education reform. Played a key role in the implementation of educational policies that favored equal access to education. Involved in multiple organizations focused on women's empowerment and community service.
Continue ReadingEddie Kasko
Baseball manager and player for Reds
Born
June 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old
Played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop. Played for the Cincinnati Reds and the St. Louis Cardinals from 1957 to 1965. Managed the Boston Red Sox during the mid-1970s. Served as a coach for multiple teams after managing. Contributed to the development of players and strategies in baseball.
Continue ReadingDanny Schechter
Documentary filmmaker and journalist
Born
June 27th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter focused on social issues, produced numerous documentaries throughout the career. Made films including 'In Debt We Trust' and 'WMD: Weapons of Mass Deception', which explored media, war, and financial crises. Committed to investigative journalism, covered significant global events and their media representations.
Continue ReadingManuel II Palaiologos
Byzantine Emperor and Scholar
Born
June 27th, 1350 675 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1425 600 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the Byzantine Emperor from 1391 to 1425, Manuel II Palaiologos played a critical role during a period of decline for the Byzantine Empire. His reign included the ongoing pressures from the Ottoman Empire and attempts to secure European support against Turkish advances. An educated ruler, he was involved in scholarly pursuits and corresponded with several prominent intellectuals of his time. His travels to Western Europe were also pivotal in promoting awareness of the Byzantine plight. He authored the work 'The Sacra', a dialogue on philosophy and theology, showcasing his intellect.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 16th
Sylvius Leopold Weiss
Lute composer and performer
Born
October 12th, 1687 338 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1750 275 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1687, this German composer and lute player significantly contributed to the Baroque music repertoire. Active in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, composed numerous sonatas and suites specifically for the lute. Worked in various courts, including that of the Polish King Augustus II. His compositions are characterized by their intricate melodies and technical demands, establishing him as a prominent figure in lute music during his lifetime. Although many works were lost, remaining pieces are still performed today, showcasing the lute's capabilities and musicality.
Continue ReadingIsaac van Ostade
Dutch painter of genre scenes
Born
June 2nd, 1621 404 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1649 376 years ago — 28 years old
Born in the 17th century, this Dutch painter specialized in genre scenes that captured peasant life and rural activities. His works often depicted taverns, interiors, and outdoor festivities, reflecting the daily lives of the common people in the Netherlands. He studied under another prominent artist and developed a distinctive style characterized by warm colors and intricate details. Significant contributions to the art of his time and influence on later artists marked his career. Many of his paintings are held in prestigious museums today, contributing to a rich legacy in Dutch art.
Continue ReadingMoshe Dayan
Israeli general and politician
Born
May 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1981 44 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent Israeli military leader and politician, played significant roles during key events in Israeli history. Served as the Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Held the position of Minister of Defense during the Six-Day War in 1967, which resulted in a decisive Israeli victory. Later became the fifth Minister of Foreign Affairs, where contributed to peace negotiations with Egypt. His leadership and strategies shaped the course of Israel's defense and diplomatic relations.
Continue ReadingRoger Boyle
English soldier and politician, 1st Earl of Orrery
Born
April 25th, 1621 404 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1679 346 years ago — 58 years old
Roger Boyle served as a soldier and politician during the 17th century. He was appointed the 1st Earl of Orrery in 1660. Boyle played a significant role in the English Civil War, supporting the Royalist cause. He was instrumental in military operations in Ireland and held various governmental positions. Boyle's contribution to military and political affairs in England and Ireland marked his influence during a turbulent period in British history.
Continue ReadingJohn A. Durkin
American lawyer and politician
Born
March 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from New Hampshire from 1975 to 1980. Represented the Democratic Party and focused on issues such as education and health care. Before Senate service, held various positions in state government, including Attorney General. After leaving the Senate, Durkin continued to practice law and remained involved in local politics.
Continue ReadingHaritina Korotkevich
Russian war heroine during WWII
Born
October 17th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1904 121 years ago — 21 years old
Born in 1882, this individual served in the Soviet Red Army during World War II. Despite the dangers of conflict, actively participated in various military operations. Played a significant role in the defense of Leningrad, contributing to efforts that ultimately led to the city's survival during the siege. Following the war, received numerous honors for valor and bravery on the battlefield. Her actions and dedication exemplified the courage of those who served in one of history's most challenging periods.
Continue Reading