George H. W. Bush
41st President of the United States
Served as the 41st President of the United States from 1989 to 1993. Prior to the presidency, held roles as a congressman, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, and director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Oversaw significant events such as the end of the Cold War and the Gulf War, where a coalition of nations expelled Iraqi forces from Kuwait. Promoted a new world order and initiated several domestic policies, including the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Directed military operations during Gulf War
Served as Vice President under Ronald Reagan
Signed the Americans with Disabilities Act
Other People Born on June 12th
Robert Herbert
English-Australian politician, 1st Premier
Born
June 12th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1905 120 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent English-Australian political figure, served as the first Premier of Queensland from 1859 to 1866. Established the foundations of Queensland's parliamentary system. Played a crucial role in the early governance and development of Queensland after its separation from New South Wales. Advocated for infrastructure improvements and public services, contributing to the growth of the state during its formative years.
Continue ReadingOtto Skorzeny
German SS officer and wartime commando
Born
June 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 67 years old
Served as an officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Gained notoriety for leading operations that included the rescue of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in 1943. Commanded special forces units that conducted significant raids, often behind enemy lines. After the war, faced trials but evaded severe punishment, later working in various business ventures and maintaining a controversial legacy.
Continue ReadingPatrick Gass
Sergeant and author of expedition journal
Born
June 12th, 1771 254 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 99 years old
Served as a sergeant during the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806. Documented the journey through daily journals, providing insight into the exploration of the American West. His writings detailed the encounters with various Native American tribes and the geological and botanical discoveries made along the way. Returned to the East after the expedition and authored a book based on his experiences, contributing to the historical record of westward expansion.
Continue ReadingRay Barbuti
American sprinter and football player
Born
June 12th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1988 37 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent athlete in the early 20th century, held a notable career in both track and field as well as American football. Achieved recognition by winning a gold medal in the 400-meter race at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. Later, transitioned to professional football, playing as a back for the New York Giants in the late 1920s. Combined speed and athleticism, contributing to both sports with significant performances.
Continue ReadingReizei
Japanese emperor
Born
June 12th, 950 1075 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1011 1014 years ago — 61 years old
Reizei reigned as the emperor of Japan during the Heian period. Ascending to the throne at a young age, his reign lasted from 967 to 969. The era was marked by a flourishing of Japanese culture, particularly in poetry and literature. Reizei himself was appreciated for his patronage of the arts and the promotion of the literary culture of the time. His imperial court became a center for artistic expression and cultural refinement, reflecting the values of the Heian court.
Continue ReadingDjuna Barnes
American novelist and playwright
Born
June 12th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1982 43 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1892, this American novelist and playwright gained prominence in the early 20th century. The work 'Nightwood' became a landmark in modernist literature and is recognized for its innovative narrative style. In addition to fiction, her journalism and plays contributed to her literary reputation. 'The Antiphon' showcases her playwriting skills, further establishing her presence in the arts. The complexities of her characters reflect modernist themes, particularly in relation to gender and identity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 30th
Evel Knievel
Motorcycle stuntman and daredevil
Born
October 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old
Evel Knievel was an American motorcycle rider and stuntman recognized for performing thrilling stunts and jumps. Gaining fame in the 1960s and 1970s, achieved widespread popularity with the televised jump over 13 buses at Wembley Stadium in 1975. Known for his charismatic persona, Knievel's stunts included jumping over the Snake River Canyon in 1974, which garnered significant media attention. Injuries from various jumps shaped his career but did not deter his pursuit of adventure.
Continue ReadingTabu Ley Rochereau
Congolese-Belgian singer-songwriter
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent singer-songwriter, contributed significantly to the development of soukous music. Started musical career in the 1950s as a member of the African Jazz band. Later formed his own group, Orchestre Afrisa International, achieving widespread acclaim in Africa and beyond. Released numerous albums and popular songs, blending traditional Congolese rhythms with modern sounds. Recognized for vocal prowess and ability to incorporate various musical styles. Continued to perform and compose until later in life, solidifying a major role in the music landscape of the region.
Continue ReadingRogelio Álvarez
Cuban-American baseball player; MLB first baseman
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
A baseball player with a professional career spanning from the late 1950s to the early 1960s, excelled as a first baseman. Played in Major League Baseball for the Chicago White Sox and the New York Mets. Debuted in 1959 and contributed to the teams during the 1960s. Achieved a consistent batting average during his playing years, showcasing solid defensive skills on the field.
Continue ReadingFatema Mernissi
Moroccan sociologist and author of 'Dreams of Trespass'
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent Moroccan sociologist and author, contributed significantly to gender studies and cultural criticism. Mernissi explored themes of feminism and Islamic culture in her works. Her book 'Dreams of Trespass: Tales of a Harem Girlhood' provided insights into the lives of women in Morocco, reflecting on personal and societal challenges. Mernissi’s scholarship often focused on the intersection of culture and gender, offering critical perspectives on various issues affecting women in the Muslim world.
Continue ReadingDoriano Romboni
Italian motorcycle racer and champion
Born
December 8th, 1968 57 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 44 years old
Competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing during the 1990s and early 2000s. Raced primarily in the 250cc and 500cc classes, garnering attention for performances that marked a significant era in Italian motorcycle sport. Achieved several podiums in World Championship events, showcasing skill on various circuits. Tragically, a career ended prematurely due to a serious crash in 2001, marking a pivotal moment in racing safety discussions.
Continue ReadingMarcus Klingberg
Physician and biologist, Nobel nominee
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
A Polish-Israeli physician and biologist, contribution focused on virology and bacteriology. Education completed in Poland, later moved to Israel. Worked at the Weizmann Institute of Science, contributing to significant research in the field of immunology. Recognized for the development of various vaccines and treatments. His work on the effects of viruses in human health gained notable attention in scientific communities. Honored during a long career with various accolades including a nomination for the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
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